The Suffolk Countryside Tourist Guide
We’re very proud of our beautiful Suffolk countryside and its gift for offering a truly “away from it all” holiday destination. Ancient market towns and villages, chocolate box cottages and rolling fields all blend together in perfect harmony, and the coast is within easy reach for a contrasting day out.
One of our favourite places to visit is the vibrant and historic market town of Bury St Edmunds. As well as a fine selection of shops, discover the ruins of an 11th Century Benedictine Abbey which are located in the beautiful Abbey Gardens. And for those of you who like a pint of the local brew whilst holidaying, visit the Nutshell – Britain’s smallest pub, or join a tour of the famous Greene King Brewery!
We also have lots of character-filled cottages within a cluster of towns and villages known as The Wool Towns. The stunning medieval buildings present in this part of the county make it perfect for history lovers. This area was incredibly prosperous during medieval times due to a thriving wool and textiles industry. Today Lavenham is the largest and probably finest example of these Wool Towns with its “higgledy piggledy” timber-framed buildings, lining its streets. With more than 340 listed buildings including a 16th Century Guildhall, Lavenham is definitely a must-see during your Suffolk holiday!
Nearby, Long Melford lays claim to the longest street in England and has a good mix of independent shops, antiques dealers and tea rooms. Nearby Kentwell Hall and Melford Hall make for a good family day out.
The village of Monks Eleigh, four miles east of Lavenham is steeped in history and there is a great view from the church tower. The nearby village of Kersey is well known for its picture postcard high street and its famous ‘Splash’. Kersey’s character-filled pub – The Bell Inn – is a fantastic place for supper and is famous for featuring in one of the “Meerkat” adverts.
Framlingham is a delightful market town with quiet streets, interesting independent shops and a variety of cafes and restaurants. A visit to ‘Fram’, as it is called by the locals, is not complete without spending some time at Framlingham Castle, a 12th century fortress that is run by English Heritage.
However you choose to explore the Suffolk countryside, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with the stunning scenery dotted with pink thatched cottages and ancient buildings. And due to Suffolk’s rich farming heritage, you’ll also find an abundance of delicious food and drink on offer at an array of local farm shops and farmers markets. You’ll also be bowled over by the mouth-watering choice of places to dine out at. From the local fish and chip shop to a cosy Suffolk pub, we guarantee you’ll never be too far away from a delicious meal!
So let us help you make the most of your holiday in the beautiful Suffolk countryside where you can do as much or as little as your choose. So what are you waiting for?