Suffolk Guide 2013

68
www.eastlife.co.uk Guide 2013/14 Suffolk Relax Discover Experience Explore

description

Welcome to the Suffolk Guide. Use this guide to take your first steps towards a relaxing break in this lovely part of the UK.

Transcript of Suffolk Guide 2013

www.eastlife.co.uk

Guide 2013/14Suffolk

RelaxDiscover

ExperienceExplore

Cover 2013.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:56

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 12:05Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 13:02

Welcome to the Suffolk Guide. Use this guide

to take your first steps towards a relaxing

break in this lovely part of the UK.

4 PLACES TO VISIT

Country or coast, Suffolk is home to some of the

country’s most beautiful towns and villages.

36 ATTRACTIONS

Discover a whole host of interesting places to

visit from farms and fairgrounds to historic

houses and theatres.

46 SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT

Great places to shop and a whole range of

theatres, concerts and arts centres.

49 ARTS & CRAFTS

Where to find some of the county’s creative work.

50 FOOD & DRINK

Suffolk is famous for its local produce.

Take your first taste here.

54 WHAT’S ON

There’s no shortage of great events throughout

the year - here’s a selection of the best.

58 WEDDING VENUES

Fabulous locations and settings for your big day.

62 PLACES TO STAY

Find somewhere special to spend your

visit to Suffolk.

66 INFORMATION

Map and further information.

The Suffolk Guide is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd, Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY. Tel. 01954 267696.

For more information or to advertise in the next edition, please contact Darren Marshall on 07826

628680. © Thompson Media Partners Ltd.

www.eastlife.co.uk

Contents2013/14

3

www.facebook.com/eastlifemag @eastmagazines

contents.indd 34 18/04/2013 16:45

AldeburghAldeburgh is a striking town found on the unspoiled East Suffolk Coast. It is blessed with breathtaking scenery, both seawards and following the river Alde inland.

Once an important Tudor port and shipbuilding area, Aldeburgh had to wait until the 19th century when the fashion for the beach and craze for sea air brought back visitors in quantity, establishing it as a popular resort.

It is now characterised by its lively beachside atmosphere and thriving musical influence, once described as ‘a place of energy and inspiration for music and the arts’. The town’s most famous inhabitant was the composer Benjamin Britten, and there are many reminders of his life about the town. Britten, along with contemporaries Eric Crozier and Peter Pears established the classical Aldeburgh music festival in 1948, placing Aldeburgh firmly

Just one hour from London, Suffolk has a bounty of attractive towns and villages with great shops, beautiful buildings and plenty to explore. The Suffolk Coast is one of the UK’s finest landscapes with 40 miles of Heritage Coast set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Under big East Anglian skies discover charming seaside towns, lively resorts and beautiful coastal scenes.

Places to Visit

on the musical map. Taking place at nearby Snape Maltings for two weeks every June, the festival kicks off the town’s summer season of events which also includes Jill Freud’s Aldeburgh Summer Theatre in July and August, and the Carnival and Regatta in August.

Popular with weekend seadogs, Aldeburgh has an active yacht club catering for both the self-assured and the less buoyant sailors visiting the town. For those less inclined to take to the high seas the town boasts two popular golf courses, all-weather tennis courts, and of course a historical legacy unlikely to

go unnoticed, such as 400-year old Moot Hall (now home to Aldeburgh’s museum), a Norman Church and a Martello tower.

The high street has craft, food and antiques shops, reflecting local passions, as well as a myriad of excellent pubs and restaurants, not to mention Aldeburgh’s famous fish and chip shop (be prepared to queue!). With a range of accommodation to suit all requirements (ranging from cottages to rent to family run B&Bs) Aldeburgh is undoubtedly not to be missed.

4

places to visit.indd 1 18/04/2013 21:05

Full Page bleed.indd 1 22/04/2013 15:28

6

HOSTING A WIDE RANGE OF EVENTS INCLUDING CLASSICAL, JAZZ, ROCK, POP, WORLD, FOLK & COMEDYFor up to date event information visit WWW.THEAPEX.CO.UK • Box Office: 01284 758000facebook.com/theapexofficial • twitter.com/theapexvenue

Charter Square, Bury St edmundS IP33 3Fd

AWARD WINNING MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT VENUE IN BURY ST EDMUNDS

The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds and the National Trust present

BACKSTAGE PAST BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURSBEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR

Sponsored by

Take a journey through timeThe Theatre Royal’s fascinating heritage is brought to life with our vibrant and interactive tours onstage and backstage.

To book or for further information on dates, times and guided tours Box Office 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

June - Aug 2013Bury St EdmundsFestival16–19 May 2013

Box Office: 01284 758000

www.buryfestival.co.uk

Tina MayStacey KentTimothy WestTallis ScholarsLesley GarrettSierra MaestraEmma JohnsonJayson GillhamMatthew BarleyAurora Orchestra

BSEF ad 91x62_Layout 1 05/02/2013 09:41 Page 1

p6.indd 12 18/04/2013 10:52

Beccles

The market town of Beccles lies in North West Suffolk on the banks of the Waveney River, on the Norfolk-Suffolk border. Once a thriving Saxon river port, Beccles is now a flourishing boating centre, it’s attractive riverfront and quay making it a popular stop for passing pleasure crafts.

The town is dominated by the detached 16th-century bell tower next to St Michael’s Church, while a walk through the narrow streets of Beccles (the result of fires in the 16th and 17th centuries which paved the way for the towns many Georgian houses) offers a chance to peruse an eclectic mix of boutiques and antique shops, with plenty to tempt the palates of visitors. Twyford’s café in Exchange Square serves a fine tea, for dining there’s Bells in The Old Market, Indiagate in Newgate and The Swan House wine bar and restaurant near the bell tower comes recommended by the Broads Quality Charter. Among them too are quality food shops, including Bailey’s Delicatessen on Hungate.

Like Aldeburgh in the summer, Beccles also boasts an array of festivities, with an annual carnival and regatta, with live music, a parade, fun fair and fireworks. Most engaging of the annual get-togethers however takes place in September; the fiercely contested charity

Bungay

Rubber Duck Race, and the ‘Straw Race’, a pub-crawl that sees its plucky competitors laden down with a straw ball.

BungayThe River Waveney loops around another market town situated on the Suffolk-Norfolk border, the town of Bungay. The streets are full of historic charm and offer several independent shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. With their weekly markets and an abundance of outdoor pursuits in the area (including walking, cycling, fishing and canoeing) there is plenty to keep even the most energetic of visitors busy.

It is perhaps though not this that has attracted people the most to this town, but instead an old legend that has long captured the imaginations of visitors passing through, The Legend of the Black Dog of Bungay. Dating back to 1577, it tells the story of a thundery August night when an apparition of the devil appeared to the townspeople in the form of a Black Hound. The St Mary’s Church, now unused, was

partially destroyed, and legend goes that lives were lost as a result of the Hound’s presence in the town. Superstitious or not, the incorporation of an image of a black dog in the towns Coat of Arms, and the existence of the same image which can be seen throughout the town, is testament to the lingering effect this event has had on Bungay.

Also worth a look are the ruins of Bigod’s Castle, built in 1170, details of which can be found at the castle visitor centre on Cross Street. Taking place every July and focused around the Castle, is the Bungay Festival.

For a bite to eat there’s the well loved Buttercross Tearooms and Tea Gardens, lunch from local produce at The Castle Inn on Earsham Street and at the award-winning Earsham Street Café & Delicatessen.

Enjoy a scenic walk along the riverside pathway of the Waveney or hire a rowing boat to take advantage of unspoiled views of the heathland and golf course of Outney Common.

Places to Visit

7

places to visit.indd 3 18/04/2013 17:51

8

Bury St EdmundsFew places in England can match the beauty, character and history of Bury St Edmunds. Rich in legend and folklore, the town has been admired down the years by visitors and authors from Daniel Defoe to Charles Dickens.

The town grew up around the powerful Abbey of St Edmund in early medieval times. For five centuries it was visited by pilgrims from all over the world, coming to worship at the shrine of St Edmund - the martyred King of East Anglia. St Edmund was the patron saint of England until the dragon-slaying George took up the title in more militant times.

Evidence of St Edmundsbury’s past and present is all around. Town and village streets, magnificent parish churches, and unspoiled landscapes throw light on an England that

elsewhere has long been lost.Take the Abbey Trail through

the town and visit the old Abbey Ruins; the remains of the great Benedictine Abbey, destroyed in the dissolution of 1539.

It’s a wonderful town to visit, with almost 1,000 preserved buildings and a network of streets that still follow the

grid pattern devised by the abbots in the 11th century. The town has excellent leisure and shopping facilities and is at its busiest on Wednesdays and Saturdays when people flock to the Buttermarket and Cornhill to visit one of the best provision markets in East Anglia. The town is a shopper’s delight,

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 4 18/04/2013 17:13

Bury St Edmunds’ medieval Abbey Gate, behind which stands the award winning Abbey Gardens, overlooks a beautiful square surrounded by splendid Georgian town houses, St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the Angel Hotel and Athenaeum. The square plays host to the hugely popular Christmas Fayre each November.

From there it’s a short stroll into one of the most cosmopolitan town centres. Famous name stores sit cheek by jowl with delightful independent shops and cafés galore. Every Wednesday and Saturday the town plays host to the largest street market in East Anglia. From gourmet chutney and preserves to local cheese, bread and vegetables there is always a bargain to be had.

The 'arc' shopping centre is the latest addition to the town giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a stunning new shopping experience. With top name stores and a flag ship

Bury St Edmunds… and just beyond

For further information or a free visitor pack contact the Tourist Information Centre, 6 Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1UZ.Tel. 01284 764667 [email protected]

Just 30 minutes east of Cambridge you will find a historic town that has a delightful atmosphere all its own.

Debenhams it seems that this shopping centre has been in Bury St Edmunds forever. The arc compliments streets such as St John's Street and Hatter Street with their marvellous range of independent shops offering traditional service and endless inspiration.

The town’s many attractions are within easy walking distance. With theatres, galleries and museums there is plenty to visit. For something a little different Greene King Visitor Centre promises a warm Suffolk welcome and a chance to sample some of their famous ales! Or visit the Theatre Royal - the only working Regency playhouse in Britain.

If you would like someone to do the hard work take one of our guided tours and let our knowledgeable town guides show you everything including some of the more hidden attractions. Tours run daily between May and September and leave the Tourist Information Centre at 2pm.

New for 2013 why not try one of our afternoon tea guided walks. All walks finish with an afternoon tea in one of our lovely tearooms. Contact the Tourist Information Centre for further details.

Bury St Edmunds – Something for everyone

Contact the Tourist Information Centre for a full programme of eventsT: 01284 764667 E: [email protected] W: www.visit-burystedmunds.co.uk

Award winning gardens • Heritage walks • A thriving market • Independent shopswith something for everyone Bury St Edmunds make a memorable day out

Armed Forces Day 2013Saturday 29th JuneCome and support National Armed Forces Day. Free family entertainment in the Abbey Gardens including music, dance and a homecoming parade for 15 Squadron, RAF Honnington. FREE

St Edmunds Community Fete Abbey GardensSunday 4th AugustA new family event set in the award winning Abbey Gardens. Entertainment for children with a St Edmund’s theme. Come and learn about this important figure and have fun with lots of hands on activities. Supported by Bury St Edmunds Town Council. FREE

Love Markets DayBury St Edmunds Town CentreSaturday 29th JuneLots of fun and games set within one of the largest street markets in East Anglia. Children’s treasure hunt, start- up stalls, cooking demonstrations and more. FREE

9

St Edmundsbury page.indd 89 18/04/2013 09:43

10

LOW ROAD, DEBENHAM, SUFFOL IPTEL: 01728 860475 EMAIL:

CartersTeapots.indd 1

IP

Tony Carter designs fine English handmade ceramic collectable teapots made in the beautiful village of

Debenham, Suffolk

A visit to this unique Pottery will show you world renowned tea pots being made and painted by hand.

• Tea/Coffee shop - light refreshments available• Ceramic Café & Pottery Shop• Follow brown tourist signs for teapot pottery

OPENING TIMES: Mon to Fri 9am - 5.30pm Sat & Bank Hols 10.30 - 4.30pm Sunday 2pm - 5pm School Summer Holidays

Low Road, Debenham, Suffolk, IP14 6QU

Tel: 01728 860475 Email: [email protected] www.cartersteapots.com

Carters Teapot.indd 1 10/4/12 17:32:23

www.eastanglianlife.org.ukStowmarket IP14 1DL Tel: 01449 612229

www.ukparachuting.co.uk

UK Parachuting, Beccles Heliport, Suffolk NR34 7TE

at least once in your life…

Skydive for FREEfor charityPlease quote promo code: SG01

SG01

p10.indd 12 19/04/2013 09:10

11

where every sort of store from the large high street names to family-run businesses and fascinating small gift shops sit comfortably side-by-side. The Abbey Gardens are well known for their stunning floral displays. St Edmundsbury Cathedral was mostly built in the 16th century and has been a cathedral since 1914. There has never been a better time to visit this medieval building, once part of the great abbey of St Edmund, as it has recently been completed with the addition of a new Gothic style lantern tower.

Other buildings to admire include the Victorian Corn Exchange; Cupola House, where Daniel Defoe once stayed; the Angel Hotel, where Charles Dickens and his creation Mr Pickwick stayed; and The Nutshell, owned by Greene King, and probably the smallest pub in the country.

Cavendish

Cavendish is the perfect ‘picture postcard’ English village and arguably one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk. Situated in the Stour Valley, Cavendish is

famed for its 14th/15th-century church, a number of thatched cottages, and the Sue Ryder Foundation Museum, which tells the life story of Sue Ryder and the history of the Foundation. In 1381 during the Peasants Revolt, Sir John Cavendish hung on to the handle of the church door to plead for sanctuary from his pursuers..

Clare

A delightful little wool town on the River Stour; in fact, its name is said to derive from the “clear” nature of the river Stour as it flows through the town. Voted Suffolk Village of the Year 2010-2012, the town has a captivating history, offering a wide range of shops, antique outlets and excellent l.ocal cafes and pubs. Visit the remains of a 13th-century Augustinian Priory and the quaint Ancient House Museum. The open space of Clare Castle Country Park is a wonderful place to relax as is the picturesque nearby River Stour.

Debenham

A former court of East Anglian Kings, this attractive large village is set near the source of the River Deben. Once a thriving wool centre, the streets are lined with 14 -17th century timber-framed merchants’ houses. ‘Blood Field’ recalls a great battle which took place against the Danes. Debenham is also home to the world famous Carters Teapot Pottery and Ceramic Cafe. Visitors can watch the teapots being made, browse around the Pottery Shop and enjoy light refreshments (home made cakes and scones) in the Pottery’s small Conservatory/Tea Room.

Dunwich

Once the capital of East Anglia, it’s hard to believe that the sleepy village of Dunwich was once a bustling port city with a population of 4,000. It might have been still if the sea hadn’t eaten away at it, leading to its almost complete abandonment by the 19th century, with its population dwindling to a mere 237. Nonetheless there are fabulous reminders of its heyday, including the ruins of a Franciscan priory, while the natural splendour of Dunwich Heath is still intact. A project is underway to uncover submerged parts of the original town, and some residents claim they can still hear the bells of drowned churches ringing.

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 5 18/04/2013 17:54

12

Constable CountryConstable Country is located on the Suffolk and Essex border, on the banks of the River Stour. This enchanting part of England was the birthplace of renowned artist John Constable and the subject matter of many of his most famous paintings.

Constable once said ‘I associate my careless boyhood with all that lies on the banks of the Stour... those scenes made me a painter’, and indeed one of the best ways to appreciate the countryside that John Constable knew and loved is to walk around the picturesque Stour Valley. By following in the footsteps of Constable, visitors can experience first hand the setting for some of Constable’s most famous paintings, such as ‘The Hay Wain’, ‘The Mill Stream’, ‘Boat-building near Flatford’ and ‘The White Horse’. The Bridge Cottage is now

home to a small exhibition on Constable, a tearoom and shop.

The little riverside hamlet of Flatford is owned by the National Trust, who between March and October organise guided Constable tours around the village, lasting approximately one hour. You can also visit the village of East Bergholt, Constable’s birthplace, and from where a young Constable used to walk across the riverside meadows to Dedham every day on his way to school.

Close by is the historic market town of Hadleigh, the delightful Shotley Peninsula, and some wonderful villages along the Stour Valley, which you can

follow all the way to Haverhill. Known the world over for its atmospheric skies and captivating natural beauty, this is an inspirational place to spend a holiday.

Felixstowe

Felixstowe, bordered on the north by the River Deben and on the south by the River Orwell, is a well loved resort known for its quality sand and shingle beach, long promenade, perfectly kept seafront gardens and seaside attractions.

Felixstowe became a fashionable seaside resort in the 1880s, and has retained many of its attractive Victorian and Edwardian houses and hotels. The seafront is over four miles long, with a wide promenade that stretches

places to visit.indd 6 18/04/2013 17:16

13

almost the entire length of the beach from Languard Point to Felixstowe Ferry.

Famed as a linchpin of English defence, five Martello towers, built to prevent Napoleonic invasion, stand on Felixstowe’s coast. Later, Felixstowe was to become one of the few places bombed by the Italians during the Blitz, with a number of Italian biplanes shot down around Felixstowe itself.

The front has all the attractions of a traditional seaside holiday resort, with old-fashioned beach huts, fish and chip shops, a funfair, amusement arcade, miniature golf, bowling green, cafés and restaurants, as well as the facilities of the leisure centre.

The art deco style Spa Pavilion theatre, also on the seafront, stages dance shows, music and musicals, comedy, ballet, children’s shows and hosts the annual Felixstowe Drama Festival. Alternatively, you could enjoy a retro night at the movies at the 1930s Palace Cinema.

Felixstowe’s summer season of events includes a French Market, Historic Vehicle Rally, tennis tournament, Carnival and Fair and Art on the Prom.

Felixstowe is home to the UK’s largest container port,

and Europe’s busiest. The viewing area at Landguard on the southern edge of the town offers great views of container and passenger ships from Felixstowe and Harwich harbours. Next to the view point is the Felixstowe Museum, full of artifacts from Roman to recent times, and Landguard Fort, a multi-period

military building dating back to the 16th century. The Fort’s warren of tunnels and rooms is open for exploration every day throughout summer.

Here too, at the mouth of the River Orwell, are the Landguard Bird Observatory and the Landguard Peninsular nature reserve, a significant site for shore and migrant birds, and rare shingle flowers.

North of the town centre is the fishing village of Old Felixstowe and, at the mouth of the River Deben, the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry with its gallery, golf course, cottages, boat yard and riverside inns. Here you can explore coastal paths, see the Martello Towers, pick up fresh fish at The Shed fish stall, enjoy excellent fish and chips at the Ferry Café and catch the small ferry boat across the estuary to Bawdsey.

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 7 18/04/2013 17:57

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:45

15

FramlinghamFramlingham, known locally as ‘Fram’, sits in the unspoilt countryside of East Suffolk’s coastal district. The pretty market town has a conservation area and many of the town’s buildings date from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Framlingham’s trail is a good way to explore the town’s history and interesting buildings.

The 12th-century Framlingham Castle, owned by the English Heritage, was the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Norfolk. Mary Tudor lived in the castle

in 1553 and it was here that she heard she had become Queen of England. Open daily for much of the year (November-March, weekends only) visitors can walk around the battlements and along the wall, to take in good views of the countryside and the Mere. Concerts and re-enactments take place in the grounds between May and September. The Suffolk Wildlife Trust manages the Mere, which runs alongside Framlingham Castle. Framlingham town centre is best known for its antique shops, and is a great place to search for a unique

find. A twice-weekly market takes place on Market Hill every Tuesday and Saturday.

Hadleigh

Hadleigh, in the south of Suffolk close to the border with Essex, offers a wonderful mix of the old and new, and is known as much for its collection of interesting shops, pubs and restaurants as for its fine architecture. Hadleigh is one of Britain’s finest ancient market towns, with a rich architectural history that has its origins in Saxon times. Hadleigh’s High Street is almost a mile long and runs parallel with the river, and of the 137 properties that line the street 90 percent are listed buildings.

Halesworth

Halesworth is a small market town primarily centred around a pedestrianised shopping street known as The Thoroughfare. The town has a number of interesting buildings, not least St Mary’s Church and the old almshouses. Each year in June The Thoroughfare hosts a popular food, drink and craft

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 8 18/04/2013 21:23

16

fair to raise money for good causes. Halesworth’s New Cut Arts, a centre for arts in the community, offers a whole range of arts and entertainment and is host to the Halesworth Arts Festival in October and HighTide Festival at the end of April, which presents world premieres of theatre productions by new writers. The Town Park hosts Gig in the Park every August, a showcase of local, national, and international musical talent. Market day is every Wednesday.

HaverhillHaverhill is a market town that dates back to Saxon times. Whilst most of its historical buildings were lost to the great fire on 14th June 1667, it does however retain one notable Tudor house (reportedly given to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce from Henry VIII,

and thus titled Anne of Cleves House) and many interesting Victorian buildings. Haverhill is predominantly a modern and young town, with a small centre with a number of shops, including a new retail quarter, and a new leisure quarter with a number of restaurants and a Cineworld. The town has a refurbished leisure centre with a state-of-the-art gym and swimming pool, and an Arts Centre that hosts a range of entertainments.

Haverhill also offers wonderful green spaces; the large recreation ground in the heart

of the town is popular with all ages while the award winning East Town Park.

IpswichWolsey’s Gate, near the Ipswich Waterfront, is all that’s left of Thomas Wolsey’s dream to build a great college in his home town: a dream immortalised in Shakespeare’s play Henry VIII. When the Lord Chancellor fell from grace, this bustling, buoyant Tudor town fell with him. However, unlike Cardinal Wolsey, who died penniless and bereft, the modest maritime town of Ipswich quickly recovered its civic poise and dignity.

Anyone who is unfamiliar with the fascinating county town is in for a pleasant surprise. Once a solid centre of maritime commerce and activity, the Ipswich ‘Docks’ has been transformed into the

Ipswich docks

places to visit.indd 9 19/04/2013 07:13

17

Ipswich ‘Waterfront’. Much of the rich fabric of the past remains intact with sensitive renovations of several heritage dockland buildings including the delectable boutique style Salthouse Harbour Hotel and the imposing Old Custom’s House. Meanwhile, a new wave of vibrant cafes, cosmopolitan restaurants, interesting shops and modern apartment blocks has washed in with the tide.

Add this to the ever-changing skyline; the vista of visiting large sailing boats, Royal Navy ships, yachts and powerboats, it’s easy to see why Ipswich has become one of the most sought after destinations in the East.

Ten minutes walk away is the town centre, which offers rich pickings in terms of its museums, galleries, theatres, parklands and high street shops.

There’s also a great open-air

market on the Cornhill on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, located right outside the newly refurbished Town Hall Galleries, which is well worth a visit.

Christchurch Mansion, a fine Tudor house set in its own beautiful park in the heart of the town, boasts the most important collection outside of London of works by Constable and Gainsborough.

International pop acts; mainstream and fringe theatre and an unrivalled arts festival can all be found at venues such as The Regent Theatre, the Corn Exchange, and the New Wolsey Theatre.

Of course, retail therapy is a must when in town. St Nicholas Street is ‘boutique paradise’, and there’s a thriving High Street and the Tower Ramparts shopping centre.

Lavenham

Lavenham is a joy to explore at any time of the year and looks as beautiful in the evening as it does during the day. The village has a proud history of being one of the foremost cloth making centres in England from the 14th to the 16th century and the many magnificent buildings that remain are a testimony to the town having been the fourteenth wealthiest in England.

Lavenham’s importance as a trading town was recognised as far back as the 13th century, and was granted its market Charter in 1257. It then

Places to Visit

Ipswich Waterfront

places to visit.indd 10 18/04/2013 17:16

18

became of some international importance during the reign of Edward III, during which time Lavenham exported its famous blue broadcloth to Russia, trading with the notorious Catherine the Great. Lavenham’s industry went into a steep decline in the 16th century though, as Dutch refugees to Colchester brought with them cheaper, more fashionable cloth. At the turn of the 20th century much of the village was in a state of

near dereliction. Today it ranks amongst the

most beautiful of villages; set in lush green countryside it makes the ideal weekend getaway.

The appearance of the town has changed little over the years, the buildings are fascinating, some are huge and imposing, others are tiny and crooked. The townspeople have even removed the telegraph poles and buried the wires

underground to preserve the village’s Tudor appearance.

Lavenham has been described as ‘the finest medieval town in England’ and no fewer than 300 of its buildings are listed as being of architectural or historical interest. One of these is the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which is among the finest in East Anglia, a magnificent church with a spire of 141 feet. The local Lavenham Sinfonia gives regular concerts here on Sundays. Other buildings of interest that are open to the public include The Guildhall of Corpus Christi, owned by the National Trust. This is a 16th-century timber framed

building overlooking the market place and houses a museum offering insights into local life.

Little Hall is a lovely example of a 15th-century hall house with a crown-post roof. It contains the Gayer-Anderson collection of furniture, pictures, sculptures and ceramics.

Art lovers will be at home here too with a collection of wonderful galleries to visit.

Much recommended is a walk along the disused railway line, followed by a wander through the gift and antique shops, then a cream tea, lunch or dinner in one of the many fabulous tea rooms, pubs and fine-dining restaurants scattered around the town. Recently The Angel, believed to be Lavenham’s oldest inn, has become home to Marco Pierre White’s latest success, Wheeler’s at the Angel Hotel.

places to visit.indd 11 18/04/2013 17:16

19

Long MelfordLong Melford is one of Suffolk’s most attractive villages, and in a nationwide poll by Savills Estate Agents, it ranked as the seventh most desirable village to live in Britain. It has a long, long High Street - two and a half miles to be exact; the longest in England - populated by charming independent shops, vibrant art galleries, antique centres, cafes, restaurants, and, of course, typical Suffolk Inns. This, combined with beautiful architecture and amazing countryside, makes Long Melford a desirable stop for any visitor to Suffolk.

There are plenty of interesting sights, including (at the top of the village) Holy Trinity Church, a wool church dating from the 15th century. It contains several noteworthy memorials and brasses, and just outside is the brick hospital, founded in 1573 as an almshouse for twelve poor men and two poor women.

There are also two Tudor mansions in close proximity. Kentwell Hall is a romantic, completely moated, mellow redbrick mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. There are lots

Places to Visit

of events going on at the Hall, not least their famous Tudor re-creations, and you can have a guided tour of the house.

Melford Hall is a large Elizabethan house run by the National Trust, built of red brick around a quadrangle and ornamented with mitre-topped turrets.

One of the attractions of Long Melford today is its thriving and growing hub of art galleries. In the past Long Melford has been known as a centre for antiques, but now the village has a reputation for being one

of the best places in Suffolk to view and buy works of art. This has brought a new vibrancy to the village and there is a now a wider array of good quality shops from ladies boutiques to fine foods, as well as some high quality antique shops.

Long Melford is a true Suffolk gem. It has lots to offer the visitor, from historic buildings to contemporary fashions, and the food available throughout the village - from the butcher to the restaurants and pubs - will keep you sustained throughout your stay.

places to visit.indd 12 18/04/2013 17:17

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 15:54

21

Lowestoft

Located on the most easterly point of the British coast, Lowestoft provides an ideal holiday location for all ages. Lowestoft offers a mix of lively beaches, pleasant seaside walks and quality family attractions all set in a traditional seaside town.This once flourishing fishing port is now renowned for the quality of its golden sandy beaches, which are considered to be some of the very best in Europe. The Victorian gardens provide the perfect surrounds to one of the east

coasts highlights.The town centre and seafront

areas have seen some recent changes to make them more accessible to visitors. The improvements included the introduction of the Princess Royal Fountains, consisting of 74 individual waters jets that provide the perfect attraction for children throughout the day and a visual spectacle in the evenings.

Lowestoft also offers a unique shopping experience. The main town centre provides all the high street names, Kirkley offers a choice of independent stores whilst the High Street provides an opportunity to shop in one of the most interesting and historical parts of the town.

Those wishing to delve into Lowestoft’s rich maritime history will be able to explore Heritage Quay and the Maritime Museum. There is also the opportunity to buy some local

fish from one of the merchants or from the local smoke house. Heading away from the beach, the town is surrounded by a wide choice of attractions, ranging from museums, wildlife parks, piers and other facilities that will keep all visitors of all ages entertained.

The Marina Theatre in the town provides a number of high quality acts throughout the year. Those wishing to be a little more active may decide to follow the coastal walk, either on foot or on horseback, and for the more adventurous kite boarding is also available. The legendary Lowestoft Seafront Air Festival is an exhilarating aerial display set against the backdrop of one of East Anglia’s finest beaches; funfairs, rides, simulators, food stalls and music transform the seafront into a flurry of activity to suit all ages.

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 13 18/04/2013 19:38

22

The National

HorseracingMuseum

The National Horseracing Museum & Tours 99 High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8JH Tel: 01638 667333

www.nhrm.co.uk Email: [email protected]

2013 Exhibition – Celebrating 30 yearsof success. The past, present and future.CAFÉ AND SHOP

Open all year, our shop stocks fun and imaginativehorseracing & horse related gifts. The licensed caféserves a fantastic selection of hot & cold dishes,freshly prepared on site.

Admission to café, garden and shop is freeEquine tours available. Booking essential

DISCOVER THE STORIES OF RACING – THE PEOPLE, THE HORSES AND THE HISTORY.

TOURS

SHOP

CAFÉ

• Gorgeous Gifts

• Stunning Jewellery

• Stylish Accessories

• Gifts for the Home

• Indulgent Toiletries

• Gifts for Children

16B High Street, Lavenham, SuffolkTel: 01787 247487

anne@cuckoofl ower.co.ukwww.cuckoofl ower.co.uk

Gifts & Home

Now open in Lavenham

A hidden gem…l Charming holiday properties based on the original Mid

Suffolk Light Railway and its stations

l Panoramic views across the open Suffolk countryside and is secluded and quiet

l Nearby swimming pool (heated May to October)

l The site is amidst country lanes and is perfect for cycling and walking, delightful for relaxing breaks whatever the season

l Close to a host of attractions

D I ALSON Ltd l Tel: 01449 766231 l www.brockfordsiding.co.uk

p22.indd 12 18/04/2013 10:03

23

Mildenhall

Mildenhall is an attractive medieval market town surrounded by the River Lark. The town centres on the Market Place with its distinctive 16th century hexagonal Market Cross - used for hanging criminals years ago - and the Town Pump. The parish pump still stands in the market place, as a reminder that piped water was not available until the 1940s. A market is held here every Friday and was established by Royal Charter in 1412. During the Second World War, Mildenhall was an important bomber base and since 1950 has been home to the United States Air Force, fast becoming one of the most important American installations in this country.

St Mary’s Church is one of the finest in Suffolk and the town has a good number of restaurants, shops and other amenities. Mildenhall Stadium hosts greyhound, stock car and speedway racing.

Needham Market

Needham Market is a small historic town set in the Gipping Valley. Once a thriving wool town, the onset of the plague resulted in the town being ‘chained’ off from the outside world between 1663-65 to isolate it and contain the disease. Despite the plan succeeding, the town still lost two-thirds of its population and did not recover for some two hundred years until the arrival of the railway. The town has two road names linked to

Places to Visit

the plague: Chainhouse Road, named after the chains that ran across the East end of the town, and The Causeway, a modern variation of ‘the corpseway’, so called because of the route that plague victims were transported out of town.

The town boasts many unusual, independent and specialist shops, and fine Georgian and Tudor architecture. Nearby is Alder Carr Farm with a farm shop, pottery, tearoom, gift shop and monthly farmers’ market.

Newmarket

Whether you’re a devoted horseracing fan or just a lover of beautiful English towns, Newmarket is sure to appeal. It has long been considered the birthplace of thoroughbred horseracing since successive Royal Family members came to appreciate the flat land as an ideal location for galloping their horses. Racing’s early administrative body, The Jockey Club, created its home here, and now there are said to be some 2,500 horses training in the town at any one time with one in every three jobs said to relate to the industry. If this is your particular fascination, you’ll be pleased to find the National Stud here, the National Horseracing Museum, Tattersalls Sale Ring, and also the impressive Newmarket Racecourses themselves.

places to visit.indd 14 18/04/2013 19:42

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:55

There are other places of interest for the curious visitor too. Newmarket boasts impressive features such as the grand Clock Tower on the High Street, the King Edward VII Memorial Gardens, the War Memorial Gardens and the elegant Cleveland House in Old Station Road, built in the 1820s by Lord Darlington for his jockey.

OrfordSteeped in history, Orford is an attractive town dominated by its impressive castle, built in the 12th century by Henry VII for coastal defence. The town has plenty to offer those passing through, with excellent walks and cycle rides for the more outdoorsy, and plenty of good restaurants, pubs and tearooms for those simply looking to relax and soak up the surrounding history.

Brick and timber buildings line the streets to the little quayside, where there are boat trips to Orford Ness - Europe’s largest vegetated shingle spit. The Reserve contains a variety of habitats including shingle, saltmarsh, mudflat, brackish lagoons and grazing marsh. It

provides an important location for breeding and passage birds as well as for the coastal shingle flora and wildlife (including a large number of nationally rare species). Visitors can follow a 5.5 mile route, which can be walked in total or in part (the full walk involves

Places to Visit

25

Pin Mill

Magnificent Orford Castle

places to visit.indd 15 18/04/2013 19:48

26

walking on shingle). Don’t leave without trying the locally cultivated oysters.

Pin MillOn the banks of the River Orwell the hamlet of Pin Mill is a haven of tranquility, loved by artists, walkers and birdwatchers. The 17th-century Butt & Oyster Inn is so close to the river that it can serve pints of ale through the window to yachtsmen at high tide. Pin Mill was the setting for Arthur Ransome’s book ‘We Didn’t Mean to Go to Sea’, one of a series of children’s books penned by the author.

SaxmundhamSaxmundham is a popular market town on the River Fromus at the centre of Suffolk’s Heritage Coastal region. Saxmundham, or ‘Sax’ as it is known locally, has many

Places to Visit

Orford Ness

Saxmundham Station

local shops and businesses, sports and leisure facilities. The town has two caravan and camping sites, as well as several excellent hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs. There’s also a market every

Wednesday. There are severalsignificant annual events in thetown such as St Georges’ DayWeekend celebrations,‘Saxmundham in Bloom’and SaxmundhamArts Festival.

places to visit.indd 16 18/04/2013 17:17

27

ELECTRIC PICTURE PALACESOUTHWOLD

Created in 2002, but designed in 1912 theatrical style, the award winning 68 seat cinema has a rising “Tiny Wurlitzer”

cinema organ, a circle, a kiosk, usherettes and a commisionaire - all in the cause of creating “The Pictures”.

It is run by the Southwold Film Society, which you can join for £10 a year (or £3 for the season). Tickets are £6 stalls, £7 Circle.

To join, book or find out more call:

07815 769565ELECTRIC PICTURE PALACE,

BLACKMILL ROAD, SOUTHWOLD, SUFFOLK, IP18 6AQ

tel 01986 784347 email [email protected] visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk

NewHave-a

Go-Day’s1st Saturday of

each month

leisure activities

Newfor 2013

pamperingweddings stag & hen do’s

NewHot Tubs

luxury lodges

Situated in 100 acres of woodland and delightful countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities and services from clay shooting, golf, air rifle and archery to relaxing short or weekend breaks in our luxury lodge accommodation!

p27.indd 16 18/04/2013 10:11

28

SouthwoldSouthwold lies in the centre of an area of great natural beauty – a haven for the walker, the naturalist, and the birdwatcher. Situated on a hill that gently rises from the Blyth Valley, the town is virtually an island, being surrounded by the River Blyth to the south and Buss Creek to the north. This has enabled Southwold to retain its old world charm. The dramatic coastline and the town’s beautiful architecture make it a popular attraction throughout the year. In the summer, Southwold’s sandy beaches are a huge draw and out of season some its most charming elements can be enjoyed – cosy pub lunches, isolated walks or a quiet browse in its many antiques shops. Southwold’s beach is immaculately kept and is a regular Blue Flag winner.

The shore is famous for its rows of brightly coloured and highly sought after beach huts. These days they sell for the price of a small flat!

Quiet and full of character, Southwold is a refreshingly unspoilt coastal resort.

In the town centre there’s an exciting selection of interesting and independent shops, selling antiques, crafts and gifts. There’s also a variety of art galleries, boutiques and jewellers scattered around the town. Special to the town is the Southwold Summer Theatre, with a season of children’s performances, lunchtime events and evening theatre.

As you’d expect, first class seafood can be found in the town’s many fine restaurants and pubs, most of which serve ales brewed by the local – and world famous – Adnams Sole Bay Brewery. The Adnams

stamp is everywhere and reflected in the cluster of great pubs: Sole Bay Inn, Lord Nelson, Harbour Inn and King’s Head. The Crown Hotel is one of several Adnams-owned hostelries. Adnams has been brewing from its base in the town for over 100 years and now has an estate of 80 pubs, two bespoke hotels and a chain of successful high quality wine and kitchenware stores.

The brewery can be found on East Green, and you can see some of its workings through an external glass wall. Elsewhere in town look out for the stylish Adnams Cellar & Kitchen shop on Victoria Street.

Winner of countless awards and accolades, no visit to the town is complete without the chance to discover the delights of the 16th-century coaching inn and its creative bar and restaurant menus. The Swan

Places to Visit

Southwold Pier

places to visit.indd 17 18/04/2013 19:51

29

Southwold Lighthouse

places to visit.indd 18 18/04/2013 19:51

30

Hotel, which dominates the Market Place, is not only an excellent place to stay but has a highly regarded restaurant.

Southwold looks out over Sole Bay, scene of an inconclusive battle in 1672 between the combined British and French fleet and the Dutch fleet. The town was once known for its herring fishery, and today the attractive harbour is still home to a little fleet of boats. To discover something of Southwold’s maritime heritage visit the Sailors’ Reading Room, on East Cliff overlooking the sea, where the exhibits include ship models, figureheads and early photographs of past seafaring local heroes. There’s more maritime history to be found in The Alfred Corry Museum, at the end of Ferry Road, the resting place of Southwold’s old sailing lifeboat, which saved 47 lives during its use between 1893 and 1918. In Victoria Street the Southwold Museum, once a weaver’s cottage, houses an intriguing collection of artifacts from the town’s past. Southwold’s gleaming white lighthouse, built in 1890, stands

101 feet above the town.

Its warning beacon can be seen for 17 miles out to sea. Visitors who climb the winding lighthouse stairs are rewarded with fantastic views. Those wanting to take to the sea themselves can take the Coastal Voyager sea trip from the harbour.

Stowmarket

A town at the geographical heart of rural Suffolk and on the River Gipping, Stowmarket was originally an agricultural market town. Industry developed upon the canalization, in 1793, of the River Gipping bringing new prosperity to the town. Now the old towpath forms an enjoyable footpath through the Gipping Valley, from Stowmarket railway station to the docks at Ipswich. Even though it is growing in size and population,

Places to Visit

Stowmarket hasn’t lost its charm, with a variety of listed buildings typical of Suffolk’s towns and villages, most notably St Peter and St Mary’s Church. Not to be missed is the Museum of East Anglian Life, one of the UK’s leading open-air museums.

Sudbury

Set in the heart of the Stour Valley, the market town of Sudbury was for centuries a centre of the weaving and silk industries. The painter Thomas Gainsborough was born here and a fine collection of his paintings can be seen in his house, which also has a contemporary art gallery and a print workshop offering summer courses. The Quay Theatre puts on a lively programme of events and close by visitors can enjoy a lazy boat trip on the River Stour followed by a cream tea at the restored 18th-century Granary. There is still a traditional market, a farmers’ market on the last Friday of each month plus a lovely range of shops to explore.

Southwold

places to visit.indd 19 18/04/2013 17:17

Discover something special at RSPB Minsmere

Open daily. Entry fee for non members

T: 01728 648281 E: [email protected]

www.rspb.org.uk/minsmere

Family fun in the Wild Zone and Wild Wood Adventure

Countryside walks through stunning wetland, coastal and woodland scenery

Amazing wildlife

Cafe serves locally-sourced, home-cooked food

RSPB.indd 1 18/04/2013 14:31Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 15:17

32

ThorpenessIf there was ever a village that deserved to be called ‘fantastic’, it is Thorpeness. Built at the start of last century by Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, a wealthy and eccentric Scottish barrister with a penchant for mock Tudor and Jacobean architecture, Thorpeness has a number of unconventional properties under its belt. Originally a private fantasy holiday village, Ogilvie ingeniously disguised the village’s water tower as an overgrown house, the striking ‘House in the Clouds’, lest it offend the eye. ‘Peter Pan’ fans of all ages can find J M Barrie’s work realised at the Meare boating lake where islands and coves are given names taken from the book. Children are able, and indeed encouraged, to play (among others) in the

Pirate’s Lair and Wendy’s Home, with boats available to rent in order to enjoy the Meare in all its quirkiness. After an afternoon’s boating enjoy a meal and explore the stalls at the Thorpeness Brasserie and Emporium.

In August the Meare hosts the Thorpness Regatta, attracting visitors looking to enjoy the numerous boat races and impressive fireworks display.

WalberswickWalberswick is a village across the River Blyth from Southwold. Until the early 20th century, it was a trading port, but today it is one of Suffolk’s top tourist attractions with half of the properties in the village being holiday homes.

The village and surrounding beach and marshland have long attracted residents drawn from the arts, film and media. In

the 1890s and 1900s it became associated with Philip Wilson Steer and his circle of English Impressionists, and it was home to the noted artist and architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh from 1914.

Considering its size, an inordinate number of British celebrities own holiday homes in the village including Emma Freud and her husband Richard Curtis. Martin Bell and Geoffrey Palmer both maintain properties here, while Paul Heiney and Libby Purves live nearby. The village is the setting for Esther Freud’s novel, The Sea House, thinly disguised as ‘Steerborough’ - presumably a coded reference, or in-joke, towards one-time resident, Philip Wilson Steer. The village is famous for its annual crabbing competition - The British Open Crabbing Championship, held every

Places to Visit

Thorpeness Meare

places to visit.indd 20 18/04/2013 17:17

33

The Westleton Crown

Enjoy one of Suffolk’s finest 17th Century Inns set in the delightful village of Westleton on the Suffolk Heritage Coast.

• Award winning restaurant• Imaginative menus and wine list• Selection of real ales• Crackling log fires• Charming terraced gardens• 34 stylish bedrooms• Children and dogs very welcome

For that romantic get away or a family break The Westleton Crown offers the sophistication and comforts of contemporary living whilst retaining the atmosphere and charm of an old coaching inn.

www.westletoncrown.co.uk

01728 648 777The Westleton Crown, Westleton,Nr Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3ADThe Westleton Crown, Westleton, Nr Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3AD

01728 648777

Enjoy one of Suffolk’s finest 17th Century Inns set in the delightful village of Westleton on the Suffolk Heritage Coast.• Award winning restaurant• Imaginative menus and wine list• Selection of real ales • Crackling log fires • Charming terraced gardens • 34 stylish bedrooms• Children and dogs very welcome

Once a haunt of smugglers, The Ship at Dunwich is the perfect base from which to

explore this wild and wonderful coastline, partake of some of the best fish and chips on the Suffolk coast or simply enjoy a pint or two of Adnams.

You will find: real ales, real food and real fires, comfortable, traditionally furnished bedrooms, an enormous garden, and a beach that really

is just a short stroll away.

Ideally situated on the Suffolk Heritage Coast in between Aldeburgh and Southwold, just a

few minutes off the A12.

The Ship, Dunwich, Suffolk IP17 3DT01728 648219 [email protected]

Dinner, bed and breakfastStay with us for a minimum of 2 nights from only £130

per night including dinner, bed and breakfast.Offer is based on two people sharing and is available Sunday to Thursday, excluding bank holidays and is subject to availability.

The Westleton Crown

www.westletoncrown.co.uk

p33.indd 16 18/04/2013 13:07

34

Discoversomething unique...

BridgeFarmBarns

Opening timesMon-Sat 9.30am-5pmSunday 1 am-5pm

www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk

Monks Eleigh, Nr Lavenham, Suffolk IP7 7AY

T: 01449 740456

0

Discoversomething unique...

BridgeFarmBarns

Opening timesMon-Sat 9.30am-5pmSunday 1 am-5pm

www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk

Monks Eleigh, Nr Lavenham, Suffolk IP7 7AY

T: 01449 740456

0

• Tea room serving homemade breakfasts, lunches and cream teas

• Large selection of unusual gifts & cards• Corn Dollies• Traditional toys & games• Pottery Painting & Decopatch studio• Garden Nursery• Free children’s rustic play barn

GAINSBOROUGH’S HOUSEGainsborough’s House and garden is the birthplace

of one of Britain’s greatest artists,�omas Gainsborough R.A. (1727-88).

�e elegant Georgian fronted townhouse andexhibition gallery shows an outstanding collection

of his paintings and drawings andpresents a changing programme of displays and

temporary exhibitions throughout the year.For more details visit www.gainsborough.org

Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, Su�olk CO10 2EU

T: 01787 372958Registered Charity number 214046

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY & BANK HOLIDAY

11am - 4pm until 1st DECEMBERPlus MONDAY to FRIDAY 1pm - 4pm during

MAY, SUMMER & OCTOBER School Holsand EVERY WEDNESDAY IN JUNE

and SEPTEMBERSee our website for Special Events

Prices held for 2013

www.ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

OLD TROLLEYBUS DEPOT, COBHAM ROAD, IPSWICH IP3 9JDFollow brown signs from A12, A14 and Ipswich Town Centre.

Over 100 major exhibits -all made or used in Ipswich

TRANSPORT & ENGINEERING HERITAGE ON YOUR DOORSTEP

p24.indd 12 18/04/2013 13:16

35

the single heaviest crab within a period of 90 minutes is declared the winner. The proceeds go towards strengthening Walberswick’s sea defences. The village has tearooms, restaurants, two public houses, an art gallery, original crafts and gift shops.

Woodbridge

The picturesque market town of Woodbridge effortlessly mixes the old with the new and

attracts thousands of visitors every year. Whether it’s for a walk along the smooth River Deben overlooking Sutton Hoo, the ancient burial site of the Anglo Saxon Kings tucked across the river estuary, or simply to enjoy one of the many cafes and eateries around the town, you’ll find plenty of reasons to return.

The town’s most well known landmark is the white-boarded Tide Mill, which is neatly nestled between the boat builders, sail makers and chandlers still plying their wares. It may be one of the earliest mills in the UK - a mill was first recorded on this site in 1170 - but today’s building dates from the 18th century. In town you will probably want to catch your breath in The

Thoroughfare, a cornucopia of delicatessens, boutiques, and bookshops.

One of the charms of the town are the tiny winding lanes bedecked on either side with medieval timbered cottages, Georgian townhouses, and a plethora of cosy pubs.

Market Hill provides one of the best vantage points in town and it’s here that you’ll find Woodbridge Museum, which includes an excellent collection of memorabilia telling the intriguing story of the National Trust’s Sutton Hoo site amongst other things. Then there’s the Shire Hall to explore. Built in 1575 by Thomas Seckford, the beautiful building is home to the Suffolk Punch Heavy Horse Museum.

Places to Visit

places to visit.indd 23 18/04/2013 21:35

Abbey Gardens

Beautiful public gardens surrounding the ruins of the Abbey, with a prize-winning history. Stunning summer bedding displays set the tone for the annual Bury in Bloom campaign. The gardens include a host of ducks, children’s play area, aviaries, tennis courts, putting, bowling green, a tea shop and a riverside walk leading towards a local nature reserve known as No Man’s Meadows. Bury St Edmunds 01284 757067

Adnams BreweryAdnams’ famous Suffolk beer has been brewed in Southwold for over 150 years and all around the town you will experience the influences of the brewery. The brewery itself is a mix of traditional buildings, with cutting edge installations where cask beer has been brewed since 1872 when George and Earnest Adnams moved in. Take a guided tour of the brewery or the distillery, or shop in the Cellar and Kitchen store on Victoria Street. Southwold 01502 727225 www.adnams.co.uk

Adventure Island Play ParkExcellent purpose-built children’s indoor soft play centre. Pinbush Road, South Lowestoft Industrial Estate, Lowestoft 01502 519933www.adventureislandplaypark.co.uk

Africa AliveAn award-winning attraction set in 100 acres of dramatic coastal parkland, where you can get close to the animals and discover the sights, sounds and smells of the world’s most vibrant and exciting continent. Enjoy a walking family safari through eight acres of farmland with lions, rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs and more. An awe-inspiring presentation of the African Savannah, where animals roam freely together as they do in the wild. Kessingland, Lowestoft 01502 740291 www.africa-alive.co.uk

Alton WaterLargest reservoir in Suffolk offering fishing, sailing, windsurfing, picnic area, footpaths, water sports centre extension and visitor centre. Cycle hire available. Holbrook Road, Stutton, nr Ipswich 01473 589105

The Amber Museum

The UK’s only purpose-built museum dedicated to the history of amber. The museum has artefacts, carvings, jewellery and objets d’art; both modern and antique. It also houses many large examples of Amber found on the English coast - including the largest at 2.2kg. The Amber Shop has a stunning collection of Amber jewellery and gifts. 15 Market Place, Southwold 01502 723394 www.ambershop.co.uk

Anglia Indoor KartingThis full-size, purpose designed indoor racetrack offers many exciting features, all to boost the thrill of competitive racing in an atmosphere of fun and excitement. Farthing Road, Sproughton, Ipswich 01473 240087

Bawdsey Radar StationVisit ‘The Magic Ear’ - an exhibition about the history of Radar. In 1937, Bawdsey was the first of the Chain Home Radar stations that played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. Bawdsey 07821 162879

Baylham House Rare Breeds FarmA working livestock farm, breeding endangered species of farm animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, alpacas and pigs. Every child gets a free bag of food to feed the animals. Main area of farm is wheelchair and pushchair friendly. Walks around paddocks, beside river and lake shore. Café and shop with gifts and home-made refreshments. Mill Lane, Baylham, Ipswich 01473 830264. www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk

Beacon Rally KartsOutdoor off-road rally kart centre for all ages over five. Three separate tracks and different size karts make this a fun day for all. Martlesham, nr Woodbridge 01394 610066. www.beaconrallykarts.co.uk

Beccles Outdoor Swimming PoolTraditional lido. Heated pool situated by the river Waveney. Puddingmoor, Beccles 01502 713297

Bentwaters Cold War MuseumMuseum housed in a command post or bunker on what was the USAF air base at RAF Bentwaters. See

Beautiful countryside, heaps of history, family fun and adventure... see what Suffolk has to offer

Attractions

36

attractions.indd 1 18/04/2013 19:12

37

restored ‘war operations’ rooms and other displays. Bentwaters Parks, Rendlesham. www.bcwm.org.uk

Brandon Country Park32 acres in the heart of the Brecks with walks, cycle and easy access trails. Brandon 01842 810185

The BrecksOne of the great natural areas of Britain with over 370 square miles of forest, heathland and countryside. 01842 760116

Carlton MarshesOver 100 acres of beautiful Suffolk grazing marsh, fens and peat pools to explore via waymarked trails. Carlton Colville, Lowestoft 01502 564250

Christchurch MansionA fine Tudor mansion built between 1548 and 1550 with later additions. A good collection of furniture, panelling, ceramics, clocks and paintings from the 16th-19th centuries. Christchurch Park, Ipswich 01473 433554

Clare Castle Country ParkBeautiful quiet space that contains the remains of the 13th century stone castle keep. The nature trail takes in the River Stour and the Railway Walk. Visitor Centre. Maltings Lane, Clare 01787 277491

Coastal VoyagerFast exciting sea trips from the harbour. Southwold Harbour Kiosk 07887 525082

The Control Tower MuseumLearn the fascinating history of this truly unique airfield, from the first flights in 1917 to the 1970s, and about the British and American airmen who worked, fought and died at Martlesham Heath. Martlesham Heath 01473 435104 www.mhas.org.uk

Deben CruisesCruises on the River Deben for

organised parties. The Quay, Waldringfield, Woodbridge 01473 736260

Dunwich Heath Coastal CentreEnjoy wonderful walks and fabulous views at this site of specific interest within an area of outstanding natural beauty. Dunwich 01728 648505

East Anglia Transport Museum

A working museum where the past comes to life. Travel as often as you like on historic vehicles or take a trip on the narrow gauge railway. Chapel Road, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft 01502 518459

East Point Pavilion Visitor CentreA glass, all-weather Edwardian-style structure with a large indoor play platforms called Mayhem. Small souvenir shop, restaurant and tea rooms. Royal Plain, Lowestoft 01502 533600

Easton Farm ParkDelightful working farm where you can learn all about the different animals, including lambs, ponies, Suffolk Punch Horses, piglets, rare breed cows and more. Chick nursery, adventure playground, pedal tractors, go karts, café and gift shop. Easton 01728 746475

Euston HallHome for the Dukes of Grafton for over 300 years and currently lived in by the 11th Duke. The Hall contains, among its many treasures, the famous collection of paintings of the court of Charles II and includes

works by Van Dyck, Lely and Stubbs. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the tranquil gardens, the church and the river walk to the recently restored watermill. Euston, Thetford 01842 766366

Exploring the BroadsGreat fun by cycle or canoe from Outney Meadow Caravan Park. Outney Meadow, Bungay 01986 892338

Eye CastleA Norman motte-and-bailey with medieval walls and a Victorian folly. Eye 01449 724636

Felixstowe Leisure Centre25m pool, fitness suites, activity hall, bowls hall, soft play area and more. Seafront, Felixstowe 01394 670411

Foxearth Leisure and FisheryOffering fishing for novices right through to experienced anglers, with three lakes. Foxearth also offers air rifle shooting and archery. Foxearth, Sudbury 01787 280024

Framlingham Castle

A magnificent example of a late 12th century castle. Built by Roger Bigod, Earl of Norfolk, the castle, together with Framlingham Mere, was designed as a stronghold and as a symbol of power and status - as befitted one of the most influential people at the court of the Plantagenet kings. The castle is notable for its curtain wall with mural towers, an early example of this design. Walk around the impressive wall-walk, explore the mere and admire the fine castle gatehouse. It was here that

attractions.indd 2 18/04/2013 19:13

38

Mary Tudor waited to hear whether she or Lady Jane Grey had been declared Queen after the death of Edward VI. Church St Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9BP. 01728 724189.

Fritton LakeA stretch of water where you can mess about on boats, children can enjoy the playground, forts and mini tractors, there’s nine-hole golf, fishing, pony rides and walks. Fritton, nr Lowestoft 01493 488288

Fultons Clay Pigeon Shooting‘Have-a-go’ taster sessions for beginners comprise safety instruction, gun fit, eye dominance check and include gun loan, cartridges, clays, ear and eye protection. Coaching for the more experienced too. Worlington 07734 735 511

Gainsborough’s HouseGainsborough’s House and garden is the birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest artists, Thomas Gainsborough R.A. (1727-88). The elegant Georgian fronted townhouse and exhibition gallery shows an outstanding collection of his paintings and drawings and presents a changing programme of displays and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Sudbury 01787 372958 www.gainsborough.org

Glemham HallAn elegant, red brick Elizabethan mansion surrounded by 300 acres of parkland situated between Woodbridge and Saxmundham.

Glemham Hall was built circa 1560 by the de Glemham family, who took their name from nearby Great (Magna) and Little (Parva) Glemham. After a varied history, the Cobbold brewing family purchased the house in 1923; it became the home of Captain John Murray Cobbold - founder and first chairman of Ipswich Town Football Club as a professional club - and his wife Lady Blanche, a daughter of the ninth Duke of Devonshire. The 3,000 acre estate now hosts a variety of events including a country fair, open air opera and theatre. Little Glemham, Woodbridge 01728 746704

Go Ape!Extreme tree-top challenge course - an amazing trail of nets, rope bridges, slides and trapezes high up in the trees. Santon Downham, Brandon 0870 420 1279

Greene King BreweryThe visitor centre is full of interesting exhibits and displays about the brewery, plus you can book a tour around the brew house. See how Greene King make their famous beers during your guided tour, have a tutored tasting and learn about Greene King and Bury St Edmunds from 1086 to the present. Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds 01234 714382

Hadleigh GuildhallA medieval timber-framed complex, Grade I listed dating from 15th century. There is a timbered guildroom, an old town hall which has a fine crown-post roof, a

Georgian assembly room and a Victorian ballroom. Small walled garden with medieval features. Market Place, Hadleigh 01473 823884

Heavy Horse MuseumWonderful museum dedicated to the Suffolk working horse breed (or Suffolk Punch), the oldest such breed in the world and possibly the most perfect working animal ever bred by man. Shire Hall, Market Hill, Woodbridge 01394 380643

Helmingham Hall GardensSpectacular Grade 1 listed garden in the grounds of the 500-year-old house, home to the Tollemache family. A moated and walled garden with many rare roses and possibly the best kitchen garden in Britain. With a new rose garden and herb and knot garden created in the early 1980s. Nr Stowmarket 01473 890799

High LodgeSporting and leisure venue set in 100 acres of woodland, offering Clay Target Shooting, a Pay and Play nine-hole golf course, fishing, holiday lodges, shop and much more. Haw Wood, Hinton, nr Darsham 01986 784347

High Lodge Forest CentreHigh Lodge Forest Centre is the Forestry Commission’s premier recreation destination in East Anglia and right at the heart of Thetford Forest, Europe’s largest man-made

Gainsborough’s House

Attractions

attractions.indd 3 18/04/2013 19:14

T: 01842 810090 www.bikeartthetford.co.uk

T: 0845 094 9637 www.goape.co.uk

T: 01842 813949 www.highlodge-catering.co.uk

NEW

trail

0765

HL/

Suffo

lk/M

ar13

©C

row

n co

pyrig

ht

forestry.gov.uk/highlodgeDirections: High Lodge is situated in Thetford Forest on the B1107. Sat Nav: IP27 0AF. Open every day. Discovery Pass available. All cars and minibuses must pay a site entry fee. Additional charges for Go Ape & bike hire. For more info call 01842 815434.

• Play areas for all ages• Walking and cycling trails• Go Ape & Tree Top Junior• BikeArt, bike shop & hire• Cafe & take out• Activity packs

available

A whole day of non-stop family fun & adventure in the forest!

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:53

40

lowland forest. With over 70km of cycle trail, 20km of walks and 50 pieces of equipment in the children’s Play Arena, it is perfect for families. ‘Bike Art’ can hire you a cycle to explore the forest floor or you can live adventurously with ‘Go Ape’; the award-winning highwire adventure in the trees. High Lodge has all the facilities you need, including a gift shop and café that serves food and drink from local suppliers. Big summer music concerts in the forest. Open all year. 01842 815434 www.forestry.gov.uk/highlodge.

The Hollesley Bay Colony Stud

The world’s oldest stud farm breeding the endangered Suffolk Horse, operated by The Suffolk Punch Trust, a registered charity dedicated to the preservation of Suffolk’s unique history. Visit and see this season’s foals, rare large black pigs, red poll cattle and Suffolk sheep. There’s a large vehicle and implement display, a heritage exhibition and cinema as well as a play area, gift shop and coffee shop. Hollesley 01394 411327 www.suffolkpunchtrust.org

Holton Saint Peter PostmillRestored postmill, dating from the mid-18th century, on a two-storey roundhouse. There are displays on its history and workings. Holton St Peter, Halesworth 01986 872367

HoofbeatsTours around Newmarket’s rich equestrian heritage, including The Gallops, equine swimming pool, British Racing School, the National

Stud, jock club rooms and more. Laceys Lane, Exning, Newmarket 01638 578628

Ickworth House, Park and GardensOne of England’s most extraordinary houses. A rotunda begun in 1795, the inspiration of the Earl of Bristol (also Bishop of Derry), housing a major collection of pictures including works by Titian, Gainsborough and Velasquez, fine furniture and Georgian silver. The house is set in a Capability brown park and surrounded by an Italianate garden with a range of marked woodland walks, an adventure playground and picnic area. There’s a vineyard (producing Ickworth wine) and plant centre, plus regular events. Horringer, nr Bury St Edmunds 01284 735270

Ipswich Blue Badge GuidesWalking tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May to September. Discover the town’s history and heritage. Also, Ipswich Ghost Tours on the first Thursday of the month. Ipswich Tourist Information Centre 01473 258070 www.visit-ipswich.com

Ipswich MuseumThe museum and gallery has displays of Roman Suffolk wildlife, Suffolk and world geology, the Ogilvie bird gallery, People of the World and much more. High Street, Ipswich 01473 433550

Ipswich Town Football ClubChampionship club steeped in history. Stadium tours available. Portman Road, Ipswich 0870 111 0 555

Ipswich WitchesTop speedway racing every Thursday night. Foxhall Stadium, Ipswich 01473 623640

Jimmy’s FarmAs seen on television, Jimmy’s Farm is the home of the rare breed Essex Pig. It is a working farm and is open

for visitors seven days a week. There is plenty to do at the farm for a great family day out, including a nature trail, woodland walk, beautiful gardens, farm shop, adventure play area and field kitchen. You can buy the home reared free range pig produce, beef and lamb in the butchers as well as an abundance of herbs and veggies from the garden. Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich 0844 4938088 www.jimmysfarm.com

Kentwell Hall and GardensMoated redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. Over 150 years ago it was written that “visitors emerging from the avenue on a summery evening cannot withhold admiration when they see the manifold beauties of Kentwell Hall”. This remains true today. The exterior is almost unaltered, whilst the interior retains the original Tudor service areas. Elsewhere, alterations reflect the changing tastes of successive families, embellished by that of the present owners. Renowned for its incredible recreations of everyday Tudor life and of WWII daily life, along with other events such as Scaresville at Halloween. The present owners’ efforts, since 1979, to restore the house and recover and extend the once noted gardens, add to any visit’s enjoyment. Long Melford 01787 310207. www.kentwell.co.uk

Lackford LakesThis nature reserve has year round importance for birds, dragonflies and other wildlife. The visitor centre offers stunning views across the reserve and is an ideal place to start your visit. Lackford, 01284 728706

attractions.indd 4 18/04/2013 21:40

41

Lady Florence River CruisesFor a different fine dining experience, cruise the calms waters of the river Alde and Ore while enjoying a freshly prepared meal (image left). Orford Quay, Orford 07831 698298

Lavenham Guildhall of Corpus ChristiOne of the finest timber-framed Tudor buildings in Britain, with tea room, shop and children’s guide. Market Place, Lavenham 01787 247646

Leiston AbbeyOne of Suffolk’s most impressive monastic ruins of a 14th century abbey with a 16th century brick gatehouse. Leiston 01223 582700

Long Shop MuseumDiscover Leiston’s unique history and visit the home of the Garrett collection. An award-winning museum housed in the original Garrett works buildings including the Grade II listed Long Shop built in 1852 as the first production line for portable steam engines. Four exhibition halls, resource centre, picnic garden and gift shop. Main Street, Leiston 01728 832189

Lowestoft Family BowlIndoor bowling, nine-hole mini-golf. Capital Estate, Rant Score, Whapload Road, Lowestoft 01502 519200

The Malthouse Project Restored old maltings, which dates back to the 17th Century. Elsey’s Yard, Risbygate Street, Bury St Edmunds 01284 732550

Mannings Amusement ParkOriginally opened in 1933 by Sir Billy Butlin this fun park has been run by the Manning family since 1946. Traditional fairground rides and amusement arcades. Seafront, Felixstowe 01394 282370

Mechanical Music Museum and Bygones

Small music boxes, polyphons and organettes, larger street pianos and player organs, large fair organs, dance band and cafe organs plus a number of unusual items and the Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ. The interior roof is adorned with hundreds of old records and horned gramophones. Blacksmith Road, Cotton 01449 613876

Melford HallRomantic Tudor mansion, home of the Hyde-Parker family. New interpretations, craft displays, special events. Long Melford 01787 379228

Mid Suffolk Light Railway MuseumThe MSLR, known affectionately as ‘The Middy’ was a classic case of a railway built late in the great railway age that never paid its way - indeed, it effectively went broke before it opened, but still struggled on for 50 years. This example of quirky English history is remembered in Suffolk’s only railway museum. Brockford Station, Wetheringsett 01449 766899Mildenhall Greyhound RacingEvening racing with up to four races per hour, every Tues and Friday. Mildenhall Stadium, West Row, Mildenhall 01638 711777

Mr G’s Bowling CentreEight-lane complex with stylish 200 seating capacity bar and restaurant in the centre of Brandon. Market Hill, Brandon 01842 813111

Moo Play FarmIndoor play barn and outdoor

adventure play farm for ages up to 12. Tractor rides, nature hunt, picnic area and farm pets. Locks Road, Brampton, Beccles 01502 575841

Moyse’s Hall MuseumHoused in the oldest domestic building open to the public in East Anglia, Moyse’s Hall dates back over 800 years. Many striking architectural features can be seen in the building. A museum for 100 years, it houses local history collections relating to the town, Abbey and St Edmund. They also include William Corder’s scalp from Murder in the Red Barn relics as well as many other curios from the local area. Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds 01284 706183

Museum of East Anglian LifeOpen-air museum in 75 acres of beautiful countryside. Here you can explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside nature trails, learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture and discover fifteen splendidly restored historic buildings. Plus steam engines, animals, including Suffolk Punch horses, and more. Stowmarket 01449 612229

The National Horseracing Museum

The story of the people and horses involved in racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettori and other modern heroes. Highlights include: the head of Persimmon, a great Royal Derby winner; a display about Fred Archer, the Victorian jockey who committed suicide, which features the pistol he used; and the colourful jackets of ‘Prince Monolulu’, the 1950’s

Attractions

attractions.indd 5 18/04/2013 19:15

42

Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with

Orwell River Cruises

The River Orwell has been offi cially voted the 2nd most beautiful river in the country behind only the River Dart.

Orwell Lady provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty, the sights and the extensive history of our

magnifi cent river and harbour, together with close up views of the huge ships at Port of Felixstowe, beginning and

ending her trips at Ipswich Waterfront.

Daytime public cruises • Theme night evening cruisesFull English Afternoon Tea cruises • Private Charters

Coach Parties Welcome

Orwell River Cruises Ltd Public Cruises tel: 01473 258070

All other enquiries: 07734 875887 E: [email protected]

www.orwellrivercruises.com

Pannington Hall Lane, Wherstead, Suffolk IP9 2AR

www.jimmysfarm.com 01473 604206

Visit the farm animals on our Nature Trail & Explore the Butterfly House

Share the Good Life at Jimmy’s Farm...

BUILD dens and EXPLORE in the Woods, RELAX in the beautiful Gardens & EAT delicious food in our Barn

Restaurant. SHOP in our Farm Shop & Butchery, Joules Clothing Store & Garden Shop

p42.indd 12 18/04/2013 17:01

43

tipster. High Street, Newmarket 01638 667333

The National StudThe only thoroughbred horse stud in Britain open to the general public. Take a tour around the 500-acre site, see stallions, 200 mares, and foals. Newmarket 01638 666789

Newmarket RacecoursesOne of the world’s greatest racetracks, steeped in history and offering top racing and an unbeatable experience on both its Rowley Mile and July Racecourses. Cambridge Road, Newmarket 01638 675500

Newmarket ToursPalace House can arrange hour-long tours of historic Newmarket, explaining in depth its associations with Royalty and the Sport of Kings. Tourist Information Centre, Palace Street, Newmarket 01638 667200

Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation MuseumThis fascinating heritage centre has over 60 aircraft, military and civil, dating from 1918 to the present, plus 25,000 smaller exhibits displayed in two hangars and nine themed buildings. Flixton, Bungay 01986 896644

Nowton Park200 acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside landscaped over 100 years ago in typical Victorian style. Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds 01284 763666

Oasis Camel CentreFarm Park that specialises in camels, llamas, alpacas, plus a pets corner, play areas, crazy golf, bouncy castle, walks and gift shop. Orchard Farm, Cratfield Road, Linstead, Halesworth 07836 896644

Orford CastleThe unique polygonal tower keep of

Orford Castle stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here in the 1160s. His aim was to counterbalance the power of turbulent East Anglian barons like Hugh Bigod of Framlingham, and to guard the coast against foreign mercenaries called to their aid. An 18-sided drum with three square turrets, and a forebuilding reinforcing its entrance, the keep was built to a highly innovative design. Orford 01394 450472

Orwell River CruisesEnjoy the sights and scenes of the beautiful River Orwell from the comfort and tranquillity of the Orwell Lady – a custom-built river cruiser Sailing from Ipswich Wet Dock to Harwich Harbour, our cruises pass under the Orwell Bridge, take in the beautiful wooded stretches of the river, the Stour estuary, historic Harwich and offer a chance to see the UK’s largest container port at Felixstowe. Orwell Quay, Ipswich Wet Dock www.orwellrivercruises.com 07734 875887

Pakenham Water MillSuffolk’s last working water mill, producing traditional stone ground flour. Beautiful setting with garden by the millpond, guided tours, tea room, shop and special events. Pakenham 01284 724075

Pleasurewood Hills

Award-winning amusement park with over 40 amazing rides, including the new Jolly Roger ride (plunge from 0-60mph in 0.8 seconds), the thrilling 120ft, 50mph Wipeout, Enigma roller

coaster and awesome spinning Wizzy Dizzy. Plus lots of family rides and entertainment, including wonderful shows with Sea lions, parrots, acrobats and clowns. Leisure Way, Corton, Lowestoft 01502 586000

River Stour TrustBoat trips from Sudbury to Great Henny and vice versa on Edwardian style electric launch with a traditional canopy or a pontoon-style boat. Take in lunch at the delightful Henny Swan. The Granary, Quay Lane, Sudbury 01787 313199

RSPB Havergate IslandThe island is famous for its breeding avocets and terns, which can be seen throughout the spring and summer. The boat trip to the island (at 10 a.m.) adds to the interest of your day out, and helps you really feel you’re getting away from it all. Prior booking essential. Orford Quay 01394 450732

RSPB Lakenheath FenA wetland area filled with life: marsh harriers, hobbies, bearded tits and warblers. Lakenheath 01842 863400

RSPB MinsmereMinsmere is a perfect place to discover nature. The two circular walks bring you close to a wide variety of wildlife, whatever the season. Seven birdwatching hides offer shelter, with excellent views across Minsmere’s wetlands. Open daily, except 25 and 26 December, from dawn to dusk. Visitor Centre open 9 am - 5 pm (closed 4 pm November - January). Westleton, Saxmundham 01728 648281. www.rspb.org.uk/minsmere

RSPB North Warren Nature Reserve Stroll across the heathland to hear Dartford warblers and woodlarks, while bitterns and marsh harriers can be seen in the reedbeds. The wet grassland supports breeding waders and wintering wildfowl, including

Attractions

attractions.indd 6 18/04/2013 19:16

some of the UK’s only regular tundra bean geese. Aldeburgh 01728 648281

RSPB Wolves WoodOne of the few remaining areas of an ancient woodland that used to cover much of East Anglia. Hadleigh 01473 328006

St Edmundsbury CathedralThere has been a church on the site of Suffolk’s Cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. Once part of the great Abbey of St Edmund, St James’ Church served the people of the town. The nave of today’s church, started in 1503, is the successor of that church. Though little remains of the Benedictine Abbey, following the Dissolution in 1539, St James’ Church has continued to grow over the centuries. In 1914 St James’ became the Cathedral church of the Diocese of Saint Edmundsbury and Ipswich. The last 40 years have seen several additions to the church and its associated buildings, culminating in the recent Millennium Project. The striking Millennium Tower, completed in 2005, is now the crowning glory of St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds 01284 754933

Sandlings ForestsThe Sandlings covers woods in Rendlesham, Tangham and Dunwich.

Rendlesham forest is the main area for recreation and there are various picnic sites and recreation areas. There are three circular walks including disabled trails and forest cycle trails and an adventure playground. Nr Woodbridge 01394 450164

Saxtead Green PostmillThis corn mill was one of many built in Suffolk from the late 13th century. Though milling ceased in 1947, it is still in working order. Climb the stairs to various floors, which are full of fascinating mill machinery. Saxtead Green 01728 685789Somerleyton Hall and GardensHome of the Crossley family since 1844, the Hall was remodelled from an original Jacobean Manor. 12 acres of beautiful gardens with famous 1846 Yew Tree Maze. Guided tours of the hall, garden trail, Walled Garden and special events. Somerleyton, Lowestoft 0871 222 4244

South Pier Leisure ComplexTen-pin bowling, amusement arcades, luxury casino and more. Royal Plain, Lowestoft 01502 512793

Southwold LighthouseEnjoy a tour of this marvellous

operational landmark, first lit in 1889. Stradbroke Road 01502 722576

Southwold Maize MazeA giant puzzle of pathways within eight acres of maize; a real brain-teaser that will test your navigational skills to the limit. Every year there’s a new design. Plus play and picnic area. Old Hall Farm, Reydon 01379 586746

Southwold PierFollowing extensive renovation Southwold Pier is now one of the finest examples of a Pier to be found in the British isles. From traditional fish and chips in the Promenade Café to mouthwatering menus in the Boardwalk and The Clockhouse. Plus gift shop, children’s shop and lifestyle store, amusements and more. The pier receives visits from Britain’s only surviving sea-going steam passenger ship, the PS Waverley paddle steamer and its sister ship the MV Balmoral. North Parade, Southwold 01502 722105

Suffolk Moto ParkThe home of Suffolk’s off-road driving experience, the Moto Park offers the thrill of rough terrain driving. There are 4x4s, with both Land and Range Rovers protected by safety roll cages; Quad Riding, with 250cc Polaris Trail Blazer quads, and 290cc off road Dirt Karts. Instruction and safety equipment provided for all. Clay Pigeon shotting also available. Red House Farm, Bucklesham, Ipswich 01473 659222

Suffolk Owl SanctuaryA delightful place to visit to watch, study or simply enjoy the company of Owls and other birds of prey. There are over 60 raptors at the centre, all housed in spacious aviaries and flying free in narrated flying displays or demonstrations. You will also find Red Squirrels, the Raptor Hospital, an information centre about Owls, a woodland walk with bird hide, picnic

44

attractions.indd 7 18/04/2013 19:17

45

areas and plenty of activities for children including a mini-maze and adventure frame, plus the famous Owl Barn Gift Shop. Stonham Barns, Stonham Aspal 01449 711425

Sutton Hoo (right)One of Britain’s most important and atmospheric archaeological sites, burial ground of the Anglo-Saxon kings of East Anglia, discovered during 1939 excavations, completed in 1991. Priceless royal treasures were discovered in a huge ship grave. An exhibition hall tells the compelling story of early English history, and you can also enjoy sandlings heathland and woodland walks. Nr Woodbridge 01394 389700

Thornham WalksTwelve miles of footpaths through the woodland, farmland and parkland of the Thornham Estate. Red House Yard, Thornham Magna, Eye 01379 788345

The Thornham Walled GardenRestored Victorian glasshouses in the idyllic setting of a two-acre walled garden with fruit trees, wide perennial borders, collection of East Anglian geraniums and fern house. 01379 788700

Thorpeness WindmillThis working mill dates from 1803 and is a visitor centre for Suffolk coast and heaths area of outstanding natural beauty. Uplands Road, Thorpeness 01728 687110

Valley Farm Camargue HorsesA working farm and a diverse, multi award-winning equestrian leisure centre. Attractions include an animal collection, featuring Britain’s only herd of Camargue horses from the south of France, and their foals, as well as Camelot the Camel, Muffin the Mule and other animal friends, as featured many times on television. Wickham Market,

Woodbridge 01728 746916

Waveney River CentreA range of vessels available for hire from rowing boats and canoes to luxury day cruisers. Burgh St Peter, Beccles 01502 677343

Waveney River ToursRiver trips from Oulton Broad to a number of destinations along the southern Broads. Mutford Lock, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft 01502 574903

West Stow Anglo-Saxon VillageUnique reconstructed Anglo-Saxon village built on an original settlement site, giving visitors the opportunity to touch and experience Anglo-Saxon houses as we imagine them to have been 1,500 years ago. Visitors can also see the archaeological objects excavated from the site on display in a specially built centre. West Stow, nr Bury St Edmunds 01284 728718

West Stow Country Park125-acre country park with a wide range of Breckland habitats - heath, woodland, river and a lake. There are nature trails, walks, bird hides and a bird feeding/viewing area, visitor centre, café, shop, picnic areas and

adventure playground. Icklingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds 01284 728718

Wildtracks Off Road Activity ParkPurpose-built offroad activity park dedicated to a range of fun outdoor events for the public and corporate entertainment market. Offroad driving course and play areas; 4x4s and tuition; Military vehicle driving range; 10m wide, 700m tarmac karting circuit and high performance karts; Purpose-built tracks for motocross, supermoto, quad bikes and rally karts; Clay and laser target shooting, laser combat, archery and fly casting; Hovercrafts and more. Chippenham Road, Kennett, Newmarket 01638 751918

Woodbridge Tide MillBy the early 1950s Woodbridge was home to the only surviving tidal mill in the country. It is now fully restored and working. Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge 01394 385295. www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk

Woodbridge MuseumLocal history museum. Market Hill, Woodbridge 01394 385572

Attractions

attractions.indd 8 18/04/2013 19:18

46

SHOPPING

Arc Bury St EdmundsThis fabulous centre is the new heart of shopping in Bury St Edmunds with a great array of fashionable retailers - 35 smart new shops and restaurants, topped off by the breathtaking new curved Debenhams flagship store. Prospect Row, Bury St Edmunds 01284 763124

Bridge Farm BarnsLocated in Monks Eleigh, one of Suffolk’s prettiest villages, Bridge Farm Barns is a collection of unique, independent retail businesses and a tea room, each offering a good selection of dis-tinctive products. Monks Eleigh 01449 740456

ButtermarketA centre situated in the retail core of Ipswich and featuring many familiar high street names such as Internacionale, Hallmark, Pilot, Model Zone, Boots, Hawkins Bazaar and TK Maxx. St Stephen’s Lane, Ipswich 01473 281879

The GuineasRetailers offering brands at afford-able prices. Stores include Argos, Select, Claire’s, Poundland, The Black Cat, Newmarket Sports and more. Newmarket 01638 665809

Snape Maltings (right)A unique collection of quality shops and galleries in converted granaries and malt house buildings by the River Alde. There’s a large house and gar-den shop, a food hall, Samphire ladies and men’s fashion, Little Rascals sell-ing toys and books for children; crafts, gifts and ceramics at The Shop on the Quay; a large antiques centre and two art galleries. Snape, nr Aldeburgh 01728 688303

Stonham BarnsA leisure, shopping and rural pursuits complex with specialist craft, antique, home furnishing and interiors shops

Shopping & Entertainment

and a restaurant. Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket 01449 711755

Tower RampartsUndercover mall with a selection of shops set over two levels. Stores include jewellers Warren James and Ernest Jones, The Perfume Shop, Boots, fashion shops Quiz, Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge and Topshop, plus Rymans, Paperbox, Innovations, Virgin Media, Supercuts, Shoecare, Sky and Sketches Restaurant. Tavern Street, Ipswich 01473 226386

ENTERTAINMENT

Aldeburgh CinemaDelightful independent cinema. The auditorium dates back to around 1920, and today it has 286 seats and all the latest technology. 51 High Street 01728 452996

The ApexBury St Edmunds’ state-of-the-art music and entertainment venue presents a wide variety of events throughout the year. Live music ranges from jazz to classical and from folk to rock. Regular events include Fat Cat Comedy Club on the second

Snape Maltings ... The Art of Suffolk Shopping

attractions.indd 9 18/04/2013 19:20

47

Sunday of every month and a range of dance events. The venue also plays host to the Bury St Edmunds Festival, a plethora of music with over 20 events in May. The stunning auditorium is acoustically designed for perfect sound and the white oak gal-leries give a contemporary feel. There are studios for workshops, including popular dance classes. The contem-porary art gallery and coffee bar is open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm for visitors to relax in beautiful surroundings. All artwork is based on the theme of music and exhibitions change on a regular basis. Bury St Edmunds 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

CineworldCardinal Park, Grafton Way, Ipswich 0871 2002000

Electric Picture PalaceOwned and run by Southwold Film Society this delightful small cinema was opened in 1991 by Michael Palin. It is named after the first Southwold cinema which began to operate in 1912 and follows the style of this per-iod. It has 66 authentic cinema seats, a box office, kiosk, circle, organ and air-conditioning. Southwold 07815 769565

Fisher TheatreGeorgian building that started life as a theatre but spent most of its life serv-ing other purposes until 2001 when it reopened as a centre for shows, arts and film. Broad Street, Bungay 01986 897130

Haverhill Arts CentreOriginally the Town Hall, this 210-seat auditorium hosts music, theatre, arts events, and films. High Street, Haverhill 01440 714140

Hollywood CinemaAnglia Square, Ipswich 01473 232666; 41 London Road South, Lowestoft 01502 564567; Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds 01284 762586

Leiston Film TheatreSuffolk’s oldest purpose built cinema, first opened in 1914. The original picture house had a capacity for 700 people; it had a small stage and a pit for the then ubiquitous organ. After a refurbishment in 2001, it is more than fit for the 21st Century. High Street 01728 830549

Marina TheatreThis superb theatre dates back to 1897 and today hosts a range of top flight shows. Lowestoft 01502 533200

New Cut Arts CentreCommunity arts centre hosting a range of theatre and music produc-tions, plus film screenings. New Cut, Halesworth 0845 6732123

New Wolsey TheatreA 400-seat theatre with a varied programme of drama, music, comedy, poetry, dance and children’s shows. Civic Drive, Ipswich 01473 295900

Palace CinemaFabulous independent cinema dating back to 1937 and offering blockbust-er movies and a real retro cinema experience. Crescent Road, Felixstowe 01394 671330

Quay TheatreSmall, charming theatre by the Stour offering a wide range of shows and films. Quay Lane, Sudbury 01787 374745

Regent Theatre and Corn ExchangeThe Regent is East Anglia’s largest theatre, and the Corn Exchange has an impressive Grand Hall. They fea-ture top West End shows, international music, comedy and high quality ama-teur productions. Ipswich 01473 433100

Riverside TheatreFilms, occasional stage shows and restaurant. Quayside, Woodbridge 01394 382174

The SeagullAn important performing arts venue, reopened in 2009, offering a diverse range of shows, classes and work-shops. Morton Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft 01502 589726

Seckford TheatreNew 350-seat theatre situated in the beautiful grounds of the four centuries old Woodbridge School. Woodbridge 01394 615111

Snape Maltings Concert HallSince the first Aldeburgh Festival in 1948, the Suffolk Coast has become a world renowned meeting place for artists and audiences alike. Inspired by the legacy of its founder Benjamin Britten, Aldeburgh Music has evolved into a year round programme of art-istic endeavour, much taking place at this stunning auditorium. Home also to the Snape Proms and a host of com-munity concerts and performances. Snape, nr Aldeburgh 01728 687100

Spa PavilionLocated on Felixstowe’s picturesque seafront, this excellent 892 seat theatre has an adjoining restaurant with wonderful panoramic sea view. Undercliff Road West, Felixstowe 01394 282126

Theatre RoyalBuilt in 1819 and designed by the eminent architect William Wilkins, this is the country’s sole surviving example of a Regency playhouse. One of only eight Grade 1 listed theatres in the country, it is, in terms of both its architecture and history, one of the most significant theatre buildings in the UK. You can enjoy a wide range of entertainments. Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds 01284 769505

Shopping & Entertainment

attractions.indd 10 18/04/2013 19:21

48

Opening Times 2013: 23rd March – 2nd NovemberOpen 10-5 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat; 11-5 Sunday

Open Wednesday 10-5 during School holidaysAdmission £5 adults, £4.50 concessions, £2.50 children, £12 family

To find out more including this season’s events and activities, see our website –

www.longshopmuseum.co.uk or phone 01728 832189

Visit Leiston’s uniqueLong Shop Museum

The 1852 Long Shop - one of the world’s first assembly-line buildings Lots to do for all the family

Discover the 200 year story of Garretts of Leiston – makers of sickles, steam engines,

threshing machines and trolley-buses

Jerwood DanceHouse, IpswichBringing world class dance

to the East of England for the past 30 years

01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

PerformancesDance Classes

WorkshopsArtist Development

DanceEast Academy

Jerwood DanceHouse, Foundry Lane, Ipswich, IP4 1DW

Visit us at: www.clactonfactoryoutlet.com

OPENING TIMESMonday to Saturday 10am - 6pmSunday 11am - 5pm Bank Holidays 10am - 5pm

Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea Essex CO15 4TL T: 01255 479595

• Free parking

• Regular events

• Adventure Play Area

• Fully pedestrianised malls

• Premier Card scheme giving further discounts and offers

Welcome to

WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF SHOPS AND CAFÉSWITH A WIDE VARIETY OF SHOPS AND CAFÉS

Monday to Saturday 10am - 6pmSunday 11am - 5pm Bank Holidays 10am - 5pmAdventure Play Area

Fully pedestrianised malls

OPENING TIMES

WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF SHOPS AND CAFÉS

Regular events

Adventure Play Area

Fully pedestrianised malls

Premier Card scheme giving further discounts and offers

OPENING TIMESMonday to Saturday 10am - 6pm

Adventure Play Area

Fully pedestrianised malls

WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF SHOPS AND CAFÉS

p48.indd 12 18/04/2013 10:07

Suffolk’s scenery has inspired generations of artists and continues to do so today. Art lovers will find many contemporary landscapes and seascapes in galleries throughout the county.

Just a few places to find great art and crafts…

Aldeburgh Gallery143 High Street, Aldeburgh01728 453203Angel Gallery17 Market Place, Lavenham01787 248417 the apexCharter Square, Bury St Edmunds01284 758000Art Garden GalleryHigh Street, Yoxford 01728 668163Beyond the Image GalleryRed House Yard, Thornham Magna 01379 678230Blackthorpe BarnsRougham, Bury St Edmunds 01359 270091Bookends of SudburyGaol Lane 01787 881232

Buckenham Galleries81 High Street, Southwold 01502 725418Cork Brick Gallery6 Earsham Street, Bungay01986 894873CraftcoHigh Street, Southwold01502 723211The Crooked House Gallery7 High St, Lavenham 01787 247865Eyestorm Gallery27-29 St Nicholas Street, Ipswich, 01473 222197Ferini Art GalleryAll Saints Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft 01502 5622221st Floor Gallery1 Lower Downs Slade, Haverhill 01440 762444Halesworth GallerySteeple’s End, Halesworth01986 872409Hunter GalleryCoconut House, Long

Melford 01787 466117Imagine GalleryHall Street, Long Melford, 01787 378786Jessica Muir GalleryHall Street, Long Melford 01787 310400John Russell Gallery4 - 6 Wherry Lane, Ipswich 01473 212051Kersey PotteryThe Street, Kersey 01473 822092Kesgrave Arts83 Main Rd, Kesgrave 01473 333553Lavenham Contemporary Gallery Hall Street, Lavenham 01787 249451Lime Tree Gallery Hall Street, Long Melford 01787 319046Reunion Gallery36 Gainsborough Road,

Felixstowe 01394 272266Sea Pictures Gallery Well Lane, Clare 01787 279024Serena Hall Gallery16 Queen St, Southwold01502 723887Smiths RowThe Market Cross, Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds 01284 762081Snape MaltingsSnape, nr Aldeburgh 01728 688303 Soule PotteryStonham Barns, Stonham Aspal01449 711000Southwold GalleryHigh Street, Southwold01502 723888Spiral GalleryHigh St, Debenham01728 861699Thompson’s Gallery 175 High St, Aldeburgh01728 453743The Town Hall GalleriesCornhill, Ipswich 01473 432863The Upstairs GalleryExchange Square, Beccles 01502 717191The Wildlife Art GalleryHigh Street, Lavenham 01787 248562Wildwood GalleryChurchgate St, Bury St Edmunds 01284 752938Wingfield BarnsChurch Rd, Wingfield 01379 384505

Scallop, Suffolk-born artist Maggi Hambling’s striking tribute to Britten and his music, is a four-metre-high steel sculpture made by Aldeburgh craftsmen, Sam and Dennis Pegg. Standing on the beach at Aldeburgh, the work had a mixed reception when it was unveiled in 2003. The phrase “I hear those voices that will not be drowned” (from Peter Grimes) is pierced through the steel, to be read against the sky.

Art & Crafts

49

arts 1.indd 56 18/04/2013 14:43

Adnams

The brewer of distinctly nautical ales including Broadside and Explorer, along with a range of seasonal brews. The empire also includes an estate of over 70 pubs and two hotels in its home port of Southwold. 01502 727200 www.adnams.co.uk

Alder Carr Farm ShopAlder Carr farm raise their own Highland cattle for beef, and produce a delicious range of fruit ice-creams. Their farm shop and delicatessen sells produce that includes home-baked pies, meats, herb plants, free-range eggs, goat’s cheese, European chees-es, Jersey cream and local wines and beers. The pick your own farm offers a great range of fruit and veg, there’s also a yard restaurant and crafts cen-tre. Creeting St Mary 01449 720820

In Suffolk there’s no shortage of places to find delicious home grown, locally produced food

Food & Drink

50

Aspall CyderEight generations of the Chevalier family in Debenham have produced Aspall Suffolk Cyder. All apples pressed for the cyder are from the local area. 01728 860510 www.aspall.co.uk

Assington Farm ShopWillow Tree Farm at Assington sells own-produced honey, freshly pressed fruit juices and bacon alongside a wide range of own grown fruit and veg. The shop also sells local pork sausages, bread, free-range eggs and cakes. Specialities include homegrown fruits, Jersey cream and honeycomb ice-cream. And there’s also plenty of choice at their pick your own farm, which is open throughout the summer. Willow Tree Farm, Assington, Sudbury 01787 211610

BartramsA micro-brewery run by Marc Bartram since 1999 that has won a host of sought-after awards, including one for the label of Comrade Bill Bartrams Egalitarian Anti Imperialist Soviet Stout. Bury St Edmunds 01449 737655 www.bartramsbrewery.co.uk

BrandonBuilt in an old dairy in 2005 which forms part of a hotel and restaurant complex offering tea-rooms and hire boats. Among the range of beers is Gunflint, which commemorates the role of the local flint in winning the Battle of Waterloo. Brandon www.bran-donbrewery.co.uk

Butley Orford OysterageA unique experience where you can enjoy fish as fresh as it comes - owner Bill Pinney will have been at sea catching it himself. Perfect fresh fish and seafood, oysters from Pinney’s own beds, a large range of fish from their own smokehouse, all available in the shop or restaurant. Market Hill, Orford 01394 450277

The Chilli CompanyStarted in 2001, The Chilli Company has grown over the years and in 2006 opened the Chilli Farm. Based in a 400 year old converted barn which houses the shop and licensed coffee shop, with the nursery open to the public during the summer, they grow and sell over 50 varieties

Aspall cider

food & drink.indd 1 19/04/2013 09:14

51

of chilli plants, using them to make a range of homemade chilli including chilli scones, chilli sausage rolls and chilli brownies and they have recently developed their own chilli ice cream. Mendlesham 01449 766 677 www.chillicompany.com

Earl SohamA brewery based in an old chick-en shed behind the Victoria pub since 1985 before being reopened in 2001 after a refit. Its beers - which include Victoria Bitter, Albert Ale, Gannet Mild, Empress India and Porter - are now avail-able in over 25 pubs in the region. 01728 684097 www.earlsohambrewery.co.uk

Emmets of PeasenhallMark Thomas is widely recognised as producing the finest hams in south-east England, using locally-reared, free-range Suffolk pork and curing and smoking on the premises at his delightful well-stocked shop that has a Royal Warrant. Vintage Velvet hams are cured with port, others with cider. Peasenhall, Saxmundham, 01728 660250

Farmcafe and FoodmarketAn oasis on the A12 offering locally produced food in both the café and shop. A12, Marlesford, Woodbridge 01728 747717 www.farmcafe.co.uk

Friday Street Farm ShopLocally produced organic veg and chocolate are sold beside a wide range

of home-grown seasonal vegetables. A good selection of organic meat includes beef, chicken, pork and lamb. Farnham, nr Saxmundham01728 602783

Goslings Farm ShopThis well stocked general farm store offers plenty of home grown and local fruit and vegetables, meats and poult-ry, cakes, bread and preserves and a range of gluten free and vegetarian foods. They sell own-grown Maris Bard, Stemster and Saxon potatoes throughout the year and offer a wide range of pick-your-own soft fruit and veg. To add to your visit there’s a coffee shop serving homemade dishes and cakes, and a packed plant centre. Longford House, Trimley St Mary, Felixstowe 01394 273361

Grange Farm ShopSeasonal apples are a speciality here, sold beside home-grown pears, plums, blackcurrants and more. The shop also offers a range of locally sourced products including seasonal veg, groceries, meat, cakes, juices and ice cream. Grundisburgh Road, Hasketon, Woodbridge 01473 735610

Green JackA three-man team producing beer inside the Triangle Tavern who produced a brew called Ripper which was voted the best winter beer in the UK. All its beers are known for their hoppy character thanks to a blend of local and

new world hops. Lowestoft 01502 582711 www.green-jack.co.uk

Greene KingA pub owner and brewer based in Bury St Edmunds for over 200 years, Greene King is responsible for iconic beers including Abbot, Old Speckled Hen, Ruddles County and its eponymous IPA. Bury St Edmunds 01284 763222 www.greeneking.co.uk

Hadleigh Maid ChocolatesBeautifully packaged chocolates care-fully hand-made by a team of choco-late fanatics in the picturesque town of Hadleigh. George Street, Hadleigh 0845 330 6384www.hadleighmaid.com

High House Fruit FarmFruit growers for more than 40 years with a shop that’s open daily selling fresh fruit, juices and preserves. Or pick your own! Sudbourne, Woodbridge www.high-house.co.uk

Hollow Trees Farm ShopThis Les Routier accredited farm shop has been established for 20 years. You’ll find local meats - including kid meat from their own-reared goats, and home-reared beef, pork and lamb - locally baked breads and carrot cakes, home grown vegetables, hay for pets, locally smoked fish and fine cheeses, local ales and ciders, fresh pressed juices and smoothies, and home grown cut flowers and plants.

Food & Drink

food & drink.indd 2 18/04/2013 21:46

There’s also a farm trail that takes you through the fields and livestock sheds, and a café. Semer, nr Hadleigh. 01449 741247 www.hollowtrees.co.uk

James White

A range of bottled fruit juices produced just eight miles north of Ipswich and available to buy regionwide. www.jameswhite.co.uk

Jimmy’s FarmAs seen on TV, Jimmy Doherty’s place is a working farm which makes for a geat family day out with trails, and play areas. In the farm shop you can buy all of their home reared free range pig produce, beef and lamb in our butchers as well as an abundance of herbs and veggies from the garden. Pannington Hall Lane, Wherstead 08444 938088

MarybelleA family run business, located in the heart of Suffolk’s beautiful countryside, making a fabulous range of dairy prod-ucts for East Anglia. All of their milk is sourced from local family farms. Their products include milk, yoghurt, cream, creme fraiche, and the popular Suffolk Meadow range of ice creams. Walpole, Halesworth 01986 784658 www.marybelle.co.uk

MauldonsA micro-brewery set up in 1981 by Peter Mauldon, re-establishing a family business dating back to the 18th century. Though it has since been purchased by an outsider it con-tinues to produce the old favourites, including award-winning Black Adder. Sudbury 01787 311055 www.maul-dons.co.uk

Musk’sIt’s not just horses Newmarket is famous for. The recipe for these saus-ages is a closely guarded secret and unchanged since the days of Queen Victoria. Today, the company still sup-plies sausages to the Queen. 01638 662626

Newbourne Farm ShopFamily run farm shop selling home grown fruit and vegetables and locally sourced, Suffolk food. 01473 836996 www.suffolkcheese.co.uk

Paddy and Scott’sIndependent coffee brand based in Earl Soham producing gourmet trad-itional hand-roasted coffee. www.paddyandscotts.co.uk

Palmers BakeriesThe oldest traditional family bakers and confectioners in Suffolk. Established in 1869, the Palmer Family use only traditional ingredients and methods. Shops located in Haughley, Stowmarket, Woolpit, Stanton, Claydon, Meredith and Norwich Road in Ipswich. 01449 673286

PowtersSince 1881, Powters has built a reputation for its ‘Newmarket Sausage’. Prime cuts of East Anglian pork, freshly boned by hand and mixed with their secret blend of herbs and spices gives this a unique and distinctive flavour. Wellington Street, Newmarket 01638 662418 www.powters.co.uk

Red Rat Craft Brewery

52

A brewery whose success allowed it to multiply its output by 20 times in a year to 10,000 pints a week. Among its favourites is the highly-regarded Crazy Dog Stout (named after the owner’s own dog) which is a great accompaniment to dark meat and game. Troston 01359 269742

Rookery Farm ShopLocally produced Double Fudge Delight ice cream is one of a number of spe-cialities. The shop also sells Sutton Hoo chicken, local lamb, smoked fish, honey and seasonal veg such as purple sprouting broccoli and butternut squash. Tattingstone, Ipswich 01473 327220

St PetersA brewery relying on Anglian malts and water drawn up from the chalky ground within its perimeter. It supple-ments a range of traditional beers with seasonal treats such as honey porter and fruit beer, as well as a gluten free variety. Bungay 01986 78232 www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk

Shawsgate VineyardOne of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards producing a range of white, red and rosé wines. Wander around the vineyard, visit the shop, or take a

food & drink.indd 3 18/04/2013 21:46

53

tour. Badingham Road, Framlingham 01728 724060

Stark Naked FoodsThe home of fresh pesto. The Starke

family have been growing herbs for

over 100 years. They are the largest

parsley growers in Europe, and the

biggest herb producers in the UK.

Stark Naked started in 2000 creat-

ing pure pestos. The Company was

formed by Victoria Starke in response

to a growing demand for fresh pestos

that are 100% natural, pure and totally

yummy. Chestnuts Farm, Eye www.starknakedfoods.co.uk

Suffolk Farmhouse CheesesAll cheeses are made from Jason and

Elisabeth Salisbury’s Guernsey cows

on their farm in Cottenham. 01473 836996 www.suffolkcheese.co.uk

Suffolk Food HallThe Food Hall brings together several

businesses under one roof providing

an outlet for the best local quality

food. The concept of the Suffolk

Food Hall started to take shape in

2005, as farmers, Oliver and Robert

Paul were frustrated that consumers

had limited and often inconvenient

access to much of the fantastic food

produced locally. They have teamed

up with a number of specialists,

including Hamish Johnston cheese,

Crystal Waters fishmonger, Bread by

Helena Doy, Promotion Wine and the

Bourne Garden Centre and are looking

to provide a great day out for the

whole family with quality, traceable

food alongside other local products.

Restaurant. Wherstead 01473 786610

Stokes SaucesFrom their ‘Saucery’ in the heart of Suffolk, Stokes produce an award winning range of quality mayonnaises, sauces, mustards, relishes, chutneys, dressings, jams and marmalades, in the Stokes, Suffolk Mud and Staverton Ewe brands. www.stokessauces.co.uk

The Suffolk Coffee CompanyFor over 20 years Christopher Rayner-Green has developed his passion for fine coffee. Today he runs the UK’s most bespoke Coffee Roastery, from the village of Peasenhall. With a driv-ing passion to master the art of coffee roasting, Christopher now pursues his never-ending obsession; to create the finest and most exclusive coffee blends for you to taste and enjoy. These boutique blends have become widely recognised as some of the best freshly roasted coffees available today. Try them for yourself - order online at www.thesuffolkcoffeecompany.co.uk

Ufford Produce and Provison CoAward winning specialist Suffolk Food Store. As well as fresh produce from surrounding farms all meat products are sourced from suppliers who raise and butcher their animals within a 30 mile radius of the shop. Loudham Lane, Lower Ufford, Woodbridge 0844 556 9323

Willow Trees Farm ShopWillow Trees farm shop sells as much seasonal and local produce as pos-sible, and it is all superb quality. There are cheeses and chickens, cakes and breads, as well as classic frozen vege-tables and ready meals. Willow Trees also stock a wide range of locally produced jams and chutneys, oils and sauces, and they are well worth a visit during the short asparagus season for a taste of those alone. Lower Road, Glemsford, Long Melford 01787 280341

Valley Farm Vineyards14 acres of vineyards that produce fine English wines. The Visitor Centre is situated in a newly restored 18th century barn. Wissett, Halesworth 01986 785535

Food & Drink

Fresh pesto from Stark Naked

food & drink.indd 4 19/04/2013 10:34

MAY�5 Jokers Comedy Club

Ipswich;

�5-6 Bentwaters Cold War

Museum Open Day Woodbridge;

�5 Spring Fayre New Green

Avenue, Bury St Edmunds;

�5 Beccles Antiques Street

Market Beccles Town Centre;

�10-12 Fired Works

Blackthorpe Barn;

�11 Long Melford Book Fair

Village Memorial Hall, Long

Melford;

�14-18 The Misanthrope New

Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich;

�15 Charity Quiz Night for

the Dame Vera Lynn Trust The

Rosary Club, Ipswich;

�18-27 Suffolk Open

Studios Showcase Exhibition

Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham;

�18 Woodbridge Chamber

Concerts St Mary’s Church,

Woodbridge;

�26-27 Boats, Bling and Bags

Waterfront Market

Ipswich Waterfront;

�29 Splash’s Welly Walk Mill

Meadow, Needham Lake.

JUNE�1 Little Orchard Railways

Open Day Little Orchard, Norton;

�1-2 East Anglian Academy

of Organ and Early Keyboard

Music The Grange Studio,

Hasketon, nr Woodbridge;

�2 East Anglian Dragon Boat

Festival Nicholas Everitt Park,

Lowestoft;�4 Open House at All Saints All Saints Church, The Street, Redgrave;

�8 Crisium in Concert Quay

Theatre, Sudbury;

�8-9 Flavours of 2013 Food and

Drink Festival Henham Park;

�8-9 Flower Festival

Sudbourne Church;

�11 Otley Hall House and

Garden Tour Otley Hall, nr

Ipswich;

�15 Musicality The Seckford

Theatre, Woodbridge;

�15 Midsummer Cream Tea

Crown Inn, Hartest;

�15-22 Springfield Follies

Variety Show St Augustine’s

Church Hall, Ipswich;

�22 Vintage and Modern

Market Market Hill,

Woodbridge.

JULY�5-7 Maverick Festival Easton

Farm Park, Woodbridge;

�6 Sixties by the Sea White

Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh;

�6 Moth Morning Landguard

Peninsula, Felixstowe;

�6 Film Night Spectacular

Christchurch Park, Ipswich;

�6 Woodbridge Carnival

Kingston Field, Woodbridge;

�6 Benhall Garden Fair

Benhall Green;

�14 Woodbridge Regatta

Riverside, Woodbridge;

�18 Draw East - Art Class

Suffolk Food Hall, Ipswich;

�18-21 Latitude Festival

Henham Park, Beccles;

�26 Beatrix Potter Day Melford

Hall, Long Melford;

�28 Picnic Jazz at The Pavilion

Orford.

AUGUST�2-4 Big Tree Festival Euston

Festivals, concerts, country shows, historical recreations, airshows, sports... Suffolk has it all

What’s On

�29-30 182nd Suffolk Show

A gruelling bridge building

military display, stunt motorbikes,

ice skating rink, a family healthy

trail, fashion show and the chance

to feel what it is like to ride a

racehorse are among the exciting

features for this year’s Suffolk

Show at Trinity Park.

Felixstowe Road,

Ipswich;

54

events 1.indd 50 18/04/2013 19:24

Park, Bury St Edmunds;

�2 Newmarket Nights: Kaiser

ChiefsNewmarket Racecourses

The Links, Newmarket;

�4 ‘Wings on Waves’ Parade

and Air Display Felixstowe

Town Council;

�6 Summer Theatre at

the Fort: Sherlock Holmes

Landguard Fort, Felixstowe;�7, 14, 21 History Detectives Felixstowe Museum;�9 Suffolk Party Nights The

Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket;�9-19 The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny Melford Hall, Long Melford;

�11 Pre-War Cars

Felixstowe Museum;

�11 The Secret Seashore

Landguard Nature Reserve,

Felixstowe;

�14, 21, 28 Classic Boat Trip

Waveney River Centre, Beccles;

�17 Bread Workshop Suffolk

Food Hall, Ipswich;

�17 Racing Welfare Charity

Day Newmarket Racecourses

The Links, Newmarket;

�20 Wild art Carlton Marshes

Lowestoft;

�22-26 Beer Festival Ipswich;

�23-26 Lavenham Through The

Ages Lavenham;

�24 Hot Rod and Custom Car

Rally TIC, Felixstowe;

�24-26 Maritime Festival

Ipswich;

�25-26 Aug Bury St Edmunds

Food and Drink Festival Bury St

Edmunds;

�27 Water Explorers Carlton

Marshes, Burnt Hill Lane,

Lowestoft;

�29 Murder on the Marsh

Carlton Marshes

Burnt Hill Lane, Lowestoft.

55

Keane are just one of several top stars appearing at this year’s Newmarket Nights music festival. In all, there are nine fantastic big name concerts to be held, including Madness, Kaiser Chiefs, McFly, Simple Minds, Labrinth, Lawson and the Saturdays, and The Big Pop Party. For details and tickets call 0844 579 3010 or go to www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk

events 1.indd 51 18/04/2013 19:25

SEPTEMBER�1 Art on the Prom Tourist

Information Centre, Felixstowe

�7-8 East Suffolk Game and

Country Show Helmingham

Hall Gardens, Stowmarket;

�7 CAFF Art Workshop Suffolk

Food Hall, Ipswich;

�14 Heritage Open Day

Melford Hall, Long Melford;

�14 Railway Walk Melford

Hall, Long Melford;

�15 Autumn Plant Fair

Helmingham Hall Gardens,

Stowmarket;

�15 Militaria Fair Mildenhall

(Dome) Leisure Centre,

Mildenhall,

�21 Helmingham Cookery

Experience Helmingham Hall

Gardens, Stowmarket;

�22 Vendennia, an Italian

Autumn Harvest Suffolk Food

Hall; Ipswich;

�28-29 Aldeburgh Food and

Drink Festival Snape Maltings,

Saxmundham;

�29 Classic Boat and

Birdwatching Day

Waveney River Centre

Beccles;

�22 Newmarket Stables Open

Day Newmarket Racecourses.

OCTOBER�3 Kitchen Club - Pie, Pudding

and Pint Suffolk Food Hall,

Ipswich;

�11 Suffolk Party Nights The

Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket;

�12 An Introduction to

Blacksmithing Assington Mill,

Sudbury;

�26 Food Safari: Wild Meat in a

Day Food Safari, Saxmundham;

�25-27 Art, Craft and Design

Show Newmarket Racecourses,

Newmarket.

DECEMBER�2-6 December Breeding Stock

Sale Tattersalls Park Paddocks,

Newmarket;

�7 Wildlife Explorers Group

RSPB Minsmere Nature

Reserve, Saxmundham;

�8 Farmers Market The Barn,

Assington;

�11 Helmingham Christmas

Cookery Experience

Helmingham Hall Gardens

Stowmarket.

56

Kraftwerk will be headlining the popular Latitude festival, whose line-up this year features a whole host of top inter-national bands including Bloc Party, Alt-J, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Cat Power, Hot Chip, Maccabees, Foals and Yo La Tengo. For more information, visit www.latitudefestival.com.

events 1.indd 52 18/04/2013 19:25

57

The Wentworth Hotel is a 35 bedrooom hotel run by the Pritt family since 1920. Situated in the bustling seaside town of Aldeburgh the hotel is a stone's throw from the beach. Wake up to experience fantastic seaviews, enhanced by the provision of binoculars in all sea facing rooms. The hotel has a 2 AA rosette restaurant that serves both lunches and dinners. Spacious lounges and a snug bar offer comfortable spaces to enjoy a more informal meal or afternoon tea, have a pre dinner drink, or relax with a coffee after the meal. The hotel has two gardens – a Bar Terrace and the Tiffany Garden. Both have seaviews and

are ideal for summer time. In Winter the hotel has three open fires roaring in the lounges and bar enabling comfort at any time of the year.

Lunch can be enjoyed for as little as £10.00 for two courses in our conservatory restaurant. Dinner is served for two courses from £17.50. On Sunday night the restaurant offers 3 courses for £14.90. Bookings are always advisable.

So whether its for a relaxing stay by the sea or whether you are just popping in for a meal the Wentworth Hotel offers quality food and service with comfortable surroundings and a view to match.

WentworthH O T E L & R E S T A U R A N T

Please phone 01728 452312 for all enquiries or email [email protected]

�e Wentworth Hotel is a 35-bedroom hotel run by the Pritt family since 1920. Situated in the bustling seaside town of Aldeburgh the hotel is a stone’s throw from the beach.

Wake up to experience fantastic seaviews, enhanced by the provision of binoculars in all sea facing rooms.

�e hotel has a 2 AA rosette restaurant that serves both lunches and dinners. Spacious lounges and a snug bar offer comfortable spaces to enjoy a more informal meal or afternoon tea, have a pre dinner drink, or relax with a coffee after the meal. �e hotel has two gardens – a Bar Terrace and the Tiffany Garden. Both have seaviews and are ideal for summer time. In winter the hotel has three open fires roaring in the lounges and bar, enabling comfort at any time of the year.

So whether its for a relaxing stay by the sea or whether you are just popping in for a meal, the Wentworth Hotel offers quality food and service with comfortable surroundings and a view to match.

01728 452312www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com

The Wentworth Hotel is a 35 bedrooom hotel run by the Pritt family since 1920. Situated in the bustling seaside town of Aldeburgh the hotel is a stone's throw from the beach. Wake up to experience fantastic seaviews, enhanced by the provision of binoculars in all sea facing rooms. The hotel has a 2 AA rosette restaurant that serves both lunches and dinners. Spacious lounges and a snug bar offer comfortable spaces to enjoy a more informal meal or afternoon tea, have a pre dinner drink, or relax with a coffee after the meal. The hotel has two gardens – a Bar Terrace and the Tiffany Garden. Both have seaviews and

are ideal for summer time. In Winter the hotel has three open fires roaring in the lounges and bar enabling comfort at any time of the year.

Lunch can be enjoyed for as little as £10.00 for two courses in our conservatory restaurant. Dinner is served for two courses from £17.50. On Sunday night the restaurant offers 3 courses for £14.90. Bookings are always advisable.

So whether its for a relaxing stay by the sea or whether you are just popping in for a meal the Wentworth Hotel offers quality food and service with comfortable surroundings and a view to match.

WentworthH O T E L & R E S T A U R A N T

Please phone 01728 452312 for all enquiries or email [email protected]

Great Breaks for everyone...

*Terms & conditions apply.Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

SET IN 120 ACRES OF HISTORIC PARKLAND, ONE DAY AT UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE HOTEL, GOLF & SPA IN SUFFOLKIS NEVER ENOUGH.

For enquiries call 0844 4991631 or visit www.uffordpark.co.uk

£89PP*

1 Night Golf & Spa Breaks from £89 per person* Family Inclusive breaks - from £299 per adult (Kids from £10 each*)

From

Our breaks are great for couples, groups & families: For golf: 18 hole, par 71 golf course, 2 tier floodlit driving range For relaxation: The health club, luxury spa & treatmentsFor the family: The leisure pool and bicycles for hire

Suffolk Tourist Guide 2013_Layout 1 09/04/2013 17:34 Page 1

p57.indd 16 18/04/2013 13:09

Seckford HallSeckford Hall is a splendid Tudor hotel near Suffolk’s Heritage coast, set among 34 acres of private country-side. It is licensed for civil ceremonies with an oak-panelled Great Hall, which can seat 30 people, or the Lakeside Suite for up to 120 guests, which overlooks the gardens. A glamorous marquee in the grounds is available for hire, with win-dows, French doors, carpet, chandeliers, and heaters to keep it warm whatever the weather. The Hall also caters for evening receptions for up to 140 guests, and there is Minstrel’s Gallery from which a small band can play. Woodbridge 01394 385678 www.seckford.co.uk

Glemham HallThis impressive red brick Elizabethan mansion is steeped in history and is the perfect setting for a traditional English country-style wedding. This venue offers a mid-week wedding package that retains all the romantic charm that Glemham Hall is renowned for but at a fraction of the cost. Glemham Hall, Little Glemham, Woodbridge 01728 746704 www.glemhamhall.co.uk

Christchurch MansionChristchurch Mansion is a red brick Tudor manor house set amid lovely 100

acre parkland, close to the centre of Ipswich. The pictur-esque grounds are perfect for wedding photography; the rooms of the manor are beautifully furnished in vari-ous period styles from Tudor to Victorian. Soane Street, Ipswich 01473 433554

Le TalboothFor a wedding in the heart of Constable Country this family-run, luxury country house hotel is set in an idyl-lic position beside the river Stour and provides fabulous menus, and rooms, to suit every style of wedding. The River Room offers space for larger parties, while the Weavers room is suitable for a small, intimate gathering. There’s also a marquee on the upper terrace, which caters for groups of up to 180 people. Dedham 01206 323150 www.milsomwed-dings.com

Trinity ParkThis contemporary setting for a wedding sits amid 300 acres of beautiful land-scaped grounds, and has a stunning courtyard garden. The venue holds a license for civil marriages and partner-ship ceremonies, and also offers the services of a wed-ding coordinator. The Park can comfortably accom-modate up to 500 guests for a wedding breakfast, and

more intimate spaces can be created for smaller wed-ding parties. Ipswich. 01473 707119 www.trinityparkev-ents.co.uk

Bedford Lodge HotelThe elegant white Bedford Lodge, with its romantic rose gardens, dates back to the 17th century. A beautiful venue for a civil wedding ceremony and wedding reception, the hotel offers a choice of three self-con-tained banqueting suites which can accommodate from 10 to 150 guests. There is also space for a marquee in the grounds. Bury Road, Newmarket 01638 663175

Butley PrioryThis luxury fairytale wedding venue, with a stunning goth-ic interior, was originally an Augustinian Monastery. The Priory is located between Rendlesham Forest and the Heritage Coast. Both the Great Hall, which can seat 90 people, and the smaller panelled Drawing Room seating 50, are licensed to hold wedding ceremonies. Overnight accommodation is also available. www.but-leypriory.co.uk 01394 450046

Thorpeness Hotel and Country Club The Thorpeness Country Club is a magical wedding location, just a pebble’s

There’s no better place to be for your special day Suffolk is the perfect location for your wedding

Wedding venues

58

weddings 1.indd 40 18/04/2013 19:26

59

throw from the beach. The hotel offers a selection of menus and dishes, all of which are individually priced, allowing you the flexibility to create a bespoke menu and package to suit your requirements. You may wish to give your wedding a sea-side theme, or simply opt for something traditional; the choice is yours. 01728 452176www.thorpeness.co.uk

Woodhall ManorA private country house made available for business and leisure purposes. The manor is an exceptional place to do business, away from it all on the Suffolk Heritage Coast, yet just two hours from London. Business can be conducted in privacy in any of the four reception rooms, all fully equipped with the latest IT

Ufford ParkUfford Park Hotel, Golf and Spa is set in a tranquil 120 acres of historic Suffolk parkland. The hotel holds a civil wedding licence and offers a choice of beautifully decorated modern function rooms that can accommo-date small gatherings or large parties. Prior to the big day there are also the golf, spa and health club facilities to enjoy; perfect for hen parties and stag weekends. Melton, Woodbridge 01394 383555 www.uffordpark.

and communications tech-nology. The manor is also the ideal venue for weddings and private parties. With nine acres of English country gardens you will be spoilt for choice with photographic backdrops and beautiful settings. Accommodation is in 12 en-suite bedrooms furnished to an exception-al standard and catering will be provided to your exact specifications. The Banqueting suite can seat 120 for a sit-down meal and up to 200 if a less formal buffet menu is preferred. Smaller parties can opt for a more intimate setting, dining in the manor itself. Larger celebrations can be accom-modated in marquees in the grounds. 01394 411288 www.woodhallmanor.co.uk

St Peters HallThe moated St Peters Hall is fully licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies and offers a photogenic medi-eval setting for weddings for up to 250 people, with bar, two function rooms, garden, optional marquees and a chapel. The hall has an on-site events manager and will help as much as you wish with planning and is also home to Wickedly Good Food, the high-class event catering company. St Peter South Elmham, Bungay 01986 782288 www.stpetershallsuf-folk.co.uk

Haughley Park BarnThis 17th century, oak-framed barn is surrounded by beauti-ful country house gardens.

weddings 1.indd 41 18/04/2013 19:27

60

A private, exclusive venue located in central Suffolk, Haughley Park Barn is an idyl-lic setting for a wedding with civil ceremony, reception and evening party all in the one place. Haughley Park, Stowmarket. 01359 240701 www.haughleyparkbarn.co.uk

Hungarian Hall EventsThe wedding venue is set in landscaped surroundings.

The tastefully decorated Danube Suite can cater for up to 160 ceremony guests. For the reception, the stun-ning marquee is suitable for 200 guests. The marquee has been carefully designed with a curved window, presenting guests with beautiful rural views throughout the day. The marquee can also be tailored to meet your individual colour schemes

Hintlesham Halland décor ideas. Pettistree, Woodbridge. 01394 460362 www.hungarianhallevents.co.uk

High LodgeHigh Lodge is unique venue on the Suffolk Coast, giving exclusive use to you and your guests at exceptional value and at a very high standard. Their profession-al team ensure that every detail of your wedding cele-bration is taken care of. High Lodge can provide the full wedding package, including civil ceremonies and, com-plete with on-site accommo-dation, it is a great venue for the smallest, most intimate gathering to the grandest of events. High Lodge Wood, Hinton, Nr Darsham. 01986 784347 www.highlodge.co.uk

Hintlesham HallWith its grand entrance to the estate and its sumptuous rooms, Hintlesham Hall is ideal for a picturesque wed-ding banquet in regal set-tings, whether you marry at the Hall or nearby, any day of the week. There’s a warm, relaxing and friendly ambi-ence to this beautiful country house hotel, together with attentive staff and renowned cuisine. The magnificent Salon, the Carolean Room with its stunning 17th cen-tury plasterwork ceiling and the intimate Justice room are licensed to accommo-date civil ceremonies for up to 100, 50 and 20 guests respectively. Hintlesham Hall Hotel, Hintlesham, Ipswich 01473 652334

weddings 1.indd 42 18/04/2013 19:29

61

Kentwell HallThere are few more roman-tic Houses than Kentwell, a completely moated, mellow redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting.It has an atmosphere in which Brides and Grooms feel comfortable and guests are always impressed.All this with the striking detail of the Main Rooms, the organisational experience of Kentwell’s famed friend-ly staff and high quality catering combine to make Kentwell an unrivalled loca-tion. Specialising in bespoke weddings - tailored to each couple’s requirements. They can cover everything from a simple civil wedding cere-mony to a grand departure accompanied by fireworks. Long Melford, Suffolk, www.kentwell.co.uk, 01787 310207

Bruisyard HallBruisyard Hall is a historic manor house which has been renovated and is avail-able for weekend breaks, holidays and weddings. The Hall is in a beautiful position in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, providing wonderful settings for some stunning wedding photos. Staff can provide contact for details for caterers, marquee hire, florists and even a wedding planner should you wish, but then it is down to you to organise your perfect wedding day without the constraints often imposed by hotels. Bruisyard, Saxmundham. 01728 638712 www.bruisyardhall.co.uk

Otley HallOtley Hall, a grade I listed

16th century house situated in 10 acres of gardens. Three rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies, two are suitable for 60 guests, and the Parlour holds 25 guests. Wedding breakfasts are catered for in the Great Hall for up to 40 guests, or the Gosnold Suite for 55 guests. Evening recep-tions for up to 80 guests. Otley. 01473 890264 www.otleyhall.co.uk

Ipswich Town Hall and Corn ExchangeProfessionals at Ipswich Town Hall and Corn Exchange can help plan your event down to the very last detail. The prestigious grade II listed building in central Ipswich can cater for any size group from 50 to 800 guests. The rates are reasonable, and professional and experi-enced staff are on-hand to help ensure and unforget-table and special day. 01473 433465

The West Wing at IckworthAn elegant setting for wed-dings and civil partnerships for 80 to 200 guests. The impressive gallery on the first floor of the west wing overlooks the beautiful Italianate gardens, and accommodates wedding ceremonies and sumptuous wedding breakfasts for up to 200 guests. The court is a smaller room, adjacent to the gallery, and is available for the bride and groom to use as an extra area for a crèche or quiet room. There are marquee areas for larger wedding receptions, and the orangery and beautiful gardens are available for

reception drinks. Horringer, nr Bury St Edmunds 01284 735957

Somerleyton Hall and GardensThe hall and gardens at Somerleyton have been the setting for many magical weddings over the years. Somerleyton Hall is the per-fect venue for any wedding day. Its lavish architecture, fine staterooms, three cere-mony rooms, and formal gardens designed by Price Albert’s favourite architect John Thomas, provide a perfect setting and ideal backdrop for a tradition-al country wedding. The wedding ceremony can take place in three different areas of the estate; the main hall, the gardens, and the walled garden. The gardens are also perfect venues for a wedding reception. Lowestoft. 01502 734904 www.somerleyton.co.uk

The Swan at LavenhamThe Swan dates back to the 15th century when it played a key role in Lavenham’s wool trade. Today it is a quintessential English coun-try hotel and restaurant, proud of its achievement of an AA four-star 81% rating and two AA Rosettes. The Swan offers a full package of wedding assistance, with floral arrangements, wed-ding cakes made to order, a Master of Ceremonies avail-able, and a Honeymoon Suite for after the big event. Lavenham. 01787 246207.www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk

weddings 1.indd 43 18/04/2013 19:32

!"#$%&'()*+,)-%+).(-!+/(0-!"#$%&"'()*$&+",()#-",($-."/,-&-"$&%01$1(*%."',%&2"2--$#"'(*$-23(&%&+"',1'4"!"#$%&'"()*+,-.),,-+/0)###12"345&36537"85("61951:'

#1(-',2)(3(00"5(#$"(6"$,-"!7"&((2#"(6"$,-"6&-#,".((81*9":.0-;)&9,",($-."(66-&"-1$,-&"#3-'$%').%&"<1-/#"(6"$,-"#-%"(&"(6"$,-"=1<-&":.0-"%*0"2%&#,.%*04">,-&-?#"%"#)3-&;"&-#$%)&%*$"$,%$"(<-&.((8#"$,-"#-%"%*0"%";-%',"$-&&%'-4";63"2:&78)*+/<.)=0<*/+)###1(8"2&:1951:'"

#1(-'40)(5/+3-6,+73:"#$+.1#,.+"&-*(<%$-0"@A$,"'-*$)&+"$12;-&"6&%2-0"6(&2-&"'(%',1*9"1**4"B%',"(6"$,-"C1.0-#$(*"D&(/*?#"@7"-*E#)1$-"0();.-"&((2#"%&-")*1F)-.+"0-'(&%$-04">?63"@(5A)*+==B)/=*0+*)###1(8"2?63"@C(5A9&5#A195$"

#1(-83.(0-!+/(0G-(&91%*H"1<+E'.%0"6()&E#$%&".)I)&+",($-."%*0"&-#$%)&%*$"$,%$"1#"%".%*02%&8";)1.01*9"1*"$,-"'-*$&-"(6"$(/*4":"')&1()#"'(*$&%#$"(6"'(*$-23(&%&+"0-#19*"/1$,"$()',-#"(6"-I($1'"9&%*0-)&4"J1*1*9",-&-"1#"%"').1*%&+"$&-%$4";A7"6)D?66E)>:&F)G()H3$:A3@)*+<.=)/+=***)###1(8"%A7"61951:'

Visitors to Suffolk are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a great place to stay. Here are just a few of the hotels, holiday parks, guest houses, cot-tages and farmhouses Suffolk has to offer...

Places to Stay

62

The Westleton Crown

#1(-6,+73>,1#";()$1F)-",($-.",%#"@@"#$+.1#,".)I)&+"-*E#)1$-";-0&((2#H"%.."1*01<10)%..+"0-#19*-0"%*0"6)&*1#,-04G(5'")>F)!%F6%A3)*+<*,)<,<**+###19&5#A?AA1A"()

#1(-&149-:/-;2374<1K*'-"%",%)*$"(6"#2)99.-&#H"+()"/1.."*(/"61*0"%"$&%01$1(*%."'(%#$%."1**"/1$,"$&%01$1(*%..+"6)&*1#,-0";-0&((2#4""*+/<.),=.<+B)###1@8?I%(3:A#?981951:'

#1+,9(3(55-!+/(0:"61<-E21*)$-"/%.8"6&(2"$,-";-%',H"$,-",%'1-*0%"#$+.-"$,&--E#$%&">,(&3-*-##"L($-."1#"%"9&-%$"#3($"6(&"%.."/,("'(2-"$("-*M(+"$,-"9(.6H"$,-"5-%&-";(%$1*9".%8-H"$-**1#"%*0"%."6&-#'("01*1*9"(*"$,-"$-&&%'-4"J85&I"A"@@)*+/<.)=0<+/,)###1(85&I"A"@@1951:')

#1(-=(5/0(/+3-6,+73>&%01$1(*%."'(%',1*9"1**"3-&E6-'$.+"#1$)%$-0"6(&"-I3.(&1*9"$,-"0-.19,$#"(6"$,-"N)66(.8"L-&1$%9-"D(%#$4"*+/<.),=.///)###1#"@(6"(5A9&5#A1951:'

#1(-&7:3-:/-%:>(31:?:"',%&21*9"@A$,"'-*$)&+"'()*$&+",($-."'(23.-$-"/1$,"&1',"6)&*1#,1*9#H"1*9.-*((8"61&-3.%'-#"%*0"!A";-%)$16)..+"0-'(&%$-0"-*E#)1$-";-0E&((2#4"K%L"A8%$)*+/./)<=/=//)###1(8"@#%A%(C6%L"A8%$1951:'"

@(5.,:>(-!:00>,-"L($-."(66-&#"3.-*$+"(6".)I)&1()#"'(*$-23(&%&+"'((.4"M"@7&%L")*+=/-)---/=+)###1$?6@5$85("6@195$))

&2/1(,0:3)-!+25(>/("#$%&";()$1F)-",($-."(*"N()$,/(.0?#"L19,"N$&--$"

places to stay.indd 1 18/04/2013 22:09

63

!"#$%&$'()#%&#*+"(,-+.)(/&0-(,1$0#)21.+.3(45.$&6-7&$'68(!"#$%&"'()*+,*-).-/),//)&&&01#$%23'45(%"#1206"0#7)

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

/(&+2%3&+45%%+6##L/+.%7/&$$&$'(+,,1))17%+0&1$8(B43$"5)C9''1D)B#3E)!$)F(:#5(1)*+<;?).++**+)&&&0G#''955HG43$"5:9''106":

7"8&9'"3&+!.5'&+!.$&%M#62&0#(5$%#.'1&$'(+(,1)72"#0#(.#$1*+0&1$:(0-&6(?N0-(,#$05.3(!5&"%&$'(1$(0-#(2&,05.#6F5#(!+$G6(14(0-#(.&*#.(O+.G(-+6()+&$0+&$#%(&06(!#+50&45"(2#.&1%(4#+05.#6(+$%(&6($1/(!5.60&$'(/&0-(+(,1$70#)21.+.3:()1%#.$(,-+.)8(B/1(,1)41.0+!"#:(&$41.)+"(!+.(+.#+6:(2"56(0-#(-&'-"3(.#'+.%#%(P&*#.6&%#(B#..+,#(P#60+5.+$08(C9'(25%4''D)*+<;?).+.-./)&&&0$%239>2319(2H%"#12%"$2'06"0#7

0)%$(.5'&+!)9:.59+!.$&%Q15.760+.("5R5.3(!150&F5#(-10#"(1$(S26/&,-(F5+38(IJ1&96%)*+/.;)--<.?K&&&014'$%"#12%43G"#306"0#7

;("$&+<".#+!.$&%T#/"37.#45.!&6-#%(!#+,-74.1$0(-10#"8(L'(2G#3@%)*+.-?)/,-.-*)&&&0&%9$2'9"506"0#7

/(&+=9.1#+)#3+=)'$%&U15$0.3(-156#(-10#"(&$(0-#(2.#003(,1+60+"(*&""+'#(14(9.41.%:(/&0-(?V(!#%.11)6(+$%(+("&*#"3(!&60.1:(0-#(

The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds

B.&$&03:(/-&,-(6#.*#6(%#,#$0:(5$2.#0#$0&156(411%8(M3N"3()*+;K/)/,*-*,)&&&063"&H545(641$'206"0#7

0)$"'+!.5'&+!.$&%?N0-(U#$05.3(D.+%#(SS("&60#%(,15$0.3(-156#(6#0(&$(0-.##(+,.#6(14(2+.G"+$%8(6+)2"#(4&$#(W.&0&6-(,5&6&$#(&$(0-#()1%#.$(;$'"&6-(.#60+5.+$08(!4O:#5(%4:)*+.-?)<<?/+?)&&&014$91%"#1206"0#7

7)#3.%>(+!.$&%O1*#"3(-10#"(&$(0-#(*&""+'#(14(P#3%1$:(E560(?A()&$50#6I(/+"G(4.1)(0-#(-#+.0(14(H150-/1"%8(B-#3(#*#$(-+*#(+(,"+66&,(H150-/1"%(!#+,-(-50(315(,+$(-&.#(1$(+(/##G"3(!+6&68(P2E("5)*+,*-).-;<*;)&&&0$%2345("'J%06"0#7

4%)?@+<".#+!.$&%X.&*+0#"3(1/$#%(*&""+'#(-10#"(/&0-(?Y("1*#"3(.11)6(+$%('.#+0(411%(&$(0-#(+/+.%7/&$7$&$'(.#60+5.+$08)="5@)C2'N"3()*+.?.);+-;,<)&&&0G'467'9"5H%"$2'052$

A,7B0+C+=,7,D,E04)31&%%+,'(+!.%"3)F+<.3-&'U163(H,+$%&$+*&+$(0&)!#.("1%'#68(B4(&2'')L1%)*+;,K)-,?///)&&&0G4(H&2''41%'"(@2106"0#7)

4&)?(+D"&1+!.%"3)F+A)9@U+.+*+$6(+$%(,+)2&$':(+$%(6#"4(,+0#.&$'("1%'#6(.&'-0(!#6&%#(0-#(!#+,-8(!9Q2&2'')R"::"5)*+.-?)?;*.-/)&&&0G246%>92&%"'9(4EJ43706"0#7)49.)3%)#3+!.%"3)F+D"%%)-&U+.+*+$6(+$%("1%'#6(,"16#(01(1$#(14(0-#(2.#00&#60(14(0-#(T1.41"G(!.1+%68(M#'$"5)B3"4()*+,*-),.;*;;)&&&0G3"4(H'45(>9''4@206"0#7(

places to stay.indd 2 18/04/2013 22:09

64

!"#$%&'()*#*+(!&,'%#-(."#/!"#$%&"'()*+"$',-*'.)%&#-+'/,&,0,-'1#./2"$'*).."*',&)%-*','3"((4$.)/5"*'6#$2#-+'(,5"7!"#$%&'()#%!*+,-.!/*0011!22234#5678'%959:3483&;!

0#&"1$"'1(2"'1+83,&*'3#--#-+'/,&,40,-'2)(#*,9'1,&57'<8578'!*+-,.!,=----!2223>58#(?6#'(:#'(:3483&;!

3456(7&15*:"(64/,."&#-+'()*+"$'6)&'%1'.)'$#;7'@#5:)#%!*+=./!,.101,!2223)AB)68(B93483&;'

8,'(!&%%"5*(9&,#4'5(."#/<,=1',=#*'3#(*(#6"'#-'.2#$'1",/"6%('/,&,0,-'.)%&#-+'1,&5')-'.2"'>"&#.,+"'<),$.7'<,&,0,-$',-*'=).)&'2)="$'6&)='?@A'1"&'-#+2.B'."-.'1#./2"$'6&)='?@C'1"&'-#+2.B',(('3#.2'@D,=1'"("/.&#/'2))5'%17'E1"-',(('9",&'&)%-*7'C8669:69D!*+0=1!1++0*=!22235&'?4877#B93483&;!

."/*:4*$1(!"#";"'(."#/8-',3,&*43#--#-+'6)%&4$.,&'/,&,0,-'1,&5'/)=1("."'3#.2')%.*))&'1))(7'E829:78F7!*+G*-!G0=-/12223H#;9FA96(?H#5;3483&;!

!<99=>?2(@(A=8)23*#4%"5*(341*"B"-+((3&$41"-(!&%%"5*+8'$%1"&F'/)(("/.#)-')6'2)(#*,9'/)..,+"$'#-'$)="')6':%66)(5G$'#/)-#/'$",$#*"'.)3-$',-*'$%&&)%-*#-+'0#((,+"$B'#-/(%*#-+':)%.23)(*B'8(*"F%&+2',-*'H2)&1"-"$$7'*+G*-!G,.-,.!2223)95A7#B9?)A(9#2#D:348%

0"-(9#**(!&%%"5*8-'#*9((#/B'.2,./2"*B'$"(64/,."&#-+B'I&,*"'JJ'(#$."*B'/2)/)(,."'F);'2#*",3,9'*,.#-+'6&)='.2"'@K.2'/"-.%&97'I9(B5#J9K!LD9!*+==0!.+*+=1

96*(<$1()4$$L",&(9','.2)%$,-*'9",&$')(*B'.2"'E(*'M#((')-'.2"'N#0"&'O"F"-')0"&())5$'#.$')3-'+)(6'/)%&$"B'32#/2'#$'6&""'6)&'+%"$.$7(>$*;*#4'5()4$$C(D4E/6"F()"#/*%(GHIJK(ILMNIH

2B*::$4'5(3"$$(A"#[email protected]'/"-.%&9'6,&='2)%$"')-'3)&5#-+'6,&='=,#-(9'1&)*%/#-+'6&""'&,-+"'"++$'6)&'$%1"&=,&5".$7'*+,-.!//0/11!2223:29FF6A'B?)#66F#5%3483&;'

Aldeburgh Seaview, one of Heritage Hideaways’ many holiday homes and cottages.

O"$$*-(A"#F(O4'*-"#1+(I%"$.$'.)'P,(("9'Q,&='/,-')1.'6)&'.2"'$"(64/,."&#-+'/).4.,+"'R$(""1$'A4@DS')&'F"*',-*'F&",56,$.',.'.2"'6,&=42)%$"7'MA::97!*+=./!,.GG0G!2223J#669DF#5%JA'9D#5(:3483&;!

8,FP,#56(A"#FH2#$'3)&5#-+'6,&=')66"&$'FTF'6,&=2)%$"',//)==)*,.#)-B'')&'$"(64/,."&#-+'#-')-"')6'.3)'()*+"$7'I&%>&5B)!*+=./!,.+0G+22235&%>&5B)F#5%3483&;

>Q?29(3<Q2?2R0@0S#4'/+%&'*(."#/83,&*43#--#-+'UTU'$".'#-'.2&""',/&"$')6'F",%.#6%('+,&*"-$7'@5A';:78'9K!N&5D!"7!L(%&'(:!*+0G=!-,-G+0!2223(5A';:78'9H#5;3483&;

96*(T&#:&$/(>,*+%(3&,+*P#$#.'U&#.,#-'6)%&4$.,&',-*':#(0"&'83,&*'3#--#-+V'WC'=".&"$'6&)='.2"'F",/27'O96A$:7829!*+0=1!-.0+/*!22237)9'85?F86;348%!

<E*"'(3&,+*U",%.#6%((9'*"/)&,."*'P#/.)&#,-'+%"$.'2)%$"B','$.)-"G$'.2&)3'6&)='8(*"F%&+2G$'F",/2',-*'>#+2':.&"".7''P6(9>&5B)!*+,-.!1G-*=1!2223849#')8&:9#6?(9>&5B)3483&;'

U4$'(A"#F(>,*+%(3&,+*P#/.)&#,-'6,&=2)%$"',-*','/)%&.9,&*')6'$#;'/)-0"&."*'$.,F("$7'L6%:2966K!N&5D!"7!L(%&'(:3!*+0G=!-1*11-!2223;A6'F#5%B&9:7)8&:9348%!!

96*(<$1(0,%E6*#+(26&VUTU'#-','(#$."*'F%#(*#-+'#-'.2"'/"-.&"')6'E&6)&*'0#((,+"7'Q5F85(!*+0=1!1G*G+,!

places to stay.indd 3 18/04/2013 22:09

the finest places to eat, drink, stay...

find us on Facebook | www.milsomhotels.com

Gun Hill, Dedham01206 323150

Stratford Rd, Dedham01206 322795

Stratford Rd, Dedham01206 322367

The Quay, Harwich01255 241212

Gun Hill, Dedham01206 323150

Hall Rd, Kesgrave01473 333741Scan the code to

discover more online

03393_Milsom_Group_Ad_v9_210x148 2/14/13 4:14 PM Page 1

Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:54

Check opening hours locally as some are seasonal and some may close at 1pm on Saturdays.

Aldeburgh 152 High Street01728 453637

Brandon31 High Street01842 814955

Bury St Edmunds6 Angel Hill01284 764667

Felixstowe91 Undercliff Road West01394 276770

Flatford (seasonal) Flatford lane01206 299460

HadleighHadleigh Library 01473 823778

Ipswich St Stephen’s Lane01473 258070

Lavenham (seasonal)Lady Street01787 248207

LowestoftEast Point Pavilion01502 533600

NewmarketPalace House, Palace Street01638 667200

Southwold69 High Street01502 724729

Stowmarket Museum of East Anglian Life01449 676800

SudburyGaol lane01787 881320

WoodbridgeStation Buildings01394 382240

USEFUL WEBSITESvisitsuffolk.comdiscoversuffolk.org.ukstedmundsbury.gov.uksuffolkcoastal.gov.ukchoosesuffolk.comsouthandheartofsuffolk.org.uksuffolk.gov.ukeastlife.co.uk

Suffolk Tourist Information Centres

National Rail Enquiries 08457 484950

Information

66

Information.indd 66 23/04/2013 10:52

67

Run Cottage Touring Park, Alderton Road, Hollesey,

Woodbridge, Suffolk. IP12 3RQTel: 01394 411 309

Website: http://www.run-cottage.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

All electric hook ups Six all weather caravan pitches Open all year • Two acre dog

exercise area Toilet & shower block • Chemical

disposal point Tourist information area • 1.5 miles

from shingle beach Village shop & pub within easy

walking distance

Close to the town of Woodbridge we are a small family run touring park with 20 pitches.

Set in a 2.5 acre parkland setting with a large pond and views over open farmland, we offer peace

and tranquillity. A place to escape the hustle and bustle of today’s

busy lifestyle. TOP 100 SITES2012

TOP 100

FINALIST

A more personal approachto cooage holidays

Kiln Farm Guest Houseoff J47 of A14. En-suite rooms around courtyard setting.

l Conservatory dining room and guest barl Certified CL Sitel Children & Pets Welcomel Visit Britain Silver Award Winner

01359 240442e-mail [email protected]

Kiln Farm.indd 1 17/05/2012 12:56

p67.indd 16 18/04/2013 13:11

KNIGHTS TOURNAMENT OF FOOTE Sun 2 & Mon 3 May

TUDOR FAMILY FUN TRAIL & TRADITIONAL GAMES Sat 22 - Mon 31 May

TIME TRAVELLERS SERIES Weekdays in Aug

MEDIEVAL MAYHEM! Sun 29 & Mon 30 Aug

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN TRAIL Sat 23 - Sun 31 Oct

For more information call 01728 724189 or visitwww.english-heritage.org.uk/framlinghamcastle

Framlingham CastleAN ANCIENT STRONGHOLD. A WHOLE NEW EXPERIENCE.

After 800 years, there’s still so much to see and do at Framlingham Castle. Our fantastic events season gets off to a thrilling start with a Knights Tournament of Foote and the Time Travellers events return to liven up the summer holidays. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Medieval Mayhem– great fun for all the family!

210x148mm.Framlingham_Ad.indd 1 12/02/2010 13:12

CLASH OF KNIGHTS Sun 5 & Mon 6 May (Bank Holiday)

TUDOR TIMES: BLOODY MARY RETURNS! Sun 26 & Mon 27 May (Bank Holiday)

TIME TRAVELLERS KINGS & QUEENS ACADEMY Tues 28 – Fri 31 May

After 800 years, there’s still so much to see and do at Framlingham Castle.Our fantastic events season gets off to a thrilling start with a Clash of Knights and the Time Travellers events return to liven up the May holidays. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Tudor Times: Bloody Mary Returns! – great fun for all the family!

English Heritage-2103.indd 1 16/04/2013 12:36Full Page bleed.indd 1 18/04/2013 09:54