the best of
SUFFOLK YOUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO THIS UNIQUE COUNTY
bestsuffolk.com
JULY 2016 – JUNE 2017
£5.00
Planning & Design New Build & Extensions Renovations & Restorations Project Management
1 Quayside, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1FA www.samueldavidconstruction.co.uk 01394 780045
Inspired by tradition
TRADITIONAL CHARACTER, CONTEMPORARY LIVING If you're searching for a new home with traditional charm as well as all the internal features you desire for comfortable, convenient and stylish living, look no further than Hopkins Homes and Hopkins & Moore. We are East Anglia's leading developers, building collections of homes to exceptionally high standards, each one individually designed to complement its setting, be it town, village, countryside or coast.
Call us or visit our website for further information hopkinshomes.co.uk • 01394 446860 Hopkins Homes builds traditional award winning homes throughout Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex
the best of
SUFFOLK Whatever the weather, it’s always a good time to visit Suffolk. Whether you’re a local resident, or a first-time visitor, you’ll never be short of things to do! The best of Suffolk, the county’s leading annual visitor guide, is spoilt for choice when it comes to what’s happening locally. Even if you have lived here all your life, you may still be surprised at some of the hidden treasures on your own doorstep. It’s time to put down your smartphone, forget the stresses of modern -day life and re-connect with your surroundings. Suffolk offers visitors and locals alike the chance to enjoy all of the wonderful attractions on offer in this beautiful part of the country. Suffolk is a picturesque location,with its flat, coastal areas contrasting with undulating inland landscape, making it ideal for exploring. If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, such as cycling and coastal walks, you won’t be disappointed. Choose from plenty of footpaths, through terrain which includes open meadows, forest trails and cliff-top paths. 2 the best of SUFFOLK
There are also numerous country pubs for refreshments en route! Suffolk prides itself on serving good food, prepared with locally-produced ingredients. In fact, there are many farm shops, delis and independent butchers and fishmongers, providing award-winning food to suit all tastes.
Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy discovering it as much as we do. Jonathan Tilston Publisher
Enjoy using this guide to discover what’s on offer. Whether you are looking for a special item of local craftmanship, interested in the arts, looking for award winning fish and chips, planning on visiting a lively market selling local produce, or you’re simply seeking a crackling fire and locally-brewed pint, Suffolk has it all. Many visitors to Suffolk enjoy the experience so much, they want to come and live here! We’re very proud that Suffolk offers a happier, healthier way of life, with its great outdoorsand it’s also bursting at the seams with history and culture.
@BestSuffolk The best of Suffolk bestsuffolk1 bestsuffolk.com
F anny& fra Essex and Suffolk’s worst kept secret
Beautiful Clothes, Shoes, Boots, Bags, Accessories& Fragrance for Ladies & Men Our New Colchester Store Opens September 2016
6-8 Market Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LU 26 Church Street, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1JQ 87 Crouch St, Colchester, Essex C03 3EZ hello@fannyandfrank.com • www.fannyandfrank.com • 01394 384723
County of
Suffolk
West Suffolk p93 Bury St Edmunds is quite simply a shoppers paradise with chic, independent outlets and a colourful market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. A lively music and arts scene, a world famous brewery and the only surviving regency theatre in Britain also put it on the cultural map. For excitement head to Newmarket, the home of royal horse racing with its world famous racecourses, the Rowley Mile and the July Course.
Brandon
Thetford Forest
Lakenheath A1101
The Delph
A1065
Elveden
Wortha
A134
A11
Fakenham Magna
Mildenhall
Barningham
Botesdale
A1088
Rickinghall
A143
Icklingham A11
Kentford
A14
Stanton
A1101
Ingham
Red Lodge
Ixworth
Flempton A1088
Risby
A14
A143
Bury St Edmunds
Bacton
Norton
Thurston A14
Elmswell
Blackthorpe
Horringer
Suffolk Wool Towns p68
Thornha Mag
Finningham
Newmarket
We don’t expect you’ll need much convincing to come to Constable Country. With its stunning landscape this AONB in the south of Suffolk has drawn people to it for centuries. Long Melford is in the lush Stour Valley, the landscape that was the subject of many of John Constable’s paintings. It is a village full of heritage, and people visit to enjoy its historic buildings and interesting shops. Like Clare, Lavenham, Kersey and the other Suffolk Wool Towns, it became wealthy during the height of the Tudor wool trade.
Hopton
Beck Row
Sicklesmere
Stowmarket
A134
Chedburgh Lidgate
Stanningfield
S U F F O L K
A143
Cockfield
Brockley Great Bradley
Needham Market Barking
Stradishall A1141
Boxted
Glemsford
Hundon
Cavendish
A143
Haverhill
A14
Clare
Hitcham
Alpheton
Great Bricett
Lavenham
A134
Chelsworth A1092
Br
Long Melford A1141
A1017
A1071
Hint
Hadleigh
Sudbury Boxford A1071
Capel St Mary
Assington
A12 A134
East Berg Nayland
Ipswich p60 Ipswich is the county town of Suffolk, located on the meandering River Orwell and is the perfect place to stay, live and explore. The Waterfront is the town’s wonderful ‘jewel in the crown’ and seamlessly blends moored yachts, the iconic university building, a working port, modern apartments and the nationally renowned Jerwood Dance House – home to DanceEast – alongside a lively mix of retail bars and restaurants.
4 the best of SUFFOLK
Brantha
Waveney Valley p117 Blundeston
A12 A1117
LOWESTOFT Shipmeadow
A146
Bungay
Carlton Colville
Beccles
Hulver Street
Flixton
A144
Kessingland
A145 A12
Stone Street
Brampton
Take advantage of a well-positioned Beccles for great access to destinations like Lowestoft, Oulton Broad and Kessingland. It’s also home to the world-famous Latitude Festival. The nearby town of Bungay nestling on the River Waveney and surrounded by willow-strewn meadows boasts a Roman well, the remains of a Norman castle and a Benedictine priory.
Wrentham
Metfield
Wortham
Halesworth
Fressingfield
Stuston
A1095
Reydon
Southwold
Blythburgh
l
Stradbroke
Eye
A140
A12
Laxfield
Heveningham
Horham Thornham Magna
Walberswick
A144
Peasenhall
Rishangles
A1120
Westleton
Yoxford Dennington
Wetheringsett
A1120
Debenham
Framlingham
Earl Soham
Leiston
Saxmundham
Mickfield
Thorpeness
A12
Earl Stonham
Marlesford
A1094
Helmingham
A140 A14
Aldeburgh Wickham Market
Ashbocking
arket
Aldeburgh Bay
Tunstall
Tunstall Forest
Barking Grundisburgh
Claydon
A1152
A12
Witnesham
Butley
Hasketon
Chillesford Orford
Woodbridge Westerfield
Rendlesham Forest
Martlesham Bramford
IPSWICH
A14
Sutton
Martlesham Heath
A1214
Hintlesham
Bucklesham A14
Rive r
A137
A12
East Bergholt
Alton Water Reservoir
Orw ell
Chelmondiston
A14
Trimley St Martin Trimley St Mary
Holbrook
A154
Brantham Cattawade
Holbrook Bay
Giant pebbles on a shingle beach, art galleries galore, flag-strewn gift shops, quaint fishermen huts and awarding fish and chips. Suffolk simply wouldn‘t be the same without Aldeburgh which positively oozes with history. But if you’re looking for the quintessential English seaside town look no further than Southwold with its pretty pastelpainted beach huts, award-winning pier complete with Tim Hunkin’s under the pier show.
Bawdsey
Wherstead
Capel Mary
Orford Ness
The Heritage Coast p28
Shotley Gate
Harwich Harbour
Felixstowe
Gateway to The Heritage Coast p8 Abutting Suffolk’s Heritage Coast is an area filled with picturesque market towns and historic villages that are mentioned in the Domesday Book and hidden gems like the wildlife and botanical wonders of Snape’s enchanting estuary on the River Alde. Discover the remains of Framingham Castle, believed to be the founded by King Raedwald, and enjoy dramatic views along the windswept marshes.
the best of SUFFOLK 5
Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Editorial Director Deanna Tilston Sales Marina Jacobs Design INSPIRE inspiredc.co.uk Editorial Contributors Helen Johns, Ruth Watson, Ottilie Tilston, Jenna Ingamells Photographic Contributors ©VisitBritain – Rod Edwards, Simon Kreitem. Britain on View, Ian Shaw, Daniel Bosworth, James Barnes, Pawel Libera, Simon Kreitem, Joanna Henderson, Jack Barnes, Grant Pritchard, Richard Surman, Adrian Houston, Tony Pleavin.
p86
With thanks to Justin Mimms for the key photography in this guide. justinminns.co.uk
best of Suffolk’s Fine Art
p 11 | Unruly Pig Interior Claudia Gannon p 20 | Snape Maltings Vernon Layton p 23 | Flickr Bridge Cottage Flatford Ade46 p 26 | Flickr IMG_6261 Fram quinn norton p 30 | Landmark Trust p 42 | Flickr Thorpeness 13-05-2004 Karen Roe p 44 | Flickr Orford Castle HDR Jon Mitchell p 44 | Regardless social media feed p 46 | Ruth Watson David Watson ARPS p 48 | Sailors Reading Room © Stephen Wolfenden p 49 | Malt on the coast ©Visit England p 53 | Flickr Bucket & Spade heaven Matthew Wilkinson p 56 | Walberswick Village Sign Amanda Slater p 62 | Ipswich Waterfront Visit Ipswich p 63 | Cardinal Wooly Mike Keen p 64 | H+H Honey and Harvey p 65 | Two Magpies p 70 | Flickr Melford Hall | Martin Pettitt p 70 | Hignell Gallery social media feed p 70 | Flickr Little Hall | Martin Pettitt p 80 | Flickr Everyone in the Courtyard Paul Matthews p 94 | Thurlow Champness Claudia Gannon p 102 | The Gallops Discover Newmarket p 117 | Bungay St Mary Church aerial image John Fielding p 124 | Flickr barage Dennis van Zuijlekopm p 129 | Flickr Alde Valley Spring Festival 2015 Zoer | Sculpture Lawrence Edwards | Rob Flaming Forest Festival | msmornington festival | Ruth_W Festival fun p 135 | Flickr Golfing Tord Sollie p 138 | Wyken hall Gardens p 141 | National Trust imagery p 145 | Mainstream Behind the Scenes with Aveda™ – Adidas by Stella McCartney SS14 LFW – London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2014 – #LFW – September 17, 2013 – Creative Commons (cc) photos distributed by Mainstream via Aveda Corporation | Kiera Morgan Bumble Maps P 4 & 5 Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown Copyright and database rights 2016 Additional map information ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Maps created by Oxford Cartographers Cover photography Justin Mimms | Visit England | Visit Newmarket | Jonathan Tilston With special thanks to all advertisers. For details of paid content please contact the publisher.
p124
The Heritage Coast
p93
West Suffolk
p68
Suffolk Wool Towns
Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 141 Norwich Road Ipswich IP1 2PP 01473 286155 sales@tilstonphillips.com tilstonphillips.com ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 2016 Printed and bound by Swallowtail Print, Norwich swallowtailprint.co.uk
p124
6 the best of SUFFOLK
best of The Outdoors
Contents
p104
best of Suffolk food Tourist Information Centres Aldeburgh 01728 453637 48 High Street IP15 5AB Bury St Edmunds 01284 764667 6 Angel Hill IP33 3FD Felixstowe 01394 383789 Felixstowe Library Crescent Road IP11 7BY Ipswich 01473 258070 St Stephens Lane IP1 1DP Lavenham 01787 248207 Lady Street CO10 9RA Newmarket 01638 719749 63 The Guineas CB8 8HT Sudbury 01787 8811320 Market Hill CO10 2EN Woodbridge 01394 383789 Woodbridge Library, New Street IP12 1DT
p138 Suffolk’s Best Homes & Gardens
p156
Suffolk’s Best Schools
Welcome 2 4 County of Suffolk map 8, 9 Gateway to the Heritage Coast best of Woodbridge 10,11 The Market Hill Experience 12, 13 Found on Church Street 14 16, 17 Found on The Thoroughfare the Snape experience 20, 21 23 6 best Cultural Visits Yoxford and Peasenhall 24 26 Framlingham The Heritage Coast 28, 29 30 best of Aldeburgh Canine Cuisine & Tasty Treats 34 36 best of Afternoon Tea Five Ecclesiastical Treasures 38 42 best of Thorpeness best of Orford 44, 45 48, 49 best of Southwold 6 best Suffolk Beaches 53 56 Walberswick, Blythburgh and Dunwich Felixstowe 58 60 Ipswich - Suffolk’s County Town best of Ipswich 62, 63 Dedham 66 Suffolk Wool Towns 68 best of the Wool Towns 70, 71 72, 73 best of Hadleigh best of Lavenham 74, 75 Found at Bridgefarm Barns 78, 79 80, 81 best of Long Melford Ones to watch - best of Suffolk’s Fine Art 86, 87 88 best of Antiques Suffolk Makers 90, 91 West Suffolk 93 96, 97 best of Bury St Edmunds best of Newmarket 102 104 best of Suffolk Food Regis Crepy tastes Suffolk’s local food 105 best of Eating Out 106 - 112 114, 115 best of Suffolk food & drink best of Farm Shops 116 Waveney Valley 117 best of Beccles 120 -121 best of The Outdoors 124 Suffolk’s best drive 126, 128 129 Festivals Suffolk Foot Ferries 130 Birdwatching in Suffolk 131 best of Golf 135 Suffolk’s Best Homes & Gardens 138, 139 best of National Trust Attractions 141 Suffolk Pubs & Walks 142 143, 144 Suffolk Spas 145 Suffolk Homes & Interiors 147 Suffolk’s Best Schools 156 - 175 Childrens Suffolk 162 Discover Suffolk Museums 168 List of Advertisers 176 the best of SUFFOLK 7
Gateway to the Heritage Coast
best of Woodbridge 10 the Market Hill experience 12 found on Church Street 14
found on The Thoroughfare 16 the Snape experience 20
6 best Cultural visits 23 Yoxford and Peasenhall 24 Framlingham 26
best of WOODBRIDGE The restored 800-year-old picturesque Tide Mill is the town’s star attraction, but there are plenty more gems to feast upon – including a museum, traditional boat-building at the quayside, independent shops and a cinema with a restaurant attached. The Anglo Saxon ship burial site at Sutton Hoo is nearby. THE TIDE MILL The Tide Mill was the last commercially working tide mill in the UK, and is a rare surviving example. It has recently been fully restored to working order and now houses a fun museum with milling demonstrations held periodically. woodbridgetidemill.org.uk THE RIVERSIDE The Riverside is an airy dining space and bar serving local produce, plus a charming cinema with dinner and film deals. theriverside.co.uk
10 the best of SUFFOLK
Don’t miss
RIVER WALK A pleasant walk with views along the Deben will take you past a children’s play area towards Kyson’s Hill, now owned by the National Trust, and once a favourite spot of Victorian landscape painter, Thomas Churchyard. If you keep going, you can walk over the hill and all the way back into the town centre.
The wide range of local produce at the Farmers Market – at Woodbridge Community Centre on the second and fourth Saturday every month woodbridgefarmersmarket.co.uk
THE UNRULY PIG Best Pub in Suffolk 2016 and listed in The Good Food Guide with the highest local rating. Sunday Times, Financial Times and Telegraph recommended. www.theunrulypig.co.uk
YOXFORD ANTIQUES With over 70 independent dealers and set in several acres of natural gardens, this is an increasingly popular venue in the Suffolk countryside complete with café and resident alpacas… yoxfordantiques.com
ASPENS Aspens Jewellers are a family business with over 100 years independent trading under their belt. Well established online, their physical retail shop is here in Woodbridge where brothers Daniel, Matthew and their knowledgeable staff offer antique, vintage and pre-owned jewellery alongside new engagement rings, wedding bands, watches and accessories. aspensjewellers.co.uk To check out local events choosewoodbridge.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 11
THE MARKET HILL experience For centuries, Market Hill with four sides of shops surrounding the Shire Hall was the nucleus of the town and here you will find an attractive cluster of independent shops and tempting eating places.
MUSEUM You can discover more about Thomas Seckford and other famous townsfolk at Woodbridge Museum, which also records the finds at the nearby Anglo Saxon ship burial site Sutton Hoo. suffolkmuseums.org
12 the best of SUFFOLK
CHENEVIX JEWELLERY Nestled amongst the medieval buildings overlooking the historic Market Square is a unique, serene gem haven. Here you can browse a stunning jewellery and pearl collection, the perfect solution for a special gift or perhaps bridesmaid presents. Owner, Susannah Chenevix-Trench a designer and qualified Gemmologist with over 20 years’ experience, has style and flair which are evident throughout the shop. With an enviable reputation in bespoke commissions, Susannah’s specialist field is re-design work - transforming perhaps unfashionable but sentimental family jewellery into coveted future heirlooms. Browse in our shop or talk to Susannah about creating a very special piece of jewellery. chenevixjewellery.co.uk
FANNY AND FRANK We are a boutique store with different departments; ladies denim and casual wear, shoes and bags, fragrances and candles, jewellery, evening and occasion wear, and menswear. We pride ourselves in our personal customer service, we love to give our customers lots of time to experiment and help them look and feel fabulous. We source gorgeous designer brands that are amazing quality and fabulous to wear, we’re often the first to introduce new brands to the UK, and we have all the accessories to make complete outfits very special. We have 3 branches, 6-8 Market Hill Woodbridge suffolk, 26-28 Church Street Saffron Walden Cambridge Essex borders, and our newest branch 87, Crouch Street Colchester. For information call Woodbridge 01394 384723. fannyandfrank.com UĞUR VATA | THE GALLEY THE KINGS HEAD The King’s Head, a 15th century pub sits at the top of Market Hill and serves a classic pub menu. Also available is the Mutt’s Menu a treat for a hungry dog after a walk along the river kingsheadwoodbridge.co.uk WOODBRIDGE VIOLINS Woodbridge Violins restores and repairs stringed instruments and supplies quality violins, violas, cellos to suit every type of player from virtuoso to absolute beginner. woodbridgeviolins.com
One of the town’s leading restauranteurs, a great personality and menu await those that venture into this haven of anglo-Turkish fusion. People often wonder how to pronounce Uğur’s name, as there’s a upside-down hat on the letter. This makes it a soft or silent g so Uğur is actually pronounced “Oo-wer”. Think of Matron in the Carry On movies and you’re on the right track! galley.uk.com
Local knowledge Did you know that built into Shire Hall are two historic gaol cells, see if you can spot them.
BLUE BAY “What a lovely shop” is a frequent customer comment when going into Blue Bay. Established over ten years ago by owner Alison Cook, Blue Bay offers the best in women’s casual flair from Brittany’s nautical coast. Main brands include Mat de Misaine, St James and Armorlux. These have beautiful colourful fabrics of quality, including Liberty print blouses. As an experienced buyer, Alison brings to Market Hill some of the latest and best in women’s Breton casual clothing for every season. 01394 610325
the best of SUFFOLK 13
found on
CHURCH STREET BATHSHEBA Annie Averdieck opened Bathsheba Spa two years ago creating a ‘little haven of calm’ in the centre of Woodbridge. Small, but perfectly formed... the salon offers luxury REN facial and body treatments as well as professional ‘no nonsense’ beauty maintenance in beautiful surroundings. The interior was inspired by Annie’s favourite beach, the breezy, white washed surf village of Bathsheba in the Caribbean. We endeavour to go the ‘extra mile’ for our clients making each appointment as comfortable and relaxing as possible… comfy armchairs for pedicures, cushions and blankets, delicious refreshments, fresh flowers, music and the scent of REN Moroccan Rose all go towards making our clients feel relaxed and spoilt. 10 CHURCH STREET This artisan interiors boutique set in a beautiful Woodbridge townhouse showcases a range of unusual and one-off pieces hand-picked by owner Lisa. Visit for an eclectic mix of both painted and bleached antique furniture, contemporary home-wares and art. Lisa is always on the lookout for unusual, practical and striking pieces which aren’t normally found in the UK and she champions the talented artists she works with. There is also a brilliant selection of dog and cat products. In addition to the shop, Lisa offers a design consultancy service by the hour or day. 10churchstreet.com 01394 384949 Open Thurs, Friday and Saturday or by appointment VANIL Vanil is an ever-evolving, eclectic mix of Scandinavian inspired design. In-fact, every encounter with them is a world of discovery. Every six weeks you will be able to explore and purchase a carefully selected range of products which owner Mandy Leeson feels particularly passionate about. From the shop, she curates a unique assortment of accessories, gifts and home décor which are selected from designers she loves. As Mandy says: “I feel passionately about championing partnerships with designers and artists who share my belief in slow design, which is all about taking time to create designs you’ll cherish for a lifetime.”
14 the best of SUFFOLK
Bathsheba is a modern, boutique day Spa in the heart of Woodbridge. An oasis of calm, self spoiling and femininity in a warm, welcoming environment - a little bit of luxury just of the High Street. Bathsheba Spa offers ‘sensational’ REN massage and facial treatments, accurate and defining threading and tinting, Perron Rigot hot wax, luxury manicures and pedicures, gel nails and IBX, salt or sugar body scrubs, detox wraps and Mother-to-be treatments. “Summer Prep Package” now available please call for details. We also offer half day and overnight Spa packages in conjunction with The Crown Hotel, Woodbridge.
Please call 01394 388813 for an appointment or treatment advice. 24 Church Street, Woodbridge, IP12 1DH www.bathshebaspa.co.uk
Scandinavian-Inspired Lifestyle Interiors
17 Church Street 07702 877081 Woodbridge IP12 1DS mandy@vanil.co.uk Open Tuesday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.30
Simply Scandinavian www.vanil.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 15
found on
THE THOROUGHFARE At the top of Woodbridge’s The Thoroughfare, there are an exciting range of independent shops, cafés and boutiques that are well worth a visit.
NINNI NOO Ninni Noo is inspiring for the woman who wants to look good. With on-trend clothing you’ll be sure to find something from casual, classic, smart or evening. There’s fantastic costume jewellery, whether you’re looking for a high fashion statement or simple delicate pieces. We also stock beautiful footwear for any occasion to compliment your outfit. You are sure to receive the warmest of welcomes from Nicky and her staff, whose enthusiasm and knowledge for all things fashion is sure to bring you back time and again. www.facebook.com/ NinninooBoutique 01394 388655
HOLLY BLUE Holly Blue is a lovely boutique with knowledgeable staff supplying gorgeous clothes and accessories for all ages. A great place for your retail therapy offering a wonderful shopping experience. They continually source new and exciting labels to suit individual styles and budgets. hollyblueboutique.com facebook.com/holly-blue-boutique 01394 382300
Indulge If you are looking for the top brands in high quality lingerie and swimwear - visit Sweet Dreams. sweetdreams-lingerie .co.uk
WOODBRIDGE JEWELLERY WORKSHOP Rick Chapman has been making beautiful pieces of fine jewellery for over 40 years. On leaving school Rick completed his apprenticeship with Apreys’, and his latest move to Woodbridge in 2014 has proved a huge success. The Thoroughfare is the ideal setting for their Grade 2 Listed workshop, being the perfect environment to create unique, high quality and individual pieces. Everything is handmade on the premises, using traditional tools and methods. They also run day courses for couples to make their wedding rings – a fantastic experience that is proving very popular. What could be more special? woodbridgejewelleryworkshop.co.uk 01394 647117 CHRISTINE’S PATISSERIE Christine’s is an independent tearoom, where the food is tasty, fresh and local. The interior is light and spacious set over three rooms with a lovely garden open in the summer. Run by Suzanne whose Granny first got her hooked on cake decorating. She taught her to pipe traditional cakes when she was little with plenty of constructive criticism which helped her develop her eye for detail! From here it seemed only a small step to making more elaborate patisserie. The shop is called “Christines” in her Granny’s honour as she never got to see the shop which she helped inspire. christinescakeshop.com 01394 385013
WOODBRIDGE DELI Suffolk’s most stylish purveyors of fine foods from regional and european cheeses and meats, pies and tarts, there are endless gastronomic delights in this foodie Aladdin’s cave Woodbridge Deli is also home to the “World Famous Pie”, baked daily on the premises - Pork, Pork and Stilton or Chicken and Ham, with Free Range Pork & Chicken. (No MRM or Preservatives are used). They also bake a “Desperate Dan” 3lb Steak Pie. Don’t forget to pack a couple for your picnic whilst exploring the county! orders@woodbridgedeli.co.uk 01394 386620
the best of SUFFOLK 17
Fine Quality Pre-Owned Jewellery & Watches 5 Church Street Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1DH Tel: 01394 389666
www.aspensjewellers.co.uk
Antiques 7 Quay Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1BX Woodbridge Antiques Centre is conveniently situated on Quay Street, between the Riverside and the bustling Thoroughfare, just two minutes walk from the railway station and its car park, making it ideal for browsing holiday makers, families on day trips or the more avid antique hunter. To view some examples of items we stock, please visit our website. Telephone 01394 387210 www.woodbridgeantiquescentre.co.uk 15528_Crown_BestofSuffolk_Ad_V2_Layout 1 14/05/2015 10:16 Page 1
Escape to the country The Crown at Woodbridge offers all that is great about escaping to the country, with all that is good about staying in a wonderful market town. With old fashioned inn keeping in a modern setting, we boast ten magnificent boutique bedrooms, a bustling bar and a real Suffolk food experience.
To book a table or room, please call 01394 384242
www.thecrownatwoodbridge.co.uk Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1AD
the best of SUFFOLK 19
Photography: Vernon Leyton
the SNAPE experience Snape Maltings is a wonderful destination whether you like eating, shopping, galleries, walking or just enjoying the most perfect destination that the Suffolk coast has to offer. Built in the 1800’s by the Victorian entrepreneur Newson Garrett with the main purpose of malting barley which, once malted, was sent to London and exported to Europe. In 1965, George Gooderham bought the Maltings and a new era began with the gradual conversion of the Victorian buildings. Situated beside the picturesque River Alde and just a ten minutes’ drive away from the popular seaside town of Aldeburgh, the collection of Victorian buildings are also the home of Aldeburgh Music’s world-class concert hall with a year-long programme and one of the best acoustics in the UK. Every June the Aldeburgh Festival, founded 1948 by composer Benjamin Britten, tenor Peter Pears and Eric Crozier, attracts music lovers from around the world. Over the past 40 years Snape Maltings has become a leading hub for culture, independent shops, galleries, workshops and food on the Suffolk Heritage Coast.
EAT
STAY Snape Maltings offers a range of properties from a delightful one bedroom cottage to a four bedroom three storey house located within the heart of the Maltings or with stunning river views. The Maltings is rich in opportunities to relax and put away the car keys as the location provides almost everything that is needed for a short break or a longer holiday.
20 the best of SUFFOLK
With its wide range of places to enjoy a treat, Snape Maltings offers something for every taste whether it is for a morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea. The new Concert Hall Café is a must to visit with a great menu and one of the best views in Suffolk, across the expansive reed beds towards Iken. The Granary teashop is extremely popular as is Café 1885. Snape Maltings is also the home of the highly acclaimed Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival which takes place in late September every year.
EXPERIENCE From a walk either side of the river to Aldeburgh or to Iken, a unforgettable river trip on the Enchantress, a cup of tea and a scrumptious piece of cake, a browse in the award-winning shops to find a lovely new treat to buying a new sofa Snape Maltings has much to offer so visit soon to enjoy one of the best destinations in the country. The monthly returning Farmers’ Market is one of Suffolk’s finest food markets offering a wonderful array of fresh produce and delicious artisan products all under one roof. Snape Maltings also hosts a Vintage and Makers Market every month with something for absolutely everyone from furniture, kitchenware to stylish vintage clothes and fabrics. RETAIL Browsing through the individual shops which have been nationally recognised for their unique and stylish range of products and friendly customer service is a very special treat. From the House & Garden emporium, food hall, children’s shop, clothes and accessories to local potteries and books,. Our buyers work incredibly hard to find new and unique products, so there’s always something new instore. Snape Maltings captures the imagination and there is something for everyone.
THE ARTS
NATURE
The Granary Gallery at Snape Maltings is a treasure box of wonderful finds from Suffolk and further afield. We continually work on introducing creative newcomers as well as showcasing nationally-collected local artists including Maggi Hambling CBE, Tessa Newcomb and Jason GathorneHardy. Many of our most sought-after painters live and work very locally and are inspired by the landscape on our doorstep. As well as painting and sculpture, the collections include the work of local potters and woodturners, textile artists and even furniture makers, while our ‘Made in Britain’ jewellery collections include the area’s most extensive collection of Alex Monroe’s celebrated jewellery.
The village of Snape and Snape Maltings are the ideal base from which to explore the area recognised as one of Britain’s finest landscapes. The River Alde is a haven for birdlife with its expansive estuary and the Sailors’ Path follows a beautiful route between Snape Maltings and Aldeburgh. The Path is named because sailors would walk the path between Aldeburgh and Snape. As the river is tidal it’s a place of glistering mud and shallow open water, filled twice a day by the incoming tide and rich in wildlife during migrating months.
The Pond Gallery and the Quay Gallery allows visiting artists to showcase their work at this fantastic destination, offering a broad range of styles provide a wide range of multi-media from local artists so the exhibitions change on a regular basis so do check the website the Snape Maltings website for up to date information.
SNAPE MALTINGS Near Aldeburgh Suffolk IP17 1SR 01728 688 303 snapemaltings.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 21
Caramel is now under one roof at Snape Maltings
Choose from popular labels such as Sahara and Yacco Maricard and Robell
We regularly introduce new labels to ensure we provide you with a wide choice of styles and prices Sizes range from XS to plus sizes
Visit Caramel to enjoy a relaxed shopping experience, where a warm welcome awaits you from our friendly and knowledgeable staff Caramel is located within an independent retail area at the Maltings with no parking restrictions caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk 01728 687467
Energy and inspiration on the Suffolk coast
ALDEBURGH MUSIC A world-class centre for performance and artist development, with events taking place throughout the year.
2016
2017
29 July – 28 August Snape Proms
Jan – March
Friday Lunchtime Concerts Celebration at 30!
15 October
Suffolk Songfest
7 – 11 March
21 – 23 October
Britten Weekend: Britten Dances
30 March – 1 April English Touring Opera
11 – 12 November
English Touring Opera
16 – 18 December
Christmas Weekend at Snape Maltings
8 April
Britten Pears–Orchestra with Marin Alsop and Colin Currie
14 – 16 April
Easter Weekend at Snape Maltings
9 – 25 June
70th Aldeburgh Festival
01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk 22 the best of SUFFOLK
6
best Cultural VISITS
Sutton Hoo
Benjamin Britten’s House
Constable Bridge Cottage
Think Suffolk’s past is just centuries of little England? Sutton Hoo will prove you wrong. This spectacular undisturbed ship burial site dates back to a time when East Anglia was a vital link in the Scandinavian network of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Located in Woodbridge, it is a great family day out with a variety of hand’s-on kid’s activities with a Nordic theme. IP12 3DJ
It is hard to think of a figure more central to Suffolk’s cultural life than Benjamin Britten: outstanding composer, creator of the Aldeburgh Festival and founder of Snape Maltings. Today, the house he shared for nearly two decades with his lifetime partner Peter Pears has been lovingly re-created as it was during his career. Arranged according to a 1965 room inventory, you get the feeling that they’ve just popped out!
Few artists have been as married to their subject matter as the iconic Romantic painter John Constable. His best-known works are his landscapes of Dedham Vale, an area so synonymous with his style that it is now known as ‘Constable Country’. A walk along the River Stour is like strolling through his canvas, still the spitting image of when he rendered it in 1821. This is the place for unbeatable dog walks and picnics.
nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo
IP15 5PZ
CO7 6UL
01394 389700
brittenpears.org
nationaltrust.org.uk
01728 451700
01206 298260
Alfred Munnings
Gainsborough House
Theatre in the Forest
As the leading equestrian artist of his day, collected by the Royal family and high society, Munnings was the epitome of respectability in the 20thcentury establishment. Castle House in Dedham now houses a charming museum containing over 600 of his paintings, around 100 of which are usually on display. Rather incredibly, the vast majority of his pictures were created after he lost sight in one eye at the age of twenty.
Thomas Gainsborough was astonishingly successful in his time, contributing to the rise in middle class domestic portraiture by replacing stiff, formal poses with scenes of affection and intimacy. The birthplace of this great artist on Gainsborough Street in Sudbury is now open to the public, and displays the largest collection of his work in Britain. A fascinating array of paintings that beautifully illustrate bourgeois society.
Every summer an enchanting spot of Suffolk woodland is transformed into a stage and brought to life by Shakespeare. Red Rose Chain, the independent theatre and film company behind this annual season of shows, has created highly original and accessible Shakespeare adaptations year on year, resulting in a steady increase in popularity. A guaranteed open air hit with families, but don’t forgot your waterproofs!
CO7 6AZ
CO10 2EU
IP9 2AR
siralfredmunnings.co.uk
gainsborough.org
redrosechain.com
01206 322127
01787 372958
01473 603388
the best of SUFFOLK 23
Yoxford and Peasenhall Slightly inland from Suffolk’s heritage coast you will find an area sometimes known as the ‘Garden of Suffolk’
HISTORY Yoxford’s quaint main street incorporates a mix of architectural styles and is a good deal quieter now than it was a couple of centuries ago when all the London-to-Yarmouth traffic came this way, providing coaching inns with a roaring trade. Yoxford has a church with a spire and good brasses, as well as local shops and the King’s Head pub to explore. The village is surrounded by ample swathes of parkland belonging to no fewer than three big private country house estates, Cockfield Hall among them. It provides an ideal base from which to enjoy unspoilt country walks. This is where Elizabeth I had her cousin Katherine Grey (younger sister of Lady Jane) placed under house arrest after her stretch in the Tower of London. She died soon after and is buried here. GET YOUR BEARINGS The village of Yoxford can be reached by rail as well as by road, providing
you realise that the station is actually at nearby Darsham. Its most distinctive feature is that it is home to no fewer than three antiques outlets. Situated in the heart of the village, Garden House offers excellent value for money, while Suffolk House Antiques caters for the quality end of the trade. If you are interested in early furniture and works of art, visit here. The seven rooms are laid out with the sort of pieces often seen only in museums. The proprietor, Andrew Singleton, is always happy to advise. Half a mile through the village on the A1120 stands Yoxford Antiques Centre, offering an enormous range of antiques and collectables to suit all budgets in light and airy premises. The courtyard houses a row of brightly painted beach huts, which stock all kinds of craft goods, as well as The Flying Goose Café. There are also five acres of gardens and field where you can visit the centre’s three resident alpacas.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE A stone’s throw away from Yoxford, the smaller village of Peasenhall is also interesting. It has an industrial as well as an agricultural past, having become a major production centre for the early 19th-century seed drill invented by James Smyth. The church is next door to where the Suffolk Seed Drill Company used to be. Today it is very much a foodie village with the excellent local butcher JR Creasey, Weavers tearoom and Emmett’s village stores. Trading here since the 1840s, Emmett’s sells all sorts of delicious treats but is most famous for its traditionally produced bacon and hams – in particular its Suffolk black ham. If you head off towards the coast you will find you are not far from Dunwich, the once great town famously lost to the sea, and Minsmere, the nature reserve run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
best of RECOMMENDS STEP BACK into medieval times during a visit to St Peter’s church in Yoxford.
24 the best of SUFFOLK
BROWSE the quirky and varied antique outlets here that all offer something different.
TAKE IN breathtaking coastal surroundings at nearby Dunwich Heath, conserved by the National Trust.
Visit our Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose Café. There are five acres of open gardens and fields to enjoy and ample free parking. We are open 6 days a week: Monday to Saturday – 10.00am to 5.00pm Sundays – 10.00am to 4.00pm Bank Holidays – 10.00am to 5.00pm Closed Tuesdays.
Over 80 antiques dealers under one roof selling a wide range of antiques, collectables and vintage items.
01728 668844
www.yoxfordantiques.com Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW).
Suffolk House Antiques Suffolk SuffolkHouse HouseAntiques Antiques Established over twenty five years Established over twenty years ago Established over twenty years ago in pretty the village pretty village of Yoxford, in ago the pretty of Yoxford, in the village of Yoxford, House Antiques has one Suffolk Suffolk House Antiques has one ofofof Suffolk House Antiques has one the largest selections of high quality thethe largest selections of high quality largest selections of high quality early oak and country furniture and early oakoak andand country furniture and early country furniture and associated works of art in the UK. associated works of art in the UK. associated works of art in the UK. For further information, visit our website Forplease further information, For further information, www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk please visit ourour website please visit website or contact Andrew Singleton www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk telephone or email. or by contact Andrew Singleton or contact Andrew Singleton
by by telephone or or email. telephone email.
Member of the Member of theof the Member British Antiques British Antiques British Antiques Dealers Association Dealers Association Dealers Association
High Street, Yoxford, Suffolk IP17 3EP High Street, Yoxford, Suffolk IP17 3EP High Street, Yoxford, Suffolk IP17 3EP Tel: 01728 668122 Email: as@suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk Tel:Tel: 01728668122 Email: as@suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk 01728668122 Email: as@suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk
www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 25
Framlingham Voted one of the best places to live in Britain, Framlingham has been described as ‘the essence of the English market town’.
HISTORY Framlingham’s biggest visitor attraction is its wonderful 12th-century castle, which could be an illustration from a children’s picture book and is one of the finest surviving examples of its kind. Built by Roger Bigod, one of the Earls of Norfolk, it has been adapted and used as many things over the centuries, including a poorhouse and a court. Today it is in the care of English Heritage and hosts a programme of events and re-enactments. The castle also contains a small museum of fascinating domestic and agricultural bygones amassed by local collector Harold Lanman, along with a complete collection of the Framlingham Weekly News from 1859 to 1938. It is here, too, that you can find echoes of a clock-making industry that once made Framlingham tick.
GET YOUR BEARINGS Once you have explored the castle, head for the Market Square, which forms part of a conservation area at the heart of this thriving community. Here you will find quality shops to explore and eateries that range from a café to a coaching inn. The mixture of independent retail caters for the needs of the locals as well as for visitors. THINGS TO DO AND SEE A quick tour of the town includes everything from a ducking pond and Tudor almshouses to a Victorian pillar-box, which is still in use. Also not to be missed is the beautiful church of St Michael’s with its magnificent tombs and effigies. Look out for classical concerts held here periodically. eastanglianacademy.org.uk The area surrounding the castle,
Framlingham Mere, is another Bigod legacy and makes for a lovely walk. It provides a haven for wildlife as well as offering views of the castle and of Framlingham College, a private school founded in memory of Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert in 1864. Former pupils include the artist Alfred Munnings. Market days are on Tuesday and Saturday and take place on Market Hill with Saturday being the best day to visit.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS The Alde Valley Spring Festival April / May Maverick Festival July Heveningham Hall Country Fair July 122nd Framlingham Horse Show July The Sausage Fest October
best of RECOMMENDS BARGAIN HUNT
POP INTO
RELAX
at Theatre Antiques on Church Street and Richard Goodbrey on Double Street.
the Saturday market for artisanal goods and local farm produce. More at framlinghammarket.co.uk
drink coffee and take the weight off your feet at Paddy and Scotts.
26 the best of SUFFOLK
SUFFOLK’S CROWNING GLORY Bow down to the splendour of Mary Tudor’s 16th century refuge.
Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9BP
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
The Heritage Coast
best of Aldeburgh 30 Canine Cuisine 34 best of Afternoon Tea 36 Ecclesiastical Treasures 38 best of Thorpeness 42 best of Orford 44
private passions Ruth Watson 46 best of Southwold 48 6 best Suffolk beaches 53 Walberswick, Blythburgh and Dunwich 56 Felixstowe 58
best of ALDEBURGH Composer Benjamin Britten and tenor Peter Pears were Aldebugh’s most famous residents and an international music festival is held every year. The seaside town is also noted for fish and chips and for artist Maggi Hambling’s controversial scallop sculpture on the beach. Thorpeness, with its famous House in the Clouds, is only a walk away.
Maggi Hambling’s scallop ALDEBURGH CONTEMPORARY ARTS 2017 sees the 15th anniversary of Andrew and Julie Knibbs gallery. Situated on the High Street it shows leading artists from all parts of the UK and features regular exhibitions, the gallery is now established as a great destination to view affordable, colourful contemporary art. From traditional linocuts, woodcuts, screenprints and etchings, to large scale original oil and acrylic on canvas paintings, with a range of glassware and ceramics there is plenty to inspire. aldeburghcontemporaryarts.co.uk THE GOLDEN GALLEON FISH AND CHIPS Another must for a town, particularly one near the sea, is this family-run fish and chip shop, founded in 1967. Plan ahead to visit, as the quality of the quintessential English meal served here means it is among the best of the UK’s fish and chip shops and, therefore, has quite a queue. Make sure to take cash too - the shop doesn’t take cards and you wouldn’t want to have to queue twice! aldeburghfishandchips.co.uk
Did you know? Benjamin Britten’s top tip for creativity was to take a cold bath every morning and be at your desk by 9am!
30 the best of SUFFOLK
MARTELLO TOWER Aldeburgh’s Martello Tower isn’t far to the south of town and offers a delightful focal point for a short coastal walk. It is the largest and most northerly of a chain of towers designed to keep Napoleon from invading Britain. Situated at the foot of the Orford Ness peninsula, between the sea and the River Alde, it is a lovely quatrefoil building and is available as a really special holiday rental from the Landmark Trust. Alternatively, you could walk north to Maggi Hambling’s Scallop. This four metre tall, steel sculpture of a scallop is dedicated to Benjamin Britten, who often walked along this beach, and is pierced with the words “I hear those voices that will not be drowned” from Britten’s opera Peter Grimes.
THE ALDEBURGH BOOKSHOP No town is complete without a good bookshop and in this, Aldeburgh excels. The Aldeburgh Bookshop is an independent shop that was founded almost 70 years ago. Its current owners, John and Mary James, have been in charge since 2000. Apart from a wonderful collection of books, a reading group and winning awards, they also founded the Aldeburgh Literary Festival, which attracts a wide range of writers giving a variety of talks and bringing together people from all over the UK. The next Festival takes place from 2nd to 5th March 2017 aldeburghbookshop.co.uk
SALTER & KING
Local Knowledge Orlando, the Marmalade Cat, is a much-loved collection of children’s illustrated stories written between 1938 and 1972. The series got the writer, Kathleen Hale, listed in the Oxford Companion to Children’s Literature, and in A Seaside Holiday, Orlando and his family – wife and three kittens – holiday in ‘Owlbarrow’, which is based on Aldeburgh and the illustrations feature many of the local landmarks. Buy a copy and see if you can find them: it will certainly keep the children entertained!
A craft butcher with pasture-fed, slow-grown meat and a passionate, progressive approach to butchery. If you’re on holiday in Aldeburgh, then you’d be smart to order a holiday cottage meat box, so that you can mix up nights out with nights in but always with quality food. Salter & King also make burgers, sausages and meatballs and offers an online shop, so that your holiday doesn’t have to stop when you get home. salterandking.co.uk
REGATTA RESTAURANT Possibly the best dining experience in Aldeburgh, part of the landscape for over twenty years, the menu is big on seafood and the Head Chef and owner trained at La Gavroche what’s not to love! regattaaldeburgh.com 01728 452011
the best of SUFFOLK 31
CANINE CUISINE
& TASTY TREATS Our canine correspondent Pickle’s choice of Suffolk’s top dog-friendly places to eat, drink, shop and walk
1
Pickle and her pup Pip
Life as man’s best friend can be tiresome and it’s not everyday that our loyalty is repaid with a true VIP experience. At the Westleton Crown, four-legged guests can expect guaranteed biscuits and fuss on arrival, as well as doggy breakfast served in the restaurant with delicious local sausages. I love the fabulous long walks on heaths, in forests and on the year-round dog friendly Dunwich beach - and towels at reception mean no fear of getting my paws dirty.
2 Those who aspire to be top pooch will feel right at home in the Crown and Castle. It is essential to notify in advance if you intend to bring any furry guests, and you may be lucky enough to bag one of the designated garden rooms. The exclusive atmosphere continues in the bar area where a few dogs are allowed access and there is one bookable doggie table in the restaurant area.
3 MARLESFORD FARM CAFÉ + SHOP Dogs are allowed in this posh café with a garden at the rear, which specialises in locally sourced food from over 100 suppliers. Located just north of Woodbridge, it’s an ideal stop on the way to the coast, and their hospitality for hounds really sets tails wagging. farmcafe.co.uk
4
KINGS HEAD PUB IN WOODBRIDGE
For a thirsty pet and owner who have worked up an appetite on a long river walk, this pub is the ultimate watering hole. Their famous Mutts Menu offers classic snacks such as cows and pigs ears for just £1, but I love getting my chops around the bestselling honey dried snout. After, you can strike a pose that will feature on their board of canine visitors.
34 the best of SUFFOLK
5 10 CHURCH STREET WOODBRIDGE DOG ACCESSORIES Whoever said money cannot buy you happiness, was not a dog, and clearly had not been introduced to 10 Church Street’s collection of pet accessories. I love Mungo and Maud’s rope collar which has a durable leather trim and brass detailing. It’s enough to make any walk in the park a stylish affair and comes in a variety of sizes to suit my pup.
GOOD NEWS! Peak seaside season is between October and April, when there are no dog restrictions in force on Suffolk’s beaches. I love a good coastal walk as much as the next pooch, and during this period it’s fantastic to roam free on any stretch of beach you like. However be aware that some beaches are off limits from the 1st May through to 30th September.
Drift Jewellery
Levi’s M.i.h
collen & clare C O A S TA L C H I C
"The Aldeburgh edit" BeckSöndergaard
collenandclare.com
Coach
Tipped by the Sunday Telegraph as “one of the 50 best boutiques outside London”. Barbour
Frame
Converse
best of AFTERNOON TEA Hotel Afternoon Teas - What could be more English… A quintessential experience that simply cannot be missed THE SALTHOUSE HOTEL & THE ANGEL HOTEL Available: Daily 2.30pm - 5.30pm. Bookings: Up to 24 hours prior to arrival Menu: Traditional £17.50, Luxury with a glass of fizz £26.50 Call: 01473 226789 or 01284 714007 THE WENTWORTH WITH SEA VIEWS Available: Daily 3pm - 5.30pm Booking: Advised Menu: Traditional £11.50, Wentworth Afternoon Tea £15.50 Call: 01728 452312
THE SWAN LAVENHAM Available: Monday to Saturday, 12 noon - 5pm Booking: Essential Menu: Traditional £19.50, Savory £19.50, High Tea £26.50 Call: 01787 247477 or email bookatable@ theswanatlavenham.co.uk
KESGRAVE HALL Available: Daily, 3pm - 5pm Booking: No need Menu: Traditional £18.50, Including a glass of champagne £27 Call: 01473 333741 TUDDENHAM MILL Available: Monday - Saturday, 2.30pm - 5pm Booking: Essential Menu: Traditional £16.50, Champagne £25 Call: 01638 713552 BEDFORD LODGE Available : Daily, 2.30pm - 5.30pm
HINTLESHAM HALL Available: Daily, 2pm - 5pm
UFFORD PARK HOTEL Available: Daily, 2pm - 5pm
Booking: No need
Booking: Essential
Booking: Not essential
Menu: Light £10.50, Full £18.95, Champagne £33 or Gentlemen’s £24
Menu: Traditional £18
Menu: Traditional £15.95, add £3.95 for a glass of Prosecco
Call: 0800 6522991
36 the best of SUFFOLK
Call: 01473 652334 or email reservations@hintleshamhall.com
Call: 01394 383555
S h e s e ll s .. . 30
- VI
6 201
hore. s a e s e th y b . .. www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk
@fleuraldeburgh
166 high street, aldeburgh, suffolk ip15 5aq
tel: 01728 454822
THE WENTWORTH HOTEL AND RESTAURANT Aldeburgh’s only truly independent hotel – No.1 in Aldeburgh on Tripadvisor
Good Food, Good Value Lunch theconservatory conservatory—– two two courses courses £13.00 Lunch in in the £13.00(Mon (Mon–—Sat) Sat) Dinner in the restaurant — –two three courses courses£25.00 £26.50(Mon (Mon Sat) Dinner in the restaurant twocourses courses£21.00 £19.50 — – three –— Sat) Sundays — –three threecourse coursedinner dinner £16.40 Sundays threecourse courselunch lunch £22.50 £21.50 –—three £15.90 Booking advisable Telephone 01728 452312 www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com
the best of SUFFOLK 37
38 the best of SUFFOLK
10
WELCOMING GUESTS TO EXPLORE ALDEBURGH FROM THE BEST SELECTION OF 100 STYLISH HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Contact us now to book your perfect Suffolk coastal break!
01728 553105
bestofsuffolk.co.uk
Creative Inspiration Opened in 2002, Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts offers quality art at affordable prices in relaxed surroundings. Visit the gallery, situated prominently on Aldeburgh High Street and prepare to be inspired with contemporary art by more than 60 artists. ‘Crag Path Summer’ - Etching by Derek Chambers
‘Lining Up on the Spinnaker Run’ Acrylic by Janet Nelson
‘Birdsong & Bluebells’Acrylic by Paul Evans
‘Midnight in Birdland’ Gouache by Adam Yeldham
Glassware by Catherine Shilling
‘Vintage 7Up Cap’ Acrylic by Graham Spice
‘Avocet’ Linocut by Richard Allen
‘Wave Light’ Oil by Christopher Osborne
Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts can be found at 187 High St, Aldeburgh. Open five days a week (closed Tues/Wed) 10am-5pm. 01728 454212 aldeburghcontemporaryarts.co.uk
40 the best of SUFFOLK
COASTAL CRAFTSMAN MARK RILEY Mark Riley’s unique and distinctive ‘pebbles’ are a wonderful way to capture your individual memories of Aldeburgh. Working from his workshop within his Aldeburgh shop and literally a stone’s throw from the sea, all ‘CreoDesign Aldeburgh Pebbles’ are hand made by Mark and totally unique. Cast from real pebbles that he specially selects from the beach, or pebbles brought in by customers, they are solid sterling silver - although if you are feeling more extravagant they are also available in gold. Mark’s inspiration came from walking along the nearby beach road and seeing children painting pebbles from the beach. This caught his imagination and he set about creating unique pieces of beautiful and tactile jewellery that are not only inspired by nature, are almost created by nature. He makes a mould from an actual beach pebble and casts a facsimile in solid silver, which he then makes into a piece of jewellery that is totally unique and imbued with the romance of the sea shore and the creative nature of the environment. ‘Each piece also bears my individual R&R hallmark!’ Mark is a qualified gemmologist and makes all his pieces in the Aldeburgh store. He says of Aldeburgh, ‘it is and has been home to so many creative people, that its inspiration goes before it!’ The newest part of their hand-made range is the new ‘CreoDesign Personalised’, as Mark explains: “We hand forge rings and discs and make multi-layered circle pendants and bangles. The pieces can be personalised with names, dates or a short message, which are hand-punched into the metal and included in the price. Riley & Riley also have a full repair service and undertake everything from simple sizings through to complete restorations and remodels. Riley & Riley 122-124 High Street Aldeburgh 01728 452431
the best of SUFFOLK 41
best of THORPENESS Thorpeness was promoted as The Home of Peter Pan. The author, JM Barrie, was a friend of the Ogilvies and regularly visited the village. His characters inspired the magical islands in the centre of the Meare. The landings are still marked with names from the book, and you can find locations such as The Pirates Lair and Wendy’s Home, to play on. THE HOUSE IN THE CLOUDS
THE MEARE
An architectural folly which disguised the water tower that used to contain 30,000 gallons of water. It’s now a unique family holiday home, with fabulous views over the surrounding area.
A wide range of boats are available here including dinghys (generally suitable for one to two people), larger rowing boats, punts, sailing boats, canoes (for 2 or 3 people) and kayaks (one person).
houseintheclouds.co.uk
thorpenessmeare.co.uk
THORPENESS WINDMILL Grade II listed, this windmill was built in 1803 and then moved in 1923, when it was converted to a water pumping mill for the nearby water tower, the House in the Clouds. It’s now privately owned and you can arrange to visit between Easter and September.
THORPENESS VILLAGE STORE
THE KITCHEN
An independent, friendly and well stocked village shop in the heart of the Thorpeness serving both local residents and visitors alike. With a great range of local suppliers from Stokes sauces to Foskers fruit and vegetables
Work your way through the carefully crafted menu of seasonally sourced cuisine from breakfast through to dinner during the summer months. Free wifi and complimentary newspapers. With modern light rooms just 50 metres from the beach
thorpenessdolphin.com/village-store
thekitchenthorpeness.co.uk
42 the best of SUFFOLK
THE DOLPHIN
AND VILLAGE STORE
an indispensable part of village life A family-run business situated in the unique seaside village of Thorpeness holds a special place in the heart of the local community. Resurrected after a devastating fire in 1995 and rebuilt in 1998, The Dolphin Inn, together with the Village Store, have become an indispensable part of village life. After being carefully refurbished with old pine furniture and a traditional bar, this pub has a friendly, bustling atmosphere with a good mix of locals and visitors. Decorated with old photographs of Thorpeness, wooden tables and chairs, a large log fireplace and subtle lighting, it is easy to understand why this is a popular meeting place with the locals. The Dolphin is an ideal resting base to explore Thorpeness and neighbouring towns Aldeburgh and Southwold, or for just a peaceful walk around Snape Maltings and RSPB Minsmere reserve, plus many more local ‘must sees’. David James and his daughter Kerry have been running this handy little hideaway for five years and now boast an eventful calendar for locals and tourists. Along with the head chef, Chris Theobald, they have created one of the top restaurant dining destinations in the area. With a style of food that reflects traditional and modern influences –the focus is on using locally sourced or home-grown produce. This is truly a great British pub where you can expect really good food and excellent beer served in a warm, friendly environment.
FROM THE PUMPS As a free house The Dolphin bar dispenses award-winning real ales, sourced locally from independent producers and micro-breweries, including Adnams, Brandon Brewery, Crouch Vale and Woodfordes. An excellent wine list has been developed from some of the best cellars around the world. This features alongside a large selection of bourbons, single malts and port.
VILLAGE STORE You can find the shop just behind The Dolphin where Carole supplies the village with all its daily needs, from fresh local produce to newspapers, home-cooked meals straight from the Dolphin kitchen, or her abundance of local knowledge. The aim of the shop is to provide a much-needed service to the community, local and tourist alike, and that it is a place where you always feel welcome.
THE DOLPHIN and Village Store
Old Homes Road Thorpeness IP6 4FE 01728 454994 www.thorpenessdolphin.com
the best of SUFFOLK 43
OLD THO IP1 017 info ww
Orford is one of the most secluded parts of Suffolk, yet for such a small place it is remarkably wellserved by restaurants. Don’t miss a deliciously retro lunch at the Butley Orford Oysterage a long running and no frills eatery. Perfect for a pint are The Jolly Sailor approaching the quay and The Kings Head; special mention goes to the awardwinning Crown and Castle a must for both dinner and staying over… ORFORD CASTLE
best of ORFORD
This unusual tower keep guards the pretty town and is remarkably intact, so you can explore from top to bottom and enjoy magnificent views from the roof out to sea and Orford Ness. A wonderful day out and another of Suffolk’s many gems. english-heritage.org.uk
Established 1959
Our restaurant, The Butley Orford Oysterage, serves fresh fish caught off our boats, home grown oysters and smoked fish from our traditional smokehouses. Restaurant
Shop
Butley Orford Oysterage Market Hill, Orford, Suffolk IP12 2LH
Pinneys of Orford The Old Warehouse, Quay St, Orford, Suffolk IP12 2NU
01394 450277
01394 459183
www.pinneysoforford.co.uk
44 the best of SUFFOLK
BOAT Boat over to Orford Ness; a remote stretch of coast separated from the mainland by the River Ore. Open 26 March - 25 June Saturdays only. 28 June - 1 October Tuesday Saturday. 8 - 29 October Saturdays only. Access is by National Trust ferry from Orford Quay. Boats cross to the Ness every 20 minutes between 10am and 2pm only, returning regularly through the day; last ferry leaves the Ness at 5pm. nationaltrust.org
FUN FOR CHILDREN Book a fun boat trip on Regardless on the River Ore with Peter the Skipper. See the lifting and baiting up of lobster pots and discover the many different types of sea creatures caught locally, including lobsters, velvet and hermit crabs, fish and shellfish. Embarks daily at 5.30pm from Orford Quay, depending on demand, during summer school holidays, and on Saturdays during term time May to September. Booking is essential don’t just turn up! orfordrivertrips.co.uk
DINE ON THE WATER The quay is always a lively place, you can board the Lady Florence here for a leisurely lunch on the Rivers Alde and Ore, regardless of weather and tides. lady-florence.co.uk Look out for the RSPB’s emblematic avocet in the Summer months
The Crown and Castle restaurant with rooms TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice casual Monday – Saturday lunch evening a la carte with approachable and honest Italian and British dishes 21 light-filled en-suite bedrooms seasonal packages and offers dog-friendly garden rooms lovely staff who like customers in the heart of beautiful, coastal Orford, just a stone’s throw from the Castle Call us on 01394 450205 email info@crownandcastle.co.uk browse www.crownandcastle.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 45
Photography © David Watson ARPS www.davidwatson.org.uk
Unfortunately, I am a jack-of-all-trades. People who are very focused on one aspect of life – it doesn’t matter whether it is sculpture, writing, carpentry or classic car restoration – have it easy in many ways. No vacillating about how to spend the day, just the overwhelming desire to get the carving of the inner ear exactly right or the new piston properly positioned.
46 the best of SUFFOLK
private passions
RUTH WATSON Sometimes I wish I was driven by an all-consuming passion, but I find myself continually diverted, intrigued and fascinated by too many things. I am just as hooked on the nonsense that’s Formula 1 as I am on indie bands, modern architecture, Italian food and reading.
venerable, velvet-padded ladder. No, it’s simply because it houses around 5,000 books stacked – in alphabetical order – on 47 Billy bookcases. (We’re really proud of the alphabetical bit which, while not exactly following the Dewey Decimal Classification system, does work.)
The latter is not just a passing fancy, though. I could read before I went to primary school and really couldn’t conceive of a life without books. We even have a room we are forced to refer to as the ‘library’. This is not because it’s redolent of fusty, ancient vellum and cracked leather, or that the walls are lined to the ceiling with solid mahogany shelving accessed by a
I used to read a lot of novels, from DH Lawrence, Evelyn Waugh and George Orwell to Joseph Heller, Margaret Drabble and EM Forster. But these days too many seem to be predicated on a tortured narcissism that I can’t stomach. As a teenager I was riveted by books like The Catcher in the Rye and Gidget because they spoke directly to me and my youthful angst.
Being despondent, and wallowing in that despondency, is all part of growing up. But now I want to be entertained, informed or amused when I read. It may well be an age thing as I remember my mother favouring factual books in later life, as I now do. The only exception is a good salting of crime and detective stories. I love John le Carre, Reginald Hill and Colin Dexter, and I am currently reading the books written by Fred Vargas, the pseudonym for a French, female historian. Beautifully written – and translated – they are quirky, characterful but essentially redemptive. While a biography or autobiography would be my first port of call, it is the published diary to which I abscond most regularly. Full of history, character, events, thoughts and gossip, it goes without saying that a diary is intensely personal. That said, I am highly suspicious, if still entertained, by political diaries such as those by Alan Clark, Tony Benn or Harold Nicolson. When a diary is deliberately written for others to read, the perpetrators (and I use the word advisedly) tend to eliminate the trivia, increase the self-aggrandising, manipulate the time frame, and go full out for the vituperous character assassination. The diaries I enjoy most are those written by less-assuming people, such as Alan Bennett, James LeesMilne or the clergyman, Francis Kilvert, who was a curate in Wales towards the end of the 19th century. Although the latter’s appreciation of young girls, while overtly innocent, is not something the modern reader can easily overlook, his descriptions of rural poverty – hovels with no windows, light, sanitary arrangements or even cooking facilities – are painfully evocative. Where he really excels, however, is in his musings on the natural world: he writes about the flora and fauna in almost forensic detail. Reading of his great distress, and impotence, when a local landowner fells a large ancient wood for pecunious gain tells you that little has changed, at least in this respect... Another favourite diary is that of Parson James Woodforde, who wrote The Diary of a Country Parson during the period 1758-1802. He loves his food, which immediately creates a bond with this particular reader, but it’s the minutiae of everyday life – not just his, but that of his family, servants and neighbours – that is so fascinating. His thoughts were not recorded because he foresaw publication but because, being a bachelor, it provided
a focus for his complaints, praise, tolerance and grievances. As a complete contrast to Georgian and Victorian life, nobody should go to their grave without having read, and revelled in, Alan Bennett’s Untold Stories and Writing Home. He has the gift of seeing into the heart of people and things with an almost excruciating clarity, but his engaging humour and self-deprecation always leave you on the right side of human kindness. This can’t be said quite so much about my favourite diarist of all, James Lees-Milne. His profound knowledge of architecture, painting and craftsmanship led – in the 1930s – to his being a key member of the burgeoning National Trust. He never stopped motoring around the British countryside, and his visits to great houses and churches provide an authoritative and illuminating thread to the diaries that cover about six decades. But what brings them to exultant, often jaw-dropping, life are the cutting, mischievous, devastatingly frank opinions about those he knew – and there were few he didn’t – from high society figures such as the Duchess of Devonshire to the slightly more gamey James Pope-Hennessy. It makes for gripping stuff and the vicarious pleasure never palls. In essence, the diarist provides a picture of a world the reader doesn’t inhabit but can live in as intimately as any peeping Tom, without the risk of a prison sentence. The diarist doesn’t need to fear being misconstrued, or any other consequence, as long as the writings remain private until after death. It is this brutal but often inconsequential honesty that has such appeal for me. As an avid reader of diaries, do I keep one myself? No, because I don’t have any desire to record my every thought and experience. Not only that, a personal diary should be written in longhand, and that’s not something I have the self-discipline to do. That doesn’t mean I won’t write a book about hotel life at some stage but that’s a very different story. At the end of the working day, I want to read, not write. That’s my luxury, when time is mine and mine alone… © Ruth Watson 2016
the best of SUFFOLK 47
best of SOUTHWOLD The town’s seafront landscape with the iconic lighthouse poking its head above the rooftops has remained unchanged over the years and evokes the simple seaside pleasures of a bygone age. The Adnams brewery goes from strength to strength and the welcoming pubs are all within walking distance of each other.
SOUTHWOLD PIER If one picture on a postcard could sum up an idyllic English Seaside destination it would have to be Southwold Pier. This pillared walkway has a magnetic attraction and something for everyone to enjoy! There’s so much to do a whole day can drift by while you walk the planks and explore this historic icon. southwoldpier.co.uk THE LITTLE FISH AND CHIP SHOP If you have had enough of fish and chips the Little Fish and Chip shop sells fresh fish daily. solebayfishco.co.uk
Did you know? There is a Ferry from Southwold to Walberswick from Easter to October. Fare £1 per person dogs welcome and free of charge. explorewalberswick .co.uk 48 the best of SUFFOLK
SAILORS’ READING ROOM Known for their heavy drinking when not at sea, the Sailors’ Reading Room was built in 1864 in an attempt to encourage Christian ideals and keep sailors from the many pubs of Southwold. Now, it’s a fascinating sea-faring museum focused on Southwold’s maritime history. southwoldsailorsreadingroom.co.uk
TRINITY HOUSE LIGHTHOUSE Climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in the informative tour it runs from Easter to October trinityhouse.co.uk TEA ON THE BEACH If you fancy a cup of tea and slice of home-made cake right on the beach visit Suzies’ beach café, a Southwold institution found at the bottom of the steps below the Sailor’s Reading Room.
To complete the Southwold experience why not rent a beach hut, they cost from £25 a day beachhutsouthwold.co.uk
THE SWAN HOTEL The Swan Hotel are undertaking a period of major refurbishments next year in January until May/June 2017, so the hotel will be closed while works take place but will re-open refreshed for its next 350 years! adnams.co.uk
Adnams’ Farmers Market The weekly farmers market takes place every Friday from 9am12.30pm in the courtyard of Adnams Cellar & Kitchen Store
LORD NELSON The perfect place for a pint of Adnams and a plate of fish and chips, great atmosphere, especially when the fire blazes out in the winter months, dog friendly.
THE TWO MAGPIES BAKERY Grab a takeaway from this unique artisan bakery-café and head for the beach. twomagpiesbakery.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 49
Weejuns
Sunspel
Belstaff
Described by Conde Nast Traveller as a “mini Fenwick” and tipped by the Sunday Telegraph as “one of the 50 best boutiques outside London”. Destination shopping for women and men in the beautiful seaside town of Southwold.
Levi’s
Barbour
Mulberry
collen & clare C O A S TA L C H I C
"The Southwold edit" collenandclare.com
Annick Goutal
BeckSรถndergaard
Barbour
Wacoal
Cabinet Jewellery
Penelope Chilvers
6beaches best
SUFFOLK
Suffolk’s picturesque coastline stretches for 39 miles, starting at Felixstowe and extending to its most eastern tip at Lowestoft. The beaches are perfectly suited to a classic bucket-and-spade day out or a variety of activities from fishing, swimming, wind surfing and sailing to just relaxing with a book. Walberswick (above) Walberswick’s lovely dunes and coarse, orange-tinted sand are ideal for building sandcastles. Don’t miss a trip on the Walberswick-to-Southwold Foot Ferry, a traditional rowing boat that crosses the River Blyth. At just £1 a person it’s a steal, and dogs are also welcome. No lifeguards. IP18 6TN
DISCOVER MORE BEACHES
Southwold Pier Beach
Claremont Pier
This traditional seaside beach is home to a mix of sand and shingle, backed by wooden chalets and a genteel promenade. An amusement pier, putting greens and boating ponds make it a good option for families. European Blue Flag. Lifeguards. Or the more secluded The Denes Beach at Southwold IP18 6HQ for a quieter, more secluded beach away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
Here, you can take your pick from two beaches; central Claremont Pier in the north, or the fine stretch of sand in the south known locally as ‘Victoria Beach’ or the ‘Sunrise Coast’. Both have award-winning golden beaches that are safe to bathe in.
IP18 6BN
European Blue Flag. Lifeguards.
Kessingland NR33 7RW A huge unspoilt beach with a wide stretch of sand and sand hills. Covehithe (Four miles north of Southwold) is a quiet beach with a fast-eroding stretch of coastline. Shingle Street (11 miles from Orford) is an isolated beach where you can see seals basking at the estuary entrance.
NR33 0QN and Victoria Beach NR33 7NU, Lowestoft
Aldeburgh Beach IP15 5BD Shingle beach with fisherman huts where freshly caught fish are sold daily
North Felixstowe
Dunwich Beach IP17 3DE Shingle beach located next to RSPB Minesmere
This has a two mile promenade gently sloping towards the sea in a sheltered bay. European Blue Flag. No Lifeguards. IP11 2AQ
Ness Point, Lowestoft NR32 1XQ The most easterly point in the UK Hopton–on-Sea NR31 9SE (across the border) A sandy beach with views of the curving coastline.
the best of SUFFOLK 53
The Crown in Southwold... Perfectly positioned on Southwold High Street, The Crown is an old coaching inn with lots of personality. It boasts outstanding food and wine, a cosy back bar for a relaxing drink and sumptuous bedrooms too. To find out more, visit adams.co.uk or call 01502 722275.
The Crown, High Street, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6DP Crown 121x168.indd 2
21/06/2016 14:47
ur o d e t i s i v u o y Have e? Southwold stor Situated on Victoria Street, our iconic building is a showcase of everything Adnams, with a wide range of beers, wines, spirits and gifty bits too. Our tasting bar boasts an interesting selection of our daily favourites, and there is even a cafĂŠ to relax and recharge in before more retail therapy.
We look forward to welcoming you, Dan & the team Adnams Southwold Store, 4 Drayman Square, Victoria Street, Southwold, Suffolk IP18 6GB
Southwold Store 121x168.indd 1
54 the best of SUFFOLK
21/06/2016 14:47
10
WELCOMING GUESTS TO EXPLORE SOUTHWOLD FROM THE BEST SELECTION OF 50 STYLISH HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Contact us now to book your perfect Suffolk coastal break!
01728 553105
bestofsuffolk.co.uk
Walberswick, Blythburgh and Dunwich Swathes of marsh and sandy heathland rich in wildlife create the backdrop to this corner of Suffolk, much of it protected and designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. HISTORY Farther along the coast from Walberswick you will find the tiny town of Dunwich – or what is left of it. Much of the thriving medieval township famously disappeared under the sea. The rot set in after a devastating storm in 1328, when 400 houses and a number of churches were destroyed. Dunwich lost its harbour and its trade to Walberswick and, as coastal erosion continued to set in, the town was slowly reclaimed by the sea. There is a small museum where you can discover more about this lost town dunwichmuseum.org.uk GET YOUR BEARINGS Pretty Walberswick, beloved of artists and writers, lies on the coast, across the river from Southwold. You can easily walk between the two, the only decision being whether to cross the Bailey bridge or secure a passage on the tiny foot ferry (June-September daily). Arriving by boat and passing
the harbour huts, you can either follow a path through the sand-dunes to the beach, or continue up the main street to the village green, where you will find arts and crafts shops, a tea shop and visitor centre. Farther into the village, you can enjoy a drink at the Bell and some tasty lunch at the Anchor. Blythburgh lies a little farther inland, along the River Blyth. You cannot miss its church, sometimes known as the Cathedral of the Marshes. Vastly out of proportion to the size of its surroundings, Holy Trinity manages to distinguish itself in a county full of special churches, and is truly worth a visit. The devil himself is reputed to have called here, hotfooting it from Bungay during the awful storm of 1577 and leaving tell-tale scorch-marks on the door. The village itself is bisected by the busy A12 – church on one side, pub the other.
and beach is a nature reserve and conservation area owned by the National Trust. There are lovely walks, and families with children can find plenty to do. From July to September you can see a colourful combination of purple heather and yellow gorse. Maps and further information are available from the converted coastguard cottages, where there is also a licensed tearoom and shop. Here, too, is Minsmere RSPB Nature Reserve, complete with visitors centre, a shop selling everything you need for bird-watching and a café.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Walberswick Fete 27 August 11am - 4pm the Green and the Village Hall, IP18 6TU
THINGS TO DO AND SEE Dunwich Heath coastal centre
best of RECOMMENDS GO CRABBING off the bridge near the car park in Walberswick – children will love it.
56 the best of SUFFOLK
WARM UP by the fire at The Bell Inn during the winter, a 600-year-old coastal pub.
FLY A KITE on the beach or take a picnic while you unwind and enjoy the landscape.
Five deliciously different yet cosy and comfortable country retreats
Upper barn
Granary
E-mail Jo: enquiries@belle-grove.com Halesworth, Suffolk, United Kingdom
Coach House
Gate House
Stable
Phone: +44 (0) 1986 873124
“A feast for the eyes both inside and out…” There has probably been a farm of one sort or another on this site for hundreds of years. Nick Jordan’s family took over the farm in 1960. ‘Belle Grove’ is identified on the 1912 Ordnance Survey but there is little clue as to why it has this not-very-Suffolk name. Back in the 1960’s, the farm was mixed, the family keeping a dairy herd but later converting to fully arable (wheat & sugar beet). There was insufficient work on the farm to keep Nick gainfully occupied around the year as well as his father so he diversified into running long haul Trans Africa Overland Expeditions (5+ months overland from Suffolk to East / South Africa camping all the way). Jo, his wife for many years, met him when she booked on his first ‘departure’ in 1974 and the rest, as they say, is history. They ran African trips in one form and another - as Hobo Trans Africa Expeditions and, later, as Truck Safaris Africa for the best part of 30 years and the farm outbuildings came in very useful for storing equipment and building up the expedition vehicles from scratch. In the mid 2000’s they disposed of the business and turned to wondering how the outbuildings could continue to earn their keep. That is when they came up with the idea of holiday lets. Rural Grant Schemes were so bogged down with conditions and bureaucracy that they self-financed the rather ambitious project in its entirety. To add interest to the landscape and encourage wildlife they excavated two large ponds, which filled with rainwater and the banks gradually colonised by teasels, grasses and willows, the margins by reeds and bulrushes and the water itself by many creatures including water voles, dragonflies and newts.
The outbuildings were of little architectural merit and full planning permission for the ‘cottage’ conversions followed. Clearing decades-worth of farm machinery, tools, rubber tyres, Trans-Africa equipment and goodness knows what from the outbuildings took many months. Only then could they stand back to see what they had got. Which wasn’t very inspiring! However, this is where Nick’s vision and skill at finding the perfect use for recycled materials came into its own, the actual conversions took about 18 months, Belle Grove opening for business in the summer of 2008. Now recognised as a destination in itself. One of its unique qualities is allowing you to feel as you’ve been truly ‘away’ without travelling far. ‘Away’ in the sense of being transported to an exotic locale but also in the way the surroundings encourage you to unwind, de-stress and relax. Conveniently placed for shopping in nearby market towns and the Suffolk coastline where that special combination of sky, sun, sea, dunes, marshes and calm continues to attract walkers as well as artists, musicians and writers. Not to mention great foodie opportunities!
Read African Approaches: Roads to a Far Off Place which tells of trials and triumphs, despair and elation, failure and success - every page laced with Jo Jordan’s wry humour and slightly anarchic pragmatism.
the best of SUFFOLK 57
Felixstowe Felixstowe is one of Suffolk’s larger coastal towns, enjoying a long stretch of coastline and a reputation for little rain and lots of sunshine.
HISTORY A visit to the dockside is fascinating and brings you to the local museum and the historic Landguard Fort which, for centuries, has been guarding this vulnerable river entrance from would-be invaders. This area also supports an important coastal nature reserve. The town has a very different feel – on the seafront you can enjoy the pretty gardens with their sea views. There are echoes of a bygone Edwardian elegance, and it was at a house (now destroyed) near here that Mrs Simpson stayed while awaiting the divorce that would rock the British Royal Family and pave the way for the abdication of a king. GET YOUR BEARINGS Felixstowe succeeds in blending elements of traditional seaside – sandy beach, pier amusements, ice-cream, candy floss, rows of beach huts – with daily life and a huge modern container port on its doorstep.
A look out to sea soon reminds you of the traffic that today makes Felixstowe one of Europe’s biggest and busiest container ports. Back in the town centre the mix of shops along, and beyond, the main shopping street embraces national chains as well as enterprising independents. THINGS TO DO AND SEE There is no shortage of eating places, here or in the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry, which is located just out of town by the coast road that crosses the golf course. Culinary highlights include the Cliff top Café in the spa gardens, the Fludyers Arms and the Ferry Café – where they also serve a hearty breakfast. You can buy fresh fish to take home with you down at the boatyard. Then take a walk out across the expansive countryside, passing the jolly houseboats and mud-flats that border the river and listen for skylarks as you go.
58 the best of SUFFOLK
A small passenger ferry travels the short distance between Felixstowe Ferry, Harwich, Shotley and Bawdsey Quay. harwichharbourferry.com In summer, crabbing is a popular pastime from the jetties. SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Book Festival June Felixstowe Regatta July Felixstowe Carnival July Art on the Prom September Heritage Open Days – Landguard September
best of RECOMMENDS LOOK OUT from Landguard Fort viewing point for an 18th-century perspective of the port
Or, if you want to stay in sight of the sea, skirt the sailing club and get on to the path that heads back towards Felixstowe. From here you can see across the river to Bawdsey Manor, famous for its associations with the development of radar during the Second World War.
TAKE HOME freshly caught fish and make a short ferry trip to Harwich or Bawdsey
PARADE along the prom on your way to the traditional Sunday market IP11 2DN.
Great days out in Suffolk Experience a day out with a difference at the historic sites of Framlingham Castle and Orford Castle.
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
NCG
MKTG
lONdON / EaST
1646_E087_P_i-i
aNdrEa lEE
advErT POrTraiT
210x148
CMYK
SUFFOlK advErT
Ipswich Suffolk’s County Town
best of IPSWICH The county town, birthplace of Cardinal Wolsey – Henry Vlll’s powerful chancellor – is rich in history with the Elizabethan Christchurch Mansion and park at its very heart. The town is also experiencing a vibrant retail and leisure revival with a new 12-screen cinema and a host of new restaurants and shops.
Did you know? Silent Street in Ipswich is named because more than half of its 64 inhabitants died in just one week during the Plague outbreak in 1665-66
THE WATERFRONT Don’t miss a stroll along the Waterfront - well worth a meander particularly in the summer months when it is bustling with folk
THE NEW WOLSEY See something different at this theatre known for supporting new experimental work. It’s open all year and hosts performances for adults and children. wolseytheatre.co.uk
COES The oldest independent fashion retailer in the town selling everything you need. coes.co.uk
62 the best of SUFFOLK
ROSE HOUSE BUTCHERY With a passion for rare and native breeds, exceptional flavours and quality meats, this butcher celebrates British produce and traditional skills. It is also the home of the Artisan Butcher, who offers a range of food skills courses. Visit www.artisanbutcher.co.uk for details and to book.
DANCE EAST
CHRISTCHURCH MANSION
Dance East is a great cultural asset to the Ipswich waterfront that puts on performances but also runs a variety of dance workshops throughout the year for children and adults. Check out the Pay as you Dance lessons (£7 adults. £6 concessions).
This beautiful Tudor mansion is the jewel in the crown of Ipswich’s historic past Don’t miss the fine collection of art from Suffolk artists including the biggest collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings outside of London.
danceeast.co.uk
There is a café on site (seasonal opening times) where you can relax over tea or coffee or grab a picnic to eat in the park. BREWERY TAP Brewery Tap is a gastro-pub next to the old Tolly Cobbold brewery that serves locally grown produce and quality freehouse ales
cimuseums.org.uk/ Christchurch-Mansion
thebrewerytap.org
LOVEONE Treat yourself in this individual giftshop. Quirky, unusual and vintage items are stocked along with luxury bath products, stylish jewellery and specialist products made by local artists that you’ll be hard-pushed to find anywhere else. loveone.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 63
SUFFOLK’S best
INDEPENDENT CAFÉS
HONEY & HARVEY Coffee + Kitchen + Cocktails… Recently voted one of ‘The Independent’s’ top 50 coffee shops in the UK. They use Suffolkbased roaster Butterworth’s beans, and offer loose leaf teas and great homemade food. Ask Harvey, Carmen or Dan about the technology behind the brew, you’ll be amazed at the care they take to create the perfect cup for every customer.
LA TOUR CYCLE CAFÉ
APPLAUD
PADDY AND SCOTTS
Ipswich’s first family-orientated vegetarian café. Bikes more than welcome – you can even buy one here. A unique café with relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Great for children of any age with Lego, toys, drawing stuff and magazines – and newspapers for the adults. Heaps of activities, from baby yoga to a knitting group.
Winner of the EADT food and drink awards for Best Café 2016. Coffee house with its own four-bean, house blend. They also source, monthly, single-origin guest coffees. Great food, too. Occasional events on offer – check website for details:
Their Cafés are popping up all over Suffolk. You can find them in Bury St Edmunds, Framingham and Hadleigh. You can expect a generous regularsize cup of coffee from a range of six house coffees – from morning coffee to a full-shot, whole coffee bean.
applaud-coffee.co.uk
51 Abbeygate St, Bury Saint Edmunds IP33 1LJ
Open Monday to Saturday.
Open Monday to Friday 8.30am-4pm; Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm.
17 Tower Street, Tower House IP1 3BE
19 Saint Peter’s Street, Ipswich IP1 1XF
Check on Facebook – La Tour Cycle Café.
01473 808142
64 the best of SUFFOLK
paddyandscotts.co.uk
TWO MAGPIES Southwold café and artisan bakery - one of their sourdough starters is 200 years old. 88 High St, Southwold IP18 6DP 01502 726 120 twomagpiesbakery.co.uk
NANCY’S TEAROOMS The emphasis is on tea, comfort, old-world charm and service with proper cups and saucers. It is not imperative that you book, but it can get busy at weekends, holiday periods and the racing season. Call 01638 667064 to reserve. Open Tuesday to Saturday 8.30am-5pm; Sunday 10am-4pm. 18 Old Station Road, Newmarket CB8 8DN. nancysteashop.co.uk
PUMP ST CAFÉ
GUAT’S UP
Popular bakery/café in the village of Orford with amazing sourdough bread and Monmouth coffee – so worth the detour.
A bit off the beaten track. A really great selection of coffees and teas, perfectly brewed from a really knowledgeable team of coffee and cocktail advocates. There’s a stripped down, ‘Instagram’ vibe about the place.
Open Wednesday to Friday 9am-4pm (lunch 12-3pm; coffee and tea until 3.30pm); Saturday 9am-4pm; Sunday 10am-4pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 1 Pump Street, Orford IP12 2LZ pumpstreetbakery.com
7 Guildhall Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1PR Monday 08.00 – 18:00 Tuesday – Thursday 08.00 – 22.00 Friday – Saturday 08.00 – 23.00 Alcohol from Midday Cocktails from 5pm guatsup.coffee
the best of SUFFOLK 65
Dedham Enjoy a relaxing stroll around Flatford, Constable’s home on the pretty River Stour.
HISTORY The artist John Constable was born in East Bergholt in June 1776 and went to school in nearby Dedham. His love for his native countryside, so manifest in his paintings, still defines what many people see in their mind’s eye when they think of a quintessentially English landscape. Even if you have never knowingly seen a single copy of ‘The Hay Wain’ (and it is hard to imagine how you have avoided it) you will not regret getting better acquainted with Constable Country. You can see Constable’s celebrated river scene, complete with Willy Lott’s Cottage, when you visit Flatford Mill, the area’s biggest tourist attraction. Today it is part of a complex, in the care of the National Trust, which accommodates a visitor centre and a field studies education centre as well as a tea shop and a restored dry dock.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE A longer walk along the River Stour will reward those with the time to take it. Before moving on from East Bergholt, make a point of seeing St Mary’s Church, where Constable is said to have fallen in love with the rector’s granddaughter, Maria Bicknell. East Bergholt Place garden and arboretum also come highly recommended, with the gardens especially beautiful in spring and early summer. Follow Constable’s path to Dedham, another of the area’s ancient towns built on the wool trade, which is where the artist went to school. It has excellent local shops and is well-known for the Art and Craft Centre, housed in a converted Victorian church, where local artists are given a showcase and there is also a tearoom.
Castle House, a museum and memorial to another famous artist who once lived here – Sir Alfred Munnings. There is an abundance of pubs and tearooms, with hotels and restaurants also offering wonderful food. If you cast your net to include other nearby villages, such as Nayland and Stokeby-Nayland, you will definitely be spoilt for choice. Visitors who stray a little farther over the border into neighbouring Essex will find plenty more to enjoy at Manningtree and Mistley. SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Dedham Vale Vineyard Walnut and Wine Festival October -Dedham Vale Vineyard, Green Lane, Colchester, CO4 5TS
It would be a shame to miss a look inside Dedham’s glorious church, another St Mary’s, also with Constable connections. Check to see if your visit will coincide with opening times of
best of RECOMMENDS DODGE the cows at Flatford and set up a riverbank picnic after rowing along the Stour.
66 the best of SUFFOLK
TAKE A LOOK at the equestrian art of Sir Alfred Munnings at Castle House, Dedham.
STOCK UP on unusual plants after an invigorating visit to the lush Beth Chatto Gardens CO7 7DB.
D E D H A M
B O A T H O U S E
I N T H E H E A R T O F C O N S TA B L E C O U N T RY
Well known by locals and visitors alike, the Dedham Boathouse is a welcoming restaurant set on the tranquil river Stour. A winner of numerous Trip Advisor Certificate’s of Excellence, the restaurant menu changes every six to eight weeks. Boating on the Stour Continuing a tradition that dates back to the 1900s, you can still hire out one of the 26 clinker built rowing boats for 30 minutes or an hour. Available from Easter to September, the boats can hold up to four adults. The last boat leaves at 4pm. Mill Lane, Colchester, Essex CO7 6DH DEDHAMBOATHOUSE.COM CALL 01206 323153 FOR RESERVATIONS.
Suffolk Wool Towns
best of The Wool Towns 70 best of Hadleigh 72
best of Lavenham 74
best of Suffolk’s Fine Art 86
best of Long Melford 80
best of Antiques 88 Suffolk Makers 90
Three of a
Kind
STUART INNS Known throughout East Anglia as a leading innovator of fine gourmet food, and as the ‘place to go’ for interesting and refreshingly different dishes. The Macmillan family have created 3 unique venues to visit and stay at when in Suffolk. www.stuartinns.co.uk
@StuartInns
LONG MELFORD SWAN Multi award winning restaurant with French styled bar and formal dining area. Individually designed & styled 5-Star rooms. Outside there is a spacious sunny terrace ideal for alfresco dining. longmelfordswan.co.uk 01787 464 545
HADLEIGH RAM Modern Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, features relaxed, yet semi formal dining areas with exposed timber beams and an open fire-place. Diners to The Ram have a choice of 3, all slightly different areas in which to dine, there’s also an outdoor terrace area and a self contained private dining area. thehadleighram.co.uk 01473 822 880
LAVENHAM GREYHOUND Famous for its Pick ‘n’ Choose menu the Greyhound serves food all day from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Guests can relax, drink & dine in the bar area or in the hidden snug. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere. lavenhamgreyhound.com 01787 249 553
the best of SUFFOLK 69
Photography: Martin Pettitt
best of THE WOOL TOWNS The Suffolk Wool Towns are some of the best-preserved historic towns and prettiest villages in Suffolk. Exploring them feels like stepping back in time to the 15th century, when the wool trade was at its peak, and the Suffolk Wool Towns were among the richest places in the country. MELFORD HALL - LONG MELFORD
SILENCE AT THE PRIORY - CLARE
Melford Hall was mostly constructed in the 16th century and is still lived in by the same family, the Hyde Parkers. Beatrix Potter was a cousin of the family and was a frequent visitor to the hall from the 1890s onwards. Now in the hands of the National Trust It is generally open on weekend afternoons in April and October, and on afternoons from Wednesday to Sunday during May to September.
Increasingly, there seems to be no part of modern life free from the interruption of a ringtone or message alert.
nationaltrust.org.uk
GAINSBOROUGH’S HOUSE SUDBURY Suffolk has inspired many artists, musicians and more including Thomas Gainsborough, who was born in Sudbury. Gainsborough preferred painting landscapes to portraits and was the originator of the 18th-century British landscape school. His home became a museum in the 1960s and you can see some of his paintings, sketches and possessions in a period setting. While you are here make sure you don’t miss Nicole Farhi’s bust of Thomas Gainsborough. gainsborough.org
70 the best of SUFFOLK
A visit to Clare Priory however feels like stepping into the balmy stillness of a bygone age. clarepriory.org.uk
HALL STREET LONG MELFORD & HADLEIGH Hall Street is a traditional ‘bricks and mortar’ retailer serving Suffolk’s men and women with smart and casualwear. Owned by Ian Beddis and Sean Garnham, their approach is warm and friendly – they offer a high quality range of classic leading men and womenswear brands and an experience that customers value something of a scarcity in this digital age of retail. Hall Street has been awarded Suffolk’s Heartland Partner for the Gant brand, it’s their ‘go-to retailer’ - offering both menswear, women’s clothing and footwear. All of their brand partners, including: GANT, Hackett, Eden Park, GANT Women, Timberland, Chatman footwear, and Crew Clothing have been selected to align to the values of the Hall Street customer. hall-street.co.uk KENTWELL HALL Kentwell - a romantic, moated, mellow red brick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. They even offer B&B accommodation in the main rooms of the house... or even bed without the breakfast. It’s not often that you get to stay in an Elizabethan manor house. kentwell.co.uk
THE SWAN - LAVENHAM Come and enjoy a taste of great Suffolk heritage at this stunning 15th century hotel that is steeped in Lavenham’s history. theswanatlavenham.co.uk STEPHEN WALTERS & SONS LTD SUDBURY Stephen Walters have been silk weavers for nine generations, weaving the highest quality fabric since the 1720’s. They have a mill Shop in the town, and is well worth a visit if you have an interest in fabric davidwalters.co.uk/millshop.html
Did you know? Clare Castle Country Park boasts the only railway station inside a castle in the UK!
the best of SUFFOLK 71
best of HADLEIGH The town’s long High Street presents an intriguing mix of independent businesses but it is now known for its range of independent craftsmen.
JAYREST With over twenty sofa styles and thousands of designer fabrics to choose from, you can create the perfect look for your home with Jayrest furniture. They offer a free bespoke sofa and armchair making service on all their products. See page 148 for the full picture. jayrest.com JIM LAWRENCE Overlooking the Suffolk countryside, the Jim Lawrence showroom is the perfect place to view their entire range of over 3000 elegant, countryinspired lighting and home furnishings. From practical kitchen lighting solutions to beautiful hand-crafted chandeliers, their extensive selection of classic, British made designs are perfect for any home. The showroom and attached workshops are open Monday to Friday 9-5pm and Saturday 9-5.30pm.
Hadleigh lies on the cycle south Suffolk route as well as the national cycle route 1 and here you’ll find The Pedal House, for bike afficanados it’s Pinarello heaven. The family run business is keen to welcome people into their store and love the opportunity to talk about cycling. If there is a MAMIL in your life, point them in this direction!
jim-lawrence.co.uk
thepedalhouse.co.uk
Local Knowledge On a fine day, a stroll should take in Toppesfield Bridge (one of Suffolk’s oldest) and the town’s pleasant riverside walk which is ideal for a picnic.
72 the best of SUFFOLK
THE PEDAL HOUSE
NEVELLI Nevilli Designer Home Heating - one of the country’s only specialist radiator shops. In a world where mass produced radiators are the norm, it’s great to learn that in this small corner of East Anglia, exists an amazing radiator showroom where a vast range of designer and traditional radiators and towel rails, are displayed from around the globe. At Nevelli Designer Home Heating, you will find only the best radiators and towel rails available today, no matter what the style or design, the quality also for Nevelli is paramount. Stock is available to view at the stylish Nevelli Showroom in Hadleigh. Nevelli has been trading very successfully for the last seven years and look online at nevellidesignerradiators.co.uk where their complete range of the different models can be viewed together via images or through a video of the showroom. A number of tempting offers can always be found as well. All Nevelli designer radiators and towel rails are made to the highest
standards and are fully tested to meet the current UK and European EN442 standards and regulations. Nevelli deal direct with the top brands and leading radiator design companies including Reina, The Radiator Company, Zehnder, Bisque, MHS, Vogue and Apollo Radiators and consequently the models are on offer at very affordable prices, and much like John Lewis, they are never knowingly undersold, so if you are shopping around give them a call as they will price match any ‘like for like’ product! The shop is owned and run by Bev Neville whose welcoming and professional knowledgeable is unmatched in the industry. Bev will show you the latest trends in radiator and towel rail design and valves, including the many bespoke options which are now available, not forgetting the numerous amounts of special finishes and colours which can be selected, and most importantly, help you decide on the best radiator or heating options that are most suitable for your home.
maybe something special for you which you may not be aware of. Bev reminds me of the most important element to her business, “We pride ourselves on great service, so if you have any questions then please do not hesitate to ask, we are open six days a week and a visit is well worthwhile, particularly if you are shopping around? Why not combine a trip to our showroom with other leading Hadleigh interior specialists Jim Lawrence and Jayrest? They are both located nearby and don’t forget I’ll match the price of any ‘like for like’ product! Pop in, give me a call or e-mail, you will not be disappointed. Bev Neville Nevelli Designer Home Heating 12 High Street, Hadleigh Suffolk IP7 5AP 01473 828914 nevelli@nevellidesignerradiators.co.uk nevellidesignerradiators.co.uk
Currently cast iron radiators are extremely popular and Nevelli stock an impressive range, alongside new contemporary minimalist appearance radiators, flat coloured radiators or even aluminium radiators which have the highest outputs in the market. Whatever you are looking for, Nevelli Designer Home Heating, have a complete range of radiators and towel rails for all rooms in the home, and
the best of SUFFOLK 73
best of LAVENHAM Lavenham’s claim to be England’s finest medieval town is upheld by its unrivalled collection of perfectly preserved halftimbered houses – built during the prosperous Middle Ages wool trade. The church of St Peter and St Paul has the tallest tower in Suffolk. Nearby Kersey will be recognised from countless calendars and paintings – ducks at the ford helpfully posing for photographs.
THE GREAT HOUSE Established for over 30 years, The Great House is an exceptional culinary destination with a formidable reputation for its food as well as for quality, consistency and continuity. greathouse.co.uk
Local Knowledge The award-winning farmers market is held here on the fourth Sunday of the month at the village hall suffolkmarketevents.co.uk
74 the best of SUFFOLK
GUILDHALL
A late 14th Century Hall House on the main square, first built in 1390’s as a family house and workplace. It is now a museum where you can discover its quirky history and art.
The Guildhall owned by the National Trust is one of the finest timberframed buildings in England. The building dates from around 1530 and was built on the back of the boom of the cloth industry in the early 16th Century.
littlehall.org.uk
nationaltrust.org.uk
LITTLE HALL
THE SIX BELLS In the nearby village of Preston St Mary is this fantastic little pub, complete with large outdoor garden for those sunny days. Open for lunch and dinner, it specialises in British seasonal produce from local farms, niche producers and the day-boat fish from nearby Leigh-on-Sea. Great for a traditional Sunday roast too. thesixbellspreston.com
POSY Posy is a stylish independent new shop showcasing a hand-picked, eclectic mix of homeware, original artwork, unusual gifts and accessories. Posy prides itself on creating a shopping experience for all of the senses, with attention to detail being of the essence. Owner Lienne grew up in lavenham and it’s clear that Posy has been put together with a lot of heart. Lienne displays her own paintings, as well as makes her own jams and fudge which are all exclusive to Posy. If you are passing by the area a friendly happy hello awaits you! posyshop.uk
THE LION HOUSE GALLERY The friendly Lion House Gallery has been established now for almost six years, this artist-led gallery has gained a reputation for showcasing the very best in professional British arts and crafts from East Anglia and beyond. Carefully chosen by owner Lizzi Stevens, a stable of artists has been gathered together, making unique and highly desirable work in a variety of media - paintings, original prints, ceramics, glass, wood and silver. The emphasis is on top quality contemporary work which is quirky and unusual, and the gallery is proud to exhibit work by both established and up and coming artists. lionhousegallery.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 75
PA UL
E V A NS
AT LAVENHAM CONTEMPORARY Suffolk painter Paul Evans is widely known for his highly individual watercolours, acrylics and etchings inspired by East Anglia’s landscape and coast. His paintings come from places very familiar to him, to which he returns on a regular basis – there are always subtle differences, giving him an ever-changing inspiration for his painting, making notes and studies in every season and at all and at all times of the day until he feels he knows somewhere well enough to paint it. Paul’s aim with his work is to convey a true sense of place. He finds himself drawn to quiet places off the beaten track, sometimes spending the whole of each day just recording the changes in light and weather, and the progress of farming during the seasons – painting as much as possible on the spot, together with quick colour notes and drawings for further work in his studio.
76 the best of SUFFOLK
Paul studied illustration and printmaking for four years between 1972 and 1976 at Eastbourne College of Art and Design, and has been fortunate to make his living solely from his painting since graduating. Following a move to Suffolk in 1991 he opened his own gallery in Lavenham, and a constantly changing selection of his work – together with limited edition prints, cards and books – can be found at Lavenham Contemporary. Lavenham Contemporary 70-71 High Street, Lavenham Suffolk CO10 9PR 01787 249451 paulevans-artist.co.uk
Main image: Autumn Glory From the top: Paul Evans, Bluebells at Stallington, The Light, Winter Evening
LINGER A LITTLE LONGER IN LAVENHAM… Bespoke Facials Relaxing Massages Recovery Treatments Afternoon Tea 2 AA Rosettes Restaurant Perfectly Appointed Bedrooms A haven of tranquillity, luxuriate in first-class pampering and state-of-the-ar t facilities at Weavers’ House Spa. For pure indulgence, couple your spa experience with scrumptious Afternoon Tea at our adjoining hotel The Swan at Lavenham. And with charming bedrooms to rest your head, you can linger in Lavenham as long as you like…
WeaversHouseSpa
Spa: 01787 246246 | Hotel: 01787 247477 weavers@theswanatlavenham.co.uk | www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk/spa The Swan at Lavenham, Hotel and Spa, High Street, Lavenham, Suffolk CO10 9QA
found at
BRIDGEFARM BARNS Nestling in the picturesque village of Monks Eleigh, in-between Hadleigh and Lavenham, Bridge Farm Barns is a collection of unique, independent retail businesses and a tea room, each offering the visitor an unparalleled selection of distinctive products and good Suffolk service. CORN CRAFT GIFT SHOP This delightful family run gift shop offers one of the area’s most extensive ranges of unusual cards and gifts. Situated in a restored granary, the shop is an “Aladdin’s Cave” of distinctive products including jewellery, ceramics, stationery, scarves, handbags, preserves, candles, corn dollies and so much more! Their selection of cards is second to none with friendly staff who are very happy to help visitors with their gift purchases. A new “lifestyle & home” department has opened in Summer 2016 featuring many stunning items that would add a little extra style to any home.
CORN CRAFT TEA ROOM This homely, family friendly tea room welcomes visitors for breakfast, morning coffee, lunches and afternoon teas. Everything is freshly prepared on the premises and the menu is extensive and varied with children’s options available. Open since 1990, this lovely tea room is well supported by locals and visitors alike. Opening hours are 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.
BRETT GALLERY This tranquil gallery showcases the work of local Suffolk artists and crafts people. Opened in Summer 2015 by Win Gage, who established the Corn Craft Gift Shop & Tea room, the gallery is full of gorgeous individual pieces. This is a truly unique gallery and a real gem of a place to find.
Photography by Bill Hiskett www.hiskett.net
LAVENHAM FALCONRY Lavenham Falconry takes pride in offering a friendly and hands on Falconry Experience which get you closer to majestic birds of prey in a way that is truly exciting. Visit us whist you are in Suffolk for an experience you wont forget; we offer guests the opportunity to fly a number of different birds of prey including hawks, owls, falcons and eagles. We also offer educational visits, school displays and corporate events. All of our Experience Days can be purchased as gift vouchers online, a maximum of six participants and six non-participating guests. lavenhamfalconry.co.uk 07960 879 600 OLIVEN Quilting enthusiasts need look no further than Oliven. It’s the perfect place for those who love patchwork, felting and other kinds of textile craft to come for their supplies, inspiration, advice and help. Run by couple Vendulka and Olivier Battais, Oliven also offers crafty workshops all year round that range from beginners patchwork to surface design, painting on fabrics and more. The business recently moved to Suffolk from the Isle of Wight, and now have a spacious workroom with full disabled access. A wide range of fabrics, patterns and kits are also available here and from their online shop. oliven.co.uk 01449 741530 SARAH’S ATTIC Sarah’s Attic has been trading for around two and a half years, and is the collaboration between two couples, Sarah and Ian Kemp & Sarah and Tobias Ambrose. These four individuals come together at Sarah’s Attic to enjoy their shared passions of antiques, vintage and collectables. Here you’ll find everything from 1980s Scalextric to an exquisite Victorian chest of drawers, or from a two foot lobster crafted from old tools, nuts and bolts to beautiful French glassware. Well worth a visit - it’s quite the place to find something you didn’t know you were looking for! facebook.com/Sarah’s Attic 07747 313490
Monks Eleigh, Suffolk IP7 7AY Brett Gallery/Corn Craft Tea Room/ Croncraft Gift Shop 01449 740456 www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk
best of LONG MELFORD Art, antiques and books provide an upmarket feel to Long Melford shopping and its lengthy main street displays a wealth of fine facades representing Tudor, Georgian and Victorian eras. Neighbouring Cavendish is a magnet for photographers seeking scenes of idyllic English country life, while nearby Sudbury played a historic part in the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt.
Did you know? Long Melford has one of the longest High Street in the UK. The walk from the Rug & Carpet Studio to Kentwell Hall is just under two miles.
80 the best of SUFFOLK
KENTWELL HALL
TRINITY CHURCH
Kentwell is the originator of historical live Tudor events.Their Tudor days are unrivalled in scale, visitors immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and smells of the 16th Century - starting over 30 years ago they offer an authentic Tudor experience.
Worth a visit, Trinity Church is one of the great Suffolk wool churches and was built almost entirely in the 15th century at a time of growing prosperity among the local cloth merchants. It was completed in 1484 - the medieval stained glass is outstanding.
kentwell.co.uk
LIME TREE GALLERY Lime Tree Gallery has brought many exciting and influential artists to Long Melford over the last 10 years, specialising in the painterly use of colour and light. They believe that good technical skills do not automatically lead to conservatism, and they show works from abstract through landscape to figurative, all underpinned by real drawing and painting ability. These strong, colourful and varied works are always on show and offer something for all discerning lovers of painting. limetreegallery.com
LOVEJOY ANTIQUES Previously famed for its antique shops and BBC’s Lovejoy, you may remember the town from its TV locations. Now there are just a couple of antique shops remaining, but the town has a new focus with numerous art galleries to explore.
RUG & CARPET STUDIO Have your own design made into a custom rug, bespoke to your measurements - you can also visit their skilled restoration workshops on site. rugandcarpetstudio.co.uk
THE SWAN If you need to take the weight off your feet The Swan has a great garden area perfect on a sunny day. More than a pub it’s a restaurant with rooms. longmelfordswan.co.uk LADY JANE DEPARTMENT STORE Don’t miss Long Melford’s very own answer to Grace Brothers. Open since the 1970’s and with an incredible array of stock across many floors. 01787 370534
the best of SUFFOLK 81
MELFORD’S FAMOUS OLD HOUSE GALLERY
Art and Suffolk go together, no question. So what better combination than a gorgeous gallery in picturesque surroundings, where art lovers can relax and view a magnificent selection of paintings and works of art.
82 the best of SUFFOLK
Sir Alfred James Munnings A Suffolk Pastoral - The River Dove with a distant clover field Oil on canvas 20" X 24"
Edward Seago The Beach - Spain Oil on board 17½" X 23½"
Cecil Kennedy Summer Group Oil on canvas 30" x 25"
Long Melford’s Famous Old House Gallery can be found in a wonderful timber-framed building dating back around 500 years. The Grade II listed building has been carefully restored and upgraded to create a wonderful setting for historical pieces of art from a bygone era. The Famous Old House Gallery building has been many things in its time, including a high class restaurant and 100 years ago it was known as The Old House tea parlour. Now as a stylish gallery art-lovers are presented with an impressive selection of works, ranging from traditional 19th century through to modern-day British, European, Impressionist and contemporary art. Subjects include landscapes, still life, portraiture and wildlife. There is a distinctive flavour of France, with plenty of scenes of Paris and other varied and attractive works by Edouard Leon Cortes, Antoine Bouvard, Antoine Blanchard, Eugene Galien-Laloue, Marcel Dyf and Jules Rene Herve. British art is typically represented by highly regarded and collectable artists such as Sidney Richard Percy, Sir Alfred Munnings, Edgar Hunt, Edward Seago, Charles Spencelayh, Donald Grant, Cecil Kennedy and Frank Moss Bennett, as well as local artists including Clive Madgwick. Specialist
Edouard Leon Cortes Café De La Paix, Paris Oil on canvas 15" x 18"
exhibitions concentrate on a variety of themes including Northern artists represented by one of the twentieth centuries towering figures, L S Lowry, as well as Helen Bradley MBE and the modern day works of living artists such as Simeon Stafford. The gallery also specialises in flower arrangement works by the great Cecil Kennedy. Then there’s the Aboriginal art and the glorious glassware, including etched works by Rish Gordon of the Australian Gordon Studio. It is this antipodean connection that gives a clue about who is behind this enterprise. Gallery owners, Colin Fletcher and Jane Wanjiru, who used to live Down Under, buy as well as sell, so are also always interested in acquiring quality paintings by appropriately local and notable artists. In particular the gallery has an interest in the works by Edward Seago. Outside London in the eastern region, this high quality gallery is clearly a must see for discerning buyers. Combine it with the gallery’s wider surroundings and any viewing expedition swiftly begins to look like the perfect opportunity to make a weekend of it. Long Melford itself has long been a magnet for art and antique lovers (there are TWO Tudor halls to visit on the doorstep for
Antoine Bouvard Snr La Salute, Venice Oil on canvas 21½" x 29½"
starters). It also lies at the heart of a landscape immortalised by John Constable, who like that other giant of English landscape and portraiture, Thomas Gainsborough, had his childhood home hereabouts. Their legacies are enshrined at nearby Flatford Mill and Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, respectively. The Munnings Museum at Dedham is another stone’s throw away. The ethos of the Famous Gallery has always been to enhance the joy of acquiring a piece of art by providing a relaxing environment where people can come and browse without any pressure. Keep an eye out for special exhibitions and events especially during summer, where you can enjoy the gallery’s cottage garden or the Christmas exhibition when the gallery is festively decorated and you can be assured of a home-made mince pie and mulled wine. Melford’s Famous Old House Gallery, Hall Street, Long Melford CO10 9JR famousgalleries.co.uk art@famousgalleries.co.uk 07572 903363 Usually open 10am to 5pm, seven days a week
Edward Seago After The Regatta, Blakeney, Norfolk Oil On Board 11" x 15"
the best of SUFFOLK 83
ALDEBURGH ALDEBURGH O&C Butcher 01728 452229 O&C Butcher 01728 452229
BILLERICAY BILLERICAY Allweathers 01268 293712 Allweathers 01268 293712
BURNHAM MARKET BURNHAM MARKET The Hat Shop 01328 738267 The Hat Shop 01328 738267
BURY ST EDMUNDS BURY ST EDMUNDS Stepping Out 01284 763150 Stepping Out 01284 763150
CAMBRIDGE CAMBRIDGE Open Air 01223 324666 Open Air 01223 324666
CANVEY ISLAND ISLAND Camping CANVEY & General 01268 692141 Camping & General 01268 692141
FAKENHAM FAKENHAM Christopher William Country 01328William 738983 Christopher Country 01328 738983 FELIXSTOWE CoesFELIXSTOWE 01394 282414 Coes 01394 282414 GLANDFORD Cley Spy 01263 740088 GLANDFORD
Cley Spy 01263 740088 GREAT DUNMOW Jacks Outdoor Wear GREAT DUNMOW 01371 872483 Jacks Outdoor Wear 01371 872483
GREAT YARMOUTH HARWICH Broadland Country Sports Coes 01255 502080 01493 748924
OUT & ABOUT WITH TILLEY Tilley offers a full range of Guaranteed for Life Hats, Clothing, Bags and Accessories, ideal throughout the year, whether you’re travelling far afield or staying close to home!
HOLT HARWICH Morston Country Sports Coes 01255 502080 01263 713932
HOLT Morston IPSWICH Country Sports 01263 713932 Action Outdoors Ltd 01473 211647 Coes 01473 256061 IPSWICH Fox’s Outdoors 01473 688431 Action Ltd 01473 211647 M W Partridge 01473 820501 Coes 01473 256061 LYNN Fox’sKINGS 01473 688431 M WGoddards Partridge 01473 820501 01553 772382 Norfolk Country Clothing KINGS LYNN 01553 776617 Goddards 01553 772382 Norfolk Country Clothing LOWESTOFT 01553 776617 Coes 01502 573751
LOWESTOFT MALDON Coes 01502 573751
Coes 01621 850540 Camping &MALDON General 01621 853108
Coes 01621 850540 NEWMARKET Camping & General 0162101638 853108 Golding 664682
NORWICH NEWMARKET Golding Gallyons01638 01603 664682 622845 Norwich Camping & Leisure NORWICH 01603 717600 Gallyons 01603 622845 Norwich Camping & Leisure Uttings 01603 619811 01603 717600 PETERBOROUGH PETERBOROUGH Waterside Garden Centre Waterside Garden Centre 01778560000 560000 01778
SAFFRON WALDEN SAFFRON WALDEN JacksJacks Outdoor Wear 01799 Outdoor Wear521197
01799 521197 SOUTHWOLD Denny of Southwold SOUTHWOLD Ltd 722372 Ltd Denny 01502 of Southwold 01502 722372
STOWMARKET Inces 01449 612664 STOWMARKET
Outdoor People 01449 675511 WELLS-NEXT-TO-SEA Christopher William Coastal WELLS-NEXT-TO-SEA Beachcomber 01328 710496 01328 710496
WROXHAM WROXHAM Norfolk Marine 783150 Norfolk Marine 01603 01603 783150
WESTCLIFF SEA WESTCLIFF ON ON SEA Classic 430798 ClassicCap Cap01702 01702 430798
FOR MORE INFORMATION, A FULL LIST OF UK RETAILERS OR TO ORDER OUR CURRENT CATALOGUE, GO TO
www.tilley.com
Specialists in handmade rugs and carpets The Rug & Carpet Studio was established in 1991 and is the finest showroom in the UK specialising in handmade rugs and carpets. We pride ourselves on offering a high level of personal service and expert advice to all our customers. n
n
n n n
Extensive collection of traditional and contemporary rugs, runners and room size carpets Sourcing service for unusual and higher value items Try the rug at home before buying Home consultations Care and cleaning advice
CUSTOM RUGS Have your own design made into a custom rug, bespoke to your measurements in your choice of colours and shape. Our team of weavers in Nepal and India can knot or hand-tuft a rug to any requirement.
RESTORATION WORKSHOPS
The team of highly skilled restorers provide an excellent restoration, conservation and cleaning service for all hand-made oriental and European rugs, whether modern or antique. Free repair or cleaning estimates. If you require a home visit please contact Jo Nears on 01787 882214.
The Rug & Carpet Studio, The Old White Hart, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9HX. 01787 882214 | www.rugandcarpetstudio.co.uk Open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5.30pm
ONES TO WATCH
best of SUFFOLK'S FINE ART Suffolk is home to a number of fantastic fine art galleries and we have asked leading gallery owners to select artists that they consider are "ones to watch". The majority of these artists are exhibiting in their galleries so why not pop in to get a close-up look. If you are tempted by that special find many galleries offer creative ways to spread the cost. CATHRYN SHILLING Cathryn first studied the art of glassware in Connecticut, in the United States. Returning to London, she studied and worked with kiln-formed glass as well as becoming a student of blown glass with world-renowned glassmaker Peter Layton. The British Glass Biennale in 2010 featured her work and she is now recognised as a fine glass artisan in this country and abroad. Cathryn’s unique and colourful glassware complements beautifully the artwork on the walls in our Aldeburgh gallery. They are proving to be very collectable contemporary pieces of art. STEVEN LINDSAY After graduating from Glasgow School of Art in 1985, Steven embarked on a successful career in the music industry. As a recording artist he released albums for Virgin, Warner brothers and EMI. He is now a full-time painter. His work is utterly distinctive and has been used widely, including by the Affordable Art Fair, as a demonstration that a traditional painting style, mostly figurative, can be given a contemporary, sometimes challenging, narrative. His paintings are collected by a wide range of art lovers. His painting style engages the viewer, making a connection with the art of the past as well as the present, with the emphasis on composition, structure and craft. Lime Tree Gallery Lime Tree House, Hall St Long Melford CO10 9JF limetreegallery.com 01787 319046
86 the best of SUFFOLK
Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts 187 High St, Aldeburgh IP15 5AL aldeburghcontemporaryarts.co.uk 01728 454212
JANE CRICK Jane (or Janey to her friends) is, by her own admission, an incredibly loud, bright and lively person. This is reflected in her vibrant and popular designs for prints, cards, wrapping paper, and, most recently, fabrics – which are inspired by her love of flowers and nature, and refined by her exceptional graphic design skills. Her work depicts flowers, fruit and vegetables – some of which she grows on an allotment in her small Suffolk village – using bold colours and shapes to explore pattern and nature in its simplest form. Jane’s work is always available at the Lion House Gallery, where she can be found working behind the desk on Fridays and Saturdays. She is also a co-proprietor of the newly relocated Handmade Shop and Gallery in St John’s Street, Bury St. Edmunds, and her designs can be found at quality retail outlets and galleries throughout the UK The Lion House Gallery High Street, Lavenham CO10 9PR lionhousegallery.co.uk 01787 249616 PAUL EVANS Lavenham and its surrounding countryside has been the place Paul calls home for the past 25 years. It has proved to be a constant inspiration for his work. He loves the big skies, the timber-framed and flint buildings nestling organically within the gentle landscape, and the subtle changes noticed from day to day and month to month. Although always on the lookout for new places to inspire him, Paul is fascinated by certain locations, and returns to them constantly to record the changing light, weather, and seasons. He loves to experiment with materials and ways of working with paint, which gives the work a vitality and a sense of his enthusiasm, and conveys a true sense of place. His work is constantly evolving as he attempts to express a response to the landscape around him. Paul has been painting full-time since leaving art college in 1976, and has his own gallery in Lavenham, which shows a constantly changing selection of original work, prints, books and cards. Lavenham Contemporary Gallery 70-71 High Street, Lavenham CO10 9PT paulevans-artist.co.uk 01787 249451
EDWARD SEAGO Edward Brian Seago was born on the 30th of March, 1910 in Norwich. Seago’s subjects range from equestrian, rural, urban, marine and even still life. He travelled widely during his life visiting Venice, Northern France, Holland, Hong Kong, Antarctica and Africa. Edward Seago is undoubtedly one of the most popular and talented British artist of the last century, he developed a strong and dedicated following throughout his career including that of the Royal Family. His paintings were exhibited in the Royal Academy, other British exhibiting societies and the Paris Salon. He was elected RBA in 1946, ARWS in 1957 and RWS in 1959. Melford’s Famous Old House Gallery Hall St, Long Melford CO10 9JR famousgalleries.co.uk 07572 903363 the best of SUFFOLK 87
best of ANTIQUES In addition for being renowned for its seaside towns, mediaeval villages and music, Suffolk can also boast of having many fine antique shops including one of the country’s leading dealers in early furniture and works of art. YOXFORD ANTIQUES
Andrew Singleton Suffolk House Antiques
This increasingly popular venue is set in several acres of natural gardens. It houses over 70 independent dealers offering countless eclectic objects from the past; you’ll almost certainly take something unexpected home. Closed on Tuesdays. yoxfordantiques.com BED BAZAAR, FRAMLINGHAM If you are in the market for an antique bed this is the place to visit. Bed Bazaar is one of the leading antique bedstead retailers in the UK with over 20000 beds to choose from. Here you’ll find the best range of four poster beds, brass and sleigh beds and more. bedbazaar.co.uk DISS AUCTION ROOMS
SUFFOLK HOUSE ANTIQUES One of the country’s leading dealers in early furniture and works of art. Suffolk House Antiques, set up by Andrew Singleton a quarter of a century ago in the pretty village of Yoxford, is a treasure trove of wonderful pieces where anything from a 15th century carved oak angel to a 17th century yew wood joint stool can be discovered. suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk CAMPSEA ASHE THE MONDAY SALE For a traditional country auction, nothing tops the weekly events at Campsea Ashe. Every Monday the stalls fill to the brim with everything from Victoriana to poultry, game and produce. You can browse the catalogue in advance online or onsite from Saturday morning before the sale takes place on Monday from 11am. Look out for their domestic and rural bygones sales which are run regularly.
NEWMARKET RACECOURSE ANTIQUE & 20TH CENTURY FAIR The fantastic horse racing setting makes this a great day out. With over 220 inside stands as well as many outside antiques, art deco and collectables, you’ll find it difficult not to take it all home! They also run an antique valuation roadshow with free valuations. £3.50 entry 9am-4pm. 5 June 14h August & 23th October 2016 01263 456111 DEBEN EVENTS WOODBRIDGE AND SNAPE MALTINGS. At these markets you are bound to come across a one off gift or memento. You’ll find furniture, homewares and ceramics as well as vintage clothes and craft stalls. Check out the website for dates and venues.
Hold weekly sales plus 20 special category Saturday sales, in addition to diverse specialist auctions twgaze.co.uk WOODBRIDGE ANTIQUES CENTRE Woodbridge Antiques Centre has a beautifully displayed selection of antique and vintage items, especially jewellery, silverware, glassware, porcelain, pottery, watches, clocks and postcards. A wide variety gives you plenty to choose from, whether you are a collector, in the trade, want to treat yourself or are looking for a birthday, wedding, christening or anniversary gift. If you need advice, you will find the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Woodbridge Antiques Centre 7 Quay Street, Woodbridge IP12 1BX woodbridgeantiquescentre.co.uk 01394 387210
debenevents.com
clarkeandsimpson.co.uk/auctioncentre/weekly-sale MANDER AUCTIONEERS, SUDBURY If you’re interested in decorative items and fine art, Mander Auctioneers is the place to go. They hold auctions throughout the year and specialise in rare antiques such as silver, ceramics and jewellery. The auctions are held on Saturdays, with viewing days taking place the Friday before. manderauctions.co.uk
88 the best of SUFFOLK
Alison Watts & Natalie Smith, Woodbridge Antiques Centre
COLLECTIONS ECCENTRICITIES GARDEN FOLLIES INTERIORS TASTY GIFTS
True Style ‘In or Out’
37 SMALLGATE + EXCHANGE SQUARE, BECCLES WWW.KEITHSKEEL.COM 01502 712470
SUFFOLK
makers
ANTONIA HOCKTON
HELEN MAXFIELD
KAREN RISBY
I am not sure what first attracted me to stone carving but after art school I ended up at Lincoln Cathedral and was hooked. That passion took me to France to work as a conservator on fine buildings – until the pull of creativity drew me back to England and, ultimately, Suffolk.
I create limited-edition linocuts from my home studio near Needham Market in Suffolk. My inspiration comes from my frequent sketching trips, mainly in the Suffolk countryside. Designs normally evolve from observational drawings and paintings. I work both in colour and in black and white. My black and white designs have a bold, graphic quality where I enjoy the markmaking potential of the medium. My colour designs are created using the ‘reduction method’. This involves using one piece of lino, cutting away the whites to print the first colour, then reducing the lino further for the next colour – and so on.
I create contemporary ceramic sculpture, wall hangings and porcelain accessories. My work is an extension of my love of drawing, exploring pattern and line using both brushwork and sgraffito, a process that involves scratching back into the painted surface. I take inspiration from nature, myth and storytelling. Birds are a prominent feature of my work, interweaved with landscapes, people and places. I use porcelain slip, stains and oxides and fire my work to stoneware.
There is a timeless beauty to stone that can be shaped or left raw, depending on the subject matter. I try to imbue my sculptures with character, as reflected in the world around me. Last year I was shortlisted for a national award for my carved reredos at the church in Great Bromley, Essex. Over the past 20 years I have been making art for galleries and commissions. The other side of my business is the repair of ancient stone sculpture with clients including New College, Oxford, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. www.antoniahockton.co.uk
90 the best of SUFFOLK
My main aim in my practice is to achieve images that celebrate the natural qualities of linocut. I exhibit mainly in Suffolk and I am very proud to be a Suffolk Craft Society member. www.helenmaxfield.com
Originally from London, I graduated from Camberwell College of Art in 1994 then lived and worked in South London for many years before moving to Suffolk to set up my new ceramic studio in 2010. www.karenrisby.co.uk
KEV COLBEAR
TIM GERMAIN
VALERIE HARROWVEN
I am a Suffolk-based designer-builder specialising in whimsical architectural details and furniture. I produce creative designs in my East Bergholt workshop and am in my element when allowed a free run on a project. Many of my successful pieces have come from simple design briefs. I work in most metals and have a background in art, having studied in Ipswich and Surrey. I take great interest in the reactions my work gets. Watching people’s faces light up, that’s my reward.
I am a furniture designer-maker and my workshop is in Stratford St Mary on the Suffolk-Essex border. I have been making furniture for 20 years, principally using local English hardwoods (I can even tell you where each tree was felled) but I also like to incorporate other materials into my work. Recently, I have been working on a series of commissions for outdoor benches with Kev Colbear, an inspired metalworker from East Bergholt, because the galvanized metal legs he supplies will still be sound in 100 years whereas, if I made them in oak, they would rot at ground level in a mere 10 or 20 years.
I used to crochet but ran out of people to give blankets to. I signed up for quilting classes, which is how I got into it. I’m interested in all sorts of crafts, and I used to buy wool for crocheting and knitting from the local quilting shop. I noticed an advert for a beginners’ patchwork class – the rest, as they say, is history.
My work comes from interior designers, architects and private commissions. It’s fun to work within different design structures and to watch how ideas are formed from dialogue with clients. Most ideas come from ‘eureka’ moments. I find inspiration from places – I love Texas and the vastness of the landscape. I’m very influenced by movements such as Art Nouveau and Art Deco. www.kevcolbear.com
I suppose what this sums up is that I am an artist-craftsman and hence the pieces I produce – beds, dining tables, window shutters, wardrobes, doors, garden sheds even – are unique and beautiful, but also do their job well and will last for you to pass on to your kids.
I worked for BT. About six years ago, my husband and I took a year- off to travel. It was in Australia that I first saw a long-arm quilting machine and thought: I’ve got to get one. Back in England, I left BT to focus full-time on DaisyMay. My quilts reflect a love of colour, shape and quality stitching. The inspiration for my long-arm work comes from the client, working to ensure the quilting reflects their individuality – and be treasured for years. www.daisymay.biz
www.germain.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 91
92 the best of SUFFOLK
West Suffolk
best of Bury St Edmunds 96 best of Newmarket 102
“Without doubt one of the most customer-focused retailers in Bury St Edmunds. The attention to detail by all of the staff is a credit to the high level of training. Clearly a high quality jewellers. We have no hesitation in recommending this family business.�
Thurlow Champness intro tip-in 2015_Layout 1 13/06/2015 09:56 Page 3
There has been a purveyor of luxury items under the clock at 14 Abbeygate Street since 1815, and the tradition for elegant and timeless designs continues today. Thurlow Champness strength lies in their dedication to maintaining the trust and confidence of their customers by providing exceptional personal service and unrivalled expertise. Over the years, Trevor Salt, the current managing director has worked with his brother-in-law Alan Daniels, and his sister Pippa Daniels, and during that time they have seen the company’s success and reputation grow exponentially. They have developed and expanded the range of fine jewellery since they began their partnership with Rolex over twenty years ago. Their selection and range of diamonds has always been very strong. They now offer Portfolio of Fine Diamonds, a range of award-winning diamond rings, this has enabled them to reach a much broader audience through their fully integrated website. At Thurlow Champness they take great pleasure in bringing you treasures that you will value forever in an environment that will make you feel very special. As Trevor says “Whether you are old friends or recent acquaintances, we look forward to seeing you in the future…”
www.thurlowchampness.com 14 Abbeygate Street Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP33 1UN 01284 754747 info@thurlowchampness.com Trevor Salt
Opening Times:
Lesley Ryland
Mon-Sat – 09:15 to 17:00
14 Abbeygate Street, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1UN 01284 754747 info@thurlowchampness.com thurlowchampness.com
Best of BURY ST EDMUNDS The abbey, with its stunning gardens, was a shrine to St Edmund, the martyred king of East Anglia. Next door is the impressive St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The town is famous for visits by Charles Dickens and for Britain’s last surviving Regency playhouse. GREENE KING BEER CAFÉ Greene King pubs can be found up and down the country and if you’re in the area you can taste the beer ‘at source’ and find out how it’s made at the Greene King Beer Café. You can book a brewery tour online greenekingshop.co.uk
ABBEY GARDENS Wander around its ruins where the Abbey Gate and Norman Tower are the most complete surviving parts of the original vast complex. The gardens are now an attractive public park, renowned for its bedding displays. It includes a children’s play area.
CATHEDRAL Hard to miss is the neighbouring St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the county’s only Anglican cathedral, lately crowned with a magnificent 140ft-tower, which now dominates the skyline. A little farther along the street – and worth the walk – is another of the town’s fine churches, St Mary’s, where Henry VIII’s sister, Mary Rose Tudor, is buried. stedscathedral.co.uk
MARKET AND SHOPPING The shopping is good, as Bury offers a broad mix of well-known high street names and smaller independents. Wednesdays and Saturdays are market days when lots of colourful stalls fill the Buttermarket.
Don’t miss… The Theatre Royal, one of the few surviving Georgian playhouses in England. Sneak a peek behind the scenes on a back-stage tour. theatreroyal.org
BRITAIN’S SMALLEST PUB The Guinness Book of Records lists The Nutshell as the smallest pub in Britain. NEARBY TUDDENHAM MILL A beautifully refurbished watermill, now a hotel and restaurant, this is the place to stay for a special treat - or drop by to eat for some fantastic food. Tuddenham Mill’s Head Chef, Lee Bye, has just won the esteemed Acorn Award recognising rising stars from every sector of the UK’s hospitality industry. Previous Acorn Award winners include well known chefs as Marco Pierre White, Marcus Wareing and Michael Caines. tuddenhammill.co.uk
WYKEN WINEYARD Get out of town and visit Wyken Vineyard - there is much more than just wine wykenvineyards.co.uk IP31 2DW
ROMARK JEWELLERS Antique & Modern Jewellery
To view our extensive range of antique and pre-owned jewellery, please visit our website. Specialist in repair & restoration Old jewellery bought for part exchange or cash romarkjewellers.co.uk 45 Abbeygate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1LB 01284 704977 enquires@romarkjewellers.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 97
THE STORE Nicola Sexton is a Shoe Boutique who opened its doors on the prestigious Abbeygate Street in Bury St Edmunds in 2010. Footwear Brands include, Luciano Padovan, Loriblu, Nila & Nila, Baci, & Pedro Anton. Â
THE BRANDS Nicola started by importing unknown Italian and Spanish brands, but soon saw a gap in the market and began designing her own collections. Being manufactured in Italy the Nicola Sexton collection offers quality, comfort and of course great Italian Styling. Nicola now wholesales her collection in some of the most prestigious Ladieswear Boutiques throughout the UK, Ireland and USA.
THE TEAM Nicola’s team for this small intimate boutique is completed by her daughter Charlie and newest member Georgia. Between the three of them it’s quite amazing what this Bury St Edmunds based business is able to achieve!
THE EXPERIENCE Earlier this year, Nicola began offering a few key pieces of clothing including Salsa Jeans, the ultimate comfort jean.They now stock a variety of carefully selected labels from casual through to the odd piece of occasion wear. Nicola is looking to provide her customers with exclusive labels as she does with her shoes, so be assured you will find something with a difference! Clothing Brands include Salsa, Genses London, Bailey 44, Extenzo Paris to name but a few, along with some gorgeous accessories.
33 Abbeygate St, Bury Saint Edmunds IP33 1LW 01284 760011 nicolasexton.co.uk
ELIZABETH GASH Sitting on Lavenham’s picturesque market place in a pretty timber framed building, is knitwear designer Elizabeth Gash’s eponymous first shop. Her second opened only three years ago on Bury St Edmunds’ St John’s St and a third opened in Saffron Walden in 2013. Step inside either shop and you enter an Aladdin’s cave of colour, texture and pattern. The shops have traditional oak beam interiors with shelves stacked with knitwear and clothes in jewel-like colours, the urge to forage is irresistible. Most of Elizabeth’s knitwear is inspired by the beautiful designs of eastern nomadic textiles and rugs. Her distinctive graphic patterns and deep rich colours owe much to traditional kilim designs. The range, which can be made to measure, includes jackets, waistcoats, hats, bags, scarves and cushions, and each piece, no matter how small, is imbued with Elizabeth’s trademark flair for colour and pattern. The success of the shops in Lavenham, Bury St Edmunds and Saffron Walden is the culmination of more than 20 years’ hard work. Elizabeth started her knitting career with a stall in Covent Garden, and as her following grew, she took on more knitters and sold her knitwear to other select shops and a knitwear catalogue ‘Penny
Plain’. It was over ten years ago, after encouragement from a friend, that the first shop was opened in idyllic Lavenham, a short drive from her home in Rattlesden. All of Elizabeth’s work is undertaken here in Suffolk: Elizabeth designs and makes the swatches on her knitting machine, and then the garments are hand framed locally in beautiful Scottish silk and lamb’s wool yarn. This veritable treasure trove of gorgeous knitwear has become a showcase for leading British textile designers. Having sold from a stall for so many years, Elizabeth’s aim in opening a shop was to create a thriving outlet for unusual, beautiful garments made by talented designers living in the UK. Stocking a carefully-chosen selection by Sophie’s Wild Woollens, it has become an absolute must visit for wool lovers everywhere. As well as a fantastic array of knitted designs, Elizabeth has included clothes by Two Danes, Masai, Pomodoro, Shepards, Grizas, Sea Salt, Flax, Backstage, Adini, Margo Selby and Capri all hand-picked to complement her own range perfectly. And even accessories are catered for: she has got a great range of bags, scarves and gloves, and a beautiful display of semi-precious and silver by jewellery designer Siren Silver and Scarves by Margo Selby.
GRIZAS
best of NEWMARKET Horses and horse racing dominate Newmarket – hardly surprising as it is regarded as the British headquarters of the sport of kings.
PAULA WILSON
ROBERT NOBBS Based at Best Western The Heath Court Hotel since the late 80’s, Robert Nobbs is the general manager and over the decades has seen Newmarket go through many changes. 2016 is proving to be an exciting year with the town celebrating 350 years since King Charles II returned to Newmarket and created the phenomenon of organised ‘modern’ racing - ever since the town has celebrated its heritage and Royal connections. The new National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art will celebrate the town’s status as the historic home of horseracing and sporting art and will be at the heart of the community, transforming the centre of the town. As Robert say’s “There is a very positive vibe in Newmarket at the moment and with all of this happening, there is no wonder why.” bw-heathcourt.co.uk
102 the best of SUFFOLK
2016 is the year to visit Newmarket as the Queen celebrates her 90th birthday and the town toasts 350 years of racing. To mark the occasion, a new, original painting by Paula is on display and celebratory items are available. www.paulawilson.co.uk
PALACE HOUSE The National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art will offer three attractions in one location: a much expanded National Horseracing Museum, a new national collection of British Sporting Art and a live horse experience in the flagship home for the Retraining of Racehorses palacehousenewmarket.co.uk
Did you know? Early birds can watch the horses exercise on the heath between 6.30 - 9.30am
THE PANTRY The Pantry Fine Food Shop and Eatery is a local favourite for foodies, with a well stocked deli, specialising in locally sourced food. thepantryfinefoods.com
DiscoveR OuR spa BReaKs The perfect way for friends or couples to relax and unwind. All Spa Breaks include a spa day at our luxury onsite spa, dinner in our 2AA Rosette Squires Restaurant, overnight stay and breakfast in our 4 Red Star hotel.
LUXURY SPA
SQUIRES RESTAURANT
HOTEL COMFORT
A tranquil, award-winning escape
Delectable Suffolk fine dining
Beautifully crafted rooms and suites
01638 663175 WWW.BEDFORDLODGEHOTELSPA.CO.UK
Bedford Lodge Spa Breaks Advert_168 x 121mm.indd 1
09/06/2016 15:23
01638 666320 | Aberdeen House, 9-11 High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk
www.marthav.co.uk
Leading the field in fashion the best of SUFFOLK 103
best of SUFFOLK FOOD
Regis Crepy 105 best of Eating Out 106 The Pier at Harwich
best of Suffolk food & drink 114
Locality and provenance of ingredients is fashionable and seen as increasingly important on menus today - partly driven by media hype I feel. Yes sourcing the best ingredients, as local wherever possible is the best thing to do. Practically though, I find it hard to source everything local and maintain the standard and quality – and variety - that customers expect – It is difficult for example to buy 70 racks of lamb per week within a 20 mile radius. When I first came to Suffolk we certainly had good local produce lamb, beef, pork and vegetables, for variety though I travelled every week to the Rungis Market in Paris – which still is the world’s largest wholesale market.
REGIS CREPY
tastes Suffolk’s local food
It is pure joy to cook in Suffolk with the abundance of delicious produce available right on our doorstep. Blessed with a naturally productive county of grazing pastures, rolling farmland, fish-rich waters of the North Sea, not to mention the innovative hard working artisan producers - we are known as the Foodie County for good reason.
Thirty years ago, when I first moved to Suffolk and bought The Great House, it was quite a different story. Then nouvelle cuisine was the buzzword - yes everyone criticised the small portions but that wasn’t what it was about, it was the reappraisal of classic French cooking (think lots of butter and creamy sauces) that moved away from the richness of haute cuisine and put the emphasis on lightness, natural flavours and textures. It was a huge catalyst on the food served today, chefs were recognised as creative artists who acknowledged their allegiance to provenance and searched for the very best ingredients. My menus are based on classic French cooking and though my style is always driven by quality not fashion, I am influenced by many things. It’s a global market, we all travel and taste exciting flavours that we incorporate into our cooking. Many different ingredients are from Europe, Asia, Africa; the fennel ice-cream I serve with sea bass for example is scented with star anise and dill, we wouldn’t have served that 30 years ago. Customers embrace different cuisines, take the Scandinavian way of cooking, which is about the sweet/sour, brining, smoking, salting and served lightly cooked or raw, diners wouldn’t have eaten this in the 80s.
Now local fantastic ingredients include: Blythburgh pork, Sutton Hoo chicken, game such as Suffolk venison, partridge, pheasant, rabbit, also Gressingham duck, seasonal veg and fruit particularly Ardleigh asparagus, raspberries and strawberries. From our coastal waters we source Colchester oysters, Deben mussels and dressed Cromer crab, langoustine though are from Scotland - fish is not always so easy to source locally, dependent as it is on the vagaries of catch and weather – cod from Lowestoft, our monkfish though comes from the south west and north east Atlantic, megrim sole is Cornish, Witch sole is Scottish and red snapper from the Indian Ocean - fishmongers here are sadly a thing of the past. Suffolk and Norfolk cheeses are excellent and over the years we’ve seen huge improvement in quality and choice to rival major producers – even the French cheeses that I buy in the Paris market -as well as the bread made with traditional artisan methods for maximum flavour and goodness. Such a wonderful variety of produce to be tasted whether it’s in our restaurants and cafés or sourced from independent shops and farmers’ markets - enjoy them all! Regis Crepy, Chef Patron The Great House, Lavenham www.greathouse.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 105
the best of EATING OUT
Milsom Hotels and Restaurants great places to eat, drink and stay... Le Talbooth in Dedham is justifiably the flagship of the group, and sits in an enviable position on the banks of the river Stour on the Essex/Suffolk. A visit to this fabulous listed building is a treat any time of the year. So too, is the cooking of head chef Andrew Hirst with his skill and passion for great food. Maison Talbooth serves lunch and a delicious afternoon tea every day in the Garden Room. This room spills out onto the terrace during the warmer months and has wide views over the Dedham Vale and is a perfect place to relax after a visit to the spa. Also in Dedham is milsoms, a contemporary bar/brasserie with one rosette, where you can dine outside for most of the year under a huge architectural sail. The full menu is available throughout the day from 12 noon at milsoms, with no need to book so there’s no rush... The Pier at Harwich is a small hotel and a special destination for lovers of great food and drink. The first floor restaurant is a stunningly re-defined brasserie, open all day (all year round) overlooking the harbour and its ships and working docks and is only a stone’s throw from the estuary where the fresh fish
106 the best of SUFFOLK
is landed daily. On the ground floor, just 20 metres from the harbour wall is the NAVYÄRD bar and terrace - a continentally inspired bar with a enviable drinks and gin list, serving a Nordic-inspired small-plate bar menu. milsoms Kesgrave Hall, is a magnificent Georgian mansion set in acres of lawn and woodland. The open plan restaurant has plenty of theatre with guests getting a good view of the ‘engine room’ while they dine! The kitchen champions all that is great about local Suffolk produce and the restaurant is open all day from noon with the full menu. In the summer guests can dine on the terrace under the sail overlooking the lawn. Six fabulous restaurants all with individual style and character with real synergy of food, atmosphere, service and true hospitality – where you can also stay! milsomhotels.com reception@kesgravehall.com Hall Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 2PU 01473 333741
the best of EATING OUT
Crown & Castle Orford
major guides, guests often cite the food as a major reason for staying with us. Our wine list has also won many plaudits in the guides, not least for the reasonable pricing structure.
Good food is at the heart of the Crown and Castle. Part of the reason is that co-proprietor and executive chef, Ruth Watson, is also an erstwhile food writer (two Glenfiddich awards) and the author of The Really Helpful Cookbook,
Lunch is served from 12.15 to 2.00pm (last orders);
Fat Girl Slim and Something for the Weekend. Our restaurant has a relaxed but lively ambience. Most importantly, it neither looks nor feels like a typical hotel restaurant. With 2 AA rosettes and good write-ups in all the
The Bildeston Crown Bildeston The Bildeston Crown is a 15th century, former coaching inn set in the Suffolk village of Bildeston, one of the historic ‘wool towns’ and just six miles from Lavenham. The stylish inn has 12 en suite double rooms, a 120 seater restaurant, a private meeting room, two comfortable bar areas, a courtyard and a terrace for al fresco dining. Food is an integral part of The Bildeston Crown experience and Chef Chris Lee, who owns the business with his wife Hayley, has an excellent reputation
a la carte dinner is served from 6.45 to 9.00pm (last orders). crownandcastle.co.uk info@crownandcastle.co.uk Orford, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 2LJ 01394 450205
for his signature, innovative style. Quality produce, sourced primarily locally, is used when in season and diners can choose from a range of menus: Classics which features regular favourites, Select which is a little more innovative and perhaps the ultimate dining experience – Chris Lee’s Tasting Menu. thebildestoncrown.com reception@thebildestoncrown.co.uk 104 High Street, Bildeston, Suffolk IP7 7EB 01449 740510
the best of SUFFOLK 107
the best of EATING OUT
Hintlesham Hall Hintlesham
Depending on the season, you can choose to eat by a roaring log fire or, in summer, dine alfresco on our extensive terraces and enjoy our magnificent gardens.
Hintlesham Hall’s award-winning cuisine is not just for formal dining or celebrations.
Either way, you will be served by our professional, friendly team.
The hall is a stunning venue in which to savour a lighter bite from the lounge menu, our informal dining menu.
hintleshamhall.com
The eclectic, mouth-watering selection of dishes can be enjoyed in any of our sumptuous public lounges.
Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3NS
reservations@hintleshamhall.com 01473 652334
Chestnut Group East Anglia The multi-award winning Chestnut Group is an East Anglian based hospitality operator synonymous with fantastic food, quality service and stylish interiors. The Packhorse Inn Moulton (near Newmarket)
The White Horse Easton
The award winning Packhorse Inn is located in Moulton near Newmarket, offering a five star AA dining and hotel guest experience featuring 8 stylish en-suite bedrooms and exceptional service.
The White Horse has recently undergone a beautiful and sensitive refurbishment and offers traditional British pub dishes alongside a more refined Ă la carte and kids menu.
thepackhorseinn.com
thewhitehorseeaston.com
info@thepackhorseinn.com
info@thewhitehorseeaston.com
Bridge Street, Moulton, Suffolk. CB8 8SP
The St, Easton, Woodbridge, Suffolk. IP13 0ED
01638 751818
01728 746456
108 the best of SUFFOLK
the best of EATING OUT
Upstairs at Baileys Beccles
For their latest menus and current dishes check their website.
Upstairs at Baileys offers diners a real taste of modern Spanish cuisine. For many, Spanish food consists of tapas and very little else. However, there is a whole wealth of food experiences from all corners of Spain that will surprise and delight you!
On Friday and Saturday evenings they offer à là carte dining with a menu designed to give a choice of the delicious Catalan cuisine, from starters to mains, fish or meat, and desserts.
The restaurant specialise in delicious Catalan cuisine, executed perfectly by their talented and experienced Catalonian chefs. Dishes are created with the best of local and imported ingredients and can be complimented with a selection of the best of Spanish wines.
Lunch time, from Monday to Saturday, they offer a light, beautifully crafted and well priced ‘Menu of the Day’.
Spend an enjoyable and relaxed evening in a this little Spanish corner of Suffolk… upstairsatbaileys.co.uk bookings@upstairsatbaileys.co.uk 2 Hungate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TL 01502 710609A
Salthouse Harbour Eaterie Ipswich
Enjoy the view of the waterfront, chill in the artful surroundings and pick one of the many fine wines all served by the glass.
The popularity of the Salthouse Harbour Hotel’s waterside Eaterie makes it a destination for many Suffolk locals. The dishes are modern & always surprise with a curious twist of something deliciously different.
reservations@salthouseharbour.co.uk
The Head Chefs passion for supporting Suffolk’s small holders and independent producers is with good cause when you sample some of the tasty delights his team produce.
salthouseharbour.co.uk Salthouse Harbour Hotel, Neptune Quay, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1AX 01473 226789
the best of SUFFOLK 109
the best of EATING OUT
Tuddenham Mill Tuddenham Tuddenham Mill’s award-winning restaurant brings together an exceptional environment, a genuine passion for great food and wine and discrete yet attentive service. From its exposed beams, and the views across the mill pond, Tuddenham Mill offers a unique mix of influences to excite the senses. Every meal is a special occasion when you dine with us. Whether you want a light bite or sandwiches or you’re looking for the full fine dining experience, we have a menu that you’ll love. Our Head Chef, Lee Bye and his talented team have created exciting, contemporary menus reflecting the chic yet rustic surroundings.
The Westleton Crown Westleton At The Westleton Crown, we are passionate about the quality of our food. If there are two words to describe the food, they would be ‘hearty’ yet ‘sophisticated’. Head Chef, James Finch, and his highly skilled team pride themselves on their imaginative and varied menus which have earned us an AA 2 Rosette restaurant award, as well as a considerable reputation. All of our meals, from The Westleton Crown’s own fish and chips through to the finest of our à la carte dishes, are prepared on the premises, using the finest, freshest ingredients and local suppliers wherever possible. The same level of care goes into the preparation, whether it’s a hearty
110 the best of SUFFOLK
Tuddenham Mill’s 2 AA rosette restaurant has consistently been praised by food inspectors and critics and featured in a number of the country’s independent guides and awards. The most recent accolades include: Best Restaurant title in the Suffolk Food and Drink Awards 2016, the AA Notable Wine List 2015, Square Meal’s UK Top 100 list, the prestigious Good Food Guide Editors’ Award 2015 for the Best Set Lunch menu, and Head Chef, Lee Bye, was crowned Suffolk’s Chef of the Year in the Suffolk Food and Drink Awards 2015. tuddenhammill.co.uk info@tuddenhammill.co.uk High Street, Tuddenham, Nr. Newmarket, IP28 6SQ 01638 713552
breakfast, a simple lunchtime snack, a relaxed meal with friends, indulgent dinner or traditional Sunday roast. Our breads are baked daily in the kitchen; the soups, pâtés and all of our delicious desserts are home-made – even the ice cream. Our menus are perfectly complemented by an extensive and sophisticated wine list or maybe our selection of real ales. Lunch 12.00 - 14.30 Dinner 18.30 - 21.30 Bar is open all day The Street, Westleton, Nr. Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3AD westletoncrown.co.uk info@westletoncrown.co.uk 01728 648 777
the best of EATING OUT
The Angel Eaterie Bury St Edmunds
pick of the many varieties of quality wines all served by the glass and wait for further temptations.
The dishes are modern and predominantly British at The Angel Hotel’s Eaterie. Fresh local produce is sourced from surrounding market gardeners and pheasant, venison or fish will always depend on what’s available for the menu that day.
theangel.co.uk
The breads baked in house are testament to the care taken to achieve that special taste; dip into the olive oil then take your
01284 714007
Stuart Inns Passionate about food
contemporary feel to it with a central bar, perfect for cocktails before dinner.
The Long Melford Swan is a boutique restaurant, with two rosettes, offering refined, contemporary British food. The menus are created, crafted and prepared with culinary passion by the talented chefs using fresh seasonal ingredients sourced nationally and locally from Suffolk, Norfolk and Lincolnshire. The Swan has 6 luxury boutique 5-star, individually designed en-suite bedrooms providing a relaxing, peaceful and tranquil place to stay when visiting Suffolk. Like the Swan, The Hadleigh Ram prides itself on sourcing the best ingredients as locally as possible. The Ram has a fresh
Both Eaterie’s are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. reservations@theangel.co.uk 3 Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk 1P33 1LT
The Lavenham Greyhound, the most recent addition, underwent an extensive makeover in 2014 and offers informal, yet comfortable dining areas where visitors can enjoy our all day pub menu. A fine Suffolk pub with a ‘pick n choose’ menu. Select what you like most from Small Savouries, Large Savouries or the Sweet menu, a mix n match of delightful foodie items to savour and enjoy. Long Melford Swan 01787 464545 The Hadleigh Ram 01473 822880 Lavenham Greyhound 01787 249553
the best of SUFFOLK 111
the best of EATING OUT
Best Western Heath Court Hotel Newmarket Just 300 yards from the centre of Newmarket, the restaurant at the Best Western Heath Court Hotel is a great place to stop for a relaxed dining experience. Standing at the bottom of the gallops where the horses can be seen training, the recently refurbished bar on the ground floor is perfect for a pre-dinner aperitif or a night cap before retiring. During the racing season the Heath Court is an ideal venue to study the form before heading off for a successful days racing and to celebrate your win afterwards.
The Park Woodbridge The Park Restaurant & Bar at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa overlooks the spectacular 120 acre historic parkland golf course and gardens. It is easily accessible from the A12 and has over 200 free onsite parking spaces, making it convenient for all visitors.
• 43 Bedrooms • conference and banqueting facilities • licensed as a marriage venue with a dedicated wedding planner • ample free parking • free WIFI • electric car charging points The Heath Court has everything covered. heathcourthotel.com quality@heathcourthotel.com Moulton Rd, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8DY 01638 667171
giving guests a wide selection of choice, and catering for special dietary requirements. The restaurant is open every evening, and for our popular Sunday Lunch between 12 noon and 2pm. It is also available for private lunchtime bookings. Bar snacks are available all day long in a relaxing and friendly environment. Why not try the Afternoon Tea? uffordpark.co.uk
Owned and family-run since 1992 both the restaurant and bar are open to members and non-members 7 days a week.
reception@uffordpark.co.uk
Head Chef Paul Flowerdew regularly refreshes the restaurant menu to offer fresh, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients
0844 477 6498
112 the best of SUFFOLK
Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW
the best of SUFFOLK 113
best of SUFFOLK FOOD & DRINK You needn’t look far to find world class products on the Suffolk food scene - here’s our favourites THE LITTLE FISH AND CHIP SHOP If you have enjoyed Sole Bay Fish Co on the harbour this is their new town based outpost. Takeaway open 11.45- 8pm Wet fish available daily 2 East St IP18 6EH solebayfishco.co.uk
ORANGE WHEAT BEER The owners of the multiaward winning Green Jack Brewery boast the quirky title of being the UK’s most Easterly brewers. From small beginnings, they now produce a wide range of ales full of hoppy character. Their Orange Wheat Beer is a noteworthy regional favourite, with well-balanced citrus and marmalade flavours at a delightfully drinkable 4.2%. Green Jack Ales are all made with locally malted wheat and barley in the heart of historic Lowestoft. green-jack.com
114 the best of SUFFOLK
WOLFF-EVANS & SONS SCOTCH EGGS Look out for this delicious, traditional scotch egg in Co-operative branches all over Suffolk. Made by a Woodbridge-based father and son team who are restoring the posh snack to its former glory. You’ll find it in their Deli to Go range, freshly delivered on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Also stocked by Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Harvey Nichols in London. wolffevans.com
BARON BIGOD A creamy white cheese made in the Waveney Valley, this cheese is handmade on a fenland farm by farmer Jonny, using milk from his own Montbeliarde herd. The UK’s only traditional raw milk Brie-de-Meaux style cheese, it’s made in the morning, when the milk is at the perfect temperature. fenfarmdairy.co.uk
TRULY TRACEABLE VENISON & GAME PIE
CRITERION ICES
EDWARD’S CORDIAL
There is no creamier way to satisfy your sweet tooth than with this mouth-watering gelato from Bury St Edmunds. All their ice creams are made with fresh double cream and without any artificial colours, flavours or genetically modified ingredients. It’s so palatable that it has brought home prizes from Royal dairy shows. Available at Friday Street Farm, Suffolk Theatres and National Trust properties
This range of grown-up but alcohol free cordials are made using 100% pressed juice with no artificial additives or preservatives. The flavours are inventive and refreshing, such as Blackcurrant and Basil or Rhubarb and Lavender. It is gluten free, vegan and tastes delicious splashed over ice and water or a glass of your favourite bubbly. A quintessential summer favourite.
A husband and wife team are behind this award-winning range of artisan pies and sausage rolls based in Halesworth. They are so passionate about ensuring their meat is fully traceable that they do the deerstalking themselves! All venison used in their products is species specific, so you’ll be able to tell your Muntjac from your Fallow.
criterion-ices.com
edwardscordial.co.uk
trulytraceable.com
AGGIE REDPATH’S SALTED LEMON This 100% natural selection of salted citrus products is a quick, easy way to diversify your dinners without having to resort to ready meals. The Salted Lemon preserve adds a zing to your favourite recipes while being completely free of preservatives. All products are available to buy from Aggie herself at Lavenham Farmers Market on the last Sunday of the month from 10am - 1.30pm. aggieredpath.co.uk
WOODBRIDGE DELI Woodbridge Deli is home to the “World Famous Pie”, baked daily on the premises - Pork, Pork and Stilton or Chicken and Ham, with Free Range Pork & Chicken. (No MRM or Preservatives are used) woodbridgefinefoodcompany.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 115
image usage www.albion-prints.com
TOSIER CHOCOLATE
bean to bar | small batch | crafted in Suffolk
launching Autumn 2016 | visit us on Facebook
best of FARM SHOPS
Hollow Trees
Friday Street
Hall Farm
Hollow Trees is small mixed farm that offers a big experience. On site is a Farm Shop, Butchery, Coffee Shop, Plant Centre and Farm Trail. The farm’s emphasis is on home-grown produce with vegetables, beef, pork and lamb all produced and sold on site. They are complimented by a wide range of local and regional fare. This wealth of quality foods changes with the seasons as does the Hollow Trees experience.
Friday Street Farm is a thriving arable farm situated just inland from Aldeburgh.
At Hall Farm we sell high quality local produce at reasonable prices. Our extensive range of excellent products has become the perfect place to do the weekly shop.
Friday Street Farm prides itself on supplying foods of the highest quality to their customers. A genuine farm shop that stocks their own home-grown potatoes, asparagus, strawberries and raspberries.
Hollow Trees Farm
The jewel in their crown is The Café Restaurant, where nearly all of the food is made on site and the few dishes that aren’t are sourced locally.
Semer, nr Hadleigh
Friday Street
Ipswich IP76HX
Farnham
01449 741247
Saxmundham IP17 1JX
hollowtrees.co.uk
01728 602783 farmshopsuffolk.co.uk
116 the best of SUFFOLK
We have a butchery department retailing our prize winning beef and lamb, deli counters including freshly prepared produce, a large range of vegetables, fruit and not forgetting our giftware. On site café/restaurant and free farm trail. Hall Farm Stratford Rd, Dedham, Colchester CO7 6LS Shop – 01206 322572 Café – 01206 323600 (booking advised) hallfarmshop.co.uk
Waveney Valley The meandering River Waveney dictates the pace for a leisurely sojourn; where an absence of wi-fi will cease to matter and you can switch off and lap up the seductive stillness and natural beauty. The charming towns of Beccles, Bungay and Halesworth will still be there should you require replenishment.
best of Beccles 120
Suffolk Foot Ferries 130
best of Outdoors 124
Birdwatching in Suffolk 131
Motoring 126
best of Golf 135
Festivals 129
best of Homes and Gardens 138 Suffolk Pubs & Walks 142 Suffolk Spas 145
DPS correct sizing_Layout 1 16/06/2015 06:38 Page 1
The Oaksmere Hotel is set within seventeen acres of grounds and situated at the heart of East Anglia with easy access to the whole region. The A140 and A143 brings Norwich, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds the Broads and the Sufffolk Heritage coastline within easy reach. Dating back to 1574, the hotel was fully refurbished in 2014 and offers a contemporary style and atmosphere of modern elegance within the beautiful listed building.
The fourteen individual boutique bedrooms are fitted with the latest technology. Each room is different; ten rooms are within the main building while four Coach House rooms overlook the kitchen garden, two have private terraces and are ideal for families: one room is fully equipped for wheelchair users. Open every day of the year, dining is available in either the traditional Tudor pub around a warming log fire in the winter or a la carte in the
stylish restaurant, where chefs produce fine quality cuisine throughout, utilising the best locally sourced produce. In summer months you can dine alfresco on the extensive sun-trap terrace created by Chelsea Gold Medal winning designer, Thomas Hoblyn. Outdoor barbeques are hosted where you can relax on the lawns whilst children can play on the magnificent pirate ship treehouse ‘The Jolly Conkerer’.
Wine | Di n e | R e c l i n e Rectory Road, Brome, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8AH 01379 873940 info@theoaksmere.com www.theoaksmere.com
118 the best of SUFFOLK
the best of SUFFOLK 117
the best of SUFFOLK 119
best of BECCLES BAILEYS DELICATESSEN RESTAURANT At Baileys they love great food so much that they have created a small emporium for the food lover. During the day they offer lovely traditional fare from around the world in their Deli. If you go upstairs to the Bistro you can eat superb lunches with a definite Spanish influence. On Friday and Saturday nights they transform themselves in to a wonderful fine dining experience. Or if you want something more relaxed you can simply have a Tapas meal in the bar at the Deli. upstairsatbaileys.co.uk
SALTGATE HOUSE
Don’t miss‌ Beccles farmers market on the first and third Saturday monthly between 9am -1pm
120 the best of SUFFOLK
Swerve the Waveney House Hotel and the enormous Wetherspoons and head directly for Saltgate House, an elegant Georgian townhouse and without a doubt Beccles best accommodation. saltgatehouse.com
VINTAGE MISCHIEF
MEA BOUTIQUE
Vintage Mischief is an overflowing fondue of vintage furniture, mid-century design, antiques and interior design solutions run by the effervescent couple Danielle Spelman and Simon Leak.
Easy to miss, but you’d be sad you did. MEA is a tardis of a shop overlooking Tesco’s car park selling some of the best designer women’s fashion in the area. Knowledgeable staff backed up up by an astute and fashionable range.
vintagemischief.com
twitter.com/meaboutique
CORIANDER HATS The place to go if you need to transform an outfit into something special and unique. Rare as hen’s teeth - a good milliner like this is well worth the trip. corianderhats.com
LIDO AND THE BIG DOG FERRY When it’s warm and sunny there’s little to beat an outdoor swim and this lido has a safe and separate pool for children too. A giant inflatable slide and adventure equipment will keep the whole family entertained. Situated on Puddingmoor and by the River Waveney there is plenty of grassy space for playing and sun loungers for those hoping to relax. There’s a café, canoe hire for paddling along the river and the boarding point for the Big Dog Ferry to Geldeston’s historic Locks Inn. This is a great and varied day out for tourists and residents alike. Open May to September. For more information please visit: www.beccleslido.com (01502 713297) and www.bigdogferry.co.uk (07532 072761)
the best of SUFFOLK 121
SOMERLEYTON East Norfolk’s most exciting holiday adventure A beautiful 5,000 acre country estate located on the border of Suffolk and Norfolk, just a stone’s throw from the coast. With a huge amount to offer visitors, it makes a fantastic day or night out in East Norfolk. THE HALL People have lived at the Somerleyton site since the Norman Conquest, and there’s evidence of a manor house here as early as 1240 AD. Today the hall is home to Lord and Lady Somerleyton and their young family. Today’s visitors appreciate the hall’s beautiful stone work and sumptuous interior detailing, courtesy of Victorian entrepreneur Sir Samuel Morton Peto. He hired John Thomas, Prince Albert’s favourite sculptor, to carry out the renovations and the quality of the workmanship shines through today. Great houses such as Somerleyton were built to impress and entertain, making it a dream venue for a grand wedding, a ball or even a banquet. The hall is available for private hire, please contact the estate for details: privatesomerleyton.co.uk THE GARDEN Visit the walled garden to discover the ornate iron and glass greenhouses designed by Joseph Paxton, the architect of the Crystal Palace. Don’t miss the 70 foot long pergola, home to wisteria, roses and clematis or the restored Nesfield parterre (formal garden), working kitchen garden, restored and restocked Victorian aviary and the arboretum with magnificent trees. Somerleyton is also home to one of the finest yew hedge mazes in Britain, originally planted back in 1846. When you need a sit down, the Kitchen Garden Café is the perfect place to put your feet up. You can unwind with a relaxing cup of tea, homemade cakes and more.
122 the best of SUFFOLK
Prices and opening times vary according to the season of your visit and the estate also runs special events throughout the year. Please check the website somerleyton.co.uk or telephone 0871 222 4244 ahead of your visit. Families and groups are very welcome.
FRITTON LAKE OUTDOOR CENTRE The Somerleyton estate offers an outdoor centre with a great selection of family activities. You don’t need to book ahead to use stand up paddle boards (SUPs), canoes, rowing boats, katakanus, electric outboards, bikes, pedal go-karts, or to have a game of pitch and putt golf. By booking in advance you can also take part in instructor-led activities such as tree climbing, archery, bushcraft, low ropes, SUPs and canoeing or katakanuing.
DINING AND ACCOMMODATION THE DUKE’S HEAD AND THE FRITTON ARMS Somerleyton is neighboured by two excellent pubs, The Duke’s Head dukesheadsomerleyton.co.uk and The Fritton Arms frittonarms.co.uk, which both offer local ales, fine wines and delicious seasonal menus. The Fritton Arms also offers accommodation and serves produce from the Somerleyton estate.
Fritton Lake Outdoor Centre is also home to open water swimming, a 5km parkrun and Norfolk’s Premier Triathlon Festival Weekend plus other special events. There are no admission prices or entry costs, you’ll just need to pay the £10 pay and display car parking fee to access 35 acres of park and woodland, including the adventure playground. FRITTON LAKE RETREATS - RENT OR INVEST IN YOUR OWN LUXURY TIMBER WOODLAND LODGE Retreat to nature with a short break or family holiday at Fritton Lake Retreats. These comfortable, modern facilities are set in the heart of 250 acres of mature woodland, so nature is right on your doorstep. Whether you like to walk, cycle, play golf, fish, ride horses or just relax on your decking with a glass of wine enjoying the stillness of Lake Fritton, you’ll feel right at home here. Some lodges are also for sale. frittonlakelodges.co.uk
An idyllic day out at Somerleyton Hall & Gardens Amazing maze ■ Kitchen Garden Café ■ Willow play area ■ Restored Nesfield parterre ■ Sunken white garden ■ Working kitchen garden ■ Children’s trail ■ Restored and restocked Victorian aviary ■ Arboretum with magnificent Victorian specimen trees and new planting for 2016 ■
Open from Easter to the end of September. For opening days, times and prices please visit
www.somerleyton.co.uk or call 0871 222 4244 30 minutes from Norwich, 15 minutes from GreatYarmouth, 15 minutes from Beccles and 10 minutes from Lowestoft.
Somerleyton Hall Gardens, Somerleyton NR32 5QQ @SomerleytonHall /SomerleytonHall /somerleyton_estate
the best of SUFFOLK 123
best of
THE OUTDOORS
Rural Suffolk is notorious for its lack of phone signal, but what initially appears a curse may end up being a blessing. The great outdoors is right on your doorstep here, so why not make the most of being offline and get exploring.
From the chocolate box villages surrounded by glorious English countryside to the 50 miles of unspoiled Blue Flag beaches, this is the ultimate unwind destination. And what better way to de-stress than by learning a brand new skill or practising an old one. Embrace the slower pace of life and enjoy going back to basics- you won’t even notice your phone signal is barely filling one bar! FISHING They say one of the most relaxing hobbies anyone can take up is fishing and in Suffolk you are spoiled for choice. Hanningfield Reservoir is a wonderful place to get to grips with coarse and fly fishing. A full day’s tuition covers casting, tackle, knots, techniques, trout behaviour, safety, rod hire and lunch with an opportunity to try your hand at fishing in the afternoon. eswater.co.uk 01268 712 180 If you enjoy sea fishing Aldeburgh’s steep shingle access to deep water makes it Suffolk’s star spot for beach fishing. You can park at Fort Green and head to North Warren beach, or Martello tower which is a great night time spot. Cod feed better in coloured or dark seas, so the best time to fish is at night, but whatever bait you use make sure it’s at least half the size of your fist!
124 the best of SUFFOLK
You can also fish off Southwold Pier where you’ll find a very active angling club who enjoy fishing from the end of the Pier. Southwold is in the top five locations for cod in the UK but you’ll also find Whiting in the autumn, Codling in the winter and Dover Sole and Bass in the summer months. HORSE RIDING Forget going for a drive, the best way to take in the Suffolk countryside has to be on horseback. At Valley Farm near Woodbridge you’ll find everything you need whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete novice. The farm is a first class equestrian centre which also contains a campsite. It’s the perfect place to get hands-on with horses, whether it is for a day or short break. valleyfarm.co.uk COUNTRYSIDE COURSES Assington Mill, nestled in the heart of the county, is a picture perfect, lovingly restored watermill. There’s a whole raft of countryside short courses to try here from introductions to bee-keeping and falconry to butterfly spotting and foraging for wild food. The range of workshops is so broad you’re bound to find something to suit every family member. assingtonmill.com
OUTDOOR EXTREMES De-stressing from the modern world doesn’t need to involve relaxing pursuits either; sometimes getting your heart racing is the only way to get that release. And that’s where Alton Water comes in. Set in 400 acres of beautiful countryside this manmade reservoir is the largest in Suffolk and is perfect for water sports. Take to the waves in a powerboat lesson, Paddle Boarding, Kayaking or windsurfing session, or simply relax and enjoy your own rowboat. Booking is advisable. 01473 328 408 altonwater.co.uk CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING Finally, what about Clay Pigeon Shooting? This may not be a question you have asked yourself before, but this archaic activity is guaranteed to make for a memorable experience. Have a Go Days are ideal if you’re not sure where to start and they take place on the first Saturday of every month. All Clays, Cartridges and equipment are included in the price of booking. highlodge.co.uk So whether you’re winding down or revving up for action, Suffolk is the place to swap screen time for something new.
STUART CLAY TRAPS Country sports, fishing and clothing specialists
We stock most makes of: • Shotgun, rifles and air rifles • Mens, ladies, children’s clothing and boots • Sporting guns • Fishing tackle and equipment • Full range of fishing accessories and fresh bait
Stuart Clay Traps Ltd, 3a & 3b Wilford Bridge Road Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1RB 01394 385567 sales@stuartsgunsandtackle.com www.stuartsgunandtackle.
SUFFOLK’S BEST DRIVE
Any road trip in Suffolk can get you from point A to point B. The question is: why would you want it to? Especially when the merest meander might bring you to the perfect place to explore, eat, shop or stop over.
Our route through Suffolk begins just across the Essex border and runs all the way up the coast to the most north-easterly corner of the county, before heading west and back again. Yes, it will get you from Colchester to Lowestoft, Newmarket and back. But that’s not the point. There is so much else to enjoy en route. So fill up the tank, open the roof, ignore your watch and succumb to the serendipity of Suffolk. The first thing to appreciate as you set off is that all around you lies the Dedham Vale and the kind of quintessential English landscape made famous by artist John Constable. Pay a visit to Flatford Mill to spot scenes immortalised by his work (and the zillions of chocolate-box reproductions that followed). If it’s an early stop you fancy, factor in another small detour off the A12 to Maison Talbooth at Dedham. But
126 the best of SUFFOLK
be warned, the chances are you will want to come back here for a more protracted sampling of the alluring Milsom dining options. Once you return to the A12, a diversion into Ipswich could take you to Christchurch Mansion, which houses a fabulous collection of Constable’s works. The town’s waterfront area also makes an attractive pit stop. A little farther north, Woodbridge makes another delightful diversion, or you can continue to Orford for lunch at The Crown and Castle. Naturally, you will want to see Orford Castle itself. Its steps are steep but the views from the top of the keep are worth the climb. A stroll through the village is definitely recommended and should include a visit to the celebrated Pump Street bakery. Alternatively, save your energy for a walk by the sea at nearby Aldeburgh, famed, among other things, for its fish and chips and annual music
For all things Porsche. Breathtaking design, innovative engineering and a virtually limitless number of options to choose from. Contact us about the Porsche range including our Porsche Approved Pre-Owned cars. Prepare to be inspired. Call 01206 855 500 or visit www.porschecolchester.co.uk.
Porsche Centre Colchester Auto Way Ipswich Road Colchester Essex CO4 9HA info@porschecolchester.co.uk
festival (although, technically, that is at nearby Snape). There are lots of lovely little shops, galleries and attractive eateries to entice you, but the Wentworth Hotel has a particularly pleasing prospect and occupies the ideal position for a spot of tea if you are trekking along the pebble beach to see Maggi Hambling’s sculpted scallop shell – homage to composer Benjamin Britten.
you will be spoilt for choice with the glorious cathedral and surrounding Abbey Gardens to wander around, the famous Angel Hotel to visit (perhaps for lunch), enticing shopping streets and treats, a great little museum, famous local brewery, wonderful Regency theatre and any number of restaurants, cafés, bars, and pubs – including one that ranks among the smallest in the world.
To reach the most easterly point in the British Isles before nightfall, you will need to continue the journey to Lowestoft. A little beyond this historic seaside fishing port lies Somerleyton Hall, once home to the vigorous Victorian entrepreneur Sir Samuel Morton Peto. It is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays (gardens only), Thursdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays and definitely deserves a visit. Stay overnight at the Fritton Arms, where you can enjoy a delicious evening meal in elegant surroundings.
As and when you can drag yourself away, it’s time to head along the A14 to Newmarket, which this year (2016) sees the opening of a wonderful new National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art in the former Palace House (beloved of Charles II) and Palace House Yard. On the outskirts of town, Bedford Lodge and Spa makes a refreshing place to recharge your batteries, whether that’s with a light or full afternoon tea!
This is where we turn the corner in our travels and head along the A143 towards Diss. Strictly speaking, this little market town, with its hidden “lake” (known as the Mere), is in Norfolk, as is the neighbouring visitor attraction of Bressingham Steam and Gardens. But it’s hard to keep track of the county border hereabouts and the Oaksmere Hotel at Brome, near Eye, brings you back into Suffolk. You could take up the invitation to “wine, dine and recline”, but, if you want to press on, your next destination should be historic Bury St Edmunds. Here
Next stop is Lavenham, chock-ablock with timber-framed houses and utterly picturesque in the full sense of the word. Lavenham Guildhall and intriguing Little Hall are both worth a visit before you seek out rest and refreshment at the Great House, a class-act boutique hotel with inviting rooms and gourmet dining. The Swan Hotel and Spa also presents an attractive dinner, bed-and-breakfast proposition. If there’s anything better than travelling hopefully, surely it’s got to be arriving at this kind of choice! And, after all, there’s always tomorrow...
The new 718 Boxster featured was kindly supplied by Porsche Centre Colchester
128 the best of SUFFOLK
FESTIVALS
ALDE VALLEY SPRING FESTIVAL 23 April -22 May Making great use of a farmyard barn and pastures, this event showcases paintings, sculptures and furniture. Also don’t miss the growing programme of Farm Suppers incorporating locally produced food. aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk
Dig out your wellies because 2016 is going to be a big year for Suffolk festivals. The variety of events is bigger and better than ever before, so beyond the well-known Latitude and Aldeburgh Music Festivals, you can expect to be celebrating everything from local seafood to new writing RED ROOSTER FESTIVAL
SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL
2-4th June, Euston Hall
14 May - 5 June
This trendy weekend offers the best musicians of Rhythm and Blues, Americana, Soul, Roots and Country. Enjoy a bourbon on the rocks as the polished line-up of performers create the relaxed atmosphere of the deep south.
Pick between countryside, coastal, children or dog friendly walks for your perfect day in the Suffolk outdoors. Either 1-5 miles or 5-10 miles length, all excursions are led by knowledgeable guides. suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk
PULSE FESTIVAL 26 May - 4 June This established event offers brilliant theatre at bargain prices; just £5 if you’re under 26
redrooster.org.uk
Great motivation to turn off the telly and get out to see this alternative entertainment.
SNAPE PROMS
wolseytheatre.co.uk
29 July - 28 August 30 Great Summer nights out in Aldeburgh ranging from folk and jazz to world music, classical, comedy and poetry. tickets.
HIGHTIDE FESTIVAL 8 -18 September Aldeburgh
aldeburgh.co.uk FOLK EAST 19 -21 August, Glenham Hall This laid back, camping weekender has an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional music as well as art & heritage craft to get involved in.
An exciting platform for new writing, HighTide discovers new playwrights and produces their plays. This year, the Soho Theatre will provide a collaborative comedy strand as well as free workshops and masterclasses in Suffolk Schools. hightide.org.uk
folkeast.co.uk THE WOODBRIDGE SHUCK SHELLFISH FESTIVAL
SPILL FESTIVAL 2016 Wed 26 – Sun 30 October
ALDEBURGH DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL 4 -6 November
Enjoy local oysters and mussels from the River Deben in this weekend of riverside feasting. BookIng ahead is recommended.
SPILL is an artist-led biennale of experimental theatre and radical live art. The work is risk-taking stimulating and uncompromising - check it out this year.
thewoodbridgeshuck.org.uk
spillfestival.com
aldeburghcinema.co.uk
30 September - 2 October
Luring inspiring filmmakers for more than 16 years and attracting sell out audiences, this DocFest takes place at the historic Aldeburgh Cinema.
the best of SUFFOLK 129
Photography: Krispen Atkinson
SUFFOLK FOOT FERRIES
This county is home to a wide range of beautiful waterways that are best explored by bicycle or on foot. Why not hop on a foot ferry to rest your feet and experience the landscape from another perspective? DEBEN FERRIES Wave the bat at the end of the jetty to call the ferryman! These ferries cross foot passengers and cycles from Felixstowe Ferry to Bawdsey Quay and also operates a river taxi service. Runs daily from May to October, 10am - 6pm. Weekends only from Easter to April, 10am - 5pm. 01394 282 173
BUTLEY FERRY This ferry provides a link between Orford, Boyton and Butley for pedestrians and cyclists. Volunteer ferrymen row you across Butley Creek from Easter Saturday until the end of October 2016. Operates on weekends and Bank Holidays from 11am to 4pm, weather permitting. Cost is £2 per passenger and £1.50 per bike. 07913 672499
Fox's M&C BofS advert v3_Layout 1 25/07/2016 16:08 Page 1
Located at the gateway to the Suffolk Coast Fox’s Marine & Country is the east coast’s premier chandlery and outdoor store and stocks a fantastic range of marine and country brands at very competitive prices, available in store and online. With easy access from the A12/A14 and with free parking on site, we are open seven days a week and ideally placed for those visiting the beautiful Suffolk coast and countryside.
130 the best of SUFFOLK
HARWICH HARBOUR This ferry operates every day from 1st May until 30th September 2016, in all apart from dangerous weathers. Open only on sunny days during October and between 26th December and 1st January. Trips along the River Orwell or Stour are also offered starting from Felixstowe, Shotley or Harwich. harwichharbourferry.com 07919 911440 WALBERSWICK - SOUTHWOLD From March to September this foot ferry generally operates a daily service from 10am - 5pm (weekdays 12.30pm and 2pm - 5pm). Between 16 April - 22 May and 8 - 30 October open weekends and bank holidays only 10am - 5pm. Fares are £1 per person, £1 per bicycle, dogs free of charge.
BIRDWATCHING
in Suffolk
With so many pretty villages this corner of East Anglia is revered by holidaymakers. Yet it’s not just tourists that flock to Suffolk. The diverse landscape also makes this county a favourite home for birds, and a top stopping-off point for those on their migratory travels. Suffolk’s wide range of habitats make for ideal breeding grounds, and you don’t need to be a seasoned twitcher to spy an interesting or unusual sighting, such as a marsh harrier, avocet, bearded tit, nightjar, nightingale or bittern. The region is blessed with changing landscapes from inland to the coast, with marshes, dunes, lagoons, arable farmland, sandy heathland and the unique Brecklands all featuring in this area. As varied as the landscape is, so is the huge diversity of birds you can find residing here, or passing through. Little wonder that the BBC television programme, Springwatch, regularly chooses to host its series in the region. If you’re visiting Suffolk for its birdlife, you’re spoiled for places to go. The region is crammed full of prime birdwatching sites, many owned by organisations, such as the RSPB, Natural England and the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. The sites usually have plenty of hides for spying birds, as well as lots of scenic walking trails.
One of the most famous birdwatching sites in Suffolk is RSPB Minsmere. Located on the coast near Westleton, the reserve is a bird and wildlife treasure trove that shouldn’t be missed. You can pick up essential birdwatching kit in the on-site shop - handy for helping identify avocets, bitterns, spoonbills or marsh harriers. The cooler months of the year can be just as intriguing for bird watching as the spring and summer, so if you come to Minsmere in winter, keep your eyes peeled for peregrines or short-eared owls. Suffolk is one of the few places in the UK where golden orioles breed, so if you fancy your chances of spotting a pair, head to the RSPB Lakenheath Fen wetlands. Another local RSPB birdwatching hotspot is North Warren, where you may be lucky to spot an elusive nightjar, woodlark or nightingale. The wide range of rare species keep you on your toes, if you visit the Lackford Wildfowl Reserve, you might well spy a black tern or little egret at rest. Other bird highlights at this site include the rare black-necked grebe, ospreys, redshanks and kingfishers. suffolkwildlifetrust.org/nature-reserves rspb.org.uk
ALLEN BARBOUR CHATHAM DUBARRY GILL HARKEN HENRI LLOYD JACK MURPHY JOULES LE CHAMEAU MARLOW MUSTO ORCA BAY SELDÉN WEIRD FISH
Fox’s Marina, Ipswich, IP2 8NJ +44 (0) 1473 688431 sales@foxsmarineandcountry.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK – PARKING
foxsmarineandcountry.com
the best of SUFFOLK 131
DARSHAM, NEAR SOUTHWOLD
For those looking for the ultimate break away from it all either to relax or enjoy some of the activities on site, our luxury holiday lodges (some with private hot tubs) self-catering accommodation –sleeping two, four or up to six people has scenic views over a lake and open countryside. If you would like to own a little piece of Luxury in Suffolk then take a look at our Claywood Retreat Lodges now available to purchase as a holiday home or rent for short breaks or full weeks.
132 the best of SUFFOLK
the best of SUFFOLK 133
best of GOLF Golf might not be the first thing you associate with Suffolk but it is the ideal location for the game’s enthusiasts to explore the English countryside and, more importantly, to discover some superb courses.
ALDEBURGH GOLF CLUB One of the oldest in Suffolk – a heathland course that lies within a mile of the coastline. Established in 1884, it has two courses, the 18-hole championship course and the River course, which is nine holes and more suitable for beginners and high-handicap golfers. Green fee for championship course £80, River course £14. Aldeburgh Golf Club Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, IP15 5PE 01728 452890 FELIXSTOWE FERRY GOLF CLUB One of the oldest courses in England, established in 1880. It was recently voted by Golf World as one of the top 100 courses in England and has great coastal views. There is also a nine-hole, pay-and-play course. Green fee for nine-hole course £14. Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club Ferry Road Felixstowe, IP11 9RY 01394 286834. GOG MAGOG GOLF CLUB Established in 1901. Just over the Cambridgeshire border, the club has two excellent courses, situated on the free-draining chalk of the Gog Magog Hills, just south of Cambridge. Green fees from £55 Shelford Bottom, Cambridge, CB22 3AB 01223 247626 IPSWICH GOLF CLUB (PURDIS HEATH) Described as a heathland haven for purists and enthusiasts alike. Its quickdraining terrain means there is no need for temporary tees or greens in the winter. There is a nine-hole course adjacent. Green fee for main course £80 a day, nine-hole course £14 a day. Purdis Heath, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich, IP3 8UQ 01473 728941
NEWTON GREEN GOLF CLUB An 18-hole course, combining heath and parkland golf on the edge of Constable Country and near the villages of Long Melford, Lavenham and Clare. Green fees from £25. Newton Green, Sudbury, CO10 0QN 01787 377217 HALESWORTH GOLF CLUB Situated just a few miles from the beautiful Suffolk heritage coast and in 190 acres of stunning undulating countryside. Golfers of all abilities are welcomed and facilities include an 18-hole championship golf course and nine-hole pay-and-play course. Green fee £34 a day, nine-hole course £10.00. Bramfield Road, Halesworth, IP19 9XA 01986 875567 ROYAL WORLINGTON & NEWMARKET GOLF CLUB Founded in 1893, it has been described as the best nine-hole course in England. While this may be debatable, it is a fact that it regularly appears in the top 100 golf course lists of various magazines. Green fees £70. Golf Links Road, Worlington, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 8SD 01638 712216 STOKE BY NAYLAND GOLF CLUB Set in 300 acres of picturesque countryside. Established in 1972, it has a 20-bay covered driving range and two 18-hole championship courses. Green fees from £50. Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf and Spa, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, CO6 4PZ 01206 262836
THORPENESS GOLF CLUB A picturesque course set among the Suffolk coastal heathland. The course offers a tough challenge for players of all levels. Designed by James Braid in 1922. Green fees from £60. Thorpeness Hotel & Golf Club, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh, IP16 4NH 01728 454926 UFFORD PARK HOTEL, GOLF & SPA An 18-hole, parkland course spread across 120 acres of unspoilt Suffolk countryside. Facilities include a floodlit, two-tier driving range and 18-hole putting green. Green fee from £30. Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1QW 01394 383555 WOODBRIDGE GOLF CLUB Two classic heathland courses. The Heath course is a serious golfer’s challenge all year round, while the full-length nine-hole forest course, is suitable for all standards. Green fee for Heath course £55 a day, Forest £10. Woodbridge Golf Club Bromeswell Heath, Woodbridge, IP12 2PF 01394 382038 GLEVERING MILL Providing the ultimate self-catering holiday for Golf enthusiasts with its own private six green (18 hole 52 par) golf course. It was originally developed by Capt. Donald Roy DSO for family use over 50 years ago has since become a favourite starter course for local people, as well as a practice course for Glevering Mill holiday guests who are playing at Ufford Park, Woodbridge, Aldeburgh or Cretingham Golf Courses. Glevering Old Mill, Hacheston, Woodbridge, IP13 0EY gleveringmill.co.uk 07568 388 662
the best of SUFFOLK 135
Stay & Play Golf Breaks Heacham Manor is pleased to be able to offer superb stay and play golf breaks throughout the year. These are available for individuals, couples or groups large & small. Don’t worry if all of your party are not golfers, why not combine with a spa break, so the non-golfer can enjoy pampering in the new Mulberry Spa. From £74pp (sharing) for a 1 Night Stay & Play Break. 1 in 10 people go FREE. Above break includes: 1 Night Bed & Breakfast | Three Course Dinner | Two Rounds of Quality Golf at Heacham Manor (2 and 3 night breaks also available)
North West Norfolk Golf Tour Besides our own fantastic golf course, Heacham Manor Hotel is located between two of Norfolk’s most outstanding golf courses; Kings Lynn Golf Club, 15 miles to the south and Hunstanton Golf Club, a stone’s throw to the north. Hence we have created the North West Norfolk Golf Tour, including two nights at the Heacham Manor Hotel with fine wining and dining and three rounds of golf at Heacham Manor, Kings Lynn and Hunstanton. Three Excellent Courses – One Great Hotel From only £208pp (sharing) Above break includes: 2 Night’s Bed & Breakfast | Three Course Dinner on both nights | 3 Rounds of golf at Heacham Manor, Hunstanton and Kings Lynn
Heacham Manor at a glance: • 45 Luxury bedrooms, including 2 Disabled-Friendly Bedrooms and 4 Dog-Friendly Bedrooms • AA Rosette Restaurant with glorious panoramic views • A superb 18 hole Golf Course “Heacham Manor Golf Club is Norfolk’s most exciting new club” – English Club Golfer, March 2014
• New Golf Bar and Changing Rooms • A romantic Wedding Venue licenced for Civil Ceremonies • The Corporate Preferred Programme, dedicated to the needs of businesses with special packages for accommodation, meetings & events and corporate golf
• The Mulberry Spa, for a variety of indulgent pamper and relaxation treatments and packages • Beautifully manicured tranquil gardens
For more information, please visit www.heacham-manor.co.uk, call 01485 536 030 or email info@heacham-manor.co.uk Heacham Manor, Hunstanton Road, Heacham, Norfolk PE31 7JX
ENJOY GOLF? You’ll enjoy it even more at Ufford Park Woodbridge, Hotel, Golf & Spa Spread across 120 acres of undulating parkland, our 18-hole, par 71 championship course is perfect for all intermediate and experienced players – and everyone in between. It is generally regarded as an enjoyable, yet stern test of golf. Furthermore, due to the excellent natural drainage characteristics of the soil, combined with their dedicated greenkeepers, who work tirelessly to keep the course playable no matter what the weather, ensures greens are playable all-year round, whilst many other courses have to close. Ufford Park Woodbridge has also been voted ‘Top Winter’ course by Today’s Golfer.
realistic playing environment and all the bays are undercover and floodlit until 8.30pm everyday. Many of the bays also have heaters so that on even on the coldest evenings it is extremely civilised. For these reasons we have also been voted in the ‘Top 10 Driving Ranges in Britain’ by Today’s Golfer Magazine. Driving range prices start from only £2.30 for a bucket of 25 balls.
Golf can be a frustrating game at times and so we also have a large 18 hole putting green and a 5 hole practise academy for novices to the game. Help is also close at hand with the expert PGA professionals at the on-site Doctorgolf Teaching Academy. Stuart Robertson, alias Doctorgolf, is a highly experienced We have extensive practise PGA professional and is generally facilities here at Ufford Park and regarded as one of the best are unique in the fact we have teachers in East Anglia. Stuart and the only two tier floodlit driving his team can help you improve range Suffolk.Golf The2016_Layout outfields have your 12:32 technique 07 Best in of Suffolk 1 26/07/2016 Pageand 1 enhance your been sculptured to provide a more enjoyment of golf in general.
We are also pleased to be home to the only American Golf Retail Superstore in Suffolk. This shop is located near the hotel reception and driving range and is an independently operated franchise. It offers a huge selection of equipment, clothing and accessories and is worth a visit in its own right. The highly trained shop staff offer club fitting and are on hand to explain how the latest equipment will have you hitting further, straighter and more consistently than ever before. Our golf breaks start from as little as £93.50 per person, per night and includes dinner, bed and breakfast, 2 rounds of golf and use of our Health Club. Ufford Park Woodbridge really does have so much to offer for those keen golfers amongst you, so please call 0844 499 1626 to book a tee time, accommodation or for more information.
Time for a break?
Ufford Park Woodbridge
Looking for the perfect venue for your golf break? Set in the heart of Suffolk and located just off the A12, our 18 hole, par 71 course is ideal for the beginner or the Pro. Book your tee time online, visit the on-site AmericanGolf superstore and practice your swing on our 2 tier floodlit driving range, all before you even set foot on the lovingly cared for, award-winning course. 1 night Golf breaks from only £93.50* per person includes complimentary use of the Health Club with it’s gym and swimming pool.
t
0844 477 6498
w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW
the best of SUFFOLK 137
SUFFOLK’S BEST
HOMES & GARDENS
Haughley Park Gardens and Woods Surrounding a Grade I Jacobean manor built in 1620, these 200 acres of sumptuous parkland are made for picnics. During spring, the bluebells create a pretty floral carpet, as well as azaleas and rhododendrons. Open 2-5.30pm every Tuesday from May- September
138 the best of SUFFOLK
Helmingham Hall Gardens These impressive grounds are famous for their large herds of red and fallow deer and classic moated hall. The 400 acres have been excellently kept and developed by the Tollemache family for centuries, so there is loads to explore, from the fragrance of the herb garden to the distinctive topiary of the ‘knot’ garden. Open May – September 12 – 5pm on Tuesday – Thursday + Sundays
Melford Hall Family-orientated landscaped gardens that are filled with tales of former visitor Beatrix Potter. During August kids can enjoy outdoor theatre and on rainy days there are more than enough activities to keep them occupied, from bug hunting to the ‘Spot It’ quiz. If not, the mile-long walk through the former hunting park is a perfect stroll. Check website for opening hours
Ickworth A grand country estate in Bury St Edmunds, which makes for a fun packed day out. You’ll find one of England’s earliest examples of an Italianate garden, as well as an innovative display of servants quarters in the Rotunda basement. Bring your bike as the grounds are expansive. Check website for opening hours
Wyken Hall Gardens Neatly maintained gardens that are crammed with fruit trees and flowers. A serene atmosphere is created by the Elizabethan manor house and the occasional wandering peacock. Best visited as part of a day trip as there is plenty more to explore at Wyken including the stunning vineyards. Open Easter to September 2-6pm (closed Saturdays)
Somerleyton This is the garden to visit for active, outdoorsy types. Set around a TudorJacobean mansion, there’s never a dull moment between rowing on Fritton lake, golfing, horse riding or even hot air ballooning on the grounds. For the young visitor, there’s a maze, Viking fort, pony treks and a cycle trail. Open March – September Tuesday to Thursday from 10am – 5pm. During high season also open Wednesdays and Sundays
Abbey Gardens Right in the centre of Bury St Edmunds, this is ideal place for a break. Contemplate the ruins of the C11th Benedictine Abbey which lie within the garden while small children will also enjoy the play area and aviary. Free entry, open year-round
Fullers Mill Garden For a calm moment of reflection and contemplation, look no further than Fullers Mill. The seven acres of dappled woodland on the banks of the River Lark has a year-round selection of rare and unusual plants. Open from April – September on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays 2-5pm
Further afield: Beth Chatto A short drive away in Colchester, you can find these unique gardens. Inspired by the natural terrain, its founder creatively put together an improvised layout in contrast to formal, aristocratic designs. Take some inspiration home from the plant nursery that stocks over 2000 plants, sold by growing conditions. Open March – October 9am-5pm Langham Hall Garden Langham Hall kitchen garden totals an area of approximately 3.5 acres
and is divided in two. One side is an ornamental ‘pleasure garden’, with herbaceous borders, rose arches, huge old Wisterias, and a pretty summerhouse the other is a productive kitchen garden. The site also currently houses Sue Wooster’s national collection of Alpine Campanulas see alpinecampanulas.co.uk The Suffolk Gardens Trust has plotted the history of the garden, and has unearthed evidence that shows there has been a walled garden on the site since at least 1705. The earliest surviving map of the garden is dated 1832, showing a layout that is very similar to that of today. Langham Hall recaptures the spirit of the golden age of walled gardening, whilst it runs as a commercial small scale market garden. To sample their produce, you can buy their vegetables from Wyken Vineyards every Saturday morning or join their box scheme and have vegetables delivered directly to your door. Check the website for details on how to buy and view their calendar of events at langhamherbs.co.uk Visits welcome - do ring beforehand to check opening hours. 07772 457063
DISCOVER Constable’s River Katie Drouet Photography
TAKE a trip back in time on an original Stour barge, like those painted by the artist John Constable. ENJOY a river trip in one of our silent electric launches at Flatford, Dedham & Sudbury. VISIT our unique riverside venue, The Granary at Sudbury, CO10 2AN Tea Room open on Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays, Easter – October.
The River Stour remains largely unchanged from the 1800s and the scenes depicted in the paintings of John Constable. All the locations of his most famous works still remain – Flatford Dry Dock, Willy Lott’s Cottage, the Mill his father owned and Flatford Lock. The River Stour Trust is dedicated to preserving the river, and maintaining the right of navigation for all to enjoy. Our trip boats run throughout the spring and summer months. They are the perfect way to experience the river and its surroundings.
Book the John Constable Lighter for a unique corporate day out. The Granary can also be privately hired for up to 100 guests for a variety of functions including weddings. Wedding packages start from as little as £375 and our boats make a wonderful addition to any celebration.
01787 313199 www.riverstourtrust.org
E X P L O R E ...the path less travelled and get lost in Suffolk. Get the insider’s guide at
You, unplugged. 140 the best of SUFFOLK
BEST OF SUFFOLK’S
NATIONAL TRUST ATTRACTIONS SUTTON HOO Often referred to as the ‘first chapter in English history’, Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The 7th century burial mounds, excavated from the late 1930s onwards, have revealed items including the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet. Cared for by the National Trust, visitors today can discover the history of King Raedwald and more about this Anglo-Saxon site. nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo
MELFORD HALL A family home with a rich naval history, Melford Hall in Long Melford was also the holiday home of children’s writer Beatrix Potter, who was related to the family there. Open to visitors until the end of October, the Hall is this year hosting a unique new exhibition about Beatrix Potter following the discovery of a series of secret sketches found hidden in books – it’s a must see! nationaltrust.org.uk/melford-hall
ICKWORTH An Italian-style masterpiece in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, Ickworth is the result of the flamboyant vision of the 4th Earl of Bristol, who had it built in the 18th century. With its striking rotunda flanked by two wings, Ickworth is home to multiple collections from art to silver and boasts beautiful gardens and a large estate cared for by the National Trust that just ask to be explored. nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth
LAVENHAM GUILDHALL Nestling amongst the famous ‘wonky’ buildings of Lavenham is The Guildhall, one of the finest timber-framed buildings in England. Dating from around 1530, The Guildhall was built following the boom of the cloth industry in the early 16th century. Its exhibition spaces were completely remodelled by the National Trust in 2015, making it a fascinating part of a trip to Lavenham – and don’t miss the delicious treats in the tea-room! nationaltrust.org.uk/lavenham-guildhall
ORFORD NESS Somewhere that can truly lay claim to being unique, Orford Ness on the Suffolk coast is one of the most unusual places looked after by the National Trust. A former atomic weapons testing facility and now one of the most highly prized nature reserves in Europe a visit here is quite unlike any other. Open until October with limited tickets each day, do check availability before your visit. nationaltrust.org.uk/orford-ness-national-nature-reserve
the best of SUFFOLK 141
142 the best of SUFFOLK
A warm welcome is guaranteed at this delightful village inn on the doorstep of RSPB Minsmere. Recently featured in “The Telegraphs Top 10 Best Beer Gardens in the UK,” “Adnams Best Presented Pub” for two consecutive years and the winner of EADT Food and Drink Awards “Pub of the Year 2016.” Offering a traditional pub menu complimented with modern european influenced daily specials served Monday-Thursday 12:00-14:30 and 18:00-21:00, and all day Friday-Sunday. There are plenty of options for those with any food allergies, not forgetting children and of course plenty of treats available for dogs! We have an exciting new addition of a wood fire pizza oven in our garden for those warmer days. Takeaway available. Accommodation includes six luxury ensuite B&B rooms, and a five pitch Caravan Club site with electric hook ups and toilet facilities. Eel’s Foot Inn Eastbridge, Leiston IP16 4SN 01728 830154 theeelsfootinn@hotmail.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 143
THE LORD NELSON SOUTHWOLD This award winning, nationally recognised pub has been run by the same family for over 26 years. As Adnams ‘flagship Pub’, selling more of its ales than any other on its estate, it is popular and loved by locals and visitors alike. The Nelson is built on a tradition of offering its customers perfectly conditioned ales, wines and spirits, coupled with a fresh and varied menu. All served by an experienced, dedicated and knowledgeable team, who are ready to welcome the whole family, even the dog. Situated just yards from the sea front, in the quintessential town of Southwold, this pub is a haven for dog owners. After a long wander around Southwold’s many beautiful walks, enjoy a perfect pint with fresh line caught cod in Broadside batter and chips, in relaxing and atmospheric surroundings. Open Monday – Saturday from 10.30 Sun 12pm ifootpath.com
The Lord Nelson 42 East St, Southwold IP18 6EJ 01502 722079 No reservations taken
ALTERNATIVELY… CYCLE Cycle through Southwold, over the bally bridge along the old railway track to Walberswick, then onto the old sunken town of Dunwich, stopping at local pub and café or the chippy on the beach. Carry on to Minsmere bird nature reserve or head back along Dingles Marsh nature reserve, soaking up the sea views. All for a tenner. Prices 1 day hire = £10. 1 week hire = £25 Discounts for groups. Graham Finch Motors 3 Blyth Road, Southwold, IP18 6AZ 01502 724466
144 the best of SUFFOLK
SUFFOLK
spas
If you’ve come to Suffolk to have a break from the daily grind, there’s no better way to relax and revive than in one of our great spas. They all offer a number of packages and special deals during the year so it’s worth checking out the website beforehand. The prices below give an indication of their rates.
BEDFORD LODGE HOTEL SPA This spa boasts a wide selection of facilities in addition to a myriad of beauty treatments you can indulge in. Highlights include the outdoor rooftop hot tub, experiential showers, and thermal area that has a hammam. Also includes hydrotherapy pool and relaxation room. The Twilight Spa package start from £69 bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk UFFORD PARK - SUFFOLK DAY SPA EXPERIENCES The Spa Experiences at Ufford Park can be two, three or six hours long, and you can choose to spend as much of this time as you like in the Thermal Suite. This tranquil space is designed to encourage deep relaxation with it’s impressive hydro pool, specialised steam rooms, sauna and ice fountain.
massages and beauty treatments using REN products as well as Jessica manicures or pedicures. Half day spa breaks and packages are available with The Crown Hotel combining treatments with a delicious breakfast, brunch or cream tea.
round. It never gets too crowded, so is perfect for some solitary mindfulness. Packages include chill out, double trouble, just the two of us and girls chat just to name a few.
Prices start from £70
milsomhotels.com
bathshebaspa.co.uk WEAVERS HOUSE SPA, LAVENHAM With a Five Bubble rating from the Good Spa guide, Weavers House offers a range of packages for individuals, friends and couples, some including overnight stay at The Swan. It is newly built and has a sauna, steam room and vitality pool, with every treatment performed on a hydrotherm water bed.
LIFEHOUSE SPA AND HOTEL This huge purpose built spa is located in Thorpe-le-soken. They have an extensive range of treatments which include health consultations to ensure your body and mind are in balance. Their best deal is the Love Life Spa Day from £69 (Monday - Fridays) this includes a treatment, lunch and use of the facilities and grounds from 9am - 6pm. lighthouse.co.uk
Treatments start at around £50 with an addition £25 for use of the spa.
Packages vary from a basic “2 Hour Discover” package (£39) to the “Full Day Luxury” (£129)Spa Experience.
Treatments over £90 include entry into the spa.
uffordpark.co.uk
MAISON TALBOOTH DAY SPA
BATHSHEBA SPA
Wind down in luxury at Milsoms, where you can enjoy access to the outdoor pool which is heated to 85° all year
Modern day spa and treatment rooms with an intimate feel, Bathsheba offers
Packages start at £65 for the after hours spa
theswanatlavenham.co.uk
Also discover high quality spa & beauty treatments at: Seckford Hall Hintlesham Hall
the best of SUFFOLK 145
M HUNTLEY DEVELOPMENTS M Huntley Developments Ltd is a professional building and development company based in Ipswich. Our team of trusted Suffolk craftsmen has an exceptional reputation in Ipswich and the wider Suffolk area for providing building and construction work of the highest standards and for providing excellent customer satisfaction.
Finding a reliable builder can by daunting; M Huntley Developments Ltd is a family business and has been trading since 2008 and our tradesmen have carried out a wide range of building projects for residential and commercial customers in the region. We’re committed to upholding the reputation of construction companies in Suffolk and we pride ourselves with offering excellent customer service by providing full transparent quotations, keeping you fully informed throughout the building project and ensuring that none of your questions go unanswered.
07956 500216 m-h-developments.co.uk facebook.com/ mhuntleydevelopmentsltd mh.developments@yahoo.co.uk
146 the best of SUFFOLK
Our team of Suffolk tradesmen will work efficiently to ensure we meet all prearranged deadlines so that disruption to you is kept to a minimum. Our experienced team of builders and other tradesmen have all the qualifications and skills needed to carry out a wide range of building projects including loft conversions,
house extensions, refurbishment and structural work. We also include comprehensive guarantees on all our building work to give you complete peace of mind. For a prompt no obligation building quotation please call us on 07956 500216 and we will be happy to discuss your requirements. Qualifications & accreditations Corgi and Gas safe, where appropriate (within our team) Fully qualified electrical engineer (within our team) Utilising a trusted team of tradesmen, specialising in their own field we cover: Kitchen and bathroom installations. Tiling. Electrical installations. Plumbing and heating. All aspects of building work. Internal and external painting and decorating. Plastering and coving.
Railings Hallway / Library 2 farrow&ball.com
Suffolk Homes & Interiors
The business has come on leaps and bounds, with new designs and fabulous fabrics being created all the time. Inspired upholsters, machinists and sales staff at Jayrest take pride in every single job that they do, from start to finish.” A huge advantage for customers coming to Jayrest is the fact that the factory is right next door to the showroom. Never again will you have to worry about unpredictable delivery times.
JAYREST INTERIORS
THE BEST OF BRITISH Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh prides itself on local manufacture, local staff and traditional values. Lynda Keeble talks about her family business that has been trading for nearly fifty years.
From humble beginnings in Ipswich the much-loved family venture has been nurtured into larger premises and now has a factory and adjoining showroom at Lady Lane Industrial Estate in Hadleigh. Lynda puts the ongoing success down to passion and reputation. She says: “Being well-known for quality and value is a huge advantage.
148 the best of SUFFOLK
“
I try to make the experience in our showroom an enjoyable one where customers feel comfortable.
“
Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh is renowned for quality handmade furniture and upholstery. It is nearly fifty years of successful family business and passion that has built up a local reputation that is second to none. Started by Alan James, it is now his children, Lynda Keeble and Tony James, who run the show, creating quality furniture and fabrics at reasonable prices.
Another asset to the business is that Jayrest takes pride in being one of the few remaining British manufacturers still in existence. Lynda comments: The British furniture trade is still going through a difficult time with many British businesses forced out by cheaper, imported furniture. We are proud that we have found the niche in the market for the people who want the quality and the service that we can offer, as well as keeping the local economy strong and local people in jobs. Also, there are no high street overheads, and our customers are often surprised by the reasonable prices for wonderful products.” It is the bespoke service and attention to detail that really sets Jayrest apart from some other furniture manufacturers and retailers. Lynda explains: “I love what I do. I understand that the whole thing can be daunting for customers and an expensive mistake if they get it wrong. “I try to make the experience in our showroom an enjoyable one where customers feel comfortable. I get great pleasure in seeing a customer who really doesn’t know how to go about refurbishing a room, then giving then a little guidance to help them walk away with something that they are thrilled with.”
Red House Textiles
For many people searching for the kind of inspirational fabrics that provide a touch of individual flair for the home, the only solution is to head for the soft-furnishing showrooms of London. Here in Suffolk, however, Nick Crocker, of Red House Textiles, provides a complete selection and design service that makes such a daunting expedition to the capital unnecessary. Based in a converted stable block in the village of Ufford, near Woodbridge, Nick has created an impressive collection that includes a bespoke international selection of soft-furnishing textiles and trimmings from the UK and Europe. Most of them are produced using “handmade� techniques, such as hand-blocking or hand screen-printing and they originate from collections that Nick has used successfully during his distinguished design career. Nick is a qualified architectural interior designer who trained at the prestigious Inchbald School of Design in London. He has worked for several internationally acclaimed design practices, including Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler and Chester Jones. Having moved to Suffolk in 2013 with the intention of setting up his own business, Red House Textiles was established to provide a unique collection of exquisite textiles and trimmings that are not readily available in the immediate area.
The aim is to ensure that clients can enjoy the perfect environment in which to browse a diverse collection of fabrics and trimmings that can be used for all home soft-furnishing needs.
These may include: • curtains and blinds • upholstery • cushions • lampshades Clients are able to browse the collections in a colourful and convivial atmosphere and, once a final selection has been made, Red House Textiles will place orders on their behalf. In addition the following services are also offered: • advice on interior design schemes from the beautiful showroom or in the comfort of a client’s own home • referral to trusted local workshops, for assistance in the making-up of curtains, blinds, and furniture upholstery • cushions made up in one-off Batik fabrics as well as fabrics from the collections • bespoke cushions made up in any size, using Red House Textiles fabrics and trimmings For fabrics, prices start from as little as £25 a metre up to £250 for the handmade fabrics. • bespoke lampshades made up in a variety of sizes, using Red House Textiles fabrics and trimmings • a selection of handmade, scented candles completes the offering.
Often it can be difficult for shoppers trying to select suitable fabrics for curtains, blinds and upholstery to picture exactly how a fabric will look back at home. It is one thing to be impressed by small pieces displayed as part of a sample collection but another to isolate a specific fabric so that it will create the desired effect. To allow clients to form a better impression of how something will fit into their particular home environment, Nick utilises large-scale samples so that he can present a more accurate idea of how they will look, perhaps after being draped across furniture or hanging beside a window. Nick is also keen to emphasise that clients can choose the degree to which they want him to become involved, whether offering a detailed perspective – or not at all, if that is what they would prefer. Nick’s input and guidance extends to projects great or small, from an expansive scheme, encapsulating a whole room, to choosing a single scatter cushion. Although Nick always makes the best use of his extensive, personal interior design experience he will also, where appropriate, work with other experts – practitioners who can complement the advice and guidance he offers. This means clients can be assured that all their needs will be met, ensuring ultimate satisfaction throughout the entire selection and design experience.
Red House Textiles Red House Stables The Red House High Street Ufford Woodbridge Suffolk IP13 6EL Open daily Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and by appointment, if required. redhousetextiles.com 01394 548110
THE ART OF MOVING UK RESIDENTIAL, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS
Whether you play chopsticks or chopin, your piano is in safe hands.
Brandon • Daventry • Ely • Potters Bar • Royal Wootton Bassett • UK Residential Removals • Worldwide Relocations • Weekly European Removals • Storage Services • Car Transportation & Storage • Office & Commercial Moving • Antiques, Fine Art Packing, Storing & Moving Telephone: 01603 851714 E-Mail: enquiries@abels.co.uk www.abels.co.uk
Memb No: A001
198656
FS23942
the best of SUFFOLK 153
GERALD WEIR furniture  Having something made for you at Gerald Weir furniture is an exciting process. You can choose from a selection of made to measure pieces from our extensive brochure, or you can have your own ideas turned into reality. With the skill of our craftsmen honed over decades, our flexibility and expertise, we guarantee you will not be disappointed. Come along and tour the workshops at our idyllic riverside location and browse the showroom where you can touch, feel and see the quality of the workmanship and dedication this family business has to offer. Classic or contemporary style, free standing or fitted, with numerous hardwoods to choose from in a vast array of finishes. We have hundreds of archived photographs of previously made furniture available for you to see and give you all the inspiration you could possibly need.
Exceptional Quality British Made Furniture 154 the best of SUFFOLK
Here is what one client had to say, “I just wanted to let you know how thrilled we are with the table, it was a wonderful surprise to finally see it in all its glory. It has transformed the room and definitely has the “wow” factor. Thank you again for a fabulous job”. Mrs R Surrey.
Brother and sister Mark and Louise Weir welcome you to the showroom and workshops conveniently located in Woodbridge, yet tucked away by the River Deben. Unit One, Sun Wharf, Deben Road, Woodbridge, IP12 1AZ 01394 610900
info@geraldweir.com www.geraldweir.com the best of SUFFOLK 155
SUFFOLK’S BEST SCHOOLS Finding a school that is the right fit for your child can be one of the more challenging aspects of parenting. Fortunately, East Anglia has a broad range of independent schools that provide the perfect environment for young minds to develop academically and creatively. The benefits of an independent education are many, but these six advantages are among the most prominent.
156 the best of SUFFOLK
PERSONALISED APPROACH Specialised teachers and lower student-teacher ratios mean close, individualised attention for each student, resulting in better outcomes. Your child will be given the guidance he or she needs to bring out their fullest potential and, if they are struggling in a particular area, help will be provided to get them through the toughest subjects.
SPECIALISED EXPERTISE You have the choice among a wide variety of options and approaches to education from independent schools. Whether you’re looking for a focus on sport, music, languages, science or more there are a range of single sex, co-ed and boarding schools available that make finding the right fit for your child easy.
TOP QUALITY TEACHERS In Suffolk’s independent schools you will find teachers that have the freedom to pursue innovative approaches to learning, who are passionate about education and take great pride in seeing their students thrive.
LATEST TECHNOLOGY These schools employ the most cutting edge technologies that are, after teachers, the most important weapon in the arsenal of education today. Technology is the enabler of vast learning, and literacy in this area is a fundamental driver of success in the digital age.
PARENT PARTICIPATION Independent schools are also engaged with a committed community of parents which is beneficial not only to the success of their own children, but to that of the whole community of students.
HAPPY STUDENTS We cannot underestimate the value of happiness as it relates to success, especially at the critical learning stages of a child’s life. Being able to choose a school that best fits your child’s personality and interests puts them at an advantage, and will help to build confidence and love of learning that will help form a bright future. Read on for detailed listings of Suffolk independent schools For further information contact isc.co.uk
the best of SUFFOLK 157
Where care and passion realise potential Providing a first class education for over 600 years, Ipswich School is where girls and boys can discover their talents and shape their futures
A
t Ipswich School teachers are passionate about learning, and about supporting pupils to discover their talents and shape their futures. At both the Senior School and the Prep School, class sizes are small, and there are plenty of opportunities for challenging and fun learning, whether it’s inside or outside the classroom, making the most of an exciting range of co-curricular activities, including music, sport and drama. Pupils also enjoy outstanding facilities, including a brand new Music School and state-of-the-art sports facilities at Ipswich School Sports Centre. Perhaps more importantly, Ipswich School prides itself on having a caring school community with an exemplary approach to pastoral care. Head of Ipswich Prep, Amanda Childs, believes that ensuring all pupils are happy at the school is undoubtedly her most important role. She said: “By caring about each individual child we can give all our pupils the opportunity to be their best. All of our staff have a passion for teaching and for sharing their
passions in other areas as well - by passing on this enthusiasm we can nurture every child’s potential and create a happy and vibrant learning environment.” Nicholas Weaver, Ipswich School Headmaster added: “At Ipswich School we truly believe that school should be an enjoyable place where pupils receive a broad education that fires their imagination and develops their personality. We encourage teachers to stretch students and we make sure the senior school provides pupils with an environment where they feel safe and brave in all they do.”
LEADING THE WAY for OVER 600 YEARS
FLEXIBLE OPTIONS FOR BUSY PARENTS Ipswich School has attractive boarding facilities at Westwood, a Victorian mansion set in wooded grounds near the main school campus. The Senior School offers full and weekly boarding and can also accommodate pupils needing boarding for the occasional night. In the Senior School there is also a free after school Study Support club, whilst in the Prep School, younger pupils can be booked into Breakfast Club and Late Stay sessions.
COME AND VISIT US Parents are encouraged to come and see Ipswich School and Ipswich Prep School in action. School staff will be delighted to show you around on a personal tour, or you can come to one of the School’s open events in September, November or April. For more information go online: www.ipswich.school/admissions
Each spring, musicians from the Prep and Senior Schools perform on stage at the Snape Maltings Concert Hall. This is the student-led Show Choir in action.
158 the best of SUFFOLK
Experience our
passion for education
KEY FACTS OF IPSWICH SCHOOL LIFE
1
In 2015, 100% of pupils achieved at least five A*-C grades at GCSE including English and Maths. Onethird of A Level students achieved at least three A grades or above, with over half of all A Level exams receiving A* or A grades. Special buses run from a range of destinations across Suffolk and North Essex to take pupils to and from Ipswich School each day. The School puts great emphasis on community involvement. In the autumn term of 2015, over £11,000 was raised for charities including the Red Cross Refugee Appeal and a school in Africa, whilst pupils regularly take part in concerts and activities to support local schools and residential homes. Pupils are offered a wide range of inspiring experiences in art, design technology, drama, music, writing and other creative subjects. Both the Senior School and Prep School have received excellent inspection reports, commending the caring atmosphere at the Prep School and noting in the Senior School that pupils “consistently achieve at all levels well beyond those expected of their age.” Scholarships and bursaries are available to pupils at age 11+, 13+ and in the Sixth Form. Located next to the Senior School, the Prep School provides an excellent education for 3-11 year olds in outstanding purpose built facilities, and offers excellent preparation for entrance to the Senior School. The new Music School was opened on 18 March 2016 by celebrated cellist Julian Lloyd Webber. The date coincided with the 450th anniversary of the reaffirmation of Ipswich School’s Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth I.
2 3
4 5 6 7
8
Call to book your
PERSONAL VISIT 01473 408300 (Senior School) 01473 282800 (Prep School)
LEADING THE WAY for OVER 600 YEARS
Bursaries and scholarships available Suffolk and Essex bus routes Late stay options
www.ipswich.school
FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE Boarding and Day School for Boys & Girls aged 2-18
Ask anyone in East Anglia which school is leading the way in the area it won’t be long before Framlingham College is mentioned. Recent years have seen this remarkable school emerge as one of the real quality independent schools in the East of England. Educating boys and girls from 2-18, first at the College’s prep school at Brandeston Hall (2-13) and then at the original College site which is set in stunning surroundings in the market town of Framlingham, the school is absolutely thriving. It prides itself on producing rounded, decent, articulate and very well-educated young men and women, who leave the College both well-qualified and wellprepared (the two are not the same) for the world that awaits them. The school offers real flexibility in many areas of school life (including timings for drop-off and pick-up at every age) and it recognises the demands placed on modern parents. As one parent said recently, having moved from London, ‘In London our lives revolved around the school but here the school revolves around our lives!’. The school offers outstanding provision from Nursery and Early Years right through to A levels, with an innovative and creative curriculum that seeks to create a genuine love of learning among all pupils. Framlingham is a strikingly modern
160 the best of SUFFOLK
and forward-looking school where emphasis is placed on educating the whole person as well as (not, note, instead of) the examination candidate. The school embraces a wide range of abilities, believing that breadth and diversity builds a richer environment, and every pupil has a role to play in the community. The teaching is excellent, and success at Oxbridge and top overseas universities shows that the brightest student will do as well here as they will anywhere. The strong focus on pastoral care and the individual management of pupils (‘the core of any good school’, according to Headmaster Paul Taylor) combines with an extraordinarily rich, varied and successful range of co-curricular activities to make this school a vibrant, outward-looking and dynamic community. 2015-16 alone has seen eight pupils representing their country across four different sports; two gaining scholarships at leading Music Conservatoires; a show at the Edinburgh Fringe; and the school becoming a leading force in identifying and addressing the increasing concerns regarding the mental health of today’s schoolchildren. Words such as wellbeing and mindfulness have been prominent in educational debate in recent years, and both of course have real purchase and depth; indeed both are taught to
pupils of all ages (and their parents) at Framlingham. In many ways, however, both are simply common sense and sum up what Framlingham has been preaching for years: a successful education is not only to be measured in examination grades in the same way that no person should ever be defined by those grades. Above all, Framlingham College is a happy school with wonderfully ‘can do’ outlook on life. As Headmaster Paul Taylor explains, ‘Framlingham works - with parents - to create balanced, happy and resilient human beings; ones that have achieved academically and in other areas at the top of their potential, but who also have a sense of self, an innate sense of right and wrong and the moral courage to do something about the difference.’
‘I n Lond o n o u r l iv e s r ev o lv ed aro und the scho o l but he r e t h e sc h o o l r ev o lv es aro und o ur li v es!’ - a Framlingham parent who recently moved from London
F R A M CO L L E G E . CO. U K 01728 723789
CHILDRENS SUFFOLK Suffolk is a real playground for children - it’s packed with adventure to suit all ages and interests
BECCLES LIDO & BIG DOG FERRY
Nothing beats swimming outdoors so why not visit Beccles Lido, the heated open-air pool in Beccles with slide, diving board, giant inflatable aquarun, grassy areas and sun-loungers to relax on. By the River Waveney our café serves hot and cold snacks, drinks and ices. Perfect for a swim or a family day out. We also offer Canoe Hire (advance bookings only) or you could take a more relaxing river trip on Big Dog Ferry to the historic Locks Inn at Geldeston. 01502 713297 beccleslido.com 07532 072761 bigdogferry.co.uk
FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE
Suffolk’s Crowning Glory. Bow down to the splendour of Mary Tudor’s 16th century refuge - Framingham Castle. Discover the castle’s colourful past, get hands-on in the exhibition and embark on a journey of discovery around the magnificent wall walk; look down if you dare! Open daily Aril - October, open weekends November - March
162 the best of SUFFOLK
BRESSINGHAM STEAM MUSEUM & GARDENS
Climb aboard a magnificent steam engine at Bressingham. With over four miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four journeys to choose from, it’s the perfect day out for young children.
english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham
Check the website for the daily timetable
IP13 9BP
Low Road Bressingham IP22 2AA
01728 724922
bressingham.co.uk
THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE Occupies a vast outdoor space in the heart of Stowmarket, where 20 different original domestic and agricultural buildings have been relocated. Displays in Abbot’s Hall provide further themed insights into rural life. Enjoy: the walled garden, working machinery and activities for all…
THE PIT STOP CAFÉ, SOUTHWOLD
A best kept secret locally The Pit Stop Café is child-friendly and can be found on the Common between the Water Tower and the Golf Club.
THE SUFFOLK OWL SANTUARY
A great place for youngsters of all ages to visit - over 90 owls and other birds of prey, plus red squirrels, ferrets, a very popular family of meerkats, a Discovery Centre and a host of fun activities including the S.O.S. Safari Trail. The Sanctuary is open all year round with three flying displays daily between Easter and the end of September, and we stage a variety of special events throughout the year check the website for details.
Every day in the summer you’ll find it full of local families, as it’s the perfect place to run free in a save and fun environment. The Pit Stop is enclosed on three sides, and filled with bicycles, toy cars, slides and a mass of other garden games, as well as books, colouring books, pens, dolls houses, garages, rocking horses, jigsaws all handy to keep your little ones occupied on a rainy day. There are four tennis courts, which the Pit Stop rent out for a small fee, and visitors can even hire tennis racquets and balls. On Saturdays local children come here for tennis coaching – it’s turn up and play, so anyone can join in. pitstopsouthwold.co.uk
IP14 6AT
York Rd, Southwold IP18 6AN
03456 807 897
Open 10am - 5pm everyday from March to early November
owl-help.org.uk
07887 901027
GO APE
For a true taste of the wilderness Go Ape in Thetford Forest has it all, whether you fancy exploring the forest on a Segway or finding your inner Tarzan and swinging through these ancient woods. You will need to be over 10 years old and 1.4 m tall but you’re ones can still enjoy the Go Ape Tree Top Junior Adventure. £18 Check availability online at goape.co.uk 0845 094 8738
POWERFUL LEARNING If you were to make of list of things that exist now that didn’t exist 30 years ago, it would be long and varied. As well as the obvious technology of mobile phones, the internet and personal computers, there would be television programmes, films, music, books, art, world orders, cultural shifts and working patterns. If we expanded that list back further to our parents’ and grandparents’ generations, the list would be endless. The world is shifting second by second and the pace of change is challenging our ability to calibrate it. To thrive in the twenty-first century, our children will need to learn how to be tenacious and resourceful, imaginative and logical, self-disciplined and self-aware, collaborative and inquisitive; they will need to be powerful learners. But what is powerful learning? If we agree – and maybe it’s a big if – that the core purpose of education is to produce useful, self-motivated young adults who will make a positive contribution to the lives of those around them and to the wider community in general, then we need to pay attention to the attitudes and capacities that are being developed and cultivated at school, as well as exam results. Results alone may open certain doors, but once through those doors it is character, curiosity and grit that is more likely to bring success in the modern competitive world of work, than any amount of As and A*s.
A dynamic school programme truly fit for purpose in the 21st century will be globally aware; it will place a high value on creativity and independent problem-solving and thinking skills. Learning skills that have traditionally been embedded within the curriculum, such as critical thinking, logic and reasoning, will be explored and developed in each subject and at every Key Stage. And perhaps most important of all, pupils will learn in an environment where it is okay, even encouraged, to make mistakes! Making mistakes and learning from them is one of the most underrated and misunderstood teaching resources on the planet. The best teachers in the world, know this. Over time, this approach to teaching and learning distils down into equipping our children with the resilience and tenacity they will need to become happy, well-balanced adults with a spring in their step and a glint in their eye – surely, every parents’ dream? That is powerful learning. John Brett Head of Queen’s House and The Abbey Woodbridge School
For more information or to arrange a personal visit at any time, please contact Woodbridge School Admissions 01394 615041 admissions@ woodbridgeschool.org.uk
164 the best of SUFFOLK
AN INSPIRING EDUCATION From 4 - 18 years 01394 615041
www.woodbridgeschool.org.uk
"by the time they leave school the pupils have developed into self-assured, articulate individuals who are well prepared to face the challenges of an increasingly global environment with confidence and a clear set of values" ISI Report 2016
SAINT FELIX SCHOOL Saint Felix is a unique and distinctive school. Set in 75 acres of outstanding natural beauty on the Suffolk coast, on the edge of Southwold it is one of the few schools to offer a Nursery, Pre-Preparatory, Preparatory and Senior Department on the same campus.
Next academic year we will welcome our new Headmaster James Harrison. At 33 James is the youngest Headmaster Saint Felix School has ever had, he is passionate and ambitious with a determination to break down preconceived ideas of independent schools. Saint Felix has a diverse mix of International cultures and local children from many backgrounds and he believes this makes it something truly special and unique. He classes himself as an Educationalist and not a businessman and does not believe in the hard sell approach which sees children as commodities; he says that at Saint Felix the happy, well-mannered, confident children and exam results speak for themselves. The aim at Saint Felix is to provide an exciting education where pupils are taken on a journey of self-discovery, with a focus upon achieving the best possible academic results. With a wellstructured timetable and a broad and balanced curriculum along with small class sizes and specialist teaching staff this ensures this is possible. A wide and distinctive range of subjects can be studied at GCSE, AS and A-level and last summer we celebrated achieving a 100% pass rate at A Level with 90% achieving A*-C grades. At Saint Felix School we are particularly proud of our creative arts and cultural education and visitors to
166 the best of SUFFOLK
Saint Felix School will see corridors of stunning photography, beautiful paintings, textiles and innovative writing as well as being treated to high-calibre choral work and drama productions. The School has a wealth of superbly equipped classrooms, lecture facilities, specialist science laboratories, art, photography, music and drama departments, as well as computer rooms, study areas, library and the 200 seat Silcox Theatre with a stateof-the-art lighting and sound system. The onsite sports centre boasts a 25 metre heated swimming pool, squash courts, a fitness centre and sports hall. We are one of the top three swimming schools in the country attracting swimmers from all around the globe to train in our elite squad who compete at regional, national and in some cases international level. The School also has an active equestrian team which regularly competes at a very high level, plus numerous county cricketers, athletes, footballers, rugby players, tennis players and sailors. Saint Felix School offers an enriched education in the beautiful surrounding of the Suffolk Coast. We offer academic, sport and music scholarships as well as affordability packages. For more information telephone 01502 727048 or email registrar@stfelix.co.uk
20 Sa Op 16 tu en & rda M Sa y o tur 8th rnin da g y 6 Oct s th obe M r ay 20 17
Co-educational day and boarding school for ages 2-18 Small class sizes, enriched curriculum, outstanding learning environment and excellent sports provision including top class swimming and equestrian clubs. Artsmark for the high standard of art and cultural education. Affordability packages and a full range of scholarships available.
01502 727048 registrar@stfelix.co.uk stfelix.co.uk @stfelixsch
discover SUFFOLK MUSEUMS Suffolk’s Museums house some of the county’s best kept secrets and play a vital role in preserving the rich and varied heritage that gives the county its character. With more than 50 to visit, you are never far away from one, and wherever you choose to go, you are bound to find something to marvel at or puzzle over. There’s a lot of fun to be had discovering something new about something old, whatever your age. Plenty to do during school holidays This year, Summer in Suffolk Museums is adding to the existing range of activities on offer to family visitors throughout the year, with no fewer than 60 low cost family-friendly events and activities on offer across the county between July 22 and August 31 And plenty to do in the quieter months too… Many museums also take part in Heritage Open Days, the UK’s biggest heritage festival, which takes place on the 8th and 11th September. This is a unique chance for visitors to explore the fascinating stories in museums absolutely free of charge. Full details can be found at heritageopendays. org. Many sites will also throw open their doors for the national Museums at Night festival from the 27th to 29th October and give visitors behind the scenes access to view their collections and buildings in unexpected ways from film shows, to talks and spooky tours. You can find out more about what’s happening near you at museumsatnight.org. Later in the season, many museums offer the perfect chance to get into the festive spirit with a variety of Christmas fairs and activities. Sample the delights of a traditional Christmas
168 the best of SUFFOLK
and meet Santa as he stops off at the Museum of East Anglian Life. Or, take a special trip on to the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum and Brockford Station to meet Santa at the North Pole Halt. Suffolk Museum Object of the Year One of the joys of visiting museums is the weird and wonderful things they bring to light. And the fascinating stories behind them. Who knew that at Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, they have the swordstick the artist carried for personal protection? Or that Moyse’s Hall in Bury St Edmunds boasts a book bound in the skin of a notorious murderer hanged in the town in 1828? At Lavenham Little Hall there is an exact replica of the bronze figure of the Ancient Egyptian Cat goddess, given to the British Museum by the Gayer Anderson brothers (who once lived here). Suffolk Regiment Museum has a drum, which had to be abandoned in the retreat towards Dunkirk and was hidden from the advancing Germans troops by the French citizens of Roubaix. Find out more about Suffolk’s Object of the Year Award and vote for this year’s winner on-line at www.suffolkmuseums.org
SuffMusleaflet3_Layout 1 20/01/2016 19:54 Page 1
SUFFOLK TOWN & COUNTRY
plan your museum visit
Mid-Suffolk lighT RailwaY MuSeuM
47 plan your museum visit LOWESTOFT 42
01449 766899 www.mslr.org.uk
Mildenhall & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP28 7EX Mid-Suffolk lighT RailwaY MuSeuM 01638 716970 mildenhallmuseum.co.uk Wetheringsett IP14 5PW 01449 766899 www.mslr.org.uk MoYSe’S hall, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1DX 01284 757160 www.moyseshall.org Mildenhall & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP28 7EX Mid-Suffolk lighT RailwaY MuSeuM 01638 716970 mildenhallmuseum.co.uk MuSeuM of eaST anglian life Wetheringsett IP14 5PW Stowmarket IP14 1DL 01449 766899 www.mslr.org.uk MoYSe’S hall, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1DX 01449 612229 www.eastanglianlife.org.uk 01284 757160 www.moyseshall.org Mildenhall & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, naTional heRiTage CenTRe foRIP28 7EX 01638 716970 MuSeuM ofmildenhallmuseum.co.uk eaST anglianaRT life hoRSeRaCing & SPoRTing Newmarket CB8 Stowmarket IP14 8EP 1DL Opening 2016 MoYSe’S hall, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1DX 01638 667333 www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk 01449 612229 www.eastanglianlife.org.uk Check also with www.moyseshall.org nhrm.co.uk & bsat.co.uk 01284 757160
15 14 16 15 14 17 16 15 18 17 16 18 19 17
naTional heRiTage CenTRe foR
EA
L O O K I NS
T
L O O K I NS
T
SUFFOLK SUFFOLK
Please note that seasonal opening times vary. Some museums may be happy to arrange visits outside of normal opening hours by appointment, particularly for groups.
Shotley
5
36
FELIXSTOWE
For more information go to ......
Please note that seasonal opening times vary. Some museums may be happy to arrange visits outside of normal opening hours by appointment, particularly for groups.
For more information go to ......
L O O K I NS
ID
Take a look inSide.......
For more information go to ......
27 26 28 27 26 29 28 27 30 29 28 31 30 29 32 31 30 33 32 31 34 33 32 35 34 33 36 35 34 37 36 35 38 37 36 38 37 38
The Red houSe, Aldeburgh IP15 5PZ 01728 451700 www.brittenpears.org aldeBuRgh MuSeuM, IP15 5DS 01728 454666 www.aldeburghmuseumonline.co.uk alfRed CoRRY lifeBoaT MuSeuM Southwold IP18 6NG The Red houSe, Aldeburgh IP15 5PZ 01502 723200 alfredcorry.co.uk 01728 451700 www.brittenpears.org aldeBuRgh MuSeuM, IP15 5DSBloCk, IP12 3AT BawdSeY RadaR TRanSMiTTeR 01728 454666 www.aldeburghmuseumonline.co.uk alfRed CoRRY lifeBoaT MuSeuM 07821 162879 bawdseyradar.org.uk Southwold IP18 6NG The Red houSe, Aldeburgh IP15 5PZ 01502 723200 alfredcorry.co.uk BeCCleS & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, NR34 9ND 01728 451700 www.brittenpears.org 01502 715722 becclesmuseum.org.uk BawdSeY RadaR TRanSMiTTeR BloCk, IP12 3AT alfRed CoRRY lifeBoaT 07821 162879 bawdseyradar.org.uk BenTwaTeRS Cold waR MuSeuM MuSeuM Southwold RendleshamIP18 IP126NG 2TW 01502 723200 alfredcorry.co.uk BeCCleS & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, NR34 9ND 07588 877020 www.bcwm.org.uk 01502 715722 becclesmuseum.org.uk BawdSeY RadaR TRanSMiTTeR BloCk, IP12 3AT BungaY MuSeuM, NR35 1EE 07821 162879 bawdseyradar.org.uk BenTwaTeRS Cold waR MuSeuM 01986 893155 bungay-suffolk.co.uk Rendlesham IP12 2TW BeCCleS & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, 07588 877020 www.bcwm.org.uk deBaCh aiRfield MuSeuM NR34 9ND 01502 715722 becclesmuseum.org.uk Clopton IP13 6QS BungaY MuSeuM, NR35 1EE 01473 737236 493bgdebach.co.uk BenTwaTeRS Cold waR MuSeuM 01986 893155 bungay-suffolk.co.uk Rendlesham IP12 2TW IP17 3DT dunwiCh MuSeuM, 07588 877020 www.bcwm.org.uk deBaCh aiRfield MuSeuM 01728 648796 dunwichmuseum.org.uk Clopton IP13 6QS BungaY MuSeuM, NR35 1EE 01473 493bgdebach.co.uk eaST 737236 anglia TRanSPoRT MuSeuM 01986 893155 Carlton Colvillebungay-suffolk.co.uk NR33 8BL dunwiCh IP17 3DT 01502 518459MuSeuM, eatm.org.uk deBaCh aiRfield MuSeuM 01728 648796 dunwichmuseum.org.uk Clopton IP13 6QS feliXSTowe MuSeuM, IP11 3TW 01473 eaST 737236 anglia TRanSPoRT MuSeuM 01394 674355 493bgdebach.co.uk felixstowemuseum.org Carlton Colville NR33 8BL dunwiCh IP17 3DT 01502 518459MuSeuM, eatm.org.uk haleSwoRTh & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP19 8BZ 01728 648796 halesworthmuseum.org.uk dunwichmuseum.org.uk 07552 508893 feliXSTowe MuSeuM, IP11 3TW eaST anglia TRanSPoRT MuSeuM 01394 674355 felixstowemuseum.org lanMan MuSeuM, Framlingham Castle IP13 9BP Carlton Colville thelanmanmuseum.onesuffolk.net NR33 8BL 07748 482622 01502 518459 eatm.org.uk haleSwoRTh & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP19 8BZ 07552 508893 halesworthmuseum.org.uk L O O K I NS feliXSTowe MuSeuM, IP11 3TW EA ID AK www.suffolkmuseums.org 01394 674355 felixstowemuseum.org lanMan MuSeuM , Framlingham Castle IP13 9BP 07748 482622 thelanmanmuseum.onesuffolk.net haleSwoRTh & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP19 8BZ 07552 508893 halesworthmuseum.org.uk
SUFFOLK COAST
www.suffolkmuseums.org
AK
EA
L O O K I NS
lanMan MuSeuM, Framlingham Castle IP13 9BP 07748 482622 thelanmanmuseum.onesuffolk.net
www.suffolkmuseums.org
AK
EA
L O O K I NS
ID
ID
E
T
EA
SUFFOLK
01359 240822 woolpit.org/museum
E
AK
Take a look inSide....... woolPiT & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP30 9QH ID
30
BECCLES
aldeBuRgh MuSeuM, IP15 5DS 01728 454666 www.aldeburghmuseumonline.co.uk
SUFFOLK COAST
E
25
weST STow anglo SaXon Village
IP28 6HG 01284 728718 www.weststow.org E
AK
weST STow anglo SaXon Village
Suffolk RegiMenT IP28 6HG 01284 728718 MuSeuM www.weststow.org Bury St Edmunds IP33 3RN ID Take a look inSide....... 01284 752394 suffolkregimentmuseum.co.uk woolPiT & diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP30 9QH 01359 240822 woolpit.org/museum
EA
E
AK
32
35 Carlton47 LOWESTOFT Colville 42 Flixton 43 40 41 Bungay 30 32 35 37BECCLESSOUTHWOLD 44 Carlton47 49 HALESWORTHLOWESTOFT MILDENHALL Colville 42 Flixton 15 50 28 43 Horham 40 41 Bungay 30 19 10 Laxfield Dunwich 34 West Stow 24 32 35 37BECCLESSOUTHWOLD 44 Carlton 49 HALESWORTH MILDENHALL BURY ST 13 Colville NEWMARKET Flixton EDMUNDS Wetheringsett 15 SAXMUNDHAM 50 28 18 Woolpit Cotton 16 23 14 Horham 38 48 39 Leiston 19 10 Laxfield Dunwich 34 25 West Stow 20 6 24 FRAMLINGHAM Parham 46 Horringer Rougham 37 SOUTHWOLD ALDEBURGH BURY ST 17 13 27 49 HALESWORTH MILDENHALL STOWMARKET NEWMARKET EDMUNDS Wetheringsett SAXMUNDHAM 26 50 28 15 18 Horham Bentwaters Woolpit CottonClopton 16 23 14 Corner 33 38 48 39 19 31 52 10 53 Laxfield Dunwich 25 34Leiston 20 6 West Stow 24 FRAMLINGHAM 11 46 Parham Orford 45 ALDEBURGH Horringer Rougham WOODBRIDGE 51 BURY ST9 Lavenham17 27 13 Sutton Hoo STOWMARKET HAVERHILL 1 NEWMARKET IPSWICH EDMUNDS Wetheringsett SAXMUNDHAM 26 18 4 2 Clare16 1223 Bentwaters Woolpit CottonClopton Long Melford 8 33 38 14 7Corner 48 39 Leiston 22 52 53 31 25 20 6 3 SUDBURY FRAMLINGHAM 11 Parham 46 Bawdsey Orford 45 ALDEBURGH Horringer Rougham WOODBRIDGE 51 21 9 Lavenham17 29 Hoo 27 Sutton STOWMARKET HAVERHILL IPSWICH 1 26 4 7 Shotley 2 Clare 12 Long Melford Bentwaters 8 33 5 FELIXSTOWE Clopton Corner 22 52 36 53 31 3 SUDBURY 11 Orford 45 WOODBRIDGE 51 Bawdsey 21 9 Lavenham 29 Sutton Hoo HAVERHILL IPSWICH 1 Please opening times vary. 4 note that seasonal 7 Shotley 2 beClare Long Melford 8 FELIXSTOWE 5 Some museums may happy to12 arrange 22 36 visits outside of normal opening hours 3 bySUDBURY Bawdsey appointment, particularly for groups. 21 29 44
26
E
20 18 19 21 20 22 19 21 20 23 22 21 24 23 22 25 24 23 25 24
The Red feaTheR CluB, Horham, MuSeuM of eaST anglian life IP21 5DG hoRSeRaCing & SPoRTing aRT 01728 860930 www.95thbg-horham.com Newmarket CB8 8EP Stowmarket IP14 1DL Opening 2016 01638 667333 01449 612229 www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk www.eastanglianlife.org.uk Check also withConTRol nhrm.co.ukToweR, & bsat.co.uk RoughaM IP30 9XA naTional CenTRe foR 01359 271471 heRiTage www.rougham.org The Red feaTheR CluB, Horham, hoRSeRaCing & SPoRTing aRT IP21 5DG 01728 860930 www.95thbg-horham.com Newmarket CB8 8EP Opening 2016 CO10 1TL SudBuRY heRiTage CenTRe, 01638 01787 667333 371880 www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk sudburysuffolk.co.uk/heritage Check also withConTRol nhrm.co.ukToweR, & bsat.co.uk RoughaM IP30 9XA 01359 271471 www.rougham.org Suffolk aViaTion heRiTage CenTRe The Red feaTheR CluB, Horham, IP21 5DG Ipswich, IP10 0AH 01728 860930 www.95thbg-horham.com SudBuRY heRiTage CenTRe, CO10 1TL 01473 711275 www.suffolkaviationheritage.org.uk 01787 371880 sudburysuffolk.co.uk/heritage RoughaM ConTRolMuSeuM ToweR, IP30 9XA Suffolk RegiMenT 01359 271471 www.rougham.org Suffolk aViaTion heRiTage CenTRe Bury St Edmunds IP33 3RN Ipswich, IP10 0AH 01284 752394 suffolkregimentmuseum.co.uk SudBuRY CenTRe, CO10 1TL 01473 711275 heRiTage www.suffolkaviationheritage.org.uk 01787 weST371880 STow sudburysuffolk.co.uk/heritage anglo SaXon Village Suffolk RegiMenT IP28 6HG 01284 728718 MuSeuM www.weststow.org Suffolk aViaTion heRiTage CenTRe Bury St Edmunds IP33 3RN Ipswich, IP10&0AH 01284 752394 suffolkregimentmuseum.co.uk woolPiT diSTRiCT MuSeuM, IP30 9QH 01473 711275 www.suffolkaviationheritage.org.uk 01359 240822 woolpit.org/museum
Bungay
43 40 41
T
SUFFOLK TOWN & COUNTRY
T
14
SuffMusleaflet3_Layout 1 20/01/2016 Wetheringsett IP14 5PW19:54 Page 1
SUFFOLK COAST
T
SuffMusleaflet3_Layout 1 20/01/2016 19:54 Page 1
OLD BUCKENHAM HALL Suffolk Independent Day & Boarding School for Boys & Girls 3-13 years
OPEN MORNING Prep, Pre-Prep & Nursery Saturday 8th October 2016 10.00 am Brettenham Park Nr. Lavenham Suffolk IP7 7PH
A full range of senior school preparation for entry at 13+ Girls’ programme Weekly Baby & Toddler group Thriving day & boarding community Strong academic focus alongside music, drama, art & technology Specialist outdoor education in 85 acres of parkland
Where children can be children; to learn, play & develop www.obh.co.uk
e: admissions@obh.co.uk
t: 01449 740252
the best of SUFFOLK 169
NAVIGATING SUCCESS Simon Lockyer, Headmaster
The Royal Hospital School was founded in 1712 in Greenwich, London, to ’improve navigation’ through education and, as it prepared boys for a life at sea, many went on to become explorers and pioneers of their time. We are immensely proud of these historic links and discovery, exploration and challenge continue to shape our ethos. The traditional values of loyalty, commitment, courage, respect, service and integrity have underpinned the School’s core aims and philosophy from the very beginning. 300 years later, they are still as relevant to the education we provide as they were then. Today the Royal Hospital School is set in 200 acres of stunning Suffolk countryside overlooking the Stour Estuary and it is a leading independent, co-educational boarding and day school providing a full and broad education, fit for the modern world. We inspire our pupils to have the courage and commitment to be ambitious for their futures, whichever path they choose. Everyone can achieve the most exceptional things but we are all different. That is why we focus on the individual, getting to know every one of our pupils and finding out what motivates them. We challenge pupils of all academic abilities, steering them to look beyond the moment, and beyond the confines of the classroom, and to approach life with an open and receptive mind. It is through thinking creativity and taking initiative that they learn to establish, and work towards, their own personal goals. By understanding a young person’s strengths, and what he or she might find more difficult, we can help them to make the right choices at the right time, navigating them through their critical, formative years and ensuring their education becomes the foundation for happiness and success. It is this unique blend of a values-driven education with the focus on individual challenge and appropriate guidance that enables our pupils to develop into self-reliant, socially responsible adults with enviable open-mindedness and resilience, so sought-after by employers and important in life.
170 the best of SUFFOLK
JOIN US AT OUR
OPEN MORNINGS OR ON A PRIVATE VISIT
DISCOVER AN INSPIRING PLACE TO LEARN SET IN 200 ACRES OF STUNNING SUFFOLK COUNTRYSIDE.
A CO-EDUCATIONAL BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR 11 TO 18 YEAR OLDS.
To book or request a prospectus, contact Admissions on
01473 326136 or visit www.royalhospitalschool.org
St Joseph’s College
Whole School Open Morning Saturday, 17 September 2016 10.00am to 12.00pm
www.stjos.co.uk admissions@stjos.co.uk An inspirational independent school offering all-through education for boys and girls from 3 to 18
Be your best
ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE An excellent independent day and boarding school, St Joseph’s College offers a seamless all-through Christian education for girls and boys aged 3 to 18. Our determination to support every student’s personal journey to becoming the very best they can be has earned us an outstanding reputation. The St Joseph’s community works together to ensure our pupils gain confidence without arrogance, are team players who will stand up for what is right, and are caring and compassionate members of society. We expect our all our students to live up to the College motto – Be Your Best. Diversity of opportunity is an important element in creating balance in learning at the school. The extraordinary range of options – encompassing clubs, leadership, academic extension, adventurous training, sports, the Arts, travel and charity work – prepares children for the future. Our ethos breeds confidence, balanced by a strong sense of responsibility. Our belief in a similar balance of emotional and spiritual development gives St Joseph’s children a solid platform for life’s challenges. Our students excel in more than just exams: they become well-rounded, productive members of society. Again, you will see this for yourself when you meet them. We are proud of our academic record. We have seen improvements in A-level with increases from 19% to 31% of grades at A-level last year were A*-A and 51% A*-B. We had our best average UCAS score per student for six years. In Mathematics, 87% of grades were B or above and the Faculty achieved 10 A* grades at A-level. Chemistry, Biology and Physics also stand out. University destinations included Bath, Imperial College, Durham, Nottingham, York and Loughborough At GCSE 91% of students achieved 5A*-C, 30% of grades were A*-A and a new course, IGCSE Geography, saw 63% of grades being A*-A. Our 60-acre campus gives everyone space to think, room to breathe and beauty to inspire. Our facilities are first-rate: digital classrooms, a state-of-the-art new Sixth Form Centre, dedicated Art, Dance, Music and Design and Technology studios, a magnificent Chapel, vast Sports Hall, Astroturf and manicured cricket pitches. The arresting Prep School building, a wonderland of curves, coloured towers and cosy corners, is a model of educational architecture for the young. The Prep School offers the very best traditions of an independent school alongside the most cutting-edge educational resources and practices. Here pupils come to believe that when you try to be the best you can be, everything is possible. Our most recent qualitative and compliance ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate)inspections in 2013 and 2016, scrutinised our Boarding provision and found it to ‘fully compliant’ and ‘Excellent’ – the highest rating. Challenging, enjoyable and very busy, life at St Joseph’s is best experienced firsthand. We welcome visits from parents and prospective students and although we have a calendar of open events, we are confident that ‘every day is an open day’ for us. We would ask you please to let us know you are coming so we can tailor a visit to your requirements.
173
Orwell Park School Orwell Park, established in 1867, is a
a strong cultural awareness. 90% of pupils
co-educational prep school for day pupils
learn an instrument and many perform in
and boarders from the ages of 2½ to 13.
regular evening recitals or concerts.
The outstanding beauty of the grounds
All pupils are encouraged to take part in
and the historic buildings contribute to an
the many opportunities to perform on
inspiring experience which combines the
stage in the plays and musicals which take
legacy and traditions of the past with the
place each term both in the Prep school
dynamism and energy of the present and
and in the Pre-Prep.
the future. Boys and girls are given every opportunity to be the best they can be,
The most recent Independent Schools
both in and outside the classroom. High
Inspectorate report states that “The
expectations, and learning strategies
school is extremely successful in fulfilling
tailored to the individual child, lead to high
its aims of providing an academically
levels of attainment. In 2016 alone pupils
challenging and fulfilling all-round
in the leaving year group were awarded a
education, and strong pastoral care
total of 37 scholarships to a wide range of
where all pupils are able to benefit from
local and senior schools.
a vibrant boarding experience�.
Academic achievement and pastoral care
At Orwell Park pupils develop a balanced
are given top priority, alongside core
sense of themselves and a quiet self-
values such as courtesy, personal
confidence in their interactions with others.
responsibility and respect for others.
Contact the school for information on
Children are encouraged to take on
Open Days or to make an appointment.
challenges, to overcome setbacks and to see failure as part of the journey to success, to develop resilience, initiative, flexibility, creativity and collaborative skills that will prepare them for the next stage of their education and later life. Art, music and drama are an integral part of life at Orwell Park, giving boys and girls
174 the best of SUFFOLK
Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP10 0ER Tel: 01473 659225 | Fax: 01473 659822 Email: admissions@orwellpark.org www.orwellpark.co.uk
Becoming the best we can be...
ORWELL PARK SCHOOL
Leading Independent Prep School Co-educational Boarding and Day 2½ to 13 t: 01473 659225 e: admissions@orwellpark.org www.orwellpark.co.uk Orwell Park, Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP10 0ER
LIST OF ADVERTISERS Antiques
Galleries
Motoring
Suffolk House Antiques 25, 88 Woodbridge Antiques Centre 19, 88 Yoxford Antiques Centre 11, 25, 88
Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts 30, 40, 86 The Famous Gallery 82, 83, 87 Lavenham Contemporary 76, 87 The Lime Tree Gallery 81, 86 The Lion House Gallery 75, 87
Porsche 127
Attractions Aldeburgh Music 22 Big Dog Ferry 121 Beccles Lido 121, 162 Bressingham Steam Museum 119, 162 Bridge Farm Barns 78, 79 Framlingham Castle 27, 162 National Trust 141 Owl Sanctuary 163 River Stour Trust 140 Snape Maltings 20, 21 Somerleyton Hall & Gardens 122, 123 Southwold Pier 52
Bistro, Cafés & Bakeries Christine’s Patisserie Kitchen @Thorpeness Pump St Bakery & Café
17 42 44
Fashion Blue Bay 13 Caramel 22 Collen & Clare 35, 50, 51 Elizabeth Gash 100, 101 Fanny & Frank 2, 13 Fleur 37 Holly Blue 16 Martha V 103 Nicola Sexton 98, 99 Ninni Noo 16 O&C Butcher 32, 33
Menswear Hall Street
71
Food Friday Street Farm Hall Farm Hollow Trees Farm Maximus Sustainable Fishing Pinney’s of Orford Tosier Chocolate Woodbridge Deli
116 116 116 113 44 116 17
Holidays Belle Grove Best of Suffolk High Lodge
57 39, 55 132, 133
Outdoors Beccles Lido Big Dog Ferry Fox’s Marina Halesworth Golf High Lodge River Stour Trust Stuart Clay Traps Tilley Hats
121 121 130, 131 134 132, 133 140 125 84
Homes & Interiors
Pubs & Inns
Ashbocking Joinery 153 Bedfords IBC Gerald Weir Furniture 154, 155 1 Hopkins Homes Jayrest Interiors 148, 149 Keith Skeel 89 M Huntley Developments 146 Nevelli 73 Posy 75 150, 151 Red House Textiles The Rug & Carpet Studio 81, 85 Samuel David Construction Ltd IFC Vanil 14 14 10 Church Street
Adnams 54 Chestnut Group 108 The Dolphin 43 143 The Eels Foot The Lord Nelson 144 The Kings Head 143 69, 111 Stuart Inns The Ship at Dunwich 143 The Six Bells 75
Hotels The Angel Hotel 92, 111 Bedford Lodge, Hotel & Spa 103 Heacham Manor (Norfolk) 136 Hintlesham Hall 108 Heath Court Hotel 112 The Crown & Castle 45, 107 The Crown at Woodbridge 19 Milsoms Hotels and Restaurants 106 The Oaksmere 118 Salthouse Harbour Hotel 61, 109 Tuddenham Mill 110 Ufford Park, Woodbridge 112, 137 Wentworth Hotel and Restaurant 37 Westleton Crown 110
Jewellery Aspens 18 Chenevix Jewellery 12 Riley & Riley 41, 63 Romark 97 Thurlow Champness BC 94,95 Woodbridge Jewellery Workshop 17
Removals Abels 152
Restaurants Dedham Boathouse Great House, Lavenham The Bildeston Crown Upstairs at Baileys
67 105 107 109, 120
Schools Framlingham School 160, 161 Ipswich School 158, 159 Old Buckenham Hall 169 Orwell Park School 174, 175 Saint Felix School 166, 167 St Joseph’s College 172, 173 The Royal Hospital School 170, 171 Woodbridge School 164, 165
Spas Bathsheba 14, 145 Bedford Lodge, Hotel & Spa 103, 145 Maison Talbooth Day Spa 145 Ufford Park, Woodbridge 145 Weavers’ House Spa 77
OPENING DOORS FOR YOUR BUSINESS The Best of Suffolk is an annual guide personalised for the leading hotels, accommodation providers and retailers across Suffolk. Each venue receives their own edition available to guests and clients. It is distributed to numerous boutique hotels, B&Bs, holiday lets and available to buy via amazon.co.uk 176 the best of SUFFOLK
Location, Aldeburgh
Location, Burnham Market
Location, Bury St Edmunds
Location. Woodbridge
The Sunday Times ‘Homes and Gardens’ supplement has championed Norfolk and Suffolk as a ‘first choice’ destination to live, with Aldeburgh, Bury St Edmunds, Burnham Market and Woodbridge identified as prime ‘hotspots’. Our offices, in those four locations, are perfectly positioned to market the region’s finest properties.
Aldeburgh 01728 454 505 | Burnham Market 01328 730 500 Bury St Edmunds 01284 769 999 | Woodbridge 01394 779 444 bedfords.co.uk