Top 10 Things to Do in Lavenham
Published: Thursday 25th Jul 2019
Written by: Suffolk Secrets Team
Lavenham, nestled in the heart of the stunning Suffolk countryside, is one of England’s finest medieval wool villages. Medieval charm can be found around every corner with its winding streets, thatched cottages and timber framed buildings. Lavenham truly is the perfect place to visit if you wish to immerse yourself in Suffolk’s rich history.
1) Step back in time at Kentwell Hall, Long Melford
There’s something for every age to enjoy at Kentwell Hall, making it a brilliant day out for the whole family. Kentwell Hall is a beautiful red brick Tudor Manor House which dates back to 1385.
Take time to leisurely wander around the house, soaking up all the Tudor history as you go. There’s also the six tranquil gardens to enjoy, each one as exquisite as the next. For anyone who’s interested in photography, the gardens are an absolute dream. The Rare Breeds Farm is also popular among little ones as they can see their farmyard favourites up close.
Kentwell is famous for its special events programme including live Tudor re-creation days and the award winning Scareville experience so do keep an eye out on the website.
2) Make some furry friends at Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, Baylham
Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm is the perfect place for countryside and animal lovers of all ages. Learn about livestock, livestock farming and the need to care for the countryside and the natural environment. Guests are also welcome to meet the piglets, feed the goats and the kids can be let loose in the play area!
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the outside picnic area or visit shop for some tea and cake.
3) Explore The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket
The Museum of East Anglian Life, set on a beautiful 80 acre site in the heart of Stowmarket, is a brilliant place for the whole family to explore. Soak up the fascinating and extensive history of life and work in East Anglia.
The museum includes over 40,000 objects as well as photographs and books all of which are housed in 15 splendidly restored historic buildings, each exploring a very different aspect of life and work in Suffolk and Norfolk.
4) Visit the Lavenham Falconry, Monks Eleigh
For an experience that definitely won’t be forgotten, take a special trip to spend some time with a range of majestic Birds of Prey. Set amongst 2 acres of wildflower meadow, Lavenham Falconry invites you to have handling and flying time with some of their many trained hawks, owls and falcons. They can even mould and adjust each experience course to suit a particular area that you’re interested in.
Lavenham Falconry also offer the opportunity to experience other activities including Field Archery, Rifle Shooting and Survival Skills.
5) Take a family stroll; Lavenham Church Walk
Get your comfy walking shoes on, pack a picnic and take in the stunning views that Lavenham has to offer. The Lavenham Church Walk is a great walk for the whole family as it’s only 2.6 miles and across easy terrain.
The walk starts at the glorious Lavenham Church and goes on to take you on a journey through open countryside. Enjoy the sweeping views across the stunning Suffolk countryside towards Long Melford.
For a full itinerary, click here.
6) Indulge yourself at The Secret Garden, Sudbury
After a busy afternoon exploring Sudbury, The Secret Garden is a splendid place to have a break and enjoy some delicious food. Though strongly influenced by the owners’ French background, The Secret Garden beautifully mixes a variety of food cultures. Most of what is served is homemade, including the jam, bread, pastries and, of course, main meals. Tasty food, a fine selection of wines and friendly and efficient staff; what more could you want?
7) Enjoy Kersey Mill and Maltings, Kersey
Kersey Mill, set in the beautiful Suffolk countryside, just over a mile away from the historic town of Hadleigh, is definitely worth a visit. The Mill building and its Malting’s, along with the elegant Georgian fronted Mill House, are surrounded by 18 acres of meadows, beautiful established water gardens, a Mediterranean garden, along with the rivers, brooks and streams that flow to the River Brett.
On the grounds of the Mill are a variety of businesses, from tearooms, to clothing shops, crafts, wildlife photography courses, and health and beauty facilities, making for a perfect day out.
8) Wander around Clare Castle Country Park, Clare
Clare Castle Country Park is a beautiful, quiet area to relax, play, get close to nature and discover the fascinating history of the picturesque town of Clare.
Clare Castle Country Park is not just your average park! As well having gorgeous open green spaces, including a children’s playground and bowls club, the park also has some very unique historical elements! The Park has the remains of a closed Victorian railway station located within the grounds of what was once a Norman Motte and Bailey castle. The site also has Roman, Saxon and Norman connections that have revealed fascinating archaeological finds.
9) Watch something new at The Quay Theatre, Sudbury
Take a moment to relax with family and friends at The Quay Theatre. Situated on the banks of the River Stour, the theatre offers a full range of productions and musical events from new theatrical releases, to ballet performances and even local musical talent. There’s something to please everyone.
It also has a number of affiliated clubs and workshops.
10) Enjoy a cruise with River Stour Boat Trips, Sudbury
If the sun is out why not take a peaceful boat trip along the River Stour. Enjoy cruising down the Stour at a relaxed pace, watching the beautiful Suffolk countryside and delightful wildlife slowly pass you by. With down to earth, informative crew it’s a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon with loved ones while learning a little bit of history of the Stour River. There are several scheduled and chartered trips.
