Days Out - Starfish Investigations visit Bungay

Where shall we go? BUNGAY

Gill Starkie and Karen Fisher, who call themselves ‘STARFISH Investigations’ review the most exciting places to visit in Norfolk and Suffolk

Our next adventure takes us to Bungay, but first, we pop into Old Hall Farm, (NR35 2LP), where the delights on offer are just too tempting. You know us – we just can’t resist temptation! We did have a ‘moment’ when we saw the size of the sausage rolls, but like all good girls we resisted. Mornings are sweet – afternoons are savoury! Old Hall Farm offers raw milk, milk shakes, cream, cheese, butter and so much more in their wonderful farm shop. The beautiful Jersey cows are allowed to keep their calves with them, rather than weaning at birth, usually for 6-8 months. It’s this kind of lovely story that makes the shop and cafe even more appealing. After enjoying our refreshments in the sunshine – watching the pig and goats and listening to the slightly annoying peacock cry, we left…but will definitely return. We arrived in Bungay and parked opposite the Library;

Gill Starkie (right) and Karen Fisher

easy to find, just follow the one way system in the town. We took a walk through the High Street, and enjoyed the little antique shops, interior delights, a rather lovely clothes shop, a florist, a fascinating gift shop, a delicatessen, a fabulous green grocers and an art shop selling many supplies that will definitely require another visit. The display in the grocers was breathtaking and not only was the merchandise wonderful, but we were greeted with much warmth and friendliness. No wonder Bungay is high on the list as being one of the best places to live in Suffolk. The early medieval Bigod Castle (NR35 1DD) is nestled between open green spaces, little back streets and pretty cottages. You can spend time reading up on the history and exploring the area, including the gatehouse curtain wall and the remnants of the inner bailey wall. A fantastic place for the children too –education and fun!! It’s close to the River Waveney and there are plenty of walks along the river where you can enjoy various forms of wildlife – we even saw a Kingfisher!! Stock up on delicious treats in the town – buy fresh bread, pastries and a few sausage rolls (of course) from Ma Belle Bakery and wander to the river bank – it’s a great place to have a picnic. This little town is a jewel. It has a museum and the Fisher Theatre, and a number of tea rooms, restaurants and pubs. Close by is the Earsham Wetland centre, a haven for wildlife – and CAKE! There are various markets and events in Bungay, which are held throughout the year and it has a thriving art community.