East of England Visitor Guide 2018

EAST OF ENGLAND 

2018 EDITION 

eastlife

Enjoy 

a day of 

Discovery 

Rare Breeds 

Pets’ Paddock 

Heritage Museum 

Tractor-Trailer Rides 

Café & Gift Shop 

All-Weather Play Area 

and much more... 

A great 

day out 

for the whole 

family! 

Just 20 minutes from Woodbridge and 35 minutes from Ipswich 

Group visits welcome. Please contact info@suffolkpunchtrust.org 

For our opening times and full visitor information visit 

www.suffolkpunchtrust.org or call 01394 411327 

The Suffolk Punch Trust, Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley, IP12 3JR 

01394 411327 | info@suffolkpunchtrust.org | Registered Charity Number 1100596

VISIT EAST 

ANGLIA 

2018 

8-11 BEDFORDSHIRE 

CONTENTS 

With its coastal and country 

landscapes, market towns and 

villages, and many family attractions 

and events, East Anglia is the perfect 

destination for a holiday, short break 

or day out. In this guide we cover 

how to make the most of a trip to this 

beautiful region... 

13-39 CAMBRIDGESHIRE 

40-57 ESSEX 

8 

59-73 HERTFORDSHIRE 

75-121 NORFOLK 

123-162 SUFFOLK 

20 

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WEBSITE www.eastlife.co.uk 

47 

Please be aware that information and contact 

details may have changed since publication in 

March 2018. 

For more information or to advertise in the next 

edition, please contact one of the sales team: Darren 

Marshall (07826 628680); Stewart Hedges 

(07595 894557); Jim Leishman (01954 267635). 

Editor: Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk 

81 

Visit East Anglia Guide 2018 is published by Thompson Media 

Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or 

in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is 

strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not 

necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices, information 

and dates were correct at the time of going to press but readers 

are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by 

Buxton Press. 

131 

eastlife.co.uk 3

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AMPTHILL 

Take a trip to Ampthill, a small town and 

civil parish located between Bedford and 

Luton. It’s best known for its regular market, 

which has taken place every Thursday for 

centuries. 

The town has several lively pubs, a wide 

variety of restaurants, and a selection of 

small independent specialist shops and 

businesses. 

A trip to English Heritage’s Wrest Park is 

highly recommended (www.english-heritage. 

org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park/). It features 

over 90-acres of historic landscapes and a 

French-style mansion. Stroll in the gardens 

and enjoy miles of reinstated historic pathways 

as you discover the garden buildings. 

Zip along to the children's play area, take 

tea in the café and explore the hidden 

treasures in the archaeological stores. 

The annual Ampthill Festival takes place 

every summer. This year’s event takes place 

29 June to 1 July 2018; featuring AmpRocks, 

Ampthill Park Proms, Gala Day. The Ampthill 

Literary Festival takes place 28 April. 

BEDFORD 

Bedford is a town steeped in history so why 

not spend the day discovering some of the 

delights? You can start in the town centre 

where St Paul’s Church stands, dating back 

to the 13th century (www.stpaulschurchbed 

ford.org.uk). The BBC broadcast services in 

secret from one of its chapels during the 

war, which you can learn more about at the 

Higgins Bedford Museum 

(www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk). 

The town centre has its fair share of 

shopping opportunities. The town’s weekly 

charter, gourmet and home and garden 

markets are great for picking up local 

goods, while The Arcade boasts a number of 

independent retailers and the Harpur Centre 

has 30 stores trading over two levels. 

The Embankment is a pedestrian walk, 

about a mile long, following the banks of the 

River Ouse through the town and bordered 

by a tree-lined public park. The gardens 

are very pretty and provide a pleasant way 

to view many of the main sites of the town 

including the Butterfly Bridge. The town’s 

War Memorial, designed by notable sculptor 

Charles Sergeant Jagger, is also located 

in these gardens and is well worth a look. 

At the end of your walk the larger-than-life 

mock-tudor Embankment pub is there for 

refreshments. 

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LEIGHTON BUZZARD 

The town which lies between Luton and 

Milton Keynes, contains a great deal of 

history within its borders. Leighton Buzzard 

has many old buildings, each with its own 

story to tell, which together make for an 

interesting visit. With many attractions, lovely 

restaurants and shopping available it’s a 

great place to explore. 

It is well known for its beautiful parks and 

gardens, including Stockgrove Country Park; 

a 40-acre park situated just outside the town 

at Heath and Reach. With a lake, woodland 

walks, and picnic area, this park is the 

perfect place to go for a relaxing day off. 

The Grand Union canal runs from London 

to Birmingham, and passes right through 

Leighton Buzzard. For a calming feel, take a 

walk along the towpath in either direction. 

Canal cruises can be booked in advance, 

and canal boats can be booked from Grebe 

Canal Cruises. 

The main market is located on the High 

Street. It takes place every Tuesday and 

Saturday with a Farmers’ Market visiting on 

the third Saturday of every month. On the 

first Saturday of every month, the council 

run pop up markets in support of people of 

all ages starting up in business. 

WOBURN 

Home to Woburn Abbey, a Safari Park, Go 

Ape and the popular family resort Centre 

Parcs, it’s clear to see why Woburn has 

established itself as a major tourist 

attraction of the East. 

Woburn Abbey is a must visit. Dating back 

to 1145, it was originally a religious house 

for a group of Cistercian monks. Located on 

the Woburn Estate, visitors can explore 22 

rooms within Woburn Abbey and over 28 

acres of award-winning Humphry Repton 

inspired gardens, all set within 3,000 acres 

of deer park. 

Woburn Safari Park is an action packed day 

out for all the family. From the Road Safari 

where you can go round as many times as 

you like to the Foot Safari where you can 

mingle with the animals and grab lunch 

before watching the keeper demonstrations. 

It’s also home to Go Ape, a thrilling tree top 

adventure. 

USEFUL CONTACTS 

www.ampthill.info 

www.bedford.gov.uk 

www.lovebedford.co.uk 

www.bedpop.co.uk 

www.leightonbuzzardmarket.co.uk 

www.woburnvillage.co.uk 

www.woburnabbey.co.uk 

Give taste buds a treat at one of the many 

tea shops and cafes. Check out The Duchess 

Tearoom at Woburn Abbey or Woburn 

Coffee House on the Market Place for 

afternoon tea. For a dinner you won’t 

forget in a hurry book a table at the stylish 

Woburn Brasserie on Bedford Street or at 

the Michelin-starred Paris House. 

During the summer months visit the outdoor 

swimming pool. Woburn also has a monthly 

Farmers’ Market on the third Sunday of the 

month organised by the Village Traders. 

eastlife.co.uk 9

Look up, 

look down, 

look around! 

Registered Charity No 307534 

Shuttleworth is home to the Collection of historic aircraft, vintage vehicles 

and motorcycles, a period House and a 19th-Century Swiss Garden 

Old Warden Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9EP • 01767 627927 

Whether you’ve come to explore the Swiss Garden, look around The Collection, or simply to 

enjoy our on-site restaurant and gift shop, Shuttleworth is always an interesting day out. Parking 

is free and there’s a Play Area for children that is disabled friendly. Events run throughout the 

year, and group visits for Afternoon Tea in The House can be combined with Swiss Garden 

tours and/or entry to The Collection. Finding us is easy - we are just off the A1 at Biggleswade! 

Scan the QR code to 

watch a short Swiss 

Garden video 

www.shuttleworth.org 

Scan the QR code 

to watch a short 

Collection video 

East of England Tourist Guides 2018 HP.indd 1 06/12/2017 11:33:01

WHAT’S ON? 

10 Mar - 23 Sept 

Celebrating Women of Bedfordshire 

The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, 

MK40 3XD 

www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk 

8 Apr, 13 May, 10 Jun, 8 Jul, 12 Aug, 14 Oct, 

11 Nov & 9 Dec 

Woburn Antiques And Collectors Fair 

Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road 

10-Apr Ramp ‘n’ Roll 

Harpur Square, Bedford 

28-Apr Ampthill LitFest 2018 

Ampthill Parkside Hall, Woburn Road, 

Ampthill, MK45 2HX 

www.ampthillfestival.co.uk/literary 

13-May Made in Bedford Artisan Fair 

Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square, 

Bedford MK40 1SL 

www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 

20 May, 8 Jul & 16 Sept 

Bedford Flea 

St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ 

www.facebook.com/BedfordFlea 

3-Jun Big Lunch Food Festival 

Town Centre, Leighton Buzzrd 

www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/your-town/ 

events 

16-Jun Taste Bedford 

The Embankment, Bedford, MK40 

www.bedpop.co.uk/bedpop-presents-taste 

23-24 Jun Woburn Abbey Garden Show 

Woburn Abbey Gardens, MK17 9WA 

www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events 

28-Jun Linslade Canal Festival 

Tidenfoot Waterside Park, Mentmore Rd, 

Leighton Buzzard LU7 2AE 

www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/canal-festival 

30-Jun AmpRocks 

Ampthill Great Park 

www.ampthillfestival.co.uk/amprocks 

5-Aug Proms in Bedford Park 

Bedford Park, No 98 Kimbolton Rd, Bedford 

MK40 2PF 

www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk 

13-15 Aug Afternoon Tea with speaker 

Gillian Perry MBE 

Woburn The Sculpture Gallery, MK17 9WA 

www.sculpturegallerywoburn.co.uk 

Map courtesy of Bedfordshire Archive and 

Records Office 

eastlife.co.uk 11

Coach House, 

Thornham, 5 Bed 

The Gables, 

Thornham, 4 Bed 

Lavender Barn, 

Holme-next-the-Sea, 5 Bed 

Hope Cottage, 

Holme-next-the-Sea, 1 Bed 

The Old Smithy, 

Holme-next-the-sea, 1 Bed 

The Beach Hut 

Available for hire to Guests 

staying in any of the Ocean 

Breaks Norfolk properties. 

LUXURY HOLIDAY LETTINGS 

w: oceanbreaks.com | m: 07515 063572 | t: 01733 200908 | Search: Ocean Breaks

GARDENS 

OF CAMBRIDGE 

When you want to escape the city, head 

to one of the many beautiful green spaces 

Cambridge has to offer. 

A stone’s throw from the city centre, Jesus 

Green is a beautiful stretch of parkland 

bordering the River Cam and the nearby 

Jesus College. Complete with an openair 

swimming pool, skate park and tennis 

courts, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely 

stroll at any time of year. 

Any first-time visitor to Cambridge should 

take a walk along the ‘Backs’ of the riverside 

colleges. To really get into the Cambridge 

spirit, hire a bike from one of the city’s 

rental outlets and freewheel your way 

around. Back in the city centre, the University 

Botanic Garden is a 40-acre oasis of beautifully 

landscaped grounds and glasshouses 

that is home to a huge diversity of plants, 

trees and bird life. The Garden offers all-year 

interest and seasonal inspiration and has a 

number of trails available. 

You don’t have to stray far from the city to 

find a wealth of natural beauty and stunning 

gardens to enjoy. The nearby village of 

Grantchester is a fantastic destination for a 

short walk. 

Cambridge Botanic Garden 

Pool; credit Visit England, 

Iain Lewis. 

Much-loved by generations of Cambridge 

families is Wandlebury Country Park – some 

45 ha of tranquil woods and chalk grassland. 

West of the city on the edge of Coton 

village is The Countryside Reserve; a working 

farm, offering some 120ha of pasture 

and agricultural land with diverse wildlife 

habitats, routes for walkers, cyclists, joggers 

and more. Both areas are owned and cared 

for by charity Cambridge Past, Present & 

Future. 

eastlife.co.uk 13

STEP 

BACK IN TIME 

Cambridge has profoundly helped to shape 

the modern world, and there is a real sense 

of living history almost everywhere you look 

- as you might expect from a city whose 

University has produced 15 former British 

Prime Ministers and 87 affiliates of the 

University who have won the Nobel Prize 

(more than any other single institution). 

History and environment are inseparable 

in Cambridge, from the descendant of the 

tree outside Trinity College that inspired Sir 

Isaac Newton to devise his theory of 

gravitation to The Eagle pub where Crick 

and Watson sketched out the structure of 

DNA on a napkin. 

The University of Cambridge is home to 31 

autonomous colleges. Each has its own 

distinctive atmosphere and rich history 

to soak up and enjoy - from the medieval 

Peterhouse to the 20th century Churchill 

College. 

No trip would be complete without gazing 

upon the majestic King’s College Chapel 

- the picture postcard symbol of the city 

and its University that is known around the 

world. The Great Court at Trinity College, 

founded by the infamous Henry VIII, offers a 

scene that has remained virtually 

unchanged for centuries. 

The most idyllic way to see the city has to 

be by drifting slowly down the River Cam 

on a punt - a flat-bottomed boat steered 

and powered by a pole. Once on board, see 

history pass before your eyes as you take in 

‘The Backs’ of the Colleges and glide under 

the famous Bridge of Sighs (St John’s 

College) or the Mathematical Bridge 

(Queens’ College). 

Not forgetting Corpus Christi College, 

founded by members of the Town Guilds 

of Corpus Christi and the Blessed Virgin 

Mary, the College houses a collection of 

Anglo-Saxon manuscripts. 

Old Court is the finest surviving early 

medieval court in Cambridge and famous 

members have included the dramatist 

Christopher Marlowe. 

To satisfy your thirst for culture, Cambridge 

has everything from paintings by Titian 

and Picasso through to World War II fighter 

planes, to fossils dating back 550 million 

years. Its museums house some of the most 

fascinating and diverse collections in the 

world - and best of all, most are free to enter. 


King’s Parade; credit: Visit England, Iain Lewis

Farmland Museum 

& Denny Abbey 

A FASCINATING PLACE TO VISIT FOR ALL AGES 

A family friendly museum celebrating farming & village life 

in a beautiful rural setting. Explore the remains 

of a 12th century Abbey. 

Visit website for admission prices & details of all events. 

Picnic & play area. Gift Shop. Tearoom open weekends, bank 

holidays & family activity afternoons. Hot drinks available daily. 

Free Parking. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. 

Reg. Charity 

No. 289555 

OPEN DAILY 

BETWEEN 1 April until 28 October 2018. 

Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 5pm 

and Bank Holiday 

Mondays – 11am – 5pm 

The Farmland Museum & Denny Abbey, Ely Road, Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire CB25 9PQ 

Tel: 01223 860988 Email: info@farmlandmuseum.org.uk 

www.farmlandmuseum.org.uk 

Keep up to date by 

following us on 

Open Gardens 


Old Moulsham 

Sunday 3rd June 

Danbury 

Sunday 10th June 

Great Notley 


Little Waltham 


Mill End, Bradwell-on-Sea Sunday 1st July 

Galleywood 

Sunday 8th July 

Witham 

Sunday 8th July 

Enjoy an unforgettable day of colour and fragrance in 

beautiful Essex gardens, opening to the public through the 

summer in support of Farleigh Hospice. For more information 

or to book your ticket, please call 01245 457411 or visit 

www.farleighhospice.org/gardens 

It is because you care that we can 

www.farleighhospice.org 

Registered charity no 284670 

adc theatre 

corpus playroom 

The ADC Theatre is 

the liveliest theatre in 

Cambridge. We have 

helped to launch the 

careers of many theatre 

luminaries including Sir 

Ian McKellen, 

Emma Thompson 

and Stephen Fry. 

Photo Credit: 

Evelina Gumileva 

view our full season at adctheatre.com

ARTS & MUSEUMS 

There are exhibits to excite and inspire 

visitors of all ages and interests. The 

Fitzwilliam collection includes antiquities, 

applied arts, illuminated manuscripts, and 

paintings by Constable, Hogarth, and 

Gainsborough. Gaze upon a masterpiece by 

Rubens in King’s College Chapel, visit 

Concorde at The Imperial War Museum 

Duxford, take a trip to the North and South 

Poles at the Scott Polar Research Institute, 

and still have time to see the specimens 

Darwin gathered on his famous trip on the 

Beagle at the Museum of Zoology. 

The world-famous Fitzwilliam Museum has 

been described as ‘the finest small museum 

in Europe’ and is an essential stop on any 

cultural itinerary of Cambridge. The diverse 

collection includes antiquities from ancient 

Egypt, Rome and Greece and illuminated 

manuscripts. 

For something completely different, try 

Kettle’s Yard - formerly the home of Jim Ede, 

a curator at the Tate Gallery, London, whose 

private art collection has been preserved 

and opened to the public in this beautiful 

house, alongside his furniture and 

household objects. Just next door is the 

Kettle’s Yard Gallery of Contemporary Art, 

and just around the corner is the Cambridge 

and County Folk Museum. 

Further afield, visitors to Cambridge are 

also spoilt for choice with beautiful 

stately homes such as Anglesey Abbey 

and Wimpole Hall and just 15 miles north of 

Cambridge is Ely, Britain’s second smallest 

city and home to an awe-inspiring cathedral 

dating back nearly 1,000 years. 

www.visitcambridge.org 

Image credit: Visit Cambridge 

eastlife.co.uk 17

FOOD & 

DRINK 

With a tantalising array of independent 

eateries, including a two-star Michelin 

restaurant, Cambridge is a haven for 

anyone who just wants a good bite to eat 

and is an ideal destination for the more 

discerning restaurant connoisseur. 

If you are looking for a quiet lunch 

overlooking the River Cam, an 

excellent gastro ‘pub-grub’ or wish to 

dine al fresco, there is plenty of choice 

to serve your needs. The city has an 

assortment of tea rooms offering a tempting 

range of cakes and treats and the cafés and 

brasseries provide a welcome break from 

shopping and sightseeing. 

As well as the usual chain restaurants 

Cambridge boasts a diverse mix of 

independent restaurants. Meat lovers 

should try The Pint Shop on Peas Hill, 

which serves up chargrilled meat dishes, 

real ales and a great selection of gin. 

For rustic Italian snacks visit Aromi. The 

popular establishment now has three 

restaurants in the city. Or for dinner with 

a view, book a table at SIX, at the Varisty 

Hotel, where you can enjoy great food and 

panoramic views of the city. 

If you want to experience the best of the 

Cambridge food scene book onto the 

Cambridge Food Tour. A number of tours 

are available to help you taste first-hand 

some of Cambridge’s finest food. 

If you would rather just get away from it 

all, the surrounding villages are home to 

country pubs serving quality foods 

and sumptuous real ales.

SHOPPING IN CAMBRIDGE 

Cambridge is fortunate to have an exciting 

and brilliant mix of independent shops that 

should not be missed, often hidden away 

down beautiful winding lanes and side 

streets. The ‘Hidden Gems’ of the city are 

well worth exploring to find style and individuality 

in an attractive historic setting. 

Down by the beautiful and undulating River 

Cam you’ll find a mix of specialist shops, 

bars and restaurants scattered around the 

Quayside area. 

Between 10am-4pm opposite the Guildhall, 

every Monday to Saturday, you’ll find the 

famous and historic market boasting a wide 

array of stalls. These offer everything from 

fruit and vegetables to clothes and gifts. 

The Market Square changes character on 

Sunday as it hosts the weekly Arts, Craft 

and Local Produce Market. Again, trading 

between 10am-4pm, this popular market is a 

showpiece for some of the region’s most 

talented artists, craftspeople, photographers 

and esteemed farmers. 

Also not to be missed is the All Saints Garden 

Art and Craft Market, held every Saturday, in 

a beautiful garden just across the road from 

Trinity College. This market has earned itself 

a justified reputation for quality handmade 

products at affordable prices. 

Cambridge also offers a number of exciting 

shopping areas in and around the city 

centre. These include: The Grand Arcade, 

with over 60 shops, including a five-storey 

John Lewis Store; Lion Yard, a vibrant and 

cosmopolitan mix of high street names in 

the heart of the city centre; Christ’s Lane 

with numerous trendy stores; and the 

Grafton Centre, which features well-known 

brands, restaurants and a cinema. Rose 

Crescent offers a combination of independent 

retailers and brands such as Molton Brown 

and there is also a selection of food outlets. 

Green Street and Sussex Street hosts 

a collection of independent shops and 

boutiques. For more on Cambridge’s 

independent stores visit 

www.independent-cambridge.co.uk 

Mill Road is renowned for its diverse 

range of restaurants and food shops, 

and hosts regular events throughout 

the year. 

With independent boutiques, open-air 

markets and household brands, 

Cambridge has everything you could 

need for an unforgettable city 

shopping break. 

eastlife.co.uk 19

CAMBRIDGE 

ATTRACTIONS 

ADC Theatre 

The oldest University playhouse. Its resident 

company is Cambridge University 

Amateur Dramatic Club (CUADC) whose 

alumni include Sir Derek Jacobi, Griff Rhys 

Jones and Stephen Fry. Park Street, 

01223 300085. www.adctheatre.com 

Anglia Ruskin University Mumford Theatre 

Here you can enjoy an arts programme 

which includes a free series of Friday 

lunchtime concerts, the on-campus Mumford 

Theatre and Ruskin Gallery, and concerts 

and productions in the City. East Road, 01223 

352932. tickets.mumfordtheatre.anglia.ac.uk 

Arts Picturehouse 

Three-screen cinema showing a wide range 

of films spanning art-house, independent, 

classic, documentary and world cinema, as 

well as Hollywood blockbusters. 

38-39 St Andrew’s Street, 0871 9025720. 

www.picturehouses.com 

The Backs 

The Cambridge Backs is a stretch of 

reclaimed land, which runs along the 

back of the riverside colleges. It provides 

stunning views throughout the year, and 

is covered with a blanket of daffodils and 

crocuses during the spring. 

Queen’s Road. 01223 457000 

Cambridge American Military Cemetery 

The hallowed grounds on which are buried 

or commemorated 8,939 men and women 

of the American Armed Forces who lost their 

lives in Britain during the Second World 

War. Visitors can learn more with its many 

displays and exhibitions. Coton, 

01954 210350. www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-me 

morials/europe/cambridge-american-cemetery 

Cambridge Arts Theatre 

A 666-seat theatre that attracts some of the 

highest-quality touring productions in the 

country, as well as many shows direct from, 

or prior to, seasons in the West End. Its 

annual Christmas pantomime is an 

established tradition in the City. 6 St 

Edward’s Passage, 01223 503333 

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 

Cambridge Bike Tours 

Cover the city, more of the river and get 

off the beaten track on an antique British 

bike. Your eccentric guide takes you round 

the city and out into the countryside at a 

leisurely pace to really soak up the 

atmosphere. 07902 118100 

www.cambridgebiketours.co.uk 

Cambridge Chauffeur Punts 

Chauffeured punting, self hire punting, 

guided river tours, weddings, conferences, 

hen parties, school groups and exclusive 

chauffeured punts with a Thai meal, 

strawberries and Champagne or 

entertainment. Silver Street, 01223 354164 

www.punting-in-cambridge.co.uk 

Cambridge Corn Exchange 

Situated within the heart of the city, 

Cambridge Corn Exchange is Cambridge’s 

biggest venue for music, comedy, shows and 

entertainment playing host to around 280 

different events every year. 

Wheeler Street, 01223 357851 

www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/cornex 

Cambridge & County Folk Museum 

Discover the real story of Cambridge and 

its people through this fascinating Museum 

of Cambridge life. Housed in a 17th century 

timber framed building which was the 

White Horse Inn for more than 300 years, 

this family-friendly museum displays a 

wealth of Cambridge tradition and history. 

The museum hosts a number of temporary 

exhibitions and events throughout the year 

and offers regular family and children’s 

activities and trails. Castle Street, 01223 

355159. www.museumofcambridge.org.uk 


Cambridge Leisure Park 

Cambridge Leisure is home to a nine-screen 

Cineworld cinema, 28-lane Tenpin bowling, 

the Cambridge Junction, gym, café, wide 

range of restaurants and bars. There is also 

a large Travel Lodge hotel. Clifton Road. 

www.cambridgeleisure.co.uk 

Cambridge Museum of Technology 

Based in the original sewage pumping 

station the Museum exists to preserve and 

exhibit material that is relevant to the 

Cambridge area, either by its use or its 

invention. Cheddars Lane. 01223 500652. 

www.museumoftechnology.com 

Cambridge University Botanic Garden 

John Stevens Henslow, professor of Botany, 

founded the Botanic Garden which develops 

and displays over 8,000 different plant 

species in 40 acres of beautiful landscaped 

gardens, with many fascinating features 

including a lake, glasshouses, winter garden, 

rock gardens, and a superb collection of 

mature trees. The garden holds nine 

national collections, including Geranium and 

Fritillaria. Bateman Street, 01223 336265 

www.botanic.cam.ac.uk 

Cambridge University Library 

The University Library is a copyright library, 

which holds over seven million books and 

periodicals, and a million maps. The library 

has an exhibition centre in which members 

of the public can enjoy the riches of its 

collection. Exhibitions run throughout the 

year. West Road, 01223 333000. 

www.lib.cam.ac.uk 

Cambridge University Press Bookshop 

The Cambridge University Press Bookshop 

is located on the oldest bookshop site in 

England. Books have been sold here since 

1581. 1 Trinity Street, 01223 333333. 

www.cambridge.org/about-us/visit-bookshop 

Christ’s College 

Founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, whose 

coat of arms and statue grace the 

gatehouse. This was the college of the 

famous poet John Milton and Charles 

Darwin was a student here between 1828 & 

1831. St Andrew’s Street, 01223 334900. 

www.christs.cam.ac.uk 

Christ’s Pieces 

The council purchased Christ’s Pieces in 

1886 from Jesus College; it covers 10 acres 

and is one of the most important formal 

parks in the city. Centrally located, it is 

visited daily by thousands of shoppers as a 

thoroughfare between the city centre and 

the Grafton Centre. The seasonal display 

beds are extremely colourful both during 

winter and summer. Emmanuel Road, 01223 

457000. www.cambridge.gov.uk/christs-pieces 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre 

The architecturally stunning round church 

is Cambridge’s second oldest building. 

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of 

only four round churches in England. It is 

based on the Church of the Resurrection, 

which was consecrated in Jerusalem in 335. 

Cambridge’s Norman round church was built 

in 1130. Regular guided walks on Monday, 

Saturday and Sunday. Bridge Street, 

www.christianheritage.org.uk 

Clare College 

The second oldest college in Cambridge, 

with the oldest surviving river bridge. The 

old court is built in the renaissance style 

and could easily be mistaken for a palace. 

Former students include Hugh Latimer, the 

Protestant reformer who was burnt at the 

stake by Mary Tudor. Trinity Lane, 

01223 333200. www.clare.cam.ac.uk 

Corpus Christi 

Corpus Christi contains the finest surviving 

medieval court in Cambridge. The college 

is also home to the impressive Grasshopper 

Clock. King’s Parade, 01223 338000. 

www.corpus.cam.ac.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 21

Emmanuel College 

The college chapel was designed by Sir 

Christopher Wren, and completed in 1674. It 

contains a plaque to John Harvard, a former 

student of Emmanuel. St Andrew’s Street 

01223 334200. www.emma.cam.ac.uk 

Fitzwilliam Museum 

The Fitzwilliam museum is one of Britain’s 

earliest public museums. The present 

collections contain: European paintings 

ranging from the 14th Century to the 

present day; Egyptian, Greek and Roman 

antiquities; and the applied arts of 

Western Europe and Asia including 

sculpture, ceramics, furniture, coins and 

medals. A wide range of temporary 

exhibitions are also on offer, as well as an 

annually-changing display of contemporary 

sculpture in the Museum’s grounds. 

Trumpington Street, 01223 332900. 

www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 

Grasshopper Clock 

The fabulously terrifying “Grasshopper 

Clock” on the corner of Corpus’ Taylor 

Library is a must-see for any Cambridge 

visitor. Unveiled to the public in September 

2008, this extraordinary feat of new 

technology now stands proudly facing onto 

King’s Parade; its shining, 24-carat gold dial 

and gruesome time-keeper is a dazzling 

addition to the historic city centre. Corpus 

Christi College (view from corner of King’s 

Parade and Benet Street). 

www.corpus.cam.ac.uk 

Great St Mary’s Church 

Great St Mary’s is the university church. Its 

tower was completed in 1608 and provides 

excellent panoramic views of the city and 

and University Colleges. Market Square, 

01223 747273. www.gsm.cam.ac.uk 

Jesus College 

Founded by John Alcock, Bishop of Ely, on 

the site of a 12th century nunnery in 1496. 

The college has spacious grounds and 

pretty 16th century cloister court. Former 

students include Thomas Cranmer the first 

Protestant Archbishop of Canterbury, and 

Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen 

Elizabeth II. Jesus Lane, 01223 339339. 

www.jesus.cam.ac.uk 

Jesus Green 

This riverside park is the perfect venue 

to relax, picnic, walk, or play sport. Jesus 

Green’s outdoor swimming pool is situated 

in idyllic surroundings and close to the river. 

There are floral displays and an Avenue of 

London Planes, planted in 1890, which 

dominates the central walkway. 

Chesterton Road, 01223 457000. 

www.cambridge.gov.uk/jesus-green 

The Junction 

One of the most diverse cultural venues in 

the UK, presenting 100s of performances 

each year, The Junction has three 

performance spaces that cover clubs, 

comedy, dance, live music, theatre and 

events for young people. Clifton Road, 

01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 

Kettle’s Yard 

A fine collection of modern art in a unique 

and beautiful domestic setting and a gallery 

showing regular exhibitions. Castle Street, 

01223 748100. www.kettlesyard.co.uk 

King’s College 

The Chapel is the grandest and most 

beautiful building in Cambridge and ranks 

amongst the most important examples of 

perpendicular (late gothic) architecture. 

Visit the College grounds and Chapel and 

attend choral services in the Chapel. 

King’s Parade, 01223 331212. 

www.kings.cam.ac.uk 

New Hall Art Collection 

A permanent collection of contemporary 

art by women artists. With more than 350 

artworks it is the largest and most 

significant collection of art by women in 

Europe. Murray Edwards College, 

01223 762295. www-art.newhall.cam.ac.uk 


Parker’s Piece 

Parkers Piece is one of Cambridge’s most 

significant open spaces. It was named after 

Edward Parker, a cook who leased the land 

from Trinity College in Cambridge. Its 

greatest claim to fame is that it was where 

basic football association rules were formed. 

It was in 1863 that these ‘Cambridge Rules’ 

became the defining influence on football 

association rules, many of which still apply 

to this day. Parkside, 01223 457000. 

www.cambridge.gov.uk/parkers-piece 

Pembroke College 

The third oldest Cambridge College, 

founded by a French lady, Marie St Pol de 

Valence, the widowed Countess of Pembroke. 

The chapel was the first completed 

work of Sir Christopher Wren. Delightful 

gardens. Trumpington Street, 01223 338100. 

www.pem.cam.ac.uk 

Peterhouse 

Hugh de Balsham, Bishop of Ely, founded 

Peterhouse, the first Cambridge College, 

in 1284. The Hall, which is the oldest in any 

Cambridge College, has work by William 

Morris, Burne Jones and Madox Browne. 

Former students include Charles Babbage, 

the inventor of the early mechanical computer, 

and Sir Frank Whittle, who invented 

the jet engine. Peterhouse was the first 

Cambridge College to introduce electricity. 

Trumpington Street, 01223 338200. 

www.pet.cam.ac.uk 

Queens’ College 

Queens’ College is home to the famous 

wooden Mathematical Bridge. Silver Street, 

01223 335511. www.queens.cam.ac.uk 

Riverboat Georgina 

Enjoy a luxury river cruise along the Cam. 

Public trips are available throughout the 

year. Also available for private charter. 

01223 929124 

www.riverboatgeorginacambridge.co.uk 

St John’s College 

The annual Cambridge and Oxford boat 

race began in 1829, when St John’s College 

challenged Oxford. St John’s Street, 

01223 338600. www.joh.cam.ac.uk 

Scott Polar Research Institute 

Learn about the expeditions of Captain 

Scott, and other polar explorers. Lensfield 

Road, 01223 336540. www.spri.cam.ac.uk 

Scudamore’s Punting Co 

The largest selection of boats in Cambridge 

with a choice of both chauffeured punt tours 

and self-hire craft. Mill Lane & Quayside, 

01223 359750. www.scudamores.com 

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences 

The museum houses a spectacular collection 

of fossil animals and plants of all 

geological ages from all over the world. 

Downing Street, 01223 333456. 

www.sedgwickmuseum.org 

Sidney Sussex College 

Sidney Sussex was the college of Oliver 

Cromwell, the great Lord Protector who was 

born in the nearby town of Huntingdon, and 

came up to Cambridge to study in 1616. 

Cromwell’s skull was buried in the college 

ante-chapel in 1960. Sidney Street, 

01223 338800. www.sid.cam.ac.uk 

Trinity College 

The wealthiest college founded by Henry 

VIII towards the end of his life. Trinity is the 

college of Sir Isaac Newton, who had rooms 

between the chapel and gatehouse in the 

17th century. Here you can see an apple tree, 

a descendant of Newton’s tree in 

Lincolnshire, which inspired his work on 

gravity. The college library was designed by 

Christopher Wren and completed by 1690. 

Trinity Street, 01223 338400. 

www.trin.cam.ac.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 23

Come and experience one of the 

wonders of the Medieval World 

• Daily Ground Floor & Tower Tours 

• Restaurant, Café & Gift Shops 

• Stained Glass Museum 

• Monastic Buildings & Gardens 

• Specialist Exhibitions & Events 

• Major Film & TV Location 

(The King’s Speech, The Crown) 

• Beautiful Riverside & Shops 

Open Daily from 7am 

01353 660349 

www.elycathedral.org 

Have you visited the 

Centre for Computing History 

in Cambridge? 

Explore electronics, coding and control 

systems, revive your passion for retro 

gaming, discover the people and stories 

that laid the foundation for our 

digital age & so much more. 

Interactive Workshops, Talks & 

Hands-on Experiences in a digital 

playground for all ages. 

For our full programme visit: 

www.ComputingHistory.org.uk

ELY 

Ely has a beautiful waterside, seen best in the 

summer months, when you can enjoy a boat 

trip or a riverside walk. As well as an art gallery 

and the region’s largest antique centre, 

the riverside is home to a variety of eateries. 

With the city centre only a two-minute walk 

away, your trip can be completed with a visit to 

one or more of the key visitor attractions such 

as the impressive Cathedral or Oliver 

Cromwell’s House. Not forgetting a visit to the 

many quaint and traditional shops selling a 

variety of unusual gifts to remember your visit by. 

Your first port of call will no doubt be the 

medieval Cathedral. It is easy to see why it is 

Ely’s top tourist attraction. Wander around this 

magnificent building famous for its octagon 

tower or take advantage of having a more 

informative experience with a guided tour. 

Tours also include optional visits to the 

octagon and west towers where the 

spectacular views make it well worth the climb. 

Whilst in the Cathedral, don’t miss the chance 

of visiting the Stained Glass Museum, housed 

in the South Triforium. Regular tours and 

events are held throughout the year so you 

can get a better understanding of the history. 

Before leaving the city centre, take the time 

to visit Ely Museum. Discover the story of Ely 

from prehistoric times to the 20th century set 

in the city’s former gaol. 

Oliver Cromwell’s House is one of the only 

remaining homes of Cromwell’s with the 

exception of Hampton Court Palace in 

London. The house has been transformed to 

give you an insight into 17th century life. It 

hosts a range of fun ‘hands on’ activities for 

the whole family. The house also doubles as a 

tourist information centre. 

Ely’s Waterside is a hotspot for visitors 

wishing to relax and enjoy afternoon tea 

or to take a boat trip. Stop off at one of the 

traditional tea rooms or restaurants or take a 

trip along the Great River Ouse on board the 

Liberty Belle, Ely’s Fenland Cruiser (Easter to 

October) and enjoy the live commentary. 

For those with an interest in retail therapy or 

those looking for something a little different, 

the area offers an extensive range and mix 

of traditional and contemporary gift, craft 

and antique shops along with a variety of 

art galleries. For those who love a bargain, 

Ely holds three different markets including 

an award-winning Farmers’ Market on the 

second and fourth Saturday of every month, 

a regular General Market and Saturday Craft 

and Collectables Market. 

The city’s heritage public art Eel Trail is an 

excellent way of seeing the historic city at its 

best. This circular walk, self-guided by brass 

waymarkers set in the ground, takes you past 

the oldest parts of Ely and down to the 

beautiful riverside. 

eastlife.co.uk 25

FOREST HEATH 

Forest Heath has a wonderful variety of 

landscapes to explore, from the chalk 

downlands of Newmarket, through to the 

rich agricultural fenlands in the west and 

the sandy brecklands in the north with its 

large lowland forest. 

The largest town in the district, Newmarket, 

is the international home of horseracing 

and attracts visitors from all over the world. 

While they may initially come to Newmarket 

for the racing, they discover that 

Newmarket has much to offer both new and 

returning visitors. 

With magnificent buildings, wonderful 

views and an excellent location (with historic 

Cambridge and Ely on the doorstep), it is 

the perfect place to explore this region. 

Brandon, the gateway to the Brecks, has 

a long and fascinating history. Brandon 

Country Park boasts 30 acres of space to 

enjoy, including a delightful walled garden, 

forest walks, picnic area and visitor centre. 

Mountain biking is very popular in this area 

and there are trails both in the country park 

and High Lodge Forest Centre just a short 

distance down the road. 

rebuilt in the 15th century, yet retains many 

features dating back to the 12th and 13th 

centuries. 

The parish of Mildenhall is one of the 

largest in Suffolk and the town boasts a 

rich history remembered in the Mildenhall 

Museum. Here, you can see a replica of the 

Mildenhall treasure and learn about the 

great Mildenhall to Melbourne air race. RAF 

Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath are still 

operational as part of the United States Air 

Force. 

As well as the three market towns, Forest 

Heath has 22 villages. Scattered around the 

outskirts of the towns, and linking the three 

main centres together, the villages are well 

worth visiting and many have local pubs 

and shops for you to visit. 

As you pass through each you will 

experience the changing landscapes 

around you; fen, heath, chalk and downlands, 

from the flat, panoramic views over 

dark peat fields, to rolling countryside, and 

woodland areas covered in wildflowers - 

you will discover magical, isolated places, 

known only to a lucky few. 

St Mary’s Church and the Market Pump sit 

in the heart of Mildenhall. The church was 

For more information visit the tourism 

pages at www.forest-heath.gov.uk 


HUNTINGDON 

Huntingdonshire is centred around the 

beautiful River Great Ouse and has 

fascinating historic market towns to explore. 

The five towns of Huntingdon, Godmanchester 

(pictured above), Ramsey, St Ives and St 

Neots have long and wonderful histories. 

Huntingdon, Godmanchester, St Ives and St 

Neots nestle on the banks of the River Great 

Ouse, while Ramsey is in a glorious setting 

on the edge of the fens, offering the visitor a 

warm welcome. 

Huntingdonshire also has a wealth of stunning 

villages tucked away down country 

lanes, with charming stone buildings and 

tranquil waterside settings. 

Kimbolton is one of the larger villages in 

the area, with its historic High Street and 

medieval castle which was the final home 

of Queen Katherine of Aragon, wife of King 

Henry VIII. 

Retrace the steps of more famous people. 

Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of England, 

was born and educated in Huntingdon. His 

former grammar school is now a museum 

recording his life. He was also a tenant 

farmer in St Ives where his statue still stands. 

Visit the wealth of other heritage attractions. 

There’s Elton Hall with its beautiful 

gardens and Gothic orangery, and the 18th 

century mansion of Island Hall in Godmanchester, 

with its serene riverside setting. The 

Manor in Hemingford Grey, on which the 

Green Knowe children’s books were based, 

is one of the oldest continuously inhabited 

houses in the country, and Houghton Mill, the 

last working water mill on the River Great 

Ouse, is also well worth a visit. 

Huntingdonshire is also lucky to have a wide 

range of wildlife sites, from the large and 

rambling parks of Hinchingbrooke, Paxton 

Pits and Grafham Water to the meadows of 

Portholme, Houghton and Upwood. 

eastlife.co.uk 27

01353 861677 

info@swanontheriver.co.uk 

www.swanontheriver.co.uk 

Five rooms overlooking the river Great Ouse 

Pub 

Dining 

Rooms 

Sleep in your en-suite riverside room, wake 

to morning coffee on your own balcony, 

overlooking the river 

1 Sandhill 

Littleport 

Ely 

Cambs CB6 1NT 

Littleport sits on the Norfolk, Suffolk and 

Cambridge borders, centrally placed for 

exploring East Anglia, in particular 

Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Kings Lynn and 

Bury St Edmunds 

- all accessible from the village rail station 

which is on the direct line from London 

Kings Cross.

S3295 OHH East of England Tourist Guide.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2018 20:56 Page 1 

Beautiful hotel and spa in the cathedral city of Peterborough 

Accommodation with 

leisure facilities 

Traditional on-site pub 

with carvery 

Afternoon Teas, 

Light Lunches 

The Village, Orton Longueville, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 7DN 

Tel: 01733 391111 Email: reception@ortonhall.co.uk 

www.ortonhall.co.uk 

THE ULTIMATE 

FAMILY DAY OUT 

Come and see our collection of over 

180 Birds of Prey with 3 daily flying 

displays. Visit the Reptile House and 

listen to Keeper talks on Meerkats, 

snakes and spiders. Also on site Mad 

about Owls Gift Shop, Silent Wings 

Tearoom, Bobb-N-Sew, St Ives Photos. 

1 CHILD FREE 

with this advert. 

Must be accompanied 

by a paying adult. 

1 per family 

Valid until 30/9/18. 

To find out more about our upcoming events, 

Animal Experiences please visit our website 

Tel: 01487 741140 

http://raptorfoundation.org.uk/ 

Charity number 1042085 

/rapfound

Offering an exciting mix of culture, 

countryside and city attractions, 

Peterborough is in its prime. 

PETERBOROUGH 

You can enjoy lazy afternoons among acres 

of rolling countryside and miles of 

waterways or full days out visiting 

Peterborough’s museums, stately homes 

and varied visitor attractions. 

By night, the city really comes to life with 

theatre productions at the Key Theatre, 

greyhound racing, scores of bars and 

restaurants. After a successful shop, take 

time out to rest your feet at one of the 

many cafés. During the summer months, 

dine al fresco so you can soak up the 

atmosphere while relaxing with a drink and 

a bite to eat. 

Peterborough Cathedral is situated in 

beautiful surroundings in the heart of the 

cosmopolitan city centre. As well as still 

operating as a thriving Christian Church, 

today the cathedral offers a wide array of 

activity including an interactive exhibition, 

fascinating historic and Cathedral tower 

tours, an exciting mix of arts and crafts 

based events, and a popular coffee shop. 

Only a few minutes from the city centre is 

the glorious Nene Park. Stretching out for 

over six miles along the River Nene, this is 

the perfect spot for picnics, bird watching, 

walking, cycling, riding, sailing and golf. 

Annual events include a Dragon Boat Race, 

Beer Festival and the famous Burghley 

Horse Trials. Don’t miss the arts and cultural 

festivities in Peterborough and the surrounding 

smaller towns and villages. There 

is the Peterborough Festival, the Green 

Festival and a host of arts, music and drama 

events throughout the year. During 2018 

Peterborough will be celebrating the 900th 

anniversary of its iconic cathedral with over 

100 events. Find out more at 

www.peterboroughcelebrates.org.uk

SOUTH CAMBS 

Set in 350 square miles of fantastic cycling 

and walking countryside, the district of 

South Cambridgeshire offers the perfect 

opportunity to relax and explore. 

With its historic monuments, houses and 

museums set in the tranquil and rural 

landscape of rolling chalk hills covered with 

beech woods and flat fertile land, South 

Cambridgeshire provides a great location for 

everyone, from the lively and adventurous 

to those who want to unwind and get away 

from it all. 

Eight miles south west of Cambridge, 

Wimpole Hall and Home Farm is 

Cambridgeshire’s largest stately home 

with 18th century gardens designed by 

the famous historical gardener Lancelot 

‘Capability’ Brown. As well as its impressive 

grounds, Wimpole Hall is also home to a 

working farm where visitors can take part 

in a variety of activities such as grooming 

donkeys and ponies, collecting eggs and 

experiencing the wide range of pigs, sheep 

and cattle that live there. 

The Imperial War Museum Duxford 

(www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford) 

is Europe’s premier aviation museum, 

offering visitors an array of the finest 

historic aircraft in seven acres of exhibition 

space. The summer months see the skies 

come alive with dramatic air displays. 

Take in a winery tour at Chilford Hall’s working 

vineyard, lying in 18 acres of rural countryside. 

East Anglia is one of England’s main 

wine-producing regions and the district 

boasts a number of vineyards, benefiting 

from long hours of sunshine and low rainfall. 

Not far from Chilford Hall, the award-winning 

Linton Zoo offers children and adults 

alike a wealth of rare and exotic creatures, 

while Shepreth Wildlife Park, just 8.7 miles 

south of Cambridge, houses a famous collection 

of wild and domestic animals. 

Travel north to Grantchester with its idyllic 

water meadows and The Orchard Tea 

Gardens, made famous by poet Rupert 

Brooke. 

A warm welcome is awaiting at the many 

hotels and guesthouses which are ideal 

bases from which to enjoy all that the 

region has to offer. 

eastlife.co.uk 31

ST.IVES 

The historic riverside market town on the River 

Great Ouse is a wonderful place to visit. For 

over 900 years St Ives has been attracting 

visitors to its traditional fairs and markets. 

The 600-year-old stone bridge with its 

chapel built in midstream is one of only three 

such buildings in the whole of the country. 

The statue of Oliver Cromwell in the market 

place recalls the time when the future Lord 

Protector lived here before rising to power. 

Nowadays a few stone walls are all that remain 

of St Ives Priory, built on the spot where 

the bones of the mysterious St Ivo were 

unearthed by a ploughman in the year 1001. 

The parish church of All Saints stands in a 

tranquil churchyard on the riverbank. The 

church is 15th-century but its interior is a 

feast of colourful Victorian decoration by the 

famous architect Ninian Comper. The spire is 

even more recent than that, built to replace 

the original steeple destroyed by an aircraft 

in a tragic accident during World War I. 

St Ives has many elegant houses of the 18th 

century, when the town was rebuilt after a 

disastrous fire. From the 19th century come 

the remarkable New Bridges, the longest 

brick viaduct in the country when they were 

built in 1822. Close beside them is the seven-storey 

Old Mill, originally a corn mill but 

in the 1970s the place where Clive Sinclair 

invented the world’s first pocket calculator. 

St Ives specialises in its hospitality and the 

streets are thronged with teashops and cafés, 

pubs, hotels and restaurants. All set in the 

lovely riverside scenery of the Great Ouse 

valley, where you can cruise the waterway in 

a narrowboat, explore the countryside on foot 

or by bike.

ST. 

NEOTS 

The attractive market town of St Neots is 

home to many listed buildings, and much of 

the town is a designated conservation area. 

No visit to the town is complete without 

taking time to enjoy the river, and the 

Riverside Park and restaurant. The 

meandering River Great Ouse, with its huge 

weeping willows is a great draw for visitors. 

The park offers several places to enjoy a 

picnic and there are pleasant walks across 

the parks’ many bridges. 

St Neots still retains its character as a country 

market town and the Market Square is one of 

the largest and most ancient of its kind in the 

country, dating back to the 12th century. 

A market has been held upon this square 

every Thursday since its foundation. 

In the centre of the square is the Day Column, 

which was erected in 1822 by John Day, a 

local brewer. At one time during the 19th 

Century, it dispensed medicinal water 

piped from the local spa. 

Visitors can explore the history of St Neots on 

foot, taking either a guided or a self-guided 

tour of the town. Alternatively, visit the town’s 

Museum. Housed in the former magistrates’ 

court/police station it tells the story of St 

Neots from prehistoric times to the present 

day. 

There is a wealth of wildlife to enjoy all year 

round, and a network of marked paths. 

During May there are large numbers of 

nightingales, and many species of orchid 

can be found in the meadows. 

eastlife.co.uk 33

Fenland is a beautiful landscape formed by 

nature and shaped by people over more 

than 6,000 years. It consists of four historic 

market towns and a wealth of stunning rural 

villages situated in the peaceful countryside 

with more than 200 miles of rivers and 

drains. The four main towns of Chatteris, 

March, Whittlesey and Wisbech all have 

charm and interesting histories to discover. 

CHATTERIS 

Chatteris would have been a seaside 

town in Neolithic times, it perched on the 

edge of a vast tract of salt marshes, with 

the sea just to the east. Today, there is 

not a bucket and spade in sight - in fact 

this busy little town is 50 miles from the 

nearest beach. 

The town we see today grew around the 

abbey of St Mary from around 1010. A 

market place formed in front of the abbey 

and streets evolved to connect to the 

other settlements in the Fens. Although 

there is little sign of the abbey remaining, 

Chatteris is still well connected and is an 

ideal base for touring the Fens and south 

Cambridgeshire. 

MARCH 

March was once an island surrounded by 

marshes. As the land was drained and 

made more fertile the town grew and 

prospered. Today the town is a pretty 

market town, offering all the delights you 

would expect to find in a place such as 

this. The River Nene winds its way through 

THE 

FENS 

the town centre, past the park and pretty 

riverside gardens. 

The river is often busy with colourful boats 

cruising the Fenland waterways. The 

town is a popular stopping-off point for 

boaters with free moorings in the town 

centre, close to shops and places to eat. 

The town centre has the unusual Broad 

Street lined with shops and headed by 

an elaborate fountain which was erected 

to commemorate the coronation of King 

George V. 

There is a good variety of shops, from 

well-known high street names to small 

independent stores. A number of specialist 

markets are held throughout the year. 

including the Italian, French and Christmas 

markets. 


WHITTLESEY 

Whittlesey sits on the very western edge 

of the Fens, close to the cathedral city of 

Peterborough. The town has an interesting 

maze of streets with a mix of architecture 

spanning several centuries. 

The Buttercross in the Market Place is 

one of the most striking buildings and a 

reminder of Whittlesey’s rich trading and 

agricultural history. The market is in town 

every Friday. 

Whittlesey has two churches, both close to 

the town centre. The Church of St Mary is 

famous for its glorious spire supported on 

elegant flying buttresses from the massive 

tower below. 

WISBECH 

Wisbech the Capital of the Fens, is the 

perfect place for a day out or a break 

to get away from it all. There is plenty 

of accommodation choice, from historic 

town centre hotels to attractive B&B’s in 

rural settings and charming self catering 

cottages. 

It’s renowned for its elegant Georgian 

architecture. Stroll along the Brinks or 

round the Crescent to see some fine 

Georgian houses. Then visit Peckover 

House on North Brink, now in the care of 

the National Trust and open to visitors 

from spring to autumn three or four 

afternoons a week. 

A little further along North Brink is a 

completely different example of Georgian 

architecture. Wisbech has two museums; 

the Wisbech and Fenland in the Crescent 

and Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House on 

South Brink. Wisbech also has one of the 

oldest surviving Georgian Theatres in the 

country, The Angles. 

eastlife.co.uk 35

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BARNWELL near Oundle 

10 en-suite 10 en-suite bedrooms bedrooms 10 in converted en-suite enquiries@lowerfarm.co.uk 

in bedrooms converted buildings in converted in buildings Barnwell farm buildings in Barn i 

www.lower-farm.co.uk 

near Oundle 

enquiries@lower-farm.co.uk 

BARNWELL BARNWELL BARNWELL 

near Oundle near Oundle 


near Oundle 


£505 



www.lower-farm.co.uk www.lower-farm.co.uk 


ROUND CHURCH 

VISITOR CENTRE 

CAMBRIDGE 

Begins Here 

VISITOR CENTRE: 

Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; 

Sunday 1:30pm - 5pm 

Discover The Cambridge 

Story: Exhibition & Film 

Daily guided walks of Cambridge University: 

Monday - Saturday at 2:15pm; Sunday at 2:30pm 

Advance group bookings also welcome 

Find us on Bridge Street, opposite St John’s College 

www.roundchurchcambridge.org 01223 311602

WHAT’S ON? 

13-15 Apr Cambridge Literary 

Festival 

Various venues in Cambridge 

www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com 

4-7 May Ely Eel Festival 

Ely City Centre, Jubilee Gardens & Palace 

Green 

www.elyeelfestival.co.uk 

5-6 May QIPCO Guineas Festival 

Newmarket Racecourse 

newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk 

6-May Duxford Spring Car Show 

IWM Duxford, CB22 4QR 

www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford 

18 May - 22 Sep The Cambridge Roar 

Various venues in Cambridge 

www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk/home/events 

21-26 May 45th Cambridge Beer Festival 

Jesus Green, Cambridge 

www.cambridgebeerfestival.com 

2-Jun Strawberry Fair! 

Midsummer Common 

strawberry-fair.org.uk 

3-Jun Cambridgeshire County Show 

Wimpole Home Farm, SG8 0BW 

www.cambscountyshow.co.uk 

9-10 Jun Cambridge Town & Country Fair 

Cambridge 

www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 

9-Jun Peterborough Dragon Boat Racing 

Peterborough Rowing Club, Thorpe Meadows 

dragonboatfestivals.co.uk 

17-Jun Picnic in the Park 

Warners Park, St Ives 

stivesfest.org.uk 

22-Jun Paloma Faith - Newmarket Nights 

July Course, Newmarket 

newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk 

23-24 Jun The Cambridgeshire Food & 

Drink Festival 

East of England Showground, Oundle Road, 

Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE 

www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk 

1-Jul Ely Aquafest 

The riverside, Lavender Green, Jubilee Gardens 

and the Maltings Green 

www.elyaquafest.org.uk 

13-15 Jul The Big Weekend 

Parker’s Piece, Cambridge 

www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 

13-15 Jul Ely Folk Festival 

Ely City Centre 

www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk 

14-Jul Paxfest & Fun Dog Show 

Little Paxton Village Hall, PE19 6EY 

www.little-paxton.cambs.info 

21-Jul Ferry Meadows Celebrates Culture 

(part of Peterborough Celebrates) 

Ferry Meadows 

neneparktrust.org.uk 

2-5 Aug Cambridge Folk Festival 

Cherry Hinton Hall 

www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival 

24-25 Aug The Gin and Rum Festival 

Cathedral Church of St Peter, 

Peterborough 

25-27 Aug Festival of Water 

River Ouse, Riverside Park, St Neots 

www.waterways.org.uk 

19-21 Oct Octoberfest 

The Embankment, Peterborough 

28-20 Sept Cambridge Art Fair 

Quy Mill Hotel, Cambridge 

www.cambridgeartfair.com 

4-Nov Fireworks & Bonfire Night 

Midsummer Common 

www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 

1-2 Dec ArtFest 

St Ives Corn Exchange 

stivesfest.org.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 37


Cambridge TIC 

The Guildhall, 

Peas Hill 

01223 791500 

visitcambridge.org 

Ely TIC 

Oliver Cromwell’s 

House, 29 St Mary’s 

Street 

01353 662062 

visitely.org.uk 

Wisbech TIC 

4 Post Office Lane 

01945 464058 

Peterborough TIC 

9 Bridge Street 

01733 452336 

Huntingdon District 

Council 

01480 388388 

huntingdonshire. 

gov.uk 

Peterborough City 

Council 

01733 747474 

peterborough.gov.uk 

Fenland District 

Council 

01354 654321 

www.fenland.gov.uk 

Cambridge 

Park & Ride 

0345 045 5213 

cambridgeparkan 

dride.info 

East 

Cambridgeshire 

District Council 

01353 665555 

eastcambs.gov.uk 

Forest Heath 


01638 719000 

forest-heath.gov.uk 

South 

Cambridgeshire 


0345 045 0500 

scambs.gov.uk 

USEFUL WEBSITES 

visitcambridge.org 

visitely.eastcambs. 

gov.uk 

visitpeterborough. 

com 

www.eastlife.co.uk 

www.cambridgelive 

trust.co.uk 

www.cam.ac.uk 

visitstneots.co.uk 

ourstives.com 

eastlife.co.uk 39

BRAINTREE 

The town of Braintree is famed for its 

Freeport Shopping Village, however there’s 

so much more to be discovered. Venture into 

the great outdoors and explore the town’s 

gentle rolling countryside, which has been 

home to some less than gentle crusaders, 

famous explorers, ground breaking scientists, 

the American air force and world-changing 

industrialists over the years. 

Here you’ll find miles of stunning scenery, 

wonderful walks, cycling routes and golf. 

Braintree Golf Club is currently ranked 9th 

place in the top 100 golf courses in Essex. 

You’ll find fascinating exhibitions at the 

Braintree District Museum, which change 

regularly so there’s always something new 

to learn and discover. Interesting talks and 

workshops on local history and creative 

crafts take place throughout the year. 

The hub of modern entertainment is of 

course, Braintree Freeport. The popular 

retail outlet features over 85 stores offering 

up to 60 per cent off designer brands – 

definitely a place to visit for the shopaholics 

among you. The area is also home to a 

cinema and a selection of restaurants. 

Antiques are a local speciality and you’ll find 

offerings at Bocking Antiques Centre and 

Finchingfield Antiques Centre, and nearby 

Gosfield Shopping Village. If you are after 

something more unusual, the specialist 

shops of Braintree, Coggeshall, Halstead and 

Witham are all within easy reach.

CHELMSFORD 

Home to one of the UK’s biggest summer 

festivals, shopping centres and glorious 

parks, Chelmsford has established itself as 

one of the most popular places in Essex. 

The city has grown immensely over the last 

few years with modern property developments 

and improvements to the town centre 

including the Bond Street Shopping Area, 

which makes a pleasant addition to the 

retail scene. It’s home to a number of high 

street stores, a cinema and John Lewis’ first 

Essex-based store. 

Hylands House is a stunning Grade II listed 

property, spectacularly restored to its former 

glory and situated in 574 acres of historic 

landscaped parkland. With events and shows 

on all year round, it is the perfect day out for 

all the family. www.hylandsestate.co.uk 

Chelmsford Museum is set in a lovely Victorian 

house in Oaklands Park. There are temporary 

exhibitions and family activities such 

as interactive displays and dressing up, along 

with special events and open days such as 

the Wildlife Fun Day. Check out 

www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums 

Chelmsford is home to three theatres; The 

Civic Theatre, Cramphorn Theatre and Old 

Court Theatre. All offer a diverse range of 

performances throughout the year. Keep 

up-to-date with the latest productions at 

www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres 

Chelmsford bars and restaurants offer 

something for everyone. You’ll find the usual 

chains scattered throughout as well as independent 

cafes, bistros and pubs, Riverside 

dining, arts, history and nightlife make 

Chelmsford a great place to visit. 

eastlife.co.uk 41

Classic Wings Ad 128mm w x 90.5mm h 2-17_Layout 1 28/02/2017 14:34 Page 1 

FLIGHTS OF NOSTALGIA 

From March to October our fleet of Vintage Aircraft 

take off from IWM Duxford offering a truly memorable 

experience to all who fly with us at Classic Wings. 

Choose from our range of nostalgic flights: 

Sightseeing in our 1930s de Havilland 

Dragon Rapide over London or Cambridge 

An exciting Trial Flying Lesson 

in a genuine Tiger Moth or Cessna 

Experience the thrill of high 

speed flight in the T-6 Harvard 

Fly Wing to Wing with a genuine 

Second World War Spitfire 

Fly in a Spitfire – for the 

ultimate experience 

NOT JUST 

A FLIGHT BUT 

A WHOLE DAY OUT! 

All our vouchers include 

free entry to IWM Duxford 

which houses 85 acres of 

aviation history 

Flights available from £99 

For more details of these flights, 

to book a flight or buy gift vouchers, 

contact us on 01223 837453. 

Book online at www.classic-wings.co.uk 

The Princes Theatre is the area’s largest professional theatre/venue, 

presenting a wide range of live entertainment throughout the year. Music to 

suit all genres. Gift Vouchers are now available and can be purchased either 

online or in our box office in denominations of £5, £10, £20, £50 or £100 and 

can be exchanged for any show at our theatre. For more information or to 

join our mailing list please visit our website www.princestheatre.co.uk. 

FULLY LICENSED BAR - 

This multipurpose venue is suitable to hire for: 

Performances, Award Ceremonies, Conferences, 

Seminars, Exhibitions, Functions, Wedding Ceremonies, 

Wedding Receptions, Birthday Parties, Workshops 

Box Office: 01255 686633 - For further information: 01225 686652/686653 

www.princestheatre.co.uk /PrincesTheatre @PrincesTheatre

CLACTON 

With one of the best climates in the UK, a 

summer visit to the Essex Sunshine Coast is 

a must. Clacton-on-Sea is the largest town 

on the Tendring Peninsula and was founded 

in 1871. It is a seaside resort that attracts 

many visitors. The seafront gardens are a 

carpet of glorious colour throughout the 

season and provide a backdrop for miles of 

golden sandy beaches and the town’s fun 

packed pier. The town and its beaches are 

popular with visitors in the summer, and 

there is a packed annual entertainment 

programme. 

This summer the popular Clacton Air 

Show takes place 23-24 August. The 

award-winning seafronts and greensward 

are transformed over the two days into a 

fun filled events site and viewing area. 

Impressive aerobatic displays take to the 

skies whilst a whole host of exhibitions, 

trade stands, food court and on-site 

entertainment are available at ground level. 

Clacton is also home to the Princes Theatre, 

located at the Town Hall on Station Road. 

Here you’ll find a fantastic programme of 

performances including drama, comedy 

and live music. 

FRINTON 

This elegant seaside town was developed 

from a small village in late Victorian times 

into an exclusive resort. By the first half of 

the 20th century Frinton-on-Sea had great 

appeal for its high society visitors who 

came to enjoy the secluded sandy beach, 

golf course (frequented by the Prince of 

Wales) and tennis tournament, the classy 

Esplanade hotels, the lido and Connaught 

Avenue, ‘East Anglia’s Bond Street’, named 

after the Duke of Connaught and opened by 

his wife. 

Developer R Powell Cooper bought out the 

original developer of the town in the 1890s 

and prohibited boarding houses and pubs. 

Frinton’s first pub, The Lock and Barrell, 

opened in 2000. Relaxed and sophisticated, 

Frinton retains an atmosphere of the 

1920/30s. Tree-lined avenues sweep down 

to the elegant Esplanade and cliff-top 

greensward, with its colourful Victorian-style 

beach huts. The sandy beach is 

quiet and secluded and one of the best 

on the Sunshine Coast. 

eastlife.co.uk 43

MERCURY THEATRE COLCHESTER 

Tickets 

from £12! 

Outstanding theatre for the whole family in the heart of Essex 

Balkerne Gate 

Colchester 

CO1 1PT 

Call 01206 573948 

www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 

Premiere Partner

COLNE VALLEY 

The Colne Valley, an area of beauty in the 

heart of North Essex, has something for everyone; 

rolling countryside walks, villages rich in 

history and even great shopping experiences. 

COLCHESTER 

Britain’s oldest town is home to some of the 

region’s most interesting heritage and history. 

From Saxon to Medieval, Tudors to Stuarts 

and Georgian to Victorian, each era has 

shaped the town in some way. Today it’s not 

just Colchester’s vast heritage that attracts 

over 4.5 million visitors every year. The 

thriving and modern town is home to family 

favourites such as Colchester Zoo and 

Colchester Castle. Colchester tourist 

attractions make the town great for both a 

day trip or weekend break. 

It’s a great location for a spot of shopping. 

Colchester’s Charter Market dates back close 

to a millennium and continues to be a vibrant 

place to shop alongside Culver Street West, 

Long Wyre Street and Culver Street East, 

every Friday and Saturday. The town centre 

is also home to two large, indoor shopping 

centres, Culver Square and Lion Walk, that 

between them house many of the country’s 

most popular high street retailers from Debenham’s 

to H&M, alongside local businesses. 

Art lovers should head to The Minories Art 

Gallery, Firstsite and the Mercury Theatre, all 

of which offer a vibrant calendar of 

exhibitions, events and performances 

throughout the year. 

Earls Colne, named after the flowing River 

Colne, offers a 13th Century church and many 

17th Century houses to admire, and the nearby 

Chalkney Wood is a popular destination 

for walkers. Using Earls Colne as your base, 

heading south will lead you to the beautiful 

village of Coggeshall, where you can find the 

family-run West Street Vineyard for a glorious 

vineyard walk and a bite to eat at the on-site 

restaurant, which serves brunch to dinner and 

even afternoon tea. 

Back at the starting point of Earls Colne, if you 

head north towards Bures and Sudbury you 

are treated to the magnificent views that the 

Stour Valley has to offer. Once in Sudbury, 

Clare Castle Country Park provides much to 

learn about the 13th Century stone castle 

remains that overlook the town. 

Just outside the nearby town of Halstead 

you’ll find Hedingham Castle, where you’ll 

discover one of the country's best preserved 

Norman keeps with medieval re-enactments 

loved by children and adults alike. Also near 

the castle within the village of Castle 

Hedingham is the Colne Valley Railway 

heritage railway, with its short running line 

and activities for families including demonstration 

train rides. 

Nearby, the Layer Marney Tower, built around 

1520, is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England. 

The house came to the Charrington 

family in the mid 20th century and has been 

occupied by the Charrington family ever 

since. The 80ft tower is well worth the climb 

for a spectacular view of the Essex 

countryside. 

eastlife.co.uk 45

BIG BRANDS, 

SMALL PRICES 

CLACTON 

FACTORY OUTLET 

DISCOUNTED FASHION, 

FOOTWEAR, FURNITURE 

AND MUCH MORE! 

Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL 

Contact us or visit us online to get more news on events, store offers and much more! 

01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk 

FASHION OUTLETS | LEISURE STORES | CAFES 

FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES | FREE PARKING

LEIGH-ON-SEA 

Described as ‘Notting Hill with a seafront’ 

Leigh-on-Sea boasts an historic Old Town 

and buzzing Broadway. Cool bars and chic 

boutiques strive for your attention, along 

with traditional pubs and cockle sheds. 

It’s hardly surprising that a town with such a 

close proximity to London (less than an hour 

by train), instantly strikes you as ‘comfortable’. 

Stock brokers, solicitors and successful 

entrepreneurs’ sports car and luxury saloons 

vie for parking spaces on and around Leigh’s 

natural epicentre, the Broadway. But like 

Notting Hill, which is home to a similar demographic, 

there’s a laid-back but well-heeled 

vibe that many of the locals will refer to as 

‘buzzing’. 

If you’ve not been, or not visited for a while, 

Leigh really does reward you for jumping 

into the car or onto a C2C train for a day 

out. Alternatively, indulge yourselves in a 

weekend with a difference. Among the City 

slickers you’ll find a wealth of artists and 

creative types, while down in the atmospheric 

Old Town, the original wealth creators of 

Leigh, the fishermen, still ply their trade. For 

lovers of fresh seafood, Leigh’s Old Town is 

fabulous. 

The Old Town features a cobbled street 

which leads to Cockle Row, where you can 

buy all manner of bivalves drawn from the 

estuary waters. They don’t worry about food 

miles here because much of it has travelled 

no more than a handful of yards on its way 

from boat to plate. The friendly, traditional 

pubs of the Old Town are also popular with 

locals and tourists alike. 

The Mayflower on the High Street is a multi 

CAMRA award-winning pub that will delight 

fans of real ale, while the Crooked Billet is 

another traditional waterside establishment 

with a big reputation. 

A short walk or drive up the cliffs takes you 

into the heart of Leigh and onto the Broadway. 

Again, pubs and restaurants abound, 

with a wonderful supporting cast of cool bars 

and relaxed cafes. Leigh is chock-full of 

fabulous independent, quirky fashion boutiques, 

dedicated antiques stores, and homeware 

emporiums, elegantly placed alongside 

the big names and high-street classics. 

Words & image courtesy of Visit Essex 

www.visitessex.com 

eastlife.co.uk 47

MALDON 

The ancient Essex town of Maldon has a 

rich and varied history waiting to be 

explored. It’s a pretty town on the Essex 

Blackwater estuary, and is the seat of the 

Maldon district, which includes the starting 

point of the Chelmer and Blackwater 

Navigation at Heybridge Basin. 

Salt has been made on the East Coast of 

Essex for over 2,000 years. The remains 

of Roman salt works can be found dotted 

along the north and south banks of the 

Blackwater Estuary. However, there is much 

more to Maldon District than its salt. The 

River Blackwater and its surroundings has 

long been a tourist attraction. In Edwardian 

times visitors came for the ‘bracing air’ and 

healthy saltwater bathing. Now the activities 

on offer are sailing trips, wildlife watching 

and leisurely strolls along the sea wall. 

Maldon has a rich history and is packed 

with places to visit. If you are making a 

day trip to Maldon there are a number of 

Museums within walking distance. The Moot 

Hall opens for guided tours and visitors are 

taken onto the roof to view the rooftops of 

the town and the River Blackwater. A short 

walk down the High Street takes you to The 

Maldon Museum, which houses the Fat Man 

of Maldon’s waistcoat and a Penny Farthing, 

and there’s the award-winning Combined 

Military Services Museum, which displays 

the history of the armed forces in uniforms, 

weapons and other artefacts. 

Generations of families have enjoyed the 

fun of the award-winning Promenade Park 

on the bank of the River Blackwater. Bring 

a picnic and enjoy the boating lake, splash 

park, adventure play and orienteering trail. 


MERSEA ISLAND 

For epicures and bon viveurs crossing the 

Strood - the ancient Roman causeway that 

leads onto Mersea Island - is something akin 

to an act of pilgrimage. The tiny estuary 

island is home to vineyards, apple orchards 

and the finest seafood – where food miles 

are measured in yards. 

If you want polish and bling, then Mersea 

might not quite be for you. Alternatively, 

if ramshackle and eccentric floats your 

fishing boat, then you’ll never want to leave. 

The island is awash with character and old 

world charm, exemplified by The Company 

Shed. Long-hailed by restaurant critics as 

a culinary gem, this black-painted, weather-boarded 

institution sits just a handful of 

yards off the beach. 

Palm trees may front parts of Mersea’s 

waterfront but regarding this as the Essex 

Riviera might be stretching one’s imagination 

a little far. Those expecting miles of 

golden, sandy beaches might have a bit of a 

lip wobble. Don’t despair however, the wonderfully 

named Monkey Beach is a cracker 

and arguably the island’s best. 

Children will love exploring the island’s myriad 

creeks and scampering over the boardwalks 

that interconnect the marshes, while 

parents will revel in the simple pleasures of 

watching little ones collecting sun-bleached 

oyster shells to decorate their sandcastles, 

crabbing and splashing about in the water. 

With its broad expanses, unrivalled seafood, 

excellent local wines and beers and 

cute cottages, Mersea is a beguiling place. 

Terrific for chucking the kids or your mates 

into the car and heading off for a day trip, 

Mersea also rewards those who linger! 

eastlife.co.uk 49

VISIT 

SAFFRON WALDEN 

Saffron Walden is a delightful medieval market town located in 

North-West Essex. It has a rich heritage of old buildings, 

including St Mary’s Church, the largest and one of the most 

beautiful parish churches in Essex. 

The town also has a friendly, award winning museum. 

Market days are Tuesday and Saturday. 

On the North Side of town is Bridge End Garden, a recently restored Victorian 

Garden of great charm, which contains a wonderful yew hedge maze and sunken 

Dutch Garden. OPEN FREE OF CHARGE 

For further information about how to get here, places to visit, where to stay, 

local events and activities, please contact: 

SAFFRON WALDEN TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE 

1 Market Place, Saffron Walden, 

Essex, CB10 1HR. Tel: 01799 524002 

Email: tourism@saffronwalden.gov.uk 

www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk 

Discover a world of hidden treasures 

at this family-friendly museum 

Rolling programme of special exhibitions, activities and events 

Ancient Egypt • Archaeology 

• Ceramics and Glass • Costume and Textiles 

• Furniture and Woodwork 

• Geology • Local and Social History 

• Natural History • World Cultures 

SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM 

Museum Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1JL 

(01799) 510333 museum@uttlesford.gov.uk 

www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org 

Entrance Fees: Children (18 and under) FREE, Adults £2.50, Discounts £1.25, Season Tickets £8.00 and £4.00 

Opening Hours: March – October: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 5pm) 

November – February: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4.30pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 4.30pm)

SAFFRON WALDEN 

Saffron Walden combines the best of both 

worlds. It’s where old meets new. You can 

often feel as though you’ve been transported 

to a time gone by while doing your grocery 

shopping. A wander around the cobbled 

streets, while popping into independent boutiques 

and admiring the historic architecture 

is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. 

The market takes place on Tuesday and 

Saturday and offers a delightful mix of local 

produce, furnishings and crafts. After a 

browse during the summer, buy some of 

the local produce and have a picnic on the 

Common. 

town, the grade II listed space consists of 

seven interlinked gardens and popular hedge 

maze. The Turf Labyrinth, another maze 

which twists and turns, is sure to be a hit 

with children. 

Popular with both adults and children is the 

magnificent Audley End House & Gardens 

just outside Saffron Walden. Wander around 

the immaculately kept grounds, explore the 

Victorian service wing and visit the horses in 

the stable yard. There’s also a play area to 

keep the little ones entertained. The English 

Heritage site hosts a fantastic calendar of 

events throughout the year. 

It’s quite easy to spend a whole afternoon 

simply eating in Saffron Walden. Timber-clad 

buildings host modern pubs and restaurants, 

while there’s the opportunity for tea and 

cake on almost every corner. 

Surrounded by beautiful Essex countryside, 

Saffron Walden has plenty of footpaths and 

country walks to offer. However, if you don’t 

fancy pulling on your wellies and trekking 

across the fields, pay a visit to Bridge End 

Garden. Hidden in the back streets of the 

Make the most of the day with a visit to the 

Audley End Miniature Railway, located opposite. 

A massive hit with families, the railway 

trails through the forest where children can 

spot teddies that live in the woods. There’s 

also a Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk and 

picnic and play area – great for the when 

warmer weather arrives! 

The town also features an independent 

community cinema, Saffron Screen, and one 

of the oldest purpose-built museums in the 

country.

A FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKING MUSEUM 

DEDICATED TO PRESERVING THE HISTORY 

OF RAILWAYS IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND 



BY TRAIN 

Regular trains run from Sudbury, 

Bures or Marks Tey to the museum, 

and connections from London, 

Chelmsford, Colchester and 

Ipswich can be made at Marks Tey. 

BY CAR 

Chappel Railway Station is about 8 

miles from Colchester. The postcode 

for the museum is CO6 2DS. 

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS 

Access is available to all buildings 

however, you will however need a 

vehicle to gain full access to both 

sides of the museum. 

EASTER DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TM 30 March to 2 April 

Steam train rides on Thomas and friends, storytelling with the Fat 

Controller and children’s activities in the Imagination Station all day. 

BANK HOLIDAY FUN DAYS 6 & 7 May 

Inflatable assault course, treasure hunt, steam train rides, petting zoo 

and real ale from our miniature pub, The Viaduct. 

KIDS RUN THE RAILWAY 14 April | 21 July | 18 August 

Let off steam at our new kids’ activity days… Operate the signals, be 

a crossing keeper or guard and ride a diesel train (over 10’s only). 

TRANSPORT EXTRAVAGANZA 27 & 28 May 

Classic cars, vintage motorbikes and modern head turners as well 

auto jumble and steam train rides on this great family day out. 

FATHER’S DAY STEAM UP! - Dads go FREE 17 June 

Dads drive a diesel loco or take a family steam train ride. 

We’ll fire up our BBQ or simply bring a picnic and relax in our 

lovely rural surroundings. 

SUMMER STEAM GALA 8 July 

Join us as we celebrate our 50-year anniversary. All of our steam 

engines will be running - a full day of intensive steam engine action! 

A STEAMY VINTAGE ENCOUNTER 29 July 

Steam train rides, vintage stalls and scrumptious teas, swing jive 

workshops and live music from the fabulous Fox, Wiggle & Sass. 

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TM 25 to 27 August 

Thomas and his friends are back for more Summer fun! Meet the 

Fat Controller and enjoy re-enactments with Rusty and Dusty. 

CHAPPEL SUMMER BEER FESTIVAL 4 to 8 September 

One of the largest beer festivals in the region, with live music, great 

food and over 400 varities of beer, run in association with CAMRA. 

Please be advised the museum areas will be closed for set up and 

during the festival. 

STEAM DAY AND MODEL RAILWAY SHOW 7 October 

Together with our partners the Braintree & Halstead Model Railway 

Club, we are hosting this great day out for kids young and old! 

HALLOWEEN HALF TERM FUN 22 to 25 October 

Pumpkin carving, apple bobbing and spooky crafts as well as 

gingerbread decorating in our vintage railway carriage café. 

SPOOKY DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TM 27 & 28 October 

Ride on real steam trains with Thomas and his friends. Meet the Fat 

Controller at his Spooky railway with lots of fang-tastic things to do. 

FESTIVE DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TM 9, 15, 16, 22 & 23 December 

Ride real steam trains with Thomas and his friends. Have festive fun 

with the Fat Controller and meet Santa in his grotto! 

OPEN DAILY FROM 10:00 TO 16:30 

Chappel Station, Colchester, Essex, CO6 2DS 

01206 242524 | www.earm.co.uk

SOUTHEND 

Southend became a seaside resort during the 

Georgian era, attracting many tourists in the 

summer months to its seven miles of beaches 

and sea. To this day it attracts around 

over six million tourists every year. 

You’ll find all the traditional seaside 

pleasures along the seven glorious miles of 

seafront; but you won’t find a Pleasure Pier 

like Southend’s anywhere else. Thrill-seekers 

rejoice with their vast range of water sports 

at the Marine Activities Centre. Ride the rollercoasters 

at Adventure Island or discover 

a world of watery wonder at the Sea-Life 

Adventure, which had a £680,000 

redevelopment last year. 

If you love to shop, the town centre features 

a variety of quirky independent boutiques 

and the usual ‘big name’ high street 

stores. With over three hundred mouth-watering 

places to eat plus a dazzling live 

music and nightlife scene, you really are 

spoilt for choice. All of this is just an hour’s 

train ride from London. 

The seaside resort has a rich ‘feast’ of 

festivals and events all year round, which 

means there’s always something great to 

see and do. 

WALTON-ON-THE-NAZE 

A traditional seaside town on the Essex 

Sunshine Coast, Walton-on-the-Naze’s 

golden sands have been attracting visitors 

for generations. It’s home to the second 

longest pier in England, and rows of 

colourful beach huts. 

Throughout the town you’ll find classic 

tea rooms, fish and chip shops and stores 

selling bucket and spades. 

The 86 foot octagonal Naze Tower, 

overlooking the coastline, is currently used 

as a gallery and hosts a number of 

exhibitions throughout the year. 

eastlife.co.uk 53

Discover a world of wildlife set in 

18 acres of spectacular gardens 

Children’s play area, 

Free parking, 

Coffee/gift shop 

Adult: £10.00 

Child (2-13): 

£7.50 

Under 2’s Free 

KEEPER EXPERIENCES 

KEEPERS LITTLE HELPER 

for children age 5-8 

KEEPER EXPERIENCE 

age 8-13 or age 14+ 

BIG CAT EXPERIENCE 

age 18+ 

ANIMAL FEEDS 

ANIMAL 

ENCOUNTERS 

KEEPER 

TALKS 

VIP LEMUR 

TOURS 

Hadstock Road, Linton, Cambridgeshire, CB21 4NT 

Tel: 01223 891308 www.lintonzoo.com 

Find us just off the A1307 between Cambridge and Haverhill 

MARKS HALL 

Gardens & Arboretum 

A striking heritage landscape in Coggeshall, 

Essex with an enviable collection of mature 

trees and leafy paths. Enjoy home cooked food 

and browse the plant centre & gift shop. 

Feel inspired. 

www.markshall.org.uk t.01376 563796 

INGATESTONE HALL 

Hall Lane, Ingatestone, 

Essex CM4 9NR 

(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 

16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history. 

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 

Sunday, Wednesday and 

Bank Holiday afternoons 

(Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter 

until the end of September 

Adults - £7 

Concessions £6 

Children (over 5) - £3 

Guided tours available for 

groups or school parties 

at other times by prior 

appointment. 

The House and/or Gardens are also 

available for hire for public or private 

events such as weddings, concerts, 

exhibitions or corporate events 

Tel. 01277 353010 

Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk 

Website: www.ingatestonehall.com

WHAT’S ON? 

30 Mar -2 Apr Easter Adventure Quest 

Audley End House 

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on 

30 Mar - 15 Apr Easter Egg Trail 

Mountfitchet Castle, Stansted Mountfitchet 

www.mountfitchetcastle.com 

12-13 May Essex Fine Food Show 

Chelmsford City Racecourse 

www.essexfinefoodshow.co.uk 

15-May Saffron Walden Emporium - 

Collectables, Crafts 

Saffron Walden Town Hall 

20-May A Vintage Affair 

Hedingham Castle 

www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk 

26 May, 28 Jul, 29 Sep & 24 Nov 

Curiosity Fair: Vintage & Craft Fair 

Saffron Walden Friends meeting house, High 

Street, Saffron Walden 

26-27 May Mersea Food & Drink Festival 

Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, 

www.mersea-fdl-festival.com 

7-9 Jun Chelmsford Film Festival 

131 Bond Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1GH 

www.chelmsfordfilmfestival.com 

9-JunBreast Cancer Care Pink Ribbon Walk 



9-10 Jun Mind Body Spirit Festival 

Chelmsford City Racecourse 

www.lifearts.co.uk 

16-Jun Young Children’s Festival 

Castle Park, Colchester 

www.colchester-events.co.uk 

21-14 Jun Leigh Folk Festival 

Various locations in Leigh 

leighfolkfestival.com 

22 Jun - 15 Jul Thaxted Festival 

Thaxted Church 

www.thaxtedfestival.org.uk 

26-28 Jun 3foot People Festival 

Hylands Park, Chelmsford 

www.chelmsford.gov.uk 

30-Jun Fling Festival 

Hylands Park, Chelmsford 

www.flingfestival.com 

13-15 Jul Brentwood Festival 

Brentwood Centre 

brentwoodfestival.co.uk 

15-Jul Heritage Live Concert Series: 

2CELLOS 



21-Jul Outdoor Cinema: Dirty Dancing 

Maldon Promenade Park 

www.essexoutdoorcinema.com 

3-5 Aug Brightlingsea Free Music Festival 

Various locations, Brightlingsea 

www.brightlingseafreefest.com 

4-Aug Maldon Carnival 

Maldon High Street 

www.facebook.com/MaldonCarnival 

2-Sep Kite Festival 

Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US 

layermarneytower.co.uk 

16-Sep Apple Day at The Gardens of Easton 

Lodge 

Little Easton, CM6 2BB 

www.eastonlodge.co.uk 

29-Sep Outdoor Cinema: Pretty Woman 

RHS Garden Hyde Hall 

www.essexoutdoorcinema.com 

29-30 Sep The Essex Country Show 

Weald Country Park 

www.essexshow.co.uk 

20-31 Oct Halloween Special at Audley End 

Miniature Railway 

Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB 

www.Audley-End-Railway.co.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 55

Map courtesy of Visit Essex 


Clacton TIC 

Town Hall, Station 

Rd, Clacton-on-Sea 

CO15 1SE 

01255 686633 

Maldon District 

Tourist Information 

Centre 

High St, CM9 5AD 

01621 856503 

www.visitmaldondis- 

USEFUL WEBSITES 

www.visitessex.com 

www.freeport-brain 

tree.com 

www.colnevalleyrail 

way.co.uk 

www.leigh-on-sea.com 

www.visitmerseais 

Colchester Visitor 

Information Centre 

Castle Park, 

Hollytrees Museum, 

CO1 1UG 

01206 282920 

www.visitcolchester. 

com 

www.visitchelmsford. 

co.uk 

www.chelmsford. gov. 

uk/museums 

www.chelmsford.gov. 

uk/theatres 

trict.co.uk 

Saffron Walden 

Tourist Information 

Centre 1 Market St, 

CB10 1HR 

01799 524002 

www.visitsaffron 

walden.gov.uk 

land.co.uk 

www.visitsouthend. 

co.uk 

www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 57

HATFIELD HOUSE, 

GARDEN AND PARK 

IS THE PERFECT 

PLACE TO VISIT THIS 

SPRING. 

Visitors can enjoy the state rooms rich 

in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries 

along with a picture perfect garden which 

dates from the early 17th century. 

Beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys 

and much more can be found in the 

Stable Yard shops. Visitors can also enjoy 

relaxing at River Cottage Kitchen & Deli 

which serves a variety of delicious foods 

throughout the day. 

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS 

HOUSE, PARK 

& GARDENS 

STABLE YARD SHOPS 

& RIVER COTTAGE 

KITCHEN & DELI 

HATFIELD PARK 

FARM 

WWW.HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK | 01707 287010 | VISITORS@HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK

HATFIELD & WELWYN 

The two Hertfordshire towns have grown enormously over recent years, and offer everything 

you’d expect from a modern town. Standing side by side in the same borough, it’s easy to 

visit both in one day, here’s how to make the most of your trip: 

HATFIELD 

WELWYN 

The town has largely grown up around the 

gates of its most famous attraction, Hatfield 

House. The Jacobean house is great to explore 

and is an ideal family day out with its 

gardens, play area and park farm. Stop by 

the Stable Yard Shops which features a wide 

range of exclusive retailers. The stores have 

been lovingly created from an area of Hatfield 

House which used to play home to the 

stables. Hatfield House hosts regular events 

so check what’s on before visiting. An 

Antiques Market is held on the third Saturday 

of every month and a Farmer’s Market is 

held on the third Sunday of each month. 

There are also the Art and Design Gallery, 

The Weston Auditorium and music venue 

The Forum at the University of Hertfordshire. 

In addition to the town centre, shopping can 

be enjoyed at The Galleria, an outlet 

shopping centre with 80 stores. 

Welwyn village is often referred to as ‘Old 

Welwyn’ to distinguish it from the newer 

settlement of Welwyn Garden City. One 

of the main attractions is The Hawthorne 

Theatre (www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk), which 

is also home to The New Maynard Gallery. 

The theatre is a fully appointed, 370 seat 

live arts venue and hosts some of the finest 

professional theatre, live music, dance and 

comedy in the South Herts region. 

When the weather warms up head to 

Stanborough Park, a beautiful countryside 

park, covering an area of 126 acres, on the 

outskirts of Welwyn Garden City. Awarded 

the prestigious Green Flag Award, it is a 

great place for a family picnic, leisurely stroll 

or enjoy the rowing boats and pedalos on 

the lake. 

eastlife.co.uk 59

Experience Hitchin 

Culture, History, Entertainment, 

Shopping, Tradition, Cuisine, fun 

and community spirit. 

Hitchin Information, 1A Churchyard, Hitchin, 

Hertfordshire, SG5 1HR • Telephone: 01462 453335 

OurHitchin @OurHitchin www.hitchinherts.com 

Discover Britain’s foremost modern sculptor at 

Henry Moore Studios & Gardens. 

Explore Henry Moore’s studios, home 

and sculptures in over 70 acres of glorious 

countryside, plus a new exhibition 

of the artist’s carvings. 

30 MARCH - 28 OCTOBER 2018 

WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS 

& BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM 

www.henry-moore.org 

Registered Charity Number 271370 

HENRY MOORE 

STUDIOS & GARDENS 

Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE 

01279 843333

HERTFORD 

& WARE 

Imagine the scene; 18th century riverside gazebos, 

rustic listed buildings with a roman heritage; 

you have found yourself in Hertford and Ware, 

two picturesque towns nestled in the heart of 

Hertfordshire. 

Hertford’s weekly market takes place every 

Saturday, while the farmers’ market is held on the 

second Saturday of every month. Visitors should 

stop by Hertford Castle, which hosts regular 

exhibitions and events. 

Art lovers will adore Hertford’s choice of galleries. 

Courtyard Arts is a small but lively community 

arts centre on Port Vale in Hertford. It offers term 

time art and clay classes for adults and children 

alongside a vibrant programme of changing exhibitions. 

It also has artists’ studios, a small cafe 

and a gift shop showcasing work by local artists. 

In addition to the gallery at the Centre, Courtyard 

also curates the gallery at Hertford Theatre. 

Ware is a busy high street with old world charm. 

Some of the timber framed buildings that are still 

standing along Crib Street, have been restored 

since the 1970s, as part of an ongoing project 

to keep the town true to its history. You’ll find a 

number of independent boutiques and high street 

stores. 

Ware’s main attraction is Ware Museum, which 

takes visitors back in time to the ghostly goings 

on in the town. Head to Hanbury Manor or 

Fanhams Hall for afternoon tea. 

The towns are ideal places for a day trip, located 

off the A10, and close to the M11. There are beautiful 

spots by the River Lea, which passes through 

the towns to sit and eat a picnic and take in the 

peaceful scenery, so don’t forget your flask and 

picnic blanket for those sunny days. 

eastlife.co.uk 61

HITCHIN 

Steeped in history, Hitchin has established 

itself as a popular market town within North 

Hertfordshire. A trip to the town will provide 

an interesting and enjoyable experience. 

Hitchin plays host to one of the most beautiful 

gardens in England. Nestled in Cadwell 

Farm are acres and acres of fragrant Hitchin 

Lavender. Lavender was introduced to Cadwell 

Farm in 2008, and has flourished to 17 

miles of lavender rows for visitors to wander 

through. 

In the 17th century barn, a variety of food, 

refreshments and lavender products are sold 

so visitors can bring home a piece of their 

experience. www.hitchinlavender.com 

The British Schools Museum is set in school 

buildings that developed in the site between 

1837 and 1905. The classrooms are open to 

the public and the hands-on museum allows 

visitors to try dipping their pen in an inkwell 

and writing in a sand tray or slate, and play 

with early toys, games, and puzzles. 

Hitchin is most famous for the Hitchin Markets. 

This award-winning market is open every 

Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. 

In nearby Baldock, 1066 Gallery 

(www.gallery1066fineart.com) works with a portfolio 

of artists from around the globe - from 

local, emerging talent to international acclaimed 

artists, offering an eclectic portfolio 

of immense talent and varied subject matters. 


ROYSTON 

Positioned on the North Hertfordshire border 

Royston is a small market town that ticks all 

the boxes. With a market dating back to when 

the first market rights were granted in 1189. 

Royston is a town full of character and charm. 

The town has several historical buildings and 

an unusual man-made cave with medieval 

carvings. Royston has grown up at the intersection 

of the Ickenield Way and the Roman 

Ermine Street, which was built almost 2,000 

years ago. 

Royston holds a general market on Saturdays, 

between 8am and 2pm. One of the town’s 

main attractions is its fascinating cave, which 

lies beneath the bustling town centre. Visitors 

climb down to discover an amazing cavern, 

intricately carved with religious and pagan 

symbols, which may or may not be linked to 

the Knights Templar. It was rediscovered after 

a workman stumbled on the opening in 1742 

but its origin and purpose remains keenly 

disputed. If you would like to visit the cave, it 

is open weekends from 2pm – 4.30pm 

between 31 March and 30 September 2018 

and Wednesdays during August only. 

With its rich history, it’s no surprise that 

Royston is home to a range of traditional pubs 

and restaurants that offers a superb Sunday 

lunch and good hearty food. 

eastlife.co.uk 63

With two thousand years of history under 

its belt, lush green parks and a buzzing 

city centre, St Albans offers plenty to see 

and do. The Cathedral dominates the 

city’s skyline from every approach. Its 

architecture is a blend of many different 

periods, and its great tower includes 

Roman bricks salvaged from the ruins of 

Verulamium. Open daily, the Cathedral 

offers a number of free tours, plus events 

and concerts throughout the year. 

St Albans has a vibrant and varied 

entertainment scene. You’ll find a jampacked 

programme of shows and concerts 

ranging from drama and ballet to music 

and comedy at The Alban Arena, Abbey 

Theatre, Maltings Arts Theatre, Odyssey 

Cinema and Trestle Arts Base. 

Shopping is a favourite pastime in St 

Albans. The street market is one of the 

most popular markets in the region. Dating 

back to the 9th century, held twice a 

week and running the length of St Peters 

Street, you’ll find stalls offering fresh local 

produce, crafts and more. The city centre 

has established itself as busy cosmopolitan 

city of old and new, with two modern 

shopping centres and a wealth of 

independent stores. 

Without a doubt the best way to explore 

the city is on foot. Stroll around the 

historic streets and marketplace on your 

own accord or follow the City Trail, which 

covers a distance of three miles. Alternatively, 

The City and District of St Albans 

Tour Guides host a programme of walks 

throughout the year. Walks include ‘A City 

Revealed’, ‘Ghosts and Ghouls’, ‘Victorian 

St Albans – a Time of Change’ and many 

more. 

ST ALBANS 

New this year is the St Albans Museum 

+ Gallery, opening 1 June 2018. Set over 

three floors, the gallery spaces will 

showcase over 2,000 years of heritage 

and display contemporary artworks.

THE WILD IS CLOSER 

THAN YOU THINK 

SAFARI 

IN THE HEART 

OF BEDFORDSHIRE 

JUST OFF J13 

OF THE M1 

10% OFF 

FOR YOUR GROUP 

VISITORS IN RETAIL 

AND CATERING 

MEET THE 

SAFARI STARS 

AND VISIT BRAND NEW 

ENCLOSURES! 

Just off J13 of the M1 or the A5 (MK43 0XB or MK17 9QN). Check website for opening times. 

www.woburnsafari.co.uk info@woburnsafari.co.uk Telephone: 01525 290407

STEVENAGE 

A visit to Stevenage and its surrounding 

villages offers variety in every sense of the 

word. You can shop in major High Street 

chains or independent retailers, see inns 

that Dick Turpin knew, view modern 

architecture or admire ancient churches 

and Tudor cottages. 

Walk down the Avenue that writer Forster 

described in Howards End or watch the 

latest films at a 16-screen Cineworld at 

the Leisure Park. You might just bump into 

local hero Lewis Hamilton, paying a visit to 

his childhood home! 

Stevenage, the first of the country’s postwar 

new towns, has a wide range of facilities 

including the Gordon Craig Theatre, 

a swimming pool, indoor market and a 

thriving museum. 

At the Walkern Gallery you can see the 

work of Stephen Lowe along with other 

local and professional artists. 

TRING 

Located in the Borough of Dacorum, and 

nearby the Chiltern Hills, Tring is great for 

exploring the delights of a small market 

town. 

Tring has a small charter market on 

Fridays and the popular farmers’ 

market takes place on alternate Saturdays 

offering local produce and crafts 

(www.tringfarmersmarket.co.uk). 

The Natural History Museum at Tring is a 

major attraction. It features many displays 

and exhibitions of animal life and provides 

an educational insight into nature. The 

‘What’s in the Woods?’ exhibition runs 

until 24 June 2018, while you can wander 

among hundreds of butterflies and moths 

in the tropical butterfly house from 29 

March – 16 September 2018. Visit 

www.nhm.ac.uk for museum opening times 

and more information. 

Knebworth House, close to Stevenage, 

is well worth a visit. Not only a fabulous 

stately home, you can spend the whole 

day there, visiting the Dinosaur Trail and 

the children’s adventure playground. 

Between the 24 March and 30 September 

2018, you can enjoy exploring Knebworth’s 

history and heritage. Guided tours of 

Knebworth House are included in the 

House admission ticket. Lasting about an 

hour, the knowledgeable guides will tell 

visitors about the history of the House and 

the family who have lived here over the 

centuries. Also for a small extra charge, 

groups can add a private tour of the 

Gardens, which are filled with colour 

throughout the season. Look out for its 

calendar of events including the Hertfordshire 

Garden Show, Medieval jousting and 

DogFest. www.knebworthhouse.com 

eastlife.co.uk 67

galleria Get Wild Jan 2018 Advert 184x135mm v1.indd 1 19/01/2018 14:05 

Your Big Day Out 

Plan your big day out at www.thegalleria.co.uk 

Plan your big day out at 

www.thegalleria.co.uk 

85 STORES, CAFÉS & RESTAURANTS 9-SCREEN CINEMA GET WILD KID’S PLAY 

thegalleriahatfield 

the_galleria

WATFORD 

Watford supplies all the ingredients for a 

fabulous weekend so whether you want to 

indulge in some retail therapy, grab some 

tasty food, take a leisurely stroll or enjoy 

some great entertainment, you can be sure 

that Watford ticks all the right boxes. 

Watford Palace, close to the high street, 

offers productions ranging from dance and 

theatre to 3D films, many of which have 

received critical acclaim. 

How to keep the kids entertained is always 

an issue but in Watford it’s covered too 

because Watford is home to the Warner 

Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour. There are 

few children, or adults for that matter, who 

have not been transfixed by the Harry 

Potter tales so an opportunity to visit full 

size sets, including the Great Hall, 

costumes, props, creature workshop and 

the Night bus is sure to delight. The walking 

tours last about three hours but tickets sell 

fast so be sure to book in advance. 

If shopping is your thing then Watford is 

the place to be as intu Watford is home to 

a huge range of stores including John 

Lewis and fashionable high street brands. 

Visit Cossiobury Park, a 190-acre haven of 

outstanding natural beauty. Stroll along the 

towpath beside the Grand Union Canal and 

River Gade, stopping for a picnic, spot of 

fishing or a trip on the miniature railway. 

Unleash the offspring at the adventure play 

area or under 14s paddling pool and round 

your leisurely day off with a cup of tea and 

slice of homemade cake at the Cha Cha 

Cha tea Pavillion. 

Watford’s town centre is bursting with pubs 

and restaurants offering a smorgasbord of 

culinary delights to suit all the family. 

eastlife.co.uk 69

● Educational and fun group 

visits for Early Years and Key 

Stage 1 

● Discounted group rate and 1 

free adult for every 5 paying 

children 

PB01194 

For details visit willowsactivityfarm.com 

or call 0870 129 9718 

© Frederick Warne & Co. Limited and Silvergate PPL Limited 2018. All rights reserved. 

Junction 22 

off the 

M25 

Visit the world’s oldest mechanised paper mill 

worKinG industrial heritaGe 

Frogmore is a visitor centre and 

working paper mill still using 

a 114 year old machine to 

make paper for specialist 

customers. 

At Frogmore Mill you will 

find out about the fascinating 

history of paper, learn how to 

make a piece of paper by hand, see heritage 

papermaking and printing equipment, often in 

action. We also have a shop and a cafe serving 

light refreshments. 

Open for drop-in visits every Thursday and on 

the first Sunday of every month from 11.00 

to 16.00 and for pre-booked groups of 10+ 

any Monday to Friday (or for 30+, Sundays 

too). Call Maureen on 01442 234600 for 

group and package details. 

t: 01442 234600 www.thepapertrail.org.uk 

Charity No 

1079008 

Fourdrinier Way 

Hemel Hempstead 

HP3 9RY

WHAT’S ON? 

1-2 Apr Easter Medieval Jousting 

Knebworth House 

www.knebworthhouse.com/events 

1-2 Apr French Market 

Hatfield House 

www.franceathome.com 

6 Apr - 6 May Hertford Arts Festival 

Various venues, Hertford 

www.hertford.gov.uk/events/hertford-arts-festi 

val-414/ 

21 Apr, 19 May, 16 Jun, 21 Jul, 18 Aug , 15 Sep, 

20 Oct & 17 Nov 

Stable Yard Antiques & Collectors Fair 


www.hatfield-house.co.uk/event 

10-13 May Living Crafts 


www.livingcrafts.co.uk 

5-7 May Hertfordshire Garden Show 



26-27 May Hertfordshire County Show 

The Showground, Dunstable Road, 

Redbourn 

www.hertsshow.com 

26-27 May Homes & Antiques Fair 



2-3 Jun St Albans Steam and Country 

Show 

Oaklands College (Smallford Campus), 

Hatfield Road, St Albans 

www.hertssteam.co.uk 

3-Jun Cars at the Castle 

Hertford Castle, Hertford 

www.hertford.gov.uk/events 

9-Jun Harpenden Carnival 

Harpenden Common 

www.harpendencarnival.com 

10-Jun Theatre in the Park: Alice’s 

Adventures in Wonderland 

Hatfield House www.chapterhouse.org 

17-Jun Father’s Day Medieval Jousting 



24-Jun Alban Street Festival 

St Peter’s Street, St Albans 

www.enjoystalbans.com 

28-Jun Garden Theatre - The Tempest 



30 Jun - 1 Jul Geronimo Festival 



7-8 Jul DogFest 



14-Jul Battle Proms 


www.battleproms.co.uk 

15-Jul Folk by the Oak 


www.folkbytheoak.com 

21-22 Jul The Great British Food Festival 



5-Aug Rock at the Castle 

Hertford Castle, Hertford 

www.hertford.gov.uk/events 

11-12 Aug Knebworth Country, Crafts & Steam 

Fair 



17-19 Aug Art in Clay 

Hatfield Park 

www.artinclay.co.uk 

31 Aug - 2 Sep Cool Britannia 



9-11 Nov Knebworth Winter Festival 



eastlife.co.uk 71

Discover Lee Valley 

Regional Park 

Enjoy 26 miles of award winning open spaces, wonderful nature 

reserves and riverside trails, stunning world class sports venues 

and beautiful walking, running and cycling routes 

Find out more at visitleevalley.org.uk 

Your Local Theatre 

Cinema, Shows, Theatre 

Bar & Cafe, Conference & 

Training Facilities 

Call the Box Office now 

for further information 

or to receive our 

FREE entertainment 

brochure 

Come along and visit Lee 

Valley Boat C 

Broxbourne Valley Boat in Centre the heart at of Lee Valley R 

and Broxbourne experience in the a boat heart trip of along the tra 

on Lee the Valley River Regional Lee. Whether Park you prefer 

day and or experience just an hour a boat on the trip river or enjoy 

cruising along the along, tranquil all parkland tastes are catered fo 

Situated on the River midway Lee. Whether between you Enfield prefer and to spend Hertford just off the 

A1170 the day where or just you an hour will on find the free river parking or enjoy opposite a the Boat 

For meal further while cruising information along, please all tastes visit are our catered websites: for. 

www.leevalleyboats.co.uk Come Come along along and visit and Lee visit & www.riverleecruises.co. 

Valley Lee Valley Boat Boat Centre Centre at 

Call 

Situated 

us Broxbourne on 

midway 

01992 

between 

Broxbourne 462085 in the in heart 

Enfield 

or the email heart of 

and 

Lee leevalleyboats@btco 

Hertford 

of Valley Lee Valley Regional Region Pa 

just off the A10 on A1170 where you will find 

and experience and experience a boat a trip boat along trip along the tranquil the tranquil parkl 

free parking opposite the Boat Centre. 

p 

on the on River the River Lee. Lee. Whether Whether you prefer you prefer to spend to spen th 

For further day or information 

day just or an just hour please 

an on hour the visit 

on river our 

the 

websites: 

river or enjoy or enjoy a meal a me wh 

cruising cruising along, along, all tastes all tastes are catered are catered for. for. 

Situated Situated midway midway between www.leevalleyboats.co.uk between Enfield Enfield and Hertford and Hertford just & off just the off A10 the A10 on 

A1170 A1170 where where you will www.riverleecruises.co.uk 

you find will free find parking free parking opposite opposite the Boat the Boat Centre. Centre 

For further For further information information Call 

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01992 

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& Call us Call on us 01992 email 

on 01992 462085 leevalleyboats@btconnect.com 

462085 or email or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com 

WYLLYOTTS BOX OFFICE 

Wyllyotts Theatre, Wyllyotts Place, 

Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, HERTS 

01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk


Hertford Tourist 

Royston Tourist 

St Albans Visitor 

USEFUL WEBSITES: 



Information 

10-12 The Wash, 

Royston Library, 

St Albans Cathedral: 

www.enjoystalbans.com 

Hertford SG14 1PX 

Market Hill, Royston 

Sumpter Yard, AL1 1BY 

Tel: 01992 584322 

SG8 9JN 

Verulamium Museum: 

www.hatfield-house.co.uk 

www.hertford.gov.uk 

Tel: 01763 878242 

St Michael’s Street, 

St, AL3 4SW 

www.watfordforyou.org 

Hitchin Visitor 

Stevenage Tourist 

Tel: 01727 864511 



www.sll.co.uk 

27 Churchyard, 

Stevenage Central 

Watford Tourist 

Hitchin 

Library, Southgate, 

Information Point 

www.visitherts.co.uk 

Tel: 01462 453335 

SG1 1HD 

One Stop Shop, 

www.hitchinherts.com 

Tel: 01438 737333 

Town Hall, Watford 

Tel: 01923 226400 

eastlife.co.uk 73

A superb selection of special self-castering holiday 

properties in North Norfolk, ranging from Romantic 

HIdeaways to Luxurious Barn Conversions 

with Coastal Views 

01263 741777 

bookings@blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk 

www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk 

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk, NR25 7AL 

fll

ATTLEBOROUGH 

Tucked away between Wymondham and 

Thetford, the market town of Attleborough is 

well worth a detour off the A11. 

Attleborough was a staging town for weary 

travellers between London and Norwich, 

and is full of history, from its town sign to 

the Norman St. Mary’s Church. The church 

is renowned for its decorative rood screen, 

which stretches across the width of the 

church - making it East Anglia’s longest. 

The Griffin Hotel (built in the mid 17th 

century) in the town was also used to house 

prisoners on their way to trial in Thetford at 

the Assizes. You can even still see the rings 

in the cellar walls to which they were tied! 

Attleborough is also a great base for exploring 

The Brecks or Thetford Forest. Nearby 

you can visit the world famous Peter Beales’ 

Classic Roses, all set in a stunning 2.5 acres 

of rose gardens. 

Close by you’ll also find Snetterton Circuit 

(www.snetterton.co.uk), with its programme 

of exciting racing, the amazing Banham Zoo 

(www.banhamzoo.co.uk) and Old Buckenham 

Airfield (www.oldbuck.com), with its regular 

fly-in events. This year the Old Buckenham 

Airshow will take place 28 & 29 July. 

Attleborough’s market is held on Thursday, 

8am to 2pm, and the town has a number of 

specialist and family-owned independent 

shops. The town sign shows cider making 

in action (Gaymers were based in Attleborough 

from 1896 until 1995), as well as two 

black turkeys both denoting key industries 

associated with Attleborough over the years. 

eastlife.co.uk 75

AYLSHAM 

Set in the heart of beautiful rolling 

countryside, Aylsham is a charming 

market town that is truly special. The town 

has rich historical roots, with its fascinating 

parish church and Georgian market place 

that still acts as a central hub for local 

people today, particularly on market days. 

Every Monday and Friday, the Georgian 

market place is home to the market where 

you will find all sorts on sale from plants to 

household goods, and a fortnightly Farmers’ 

Market selling local produce. 

Nearby, visit the historic 18th century house 

and parkland at Wolterton Hall and 

Mannington Gardens’ country walks and 

beautiful gardens. There’s a packed 

programme of events throughout the year. 

For a memorable journey the whole family 

will adore, hop on board the Bure Valley 

Railway (www.bvrw.co.uk) to experience the 

magic of steam. Starting from Aylsham, the 

train takes an 18 mile round trip through 

the picturesque Bure Valley stopping off 

at some of Norfolk’s quaint villages before 

arriving at Wroxham, the capital of The 

Norfolk Broads. 

Families can also enjoy a trip aboard The 

Broadland Boat Train. Starting from the 

historic market town of Aylsham, follow the 

beautiful Bure Valley, before arriving at the 

Broads town of Wroxham. Then take to the 

water and discover the beautiful Norfolk 

Broads with a leisurely hour and a half 

cruise with guided commentary. 

The Broadland Boat Train operates on a 

daily basis from the beginning of April to 

the end of October. Pre-booking is advisable. 

A family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) 

is available at a cost of £62 and under 5’s 

travel free. 

Finally, Redwings Horse Sanctuary 

(www.redwings.org.uk) cares for over 2,000 

horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. Redwings 

visitor centre in Aylsham is a beautiful 

site in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside. 

There is also a café, gift shop and 

children’s play area as well as walking tours 

and horse care demos. Entry is free. 

BLICKLING HALL 

There’s nothing more enchanting than a 

woodland walk and during the spring 

Norfolk’s forests are alive with colour. 

The Bluebell Woods at Blickling Estate 

(www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate)are 

no exception. Visit during the spring, ideally 

between April and May to benefit from a 

stunning display of bluebells. If you want to 

make a day of it, you can also pop over to 

the house and explore the gardens. 

The parkland is also the hosting ground 

for the annual Aylsham Show, a traditional 

one-day agricultural show with cookery 

demonstrations, food, farming, trade stands 

and much more. This year the show will take 

place Monday 27 August. Book tickets at 

www.theaylshamshow.co.uk 


BLAKENEY 

The village and small port of Blakeney is 

situated at the mouth of the River Glaven on 

the North Norfolk coast between Wells-nextthe-Sea 

and Sheringham. 

Blakeney is an attractive destination with 

narrow lanes of flint cottages, traditional 

pubs serving locally sourced real ale, a fine 

church and medieval Guildhall and, with the 

opportunities for crabbing, fishing, 

canoeing, birdwatching, yachting and 

sailing pleasure craft, it is a popular spot for 

tourists. 

Blakeney is also the perfect location from 

which to explore the great outdoors; the 

North Norfolk Coastal Path passes through 

the village, and it lies within the Norfolk 

Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 

and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast. 

Blakeney also has the largest coastal nature 

reserve in England and Wales, including the 

National Trust owned Blakeney Point, a 3.5 

mile long sand and shingle spit, which is 

home to colonies of common and grey seals. 

At high tide you can take a boat trip from 

Morston Quay and get up close to the seals 

as they bask on the sand. Blakeney Point 

also offers a wilderness walk along dunes 

where rare terns make their nests in the 

safety of the reserve. 

Blakeney Point Nature Reserve 

01263 740241 

Norfolk etc RYA sailing courses 

01263 740704 

Temples Seal Trips 01263 740791 

Beans Boat Trips 01263 740505 

Bishop’s Boats 01263 740753 

The Blakeney Cottage Company 

01263 741777 

eastlife.co.uk 77

BRANCASTER 

The neighbouring villages of Brancaster, 

Brancaster Staithe and Burnham Deepdale on 

the North Norfolk coast line up along the edge 

of Brancaster Bay and the offshore barrier 

island, Scolt Head. 

Much of the beautiful coastline at Brancaster 

is sandy beaches, stretches of Marram grass, 

saltmarsh and sand dunes and is owned by 

the National Trust. For great coastal views and 

wildlife follow the Norfolk Coast Path. There’s 

also the 16km Brancaster Circular Walk, which 

is split into two equal circuits, one west and 

the other east of Brancaster. 

The pretty fishing village of Brancaster 

Staithe, with sailing boats and seafood for 

sale, is a hotspot for those wishing to learn to 

sail, windsurf or parasurf. 

BRANCASTER 

STAITHE 

Brancaster Staithe Harbour, beach and Scolt 

Head Island National Nature Reserve is 

particularly popular with birdwatchers; the 

extensive areas of saltmarsh, intertidal mud 

and sandflats attract internationally 

important numbers of breeding terns and 

wintering wildfowl, and waders such as 

shelduck, wigeon, teal and curlew. 

During the holidays the National Trust - 

Brancaster Activity Centre at Brancaster 

Staithe runs courses for families and children, 

in everything from weaving and watercolours 

to baking and birdwatching. www.nationaltrust. 

org.uk/brancaster-activity-centre

THE 

BURNHAMS 

The Burnhams is the name given to the 

villages grouped around the River Burn 

on the North Norfolk Coast. 

There is Burnham Market, the main village, 

Burnham Overy Staithe on the coast, 

Burnham Thorpe, where Nelson grew up, with 

his father Rector of the local church and the 

villages of Burnham Overy, Burnham Deepdale 

and Burnham Norton. 

The pretty village of Burnham Market is full of 

delightful houses, cottages and quirky shops all 

situated around a village green. 

Burnham Market is known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ 

for its popularity with visitors from London. 

With shops and galleries selling high-class 

antiques, paintings, food, fish and fashion it is 

the perfect destination for shopping, eating out 

or simply just chilling and people watching. 

The village is within a designated Area of 

Outstanding Natural Beauty and near the 

nature reserves at Titchwell, Holme, Holkham 

and Cley, as well as the historical visitor 

attractions Holkham Hall, Houghton Hall and the 

Royal Estate of Sandringham. 

Holkham Hall 01328 710227 

Houghton Hall 01485 528569 

Sandringham Estate 01485 545400 

The Crab Hut Open April to October 

01485 525369 

Brancaster Brewery Tap at The Jolly 

Sailors 01485 210314 

National Trust Brancaster Activity 

Centre 01328 738008 

The White Horse 01485 210262

Food Hall 

Six super stores in one village! 

ROYS 

OF WROXHAM 

Garden Centre 

DIY Centre 

Department Store 

ROYS Cafe 

Children’s 

World 

Toy Store 

Ample coach parking with drop off points 

Open 7 days a week 

Convenient late night opening 

Please see our website for full details of our opening times 

Stalham Road, WROXHAM NR12 8DB 

01603 782131 

www.roys.co.uk 

enquiries@roys.co.uk 

REEDHAM FERRY COMPLEX 

Reedham Ferry & The Archers Touring Park 

For your camping holiday in Norfolk, 

we offer an idyllic setting in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. 

We pride ourselves on cooking the best food from 

local suppliers, we prepare from fresh so you are aware 

straight away that quality shines through 

For fishing, with its own lakes on site 

and the River Yare adjacent to the facilities. 

Reedham Ferry Touring Park, Reedham 

Ferry Inn, Norwich, NR13 3HA. 

WWW.REEDHAMFERRY.CO.UK 

HUNTER’S YARD 

Sailing on the Norfolk Broads 

2 hour skippered sails 

Only £74 for up to 4 people 

Cabin Yacht Hire 

RYA Sailing Tuition 

Levels 1, 2, 3 & Seamanship courses 

Half-Decker (day boat) Hire 

Learn to Sail Holidays 

Tel: 01692 678263 

www.huntersyard.co.uk 

The Horsefen Norfolk Heritage Road, Fleet Ludham, Trust – Charity NR29 No: 5QG 1052303

THE BROADS 

The Broads is Britain’s magical waterland, 

a beautiful environment shaped by people 

working hand-in-hand with nature over 

thousands of years. The Broads offers visitors 

an experience unlike any other, both on its 

rivers and lakes – the Broads – and alongside 

them, on peaceful paths and cycleways and 

in the unspoiled villages and market towns 

that make up the tapestry of this fantastic 

area. 

Broads, with the bustling village of Wroxham 

(home to the fantastical BeWILDerwood, 

an award-winning adventure park), the 

starting point for many Broads holidays and 

river trips, is formed around the rivers Bure, 

Thurne and Ant. At How Hill Nature Reserve 

you will find Toad Hole Cottage, a tiny, former 

eel-catcher’s cottage, where the silent 

Electric Eel will take you on a wildlife water 

trail through the reeds and marshes. 

The Broads offers a rich mix of attractions 

and activities year round for visitors of any 

age and any interest. It is proud to be a 

member of Britain’s family of National Parks, 

and is recognised globally for its wildlife and 

the distinct and precious character of its 

environment. 

Best of all, the Broads is so easy to get to for 

a holiday, short break or day visit, and it’s all 

within easy reach of the historic city of 

Norwich and the exhilarating coastline of 

Norfolk and Suffolk. A magical place where 

land and water, people and nature meet! 

This protected wetland has over 125 miles 

of safe waterways, carefully managed 

over centuries. The northern section of the 

Climb the winding, spiral stone staircase of 

Ranworth church for magnificent views of 

the Broads and discover the floating 

conservation centre moored on Ranworth 

Broad - great for birdwatching. 

The historic ferry at Reedham offers one of 

the only river crossing in the southern Broads 

and you can take in the delightful scenery 

and wildlife on board Liana, an Edwardianstyle 

electric launch, from Beccles. 

Wroxham is a popular starting point on the 

North of the Broads. Here you’ll find plenty 

of boat hire, riverside restaurants and B&Bs. 

Combined with the River Bure and Salhouse 

Broad, its considered to be one of the 

prettiest stretches of river in the area. 

eastlife.co.uk 81

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CLEY NEXT THE SEA 

The picturesque village of Cley next the 

Sea lies just east of Blakeney, on the River 

Glaven, in the Norfolk Coast Area of 

Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North 

Norfolk Heritage Coast. 

Visitors will find brick and flint houses, 

narrow lanes and sea paths, art and craft 

galleries including ‘Made In Cley’ selling 

pottery, prints, jewellery and sculptures, specialist 

food shops such as Cley Smokehouse, 

pubs, a teashop and a magnificent church, 

as well as Cley’s famous saltmarshes, one of 

Britain’s premier birdwatching sites. 

Due to land reclamation the village is no 

longer ‘next the sea’. The River Glaven, once 

navigable by large ships, began to silt up in 

the early 17th century. The area that is now 

the village green was, during the Middle 

Ages, a thriving trading port exporting and 

importing cloth, grain, malt, spices and coal. 

Cley is also known for its landmark, Cley 

Windmill, a fine 18th century mill that now 

serves as a highly rated holiday home. 

Beyond the windmill there are the paths and 

creeks of Cley Marshes to explore. 

Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Nature Reserve, 

on the edge of the marshes and overlooked 

by a glassed visitor centre, has an international 

reputation and is popular with 

birdwatchers who come to see migrant and 

wading birds. 

NWT Cley Marshes Nature Reserve 

01263 740008 

Made In Cley 01263 740134 

Cley Smokehouse 01263 740282 

Cley Windmill 01263 740209

Amazona Zoo 

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mazonazoo.co.uk 

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check website for 

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South American Animal Adventure

CROMER 

Cromer is a Victorian gem, with a seafront 

townscape that rises steeply from the Promenade 

and is crowned by the finials of one of 

Norfolk’s tallest and most imposing church 

towers. 

North Norfolk’s best-known landmark, Cromer 

Pier, recalls a golden age of British seaside 

holidaymaking. The Pavilion Theatre hosts 

one of the country’s last end-of-the-pier 

summer variety shows, along with concerts 

for all the family throughout the year. 

Cafes, gift shops and amusements sit above 

the beach, while the RNLI Henry Blogg 

Museum gives insights into the bravery of 

those men who risk their lives to save others 

at sea. The Cromer Museum, adjacent to the 

church at the heart of the town, is also a trove 

for those interested in local history. 

America to the North Norfolk coast, while The 

National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall, just two miles 

from Cromer, has a lush walled garden and 

acres of parkland and woodland to explore. 

Cromer crabs are still as famous as ever with 

fishing boats, launched from the beach in 

season, tending to hundreds of crab pots. 

Cromer Pier & Pavilion Theatre 

01263 512495 

Henry Blogg Museum 01263 511294 

Cromer Museum 01263 513543 

Felbrigg Hall 01263 837444 

Amazona Zoo 01263 510741 

Amazona Zoo opened on the edge of Cromer 

in 2008, bringing the colour of tropical South 

eastlife.co.uk 85

Made in England 

at our factory in 

Wattisfield. 

Paint your own pottery 

Enjoy a warm coffee shop welcome - 

it’s part of our shopping experience 

Monday - Thursday 9:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 9.30am - 4.00pm 

Saturday: 9.30am - 4:30pm Sundays: Closed 

Find us on the A143 between Bury St Edmunds and Diss. 

Wattisfield, Suffolk, IP22 1NH 

01359 251239 www.henrywatson.com

DEREHAM 

Dereham is at the centre of Norfolk so is an 

ideal touring base. It has a good shopping 

centre and several attractions. 

Bishop Bonner’s Cottage Museum is a beautiful 

thatched building dating from around 

1500 - the oldest surviving domestic building 

in Dereham. Built as three cottages, it is easy 

to imagine how people lived here in the past. 

As the town’s museum it is well worth a visit. 

www.derehamhistory.com. 

Dereham Windmill is a Grade 2 Listed windmill 

built in 1835. No longer a working mill, it 

is now a popular Exhibition Centre with a coffee 

shop serving drinks and delicious home 

made cakes. www.derehamwindmill.co.uk. 

The route to the Windmill takes visitors past 

the Mid-Norfolk Railway at Dereham station. 

This heritage railway runs services along the 

11 miles between Dereham and Wymondham 

and is restoring the line to the north. 

mnr.org.uk. 

Dereham is an accredited Walkers are Welcome 

town. Walkers are welcome to explore 

routes such as the Wensum Way link to the 

Norfolk Trails network, but can also get a free 

pack of 14 walk guides from the Library. The 

walks can also be downloaded from 

www.DerehamWaW.org.uk. 

Just outside the town, easily reached by bus 

or car, is Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse 

offering a museum, a working farm, 

exhibitions and gardens. 

Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse 

01362 869263 

Bressingham Steam & Gardens 

01379 686900 | www.bressingham.co.uk 

Diss Corn Hall 01379 652241 

DISS 

Dereham windmill 

Diss is a successful, picturesque market town 

with parkland, play areas, live entertainment 

facilities and a great market. Fine examples 

of period architecture can be enjoyed 

including timber-framed buildings and 

Georgian and Edwardian facades. 

Diss Corn Hall, which has recently undergone 

refurbishment, is a hub for entertainment. 

It hosts a number of theatre, dance, music, 

comedy and art exhibitions throughout the 

year. At the heart of the town is Diss Mere, 

popular with tourists and residents, the lake 

and parkland are great for a gentle stroll, for 

simply sitting back and watching the world 

go by. There is a play area, opportunities to 

feed the ducks and a café is open during the 

summer months. 

Nearby Bressingham is a must to visit with 

its amazing Steam Museum, with over five 

miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four 

journeys to choose from, 20 acres of gardens 

- renowned worldwide for their horticultural 

excellence and its Dad’s Army exhibition. 

eastlife.co.uk 87

FAKENHAM 

Fakenham is a market town situated on the 

River Wensum. 

The town’s most famous attraction is of 

course Fakenham Racecourse. The course has 

a history dating back to the early 1900s and 

unlike most courses it has no formal dress 

code and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an 

exciting day out for people of all ages. 

Fakenham gasworks is the only surviving 

type of its kind in England and Wales. It 

ceased production in 1965 and reopened in 

1987 as the Fakenham Museum of Gas and 

Local History. It retains original equipment as 

well as a section of the museum dedicated to 

local history and is worth a visit. The museum 

is open Thursday mornings from 1 June to 1 

October. 

The town’s busy Thursday market starts early 

in the morning until mid-afternoon with a 

range of great bargains to be had from local 

traders. Fakenham also boasts a popular 

Farmers’ Market, which takes place on the 

fourth Saturday of every month. 

Pensthorpe Nature Park has nature trails, a 

play area for children and a lovely Courtyard 

Café. 

Pensthorpe 01328 851465 

Fakenham Racecourse 01328 862388 

Fakenham Musuem of Gas 

07470 341402 

eastlife.co.uk 89

OPEN EVERY 

DAY OF THE 

YEAR from 

10.00am 

The place to visit 

Group bookings call: 01493 369477 

or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk 

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH 

NR29 3DR 

% 01493 369477 

www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

GT YARMOUTH 

Great Yarmouth is a fun destination for a 

holiday for all the family, and really has got 

something for everyone. One of the UK’s 

best-loved seaside towns, Great Yarmouth 

has been attracting the crowds for decades. 

Its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches stretch 

out into the horizon along an ever-changing 

coastline, from seaside amusements to rugged 

cliffs, from the serenity of Scroby Sands 

windfarm and seal colony, to the fast paced 

action of Marine Parade. 

For candyfloss, ice-cream cones, seafront 

illuminations, amusements arcades, theme 

parks, donkey rides, entertainment, nights 

out on the town, razzmatazz and beautiful 

sandy beaches, Great Yarmouth’s Golden 

Mile has it all. Play all day and party all night 

in the upbeat seaside quarter. 

At the top of Regent Road, where retail 

therapy begins, shops, department stores 

and boutiques surround the market place, 

officially the town centre. For a more tranquil 

pace, head for the heritage quarter and 

South Quay, where museums and former 

merchant’s houses face onto the busy port 

area. With museums and the second most 

complete medieval wall in England, you can 

have your fill of history, then head to the 

seafront to whoop down a rollercoaster. 

Get up close and personal with sharks at the 

Sea Life Centre or explore the remains of 

shipwrecks at The Potteries. Visit the 

seafront Marina Centre for a dip in the 

tropical pool or go ten pin bowling on 

Wellington Pier overlooking the waves. 

The Hippodrome Circus hosts top entertainment 

all year, but is best known for its 

Summer Spectacular Circus & Water Show, 

which features daredevil stunts and breath 

taking performances. 

It’s not all just fish and chips, Great Yarmouth 

has something to suit every taste bud and 

every pocket. The Terrace at The Imperial 

Hotel offers dining with a sea view, while The 

Courtyard on Howard Street is an intimate 

place to dine. Tucked away in one of Great 

Yarmouth’s historic row houses, this delightful 

Italian restaurant will set your taste buds in 

motion. 

Sea Life Centre 01493 330631 

The Pleasure Beach 01493 844585 

Hippodrome Circus 01493 844172 

The Potteries 01493 858862 

eastlife.co.uk 91

GORLESTON 

South of Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea 

has its own bay and riverside, with a stunning 

sandy beach stretching into the distance 

below glorious cliff gardens and a grand 

promenade. 

Summer Sundays in Gorleston are a 

chilled-out affair, with bands playing in the 

bandstand surrounded by deckchairs, as 

visitors and passers-by watch the Sunday 

yacht race. Performances take place from 

2-4pm from June to August. 

Gorleston has a large paddling pool and 

yacht pond, green cliffs, beautiful lawns, 

bowling greens, tennis courts and a trim-trail 

on the cliff top where views of the beach, 

harbour, pier and wind turbines can be seen. 

Behind the promenade, beachside cafes and 

shops offer a wide selection of goods from 

multi-coloured buckets and spades to trendy 

sunshades and beach wear. 

The town’s Pavilion Theatre has seaside 

shows throughout the summer season and 

is a popular dining and dancing venue. Don’t 

miss its Showtime Summer Spectacular 

variety show which runs from May to 

September. 

Other attractions and amusements include a 

bingo hall, pitch and putt golf course, amusement 

parks, restaurants, pubs and cafés. 

Pavilion Theatre 01493 662832

HOLT 

HARLESTON 

Harleston is a treasured market town nestling 

in the Waveney Valley, which has a wealth of 

fine Georgian houses and individual shops. 

The annual Harleston & Waveney Art Trail 

shows works from a diverse and lively 

community of professional artists who live 

and work in the beautiful Waveney Valley. 

This year the event will be held 19-20 and 

26-28 May. 

The attractive Italianate clock tower 

overlooking the market place has been 

restored and there are many interesting 

architectural works and speciality shops, plus 

a nationally acclaimed butcher. Wednesday 

is market day in Harleston. 

The Waveney Valley is perfect for 

discovering on foot or bicycle with its numerous 

way-marked routes and quiet country 

lanes including much of the ‘Angles Way’. 

The pretty market town of Holt is a 

Georgian gem of washed stone High Street 

and flint lined yards harbouring a range of 

quality galleries, tea rooms, pubs, antique 

shops and specialist food stores. 

Holt is one of the country’s best-preserved 

Georgian market towns. Destroyed by fire 

three centuries ago, the town was rebuilt all 

at once and reborn in the smart style that 

makes it so popular with visitors seeking the 

perfect blend of the homely and the refined. 

In winter, the town’s continental style of 

on-street cafes and dazzling colour cascading 

from hanging baskets gives way to a fairy 

wonderland of Christmas lights. In all seasons, 

Holt is an ideal base to explore the North 

Norfolk hinterland, whether to the coast (only 

three miles away) or the countryside. 

Holt Country Park, just south of the town, is a 

100 acre woodland that hosts family events 

throughout the year as well as offering 

way-marked walks for all abilities, and boasts 

a prestigious Green Flag award. 

eastlife.co.uk 93

S3295 LSA East of England Tourist Guide.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2018 20:54 Page 1 

Character hotel with stunning sea views on the North Norfolk coast 

Accommodation 

with sea views 

Traditional 

on-site pub 


Light Lunches 

Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6JJ 

Tel: 01485 534411 Email: reception@lestrangearms.co.uk 

www.lestrangearms.co.uk 

HOUGHTON 

Hall & GardeNs 

SPECIAL 

GROUP RATES 

Exquisite Palladian Mansion • Award-winning Walled Garden 

Contemporary Sculptures • Richard Long Exhibition 

Model Soldier Museum • Gift Shop & Licensed Café 

BOOK ONLINE AT HOUGHTONHALL.COM

HUNSTANTON 

Hunstanton, or ‘Sunny Hunny’ as it is 

affectionately known, is the ideal location for a 

seaside holiday with all the trimmings. Famous 

for its striped cliffs, acres of sand and clear, 

shallow water, Hunstanton also offers lots of fun 

attractions for all ages. The town was purpose 

built as a seaside resort in 1846 by local landowner 

Henry Styleman le Strange and gained 

popularity as early as the 1860s. 

Today, Hunstanton retains its Victorian character 

and remains a popular holiday location for all 

ages but particularly families. The town possibly 

takes its name from the River Hunn, which 

begins in the grounds of Old Hunstanton Park 

and Old Moated Hall. During nice weather 

explore the resort in the morning then spend a 

lazy afternoon lying amongst the dunes. 

Hunstanton’s popular land train runs regularly 

through the summer months carrying visitors 

from Searles Leisure Resort to the lighthouse 

and back again. On weekends throughout the 

season events take place on Hunstanton green 

and the bandstand. 

In and around Hunstanton High Street you’ll find 

shops to suit all needs, from last minute holiday 

essentials such as a bucket and spade to high 

street fashion for all ages, as well as gifts for the 

home and garden, kites, surf boards, kite-surfing 

and wind surfing equipment, model toys and 

homemade sweets. 

There are a number of small cafes, tea rooms, 

chip shops and restaurants and along the sea 

front there are the usual purveyors of fresh sea 

food, Hunstanton Rock, ice cream and donuts. 

Hunstanton market is held in the South End 

Market Car Park off Le Strange Terrace every 

Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. 

Searles Leisure Resort 01485 534211 

Searles Sea Tours 01485 534444 

Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary 

01485 533576 

eastlife.co.uk 95

Cambridge’s favourite 

festival is back! 

A festival of events proudly 

supporting local charities 

RAISING FUNDS IN SUPPORT OF 

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity 

making every moment count 

All events hosted at: 

“The Home of The Cambridge Roar” 

www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk

Friday, Saturday & Sunday 

April 20th - 22nd • 10 - 5pm 

Just Crafts 

at Sandringham 

A Makers’ Show that includes: 

• ARTISTS, DESIGNERS AND CRAFTSMEN 

Adults £7.00 • Over 65’s £6.50 

Children £2.00 

Jewellery, fused glass, blown glass, pictures and prints, ceramics, fabrics. 

Purchase an inimitable piece of creativity. 

• WORKING DEMONSTRATIONS AND RURAL SKILLS Glassblowing, blacksmiths, 

woodturners, stick maker, chair maker, bodger, barrel maker, corn dollies and 

many more fascinating displays. 

• THE SANDRINGHAM CHAINSAW TEAM 

including daily speed carving demonstrations 

• FOOD HALL Come and browse our large Food Hall for home made cuisine of all 

types. The halls host a wide range of food and drink from regional and national 

producers and retailers. 

SANDRINGHAM, Nr. Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE35 6EN 

www.sandringhamcraftshow.co.uk 

Living Heritage Events Tel: 01283 820548 

LH0034 90.5x128mm 2-3.indd 1 28/02/2018 10:04 

Discover the history of 

King’s Lynn 

Tour the old gaol cells, see the 

magnificent King John cup, and 

more! Fascinating for all ages. 

Saturday Market Place, 

King’s Lynn, PE30 5DQ 

Open Daily | 01553 774297 

www.storiesoflynn.com 

App available now

S3295 KHH East of England Tourist Guide.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2018 20:55 Page 1 

Beautiful hotel and spa in the heart of the Norfolk countryside 

Accommodation with 

leisure facilities 

Traditional on-site pub 

with carvery 

South Wootton, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 3HQ 

Tel: 01553 675566 Email: reception@knightshill.co.uk 

www.knightshill.co.uk 


Light Lunches 

Annual Self-Hire Pass 

Year Round Adventure on 

Punts, Kayaks and Canoes 

Purchase Online 

www.scudamores.com | 01223 359750 | enquiries@scudamores.com

KING’S LYNN 

Full of history, King’s Lynn is a great destination 

offering a superb mix of history, heritage, 

shopping and entertainment. With its historic 

waterfront, cobbled lanes flanked by medieval 

merchants’ houses and two magnificent 

market places, the town is a treat to discover 

and explore. 

At the heart of the medieval old town, 

magnificent King’s Lynn Minster dominates 

the Saturday Market Place around which is 

some fine architecture including the distinctive 

Trinity Guildhall and historic Town Hall 

complex. Take a short walk past the grand 

buildings and merchants houses of King 

Street and Queen Street, towards the magnificent 

Tuesday Market Place, probably one of 

England’s grandest squares and home to the 

Corn Exchange, now a thriving concert hall. 

A great way to explore the town is to follow 

the King’s Lynn Maritime Trail. Discover the 

town’s history as a premier English sea port, 

the stories of its merchants, ship builders, sailors, 

fishermen, press gangs, porters and pubs 

which have played key roles in its history. 

Another way to discover the real history of the 

town is to join one the regular guided walks 

with the King’s Lynn Town Guides. Walks run 

regularly on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 

afternoons from May through to October. 

King’s Lynn’s Corn Exchange offers a 

sparkling programme of live entertainment, 

including opera, ballet, concerts, comedy and 

children’s shows. King’s Lynn is also home to 

a classic Victorian style cinema, the Majestic, 

which screens films to cater for all tastes.

A real alternative 

to residential care. 

Live-in care in 

your own home. 

“Deciding to stay in my own home with Jess and my 

live-in carers was the best decision I ever made.” 

Live-in Care 

For a free brochure call us on 

Home from 

Hospital Care 

01603 764567 

Holiday 

Companion Care 

Respite Care 

www.ablecommunitycare.com 

info@ablecommunitycare.com

Visit the Tourist Information Centre and maritime 

displays at the Custom House to find out 

more about the host of places such as True’s 

Yard Fisherfolk Museum and nearby St Nicholas’ 

Chapel, Lynn Museum, King’s Lynn Minster, 

Marriott’s Warehouse, Greyfriars Tower and 

Gardens or the classic 18th century town park 

known as ‘The Walks’ where you can indulge 

yourself in discovering more of King’s Lynn’s 

rich history and heritage. 

A great place to start your visit is the iconic 

Custom House with its elegant rooms, views 

of the river and displays that tell of the famous 

mariners of Lynn - including Vancouver and 

Nelson - as well as its merchants, customs 

men and smugglers. 

For those who cannot resist a tipple from 

Norfolk or further afield be sure to try Beers 

Of Europe, purveyors of the best selection of 

global beers, wines and ciders in the UK. 

King’s Lynn is a shopper’s paradise. As you 

stroll through the cobbled streets you’ll find 

large brand names at every turn. The Vancouver 

Quarter is the main hub for national 

retailers and has established itself as the 

town’s destination for shopping, dining and 

entertainment. Throughout the year it holds 

regular promotions, events and fun days for 

visitors. 

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange 01553 764864 

Lynn Museum 01553 775001 

www.visitwestnorfolk.com

NORWICH 

A visit to Norwich will bring you to the very heart of 

East Anglia, one of the finest heritage cities in the land 

where you’ll discover over 1,000 years of history, a 

buzzing cultural scene and superb shopping 

destination. 

Thanks to its medieval origins as Britain’s second city, 

Norwich has an historic fabric that stands comparison 

with the finest heritage cities in the UK. Over 1,500 

historic buildings lie within the city walls and the city’s 

compact scale means you can easily explore on foot. 

As well as two magnificent cathedrals and an imposing 

Norman castle, you’ll find more medieval churches than 

any other city north of the Alps within the city’s pretty 

medieval streets such as the wonderfully preserved Elm 

Hill with its cobbles and half-timbered houses. 

Dragon Hall, with its superb dragon crown-post roof, 

is the only medieval trading hall known to survive in 

Western Europe and a historical treasure. Tucked away 

but well worth seeking out, The Plantation Garden is a 

wonderfully restored late Victorian town garden with 

a gothic fountain, rustic bridge and Italianate terrace. 

Many of the city’s heritage sites can be explored 

through guided walks and tours, visitor attractions, 

exhibitions, music and performances, cafés, restaurants 

and gift shops. 

Norwich offers a vibrant cultural scene with a wealth 

of fantastic cultural experiences whether you enjoy 

the performing and visual arts or you’re inspired by 

fine buildings and amazing history. The iconic Norwich 

Castle Museum & Art Gallery stands proud over the 

city and offers both permanent and visiting exhibitions 

whilst lunchtime concerts can be enjoyed in the 

delightful music room at the Assembly House.

The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers outstanding 

collections of contemporary and world art. Norwich has 

a remarkable choice of theatre including Norwich 

Theatre Royal, whose programme includes top West 

End shows, operas and ballets, the Maddermarket 

Theatre and the Norwich Puppet Theatre. 

With such a large proportion of Norfolk farmers 

producing fruit, vegetables, dairy and meat it is 

almost impossible for this not to translate onto the 

menus of local restaurants and eateries. From fine 

dining to gastro pubs, cafés to restaurants, Norwich 

is a cosmopolitan city offering dining experiences 

with imagination and flair. 

Norwich is blessed to house so many independent 

places to dine. Some establishments have been running 

for decades and others have popped up over the past 

few years. All offer high standards of customer service 

with exceptional menus and food. Norwich has a love 

of food and drink and you’ll find regular events at many 

restaurants. 

It’s not hard to see why Norwich ranks so high for 

shopping. With its large pedestrian areas and bustling 

lanes, its quirky independent shops, six day open-air 

market and spacious modern shopping malls, Norwich 

is truly a great destination for shoppers. 

Norwich has all the UK’s leading department stores 

including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, House of 

Fraser and Debenhams. The Castle Mall and intu 

Chapelfield shopping centres have over 150 stores between 

them whilst dozens of independent shops, many 

within the historic Norwich Lanes area, bring an extra 

dimension to any trip. 

The pretty streets and narrow alleys of the Lanes 

embrace all aspects of contemporary lifestyle shopping 

and also offer plenty of independent cafés and 

restaurants. The city’s colourful market is open Monday-Saturday, 

and worth a visit is the Goat Lane Fair 

held at the Quakers’ Meeting House every Thursday, 

8am to 3pm, where you’ll find a huge range of antiques, 

collectables and vintage items. Similarly, try the 

Norwich Original Fleamarket, held in St Andrew’s Hall, 

on selected dates throughout the year. 

eastlife.co.uk 103

the giggly goat 

craft shop & gallery 

S T E A M T R A I N S T O T H E N O R F O L K B R O A D S 

S T E A M T R A I N S T O T H E N O R F O L K B R O A D S 

A L L A B O A R D F O R A G R E A T D AY O U T ! 

T r a i n s f r o m A y l s h a m o r W r o x h a m 

C o m b i n e d T r a i n a n d C r u i s e 

20 lower goat lane, norwich nr2 1el 

01603 663299 www.thegigglygoat.co.uk 

info@thegigglygoat.co.uk 

open mon-fri 10-5, sat 9.30-5.30 & 

sundays 11-4 in november & December 

N o r w i c h R o a d , A y l s h a m , N o r f o l k , N R 1 1 6 B W 

0 1 2 6 3 7 3 3 8 5 8 - w w w. b v r w. c o . u k 

LORD AND LADY WALPOLE INVITE YOU TO ENJOY WALKS, 

TRAILS, GARDENS AND THE MANY SPECIAL EVENTS 

AT 

MANNINGTON GARDENS 

WHY NOT VISIT THE GREEDY GOOSE TEA ROOMS 

SERVING HOME MADE LOCAL PRODUCE 

Wine Tours and Tastings at Chet Valley 

Vineyard in Bergh Apton South Norfolk 

John Hemmant wine maker and vineyard owner welcomes you to Chet 

Valley Vineyard nestled in the South Norfolk Village of Bergh Apton. 

Your Chet Valley experience will start with a tour of the vines followed by 

a visit to the winery where there is an opportunity to see the wine making 

process in action plus taste wines straight from the vat (subject to season). 

Finally you will be offered a tasting of 6 wines accompanied by local cheese 

and charcuterie if you wish. Allow 2 hours for the tour and tasting. 

Tasting for over 18s only. Cost is £12 per person. Under 18s free. 

Booking in advance by phone or email is essential 

Chet Valley Vineyard, Loddon Road, Bergh Apton, NR15 1BT 

Telephone 01508 333002 www.chetvineyard.co.uk 

Email: chetandwaveney.vineyard@gmail.com 

We are on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and also Tripadvisor. 

@ukwinemakerwife Chet and Waveney Valley Wines 

@ukwinemakerwife 

Walks and car park open daily until dusk 

Gardens open May 27th to end of August 

Sundays, and Wednesday to Fridays 11 am to 5pm 

For events including music, drama, art exhibitions and 

children’s activities please see our website. Contact us for 

weddings, celebrations, party visits and corporate events. 

MANNINGTON HALL, NORWICH, NORFOLK NR11 7BB 

Email: admin@walpoleestate.co.uk Tel: 01263 584175 

www.manningtongardens.co.uk

Norwich Market | credit: Nick Farrow 

The city has had its own independent department 

store, Jarrolds, since 1823 whilst the art 

nouveau Royal Arcade is home to the one and 

only Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum. 

Don’t forget to visit The Forum where you will 

find the Millennium Library with storytelling and 

other fun activities plus an amphitheatre where 

on a busy lunchtime you can sit and watch 

street entertainers and performers - Covent 

Garden style. 

Every year the city has a great programme of 

entertainment, from free activities in the parks 

and open spaces to outdoor theatre. With 

interactive workshops, music, performances, 

sporting activities, arts and crafts, there really 

is something for everyone. There are weekend 

bandstand concerts throughout the summer in 

many of the Norwich parks offering wonderful 

live music and the opportunity to take along 

your homemade picnic. 

When the weather is kind and you want to 

explore ‘hidden Norwich’ why not plan some 

time to visit the Bishop’s Garden at Norwich 

Cathedral, or try a children’s stained glass 

window workshop at the beautiful church of St 

Peter Hungate in Princess Street. 

The Norfolk & Norwich Festival takes place 

every year in May (11-27 May 2018) and 

features a fantastic line-up of music, arts, 

theatre and entertainment throughout the city 

for two weeks. There are also plenty of places 

to buy local produce for eating at home or 

taking back to family or friends. 

A number of excellent delis are scattered 

across the city where you can purchase beer, 

wine, cheese, rare breed sausages, artisan 

bread, pies, jams and organic chocolate – the 

list goes on. Finally not forgetting Norwich 

Market where some stalls have been owned by 

four generations of the same family. 

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery 

01603 493649 

The Assembly House 01603 626402 

The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts 

University of East Anglia 01603 593199 

Norwich Theatre Royal 01603 630000 

Norwich Puppet Theatre 01603 615564 

Maddermarket Theatre 01603 620917 

Norwich Original Fleamarket 

01603 630763 

Dragon Hall 01603 877177 

The Plantation Garden 07504 545810 

Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum 

01603 627889 

Norwich Arts Centre 01603 660352 

eastlife.co.uk 105

Come to the 

Cat Pottery 

1 Grammar School Road, 

North Walsham NR28 9JH 

Sandringham houSe 

muSeum & gardenS 

The Country retreat of h.m. The Queen 

And see me being made. 

Also collection of Railwayana 

and other curiosities. 

Open: 9-5 Mon-Fri & 11-1 Saturday 

No entrance fee 

open daily easter to mid-July and early august to october (closed good Friday) 

www.sandringhamestate.co.uk or 01485 545408 

Visit: www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/ 

eastlife

NORTH WALSHAM 

& MUNDSLEY 

Ideally situated for both the Norfolk Broads 

and the coast, North Walsham is a market 

town of Georgian frontage dominated by the 

large 14th Century ‘wool church’ of St Nicholas 

and boasting a 400-year-old Palladian-style 

‘Cross’. Explore the byways around North 

Walsham to find medieval churches, cosy 

pubs and the tranquil waterways of the 

Broads. 

Venture towards the coast and you will come 

across the fine sandy beaches of Mundesley. 

The pocket sized cliff top seaside resort, with 

its colourful beach huts and Blue Flag beach, 

has proved a popular destination for visitors 

looking for a traditional seaside holiday. 

SANDRINGHAM 

The village of Sandringham, just north of 

King’s Lynn, is best known for Sandringham 

House and Estate, the Queen’s favoured 

country retreat. Much of the house, including 

ground floor rooms used by the Royal 

Family, is open to the public, as well as acres 

of gardens and a museum housing collections 

of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs 

and memorabilia. The house, built in 1870 by 

the Prince and Princess of Wales (later King 

Edward VII and Queen Alexandra), has been 

the private home of four generations of British 

monarchs, and the decor and contents remain 

much as they were in Edwardian times. 

The 60 acres of gardens that surround the 

house have been added to and adapted by 

each of Sandringham’s Royal generations, and 

feature woodland walks, carrstone rockeries, 

formal Edwardian gardens with pleached lime 

avenues and a stream walk. 

The estate’s 600 acre Country Park is open 

to the public every day at no charge. There 

are many woodland paths to explore and two 

waymarked Nature Trails, one 1.5 miles and 

the other 2.5 miles long. Tractor and trailer 

tours run daily when the house is open, which, 

for a small charge, offer an easy way to see 

the park. 

The beautiful medieval church, where the 

Royal Family worship while they are at Sandringham, 

is also open to the public during 

the visitor season. The highly decorated 

interior contains a magnificent silver altar and 

pulpit, together with a very fine 16th century 

processional cross and a number of memorials 

to the Royal Family. 

Sandringham Estate 01485 545400 

Mundesley Maritime Museum 

www.mundesleymaritimemuseum.co.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 107

TO US!

SHERINGHAM 

A plume of steam is often seen rising above 

the heart of Sheringham, as engines embark 

from The Poppy Line heritage railway along 

the coast to Holt. 

the stunning colour of the rhododendrons and 

azaleas that blossom from mid-May to mid- 

June. A treetop platform gives breath-taking 

coastal views. 

The Poppy Line station hosts themed events 

throughout the year, recalling a golden age 

of the railways with steam and diesel engines, 

or evoking the magic of Christmas with Santa 

Specials. 

Sheringham boasts an array of independent 

shops, and there is a wealth of attractions 

in and around the town. ‘Splash’ is a family 

leisure pool with fitness facilities, while the 

enchanting Priory Maze & Gardens lie around 

the ruins of the 13th Century Augustinian 

Friary of St Mary at Beeston Regis. 

The National Trust’s Sheringham Park is a 

mature woodland with paths and walks 

punctuated by viewing platforms for taking in 

Sheringham has a market on a Saturday and 

Wednesday. 

Sheringham Park National Trust Visitor 

Centre 01263 820550 

Priory Maze & Gardens 01263 822986 

Splash Leisure & Fitness Centre 

01263 825675 

Sheringham Little Theatre 01263 822347 

Hilltop Outdoor Centre 01263 824514 

The Fishermen’s Heritage Centre 

sheringhamsociety.com 

North Norfolk Railway 01263 820800 

eastlife.co.uk 109

Our self catering 

Garden Lodge and 

Boat House 

accommodation 

have splendid views 

overlooking the sea. 

Self catering 

Breaks by theSea 

Located in the picturesque seaside town of 

Old Hunstanton on the north Norfolk coast, the 

Le Strange Arms Hotel is the perfect venue for the 

ultimate relaxing seaside break. 

Tel: 01485 534411 

Email: 

reception@lestrangearms.co.uk 

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6JJ 

www.lestrangearms.co.uk

SWAFFHAM 

Swaffham is a delightful town, and was used 

for the TV series Kingdom starring Stephen 

Fry. Located on the very northern point of the 

Brecks, an area of outstanding beauty, 

Swaffham is a naturally pretty town offering 

history, culture and plenty to see and do. 

The town has a great weekly market on 

Saturdays, beautiful Georgian buildings and a 

magnificent church. 

Nearby Oxburgh Hall is a romantic, moated 

manor house. It was built by the Bedingfeld 

family in the 15th century and they have lived 

there ever since. Inside, the family’s Catholic 

history is revealed, complete with a secret 

priest’s hole which you can crawl inside. 

Outside, you can enjoy panoramic views from 

the gate-house roof and follow the wood-carving 

trails in the gardens and woodlands. 

Swaffham is a great base for exploring The 

Brecks. 

THETFORD 

Thetford is an ancient market town filled 

to the brim with history and heritage sites, 

quiet gardens, open parkland and a relaxing 

riverside. With Thetford Forest right on the 

doorstep, this is also the best base for 

discovering the wildlife and outdoor pleasures 

of The Brecks ideal for walking, cycling, riding 

and action-packed adventure days. 

Many of the buildings in the town and 

surrounding villages were used for filming and 

there is a Dad’s Army exhibition at the nearby 

Bressigham Steam Museum near Diss, and a 

statue of actor Arthur Lowe as Captain Mainwaring 

in Thetford town. Thetford has been 

the Saxon capital of East Anglia; an important 

medieval religious centre, an elegant 19th 

century spa and the manufacturing base of the 

world-famous Burrell steam engines. 

In the heart of Thetford Forest you’ll find Go Ape, 

an award-winning high wire forest adventure 

course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and zip 

slides, all set high up in the trees. If you’re looking 

for a phenomenal family day out, Go Ape is 

guaranteed fun. You can also take in Go Ape’s 

beautiful location from the ground as you whizz 

through the forest on segways. The day is 

guaranteed to leave you on an adrenaline filled 

buzz as high as the trees! 

eastlife.co.uk 111

Albatros 

Bar, Restaurant, B&B 

On board historic sailing ship Albatros, 

The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AT 

Traditional DUTCH CUISINE including our famous 

DUTCH PANCAKES, PEA SOUP and APPLE CAKE 

Chef’s DAILY SPECIALS MENU with vegetarian, 

vegan and gluten-free options available. 

Fully LICENSED BAR serving the best choice of 

local REAL ALES from cask 

Listed in The CAMRA GOOD 

BEER GUIDE since 2010 

Speciality LODGING/B&B 

in the former CREW CABINS 

LIVE MUSIC every weekend 

OPEN daily for LUNCH and DINNER from 12 noon 

CLOSED on CHRISTMAS DAY 

BOOKINGS NOW 

BEING TAKEN 

For more details visit 

www.albatroswells.co.uk 

For Enquiries 

07979 087228 

Our new look takeaway at Platten’s 

10% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT * 

Overlooking the stunning coastal views of the harbour, our takeaway 

provides both takeaway and eat in options, where you can sit in the 

spacious 60 seat Fisherman’s Yard. 

Visit our website to download a 10% off voucher today 

WWW.PLATTENSFISHANDCHIPS.CO.UK 

FIND US 

Platten’s Fish & Chips, Quayside, 

Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AH 

01328 711 249 

FOLLOW US 

Plattensfishandchips 

Plattensfishchips 

@Plattens_Wells 

Terms & conditions apply.

WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA 

Sitting at the quay crabbing - or gillieing, is a 

longstanding tradition for holidaymakers at 

Wells-next-the-Sea. 

Wells, with its small working harbour, is 

dominated by a 100-year-old granary building, 

whose gantry overhangs the harbourfront as a 

reminder of past glories. 

The town is also known for its sweeping 

sandy beach and the stilt-high huts in primary 

colours that look out across the beach at the 

mouth of the harbour. 

A great way to travel through the area is by 

using the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, 

which is the longest 10 inch narrow gauge line 

in the world. This runs from Wells to the holy 

village of Walsingham, where pilgrims come to 

this day to worship at the Roman Catholic and 

Anglican shrines. 

A short distance from Wells is Holkham estate, 

with its stately Palladian mansion, Bygones 

Museum, deer park and Holkham beach. This 

part of North Norfolk forms part of the largest 

coastal nature reserve in England and Wales. 

The town is a network of narrow streets, old 

alleys and yards. Some of the town’s buildings 

are hundreds of years old, and many, including 

former coaching inns and public houses, are 

listed buildings. 

Wells-next-the-Sea and indeed the whole of 

the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural 

Beauty is a haven for twitchers. Bitterns and 

terns, oyster catchers, avocets and marsh harriers 

are among the species which make this part 

of North Norfolk a prime site for birdwatching.

SUPPLIERS OF THE 

Finest Quality Locally-Sourced Food 

Since 1889 

Flying the Flag for Norfolk Produce 

ARTHUR HOWELL 

WWW.ARTHURHOWELL.COM 

01328-710228 

WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA • BURNHAM MARKET

WALSINGHAM 

Walsingham, known as ‘England’s 

Nazereth’, has been a place of pilgrimage 

since medieval times. Comprised of two 

conjoined villages, Little Walsingham and 

Great Walsingham, it is famed for its 

religious shrines in honour of the Virgin 

Mary. 

The Wells Walsingham Light Railway is 

the longest 10 1/4” narrow gauge steam 

railway in the world and the wonderful 

scenic journey with five bridges through 

lovely countryside is worth taking. 

WYMONDHAM 

Wymondham is an historic market town 

with an attractive town centre, a 

number of notable old buildings and a 

good range of shops. 

Wymondham Abbey, founded in 1101, is one 

of the finest and most interesting of the 

historic churches of East Anglia. Its two tall 

towers dominate the countryside for miles 

around. 

Wymondham is also the starting point 

for one of the largest preserved railways 

in the UK, the Mid-Norfolk Railway, 

which hosts a number of special events 


The annual Wymondham Music Festival 

Fortnight is a popular event, which 

takes place mid-summer. It features a 

mix of musical styles for all ages, with 

a combination of open air and formal 

concerts and community events. 

Art lovers should head to the Wymondham 

Arts Centre for its changing displays 


eastlife.co.uk 115

COTTAGE 

COMPANY 

THE 

BLAKENEY 

Ken's traditional fish and chip shop 

is in the heart of Wroxham offers 

quality food and a warm friendly THE 

service. The restaurant at the rear 

of the premises has stunning views 

across the broads and there is also 

outside seating so that diners can 

enjoy the river side location. 

THE 

A takeaway menu is also available so BLAKENEY 

customers can enjoy delicious fish COTTAGE 

and chips where ever they please. 

Ken’s is the longest running Fish and 

Chip shop in Wroxham and is now 

under the new management of local 

lad Michael who has worked there 

since his teens and has learnt THE his 

trade from the original owner. BLAKENEY 

COTTAGE 

Ken’s Traditional 

FISH & CHIP 

Restaurant 

BLAKENEY 

COTTAGE 

COMPANY 

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL 

THE 

BLAKENEY 

COMPANY COTTAGE 

COMPANY 


COMPANY 


THE 

BLAKENEY THE 

COTTAGE BLAKENEY 

COMPANY COTTAGE 

COMPANY 



THE 

BLAKENEY 

COTTAGE 

COMPANY 

THE 

BLAKENEY 

COTTAGE 

COMPANY 




01603 783739 • 01603 784445 

The Bridge • Norwich Road • Wroxham • Norfolk • NR12 8DA 

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

WHAT’S ON? 

3-15 Apr, 28 May- 2 June, 25 July - 31 Aug & 

3-5 Sept Field to Fork Tractor Trailer Tour 

Holkham Hall, NR23 1AB 

www.holkham.co.uk/events/whats-on 

28-29 Apr East Anglian Game and Country 

Fair 

Euston Hall, Euston, Thetford IP24 2QH 

www.ukgamefair.co.uk 

28 Apr - 13 May Broads Outdoors Festival 

Various venues 

www.outdoorsfestival.co.uk 

11-27 May Norfolk & Norwich 

Festival 


www.nnfestival.org.uk 

19-20 May Crab & Lobster Festival 

Cromer and Sheringham 

www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk 

24 May - 3 June Norwich City of Ale 


www. cityofale.org.uk 

27-28 May Country Fair 

Hoveton Hall Estate 

www.hovetonhall.co.uk 

8-16 Jun Great Yarmouth Arts 

Festival 


www.greatyarmouthartsfestival.co.uk 

15-17 Jun Summer Diesel Gala 

North Norfolk Railway 

www.nnrailway.co.uk 

17-Jun Father’s Day Dens & Fire 

Holkham Hall, NR23 1AB 

www.holkham.co.uk/events/whats-on 

17-Jun Norwich Food and Drink Festival 

The Forum, Norwich 

norfolkfoodanddrink.com 

6-8 Jul Gin Festival Norwich 

The Halls, St Andrews, Norwich, NR3 1AU 

www.ginfestival.com 

11 Jul - 16 Sep Grand Summer Spectacular 

& Water Show 

Hippodrome Circus, Great Yarmouth 

www.hippodromecircus.co.uk 

14-16 Jul Annual Beer Festival 

Sheringham Station 


21-29 Jul Holt Festival 

Holt NR25 6BN 

www.holtfestival.org 

25-Jul Sandringham Flower Show 

Sandringham Park 

www.sandringhamestate.co.uk 

27 Jul - 4 Aug Wells Carnival 

Wells-next-the-Sea 

www.wellscarnival.co.uk 

28 Jul - 5 Aug Sheringham Carnival 

www.sheringhamcarnival.com 

4-5 Aug Sandringham Food & Drink Festival 

Sandringham Estate 

www.sandringhamfoodfestival.co.uk 

11-Aug The Great British Prom 

Blickling Estate 

www.revival-productions.co.uk 

13-14 Aug North Norfolk Music Festival 


www.northnorfolkmusicfestival.com 

26-Aug Auction and World Crabbing 

Competition 

Cromer and Sheringham 

www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk 

8-9 Sep Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival 

South Quay 

www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/maritime-festival 

8-9 Sep Sandringham Game & Country Fair 

Sandringham Park 

www.livingheritagecraftshows.com 

15-16 Sep Out There Festival 

Great Yarmouth 

www.seachangearts.org.uk/out-there-festival 

eastlife.co.uk 117

Inclusive Short Breaks 

at Potters Resort 

For nearly 100 years, our family has been welcoming guests 

to our unique and friendly Resort by the sea. 

We offer a fantastic selection of inclusive short breaks on the beautiful Norfolk coast: 

• Adult Midweek Breaks • Family Breaks 

• Drinks Inclusive Breaks • Weekends With Friends 

• Star Act Breaks 

Comfortable accommodation 

Full board - Four meals a day 

Breaks from as little as £129 Per person 

Plus you can receive a £10 per person, per night discount on 

your first Potters break. Simply Quote GUIDE at time of booking. 

Visit www.pottersholidays.com to find out more. 

POTTERS RESORT • COAST ROAD • HOPTON-ON-SEA • NORFOLK • NR31 9BX 

Inclusive sports and leisure activities 

First-class live evening entertainment 

GUIDE must be quoted at time of booking. Terms and conditions apply. New bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. 

Prices are based on Standard Bungalow accommodation, supplements apply for Bungalow Plus and Hotel accommodation. Calls are charged at 

national rate and in many cases count to your inclusive minutes on mobile and landline contracts. Subject to promotional rate availability. 

Mid-Norfolk Railway 

The Dereham to Wymondham Abbey Line 

Large & Small Groups Welcome 

Discounts available for parties of 10 or more 

Free Coach Parking at Dereham Station 

On-board catering or meals at Dereham Station available 

if booked in advance Free meal for driver 

Complete Package Tour 

to include Train Trip, Lunch and one of the following: 

Gooderstone Water Gardens, near Swaffham 

Gressenhall Workhouse Museum, near Dereham 

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway 

The Market Town of Wymondham and Wymondham Abbey 

Broads Tours, Wroxham 

For more details and to book, 

please email marketing@mnr.org.uk 

or telephone 07585 855350 / 01362 667814

MORE THAN JUST A 

TRAIN JOURNEY 

North Norfolk Railway Plc 

@nnrailway 


enquiries@nnrailway.co.uk 01263 820 800

Sheringham Cottages 1-4 Jan18.qxp_1/4 PORTRAIT GRID 11/12/2017 16:34 Page 1 

Relax on the North Norfolk C oast 

Real Norfolk Ales 

from Real Norfolk Barley 

Choose from over 60 naturally 

bottle-conditioned real Norfolk ales 

from 15 local brewers who use our farm’s 

classic malt as their prime ingredient. 

Summer Opening Times 

Mon to Sat 10am - 6pm 

Sunday 12 - 4pm 

On the B1105 Fakenham to Wells road, NR23 1SB 

Tel: 01328 710810 

www.therealaleshop.co.uk/norfolk 

Local family run business 

Six delightful 4 star / families welcome graded holiday 

properties sleeping from 2 to 15 in Sheringham 

Foresters, Augusta & Madge are all rated suitable for 

wheelchair users by Visit England, as well as being 

great for families 

Superb quiet location. Blue flag beach, shops, family 

pubs, theatre and 18-hole golf course all within 200 

metres 

Free use of local leisure centre, inc. swim and gym, 

Sky TV, sports and movies, Wi-fi, gardens and off 

road parking 

Free pick up from Sheringham train & bus station 

Call: 01263 577 560 

Web: www.sheringhamcottages.com 

Email: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com 

The enchanting Water Gardens 

he Real Ale Shop.indd 1 31/3/11 09:50:25 

at Gooderstone 

What could be nicer than to stroll through an enchanting 

garden, explore the nature trail, perhaps spot a kingfisher 

and enjoy delicious home-made cakes. 

SNETTISHAM 

PARK 

Garden open daILY aLL Year. 10 - 5.30 

Tearoom open 12 March to end October, daily if weather fair. 

Please check 01366 328118 / 01366 328007 

Closes 5 pm, 4 pm from September. 

Children 16 and under 

FREE & Dogs on leads allowed 

Coaches and group visits welcome by appointment. 

Discounts on request. 

All enquiries please call Coral Hoyos 

Garden - 07730 551945, Tearoom - 01366 328118 

Gooderstone Water Gardens & 

Nature Trail, Gooderstone, PE33 9BP 

coral@sunnycottage.plus.com 

www.gooderstonewatergardens.co.uk 

Deer Safari Park & Farming Attraction 

ALL YEAR: 

Amazing Deer Safari 

Friendly Farm Animals 

Children’s Play Area 

Visitor Centre & Tea Room 

SEASONAL ACTIVITES: 

Pony Rides/ 

Lead Rein Treks 

Bottle Feeding Lambs 

Egg Collecting 

Deer Calving 

and much more… 

OPEN DAILY 10am-5pm 

T: O1485 542425 

PE31 7NG 

www.snettishampark.co.uk


Attleborough 

Town Council 

Tel: 01953 456194 

attleboroughtc.org.uk 

Diss 

Mere Street 

Tel: 01379 650523 

www.diss.gov.uk 

Holt 

3 Pound House, 

Market Place 

Tel: 01263 713100 

North Norfolk 


Louden Road, 

Cromer 

Tel: 01263 512497 

Aylsham TIC 

Downham Market 

Hunstanton 

northnorfolk.org 

28 Norwich Rd, 

Aylsham, NR11 6BW 

Tel: 01263 733903 

Priory Road 

Tel: 01366 383287 

west-norfolk.gov.uk 

Town Hall 

Tel: 01485 532610 

visithunstanton.info 

Norwich 

The Forum 

Tel: 01603 213999 

Burnham Deepdale 

Great Yarmouth 

King’s Lynn 

norwich.gov.uk 

Deepdale Farms 

Tel: 01485 211142 

www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk 

25 Marine Parade 

Tel: 01493 846346 

great-yarmouth.co.uk 

Harleston 

The Custom House, 

Purfleet Quay 

Tel: 01553 763044 

visitwestnorfolk.com 

Sheringham 

Station Approach 

Tel: 01263 824329 

visitsheringham.co.uk 

Cromer TIC 

Louden Rd, NR27 9EF 

Tel: 01263 512497 

www.northnorfolk.org 

8 Exchange Street 

Tel: 01379 851917 

harleston-norfolk. 

org.uk 

Mundesley 

Station Road 

Tel: 01263 721070 

mundesley.org 

Swaffham 

4 London Street 

Tel: 01760 722255 

aroundswaffham.co.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 121

Ickworth 

When you come to 

capture the view, 

together we bring 

history alive. 

When you visit, donate, volunteer or 

join the National Trust, your 

support helps us to look after special 

places for ever, for everyone. 

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth 

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images. 

#nationaltrust 

Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with 

Orwell Lady River Cruises 

Holiday homes 

for sale and 

Touring Park 

The ideal base from which to explore the 

stunning Suffolk coast and countryside, 

or just relax and put your feet up. 

01728 831655 

www.cakesandale.co.uk 

reception@cakesandale.co.uk 

Daytime Public Cruises • Music Nights 

English Afternoon Tea Cruises 

Sunday Lunch Buffets • Private Charters 

School Trips • Coach Parties Welcome 

• Sailing from Ipswich Waterfront 

01473 258070 

OR BOOK ONLINE 

www.orwellrivercruises.com

ALDEBURGH 

Aldeburgh 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’. 

and August, and the Carnival and Regatta 

on 18-20 August 2018. 

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 town’s most famous inhabitant was the 

composer Benjamin Britten and there are 

many reminders of his life about the town. 

Britten established the classical Aldeburgh 

Music Festival in 1948, placing Aldeburgh 

firmly 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 

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 - just 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! 

eastlife.co.uk 123

Run Cottage 

Touring Park 

POSSIBLY THE FRIENDLIEST 

CARAVAN SITE 

IN SUFFOLK 

East Anglian 

Wine of the Year 2017 

VINEYARD & 

WINERY TOURS 

flintvineyard.com | 01986 893209 

Earsham, Bungay, Norfolk, NR35 2AH 

Close to the town of Woodbridge we are a small family run touring 

park with 45 pitches. Set in a 4.5 acre parkland setting with a large 

pond and views over open farmland, we offer peace and tranquility. 

Our new luxury Glamping pods are now available for hire, 

Each pod comes complete with 4’6 oak frame double bed with 

pillows, complete with cotton sheets, duvet & Pillows, 

Large leather sofa, TV & DVD player comes with 140 free sat 

channels, Small fridge with freezer compartment & Microwave, 

Complementary Tea & Coffee on arrival, 

Individual BBQ stand beside glamping pod for disposable BBQ 

Plates/Bowls/Mugs/Glasses & knife & Forks provided. 

Bistro table and chairs on the decking overlooking our wildlife pond. 

Run Cottage Touring Park, Alderton Road, 

Hollesley, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3RQ 

Website: www.runcottage.co.uk 

Email: info@runcottage.co.uk 

THE SWAN MOTEL 

Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight 

Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm. 

We are situated in the beautiful peaceful 

rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern 

tip of the Norfolk Broads. 

Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can 

be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns 

making this a great place to base your visit in your 

discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include, 

Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub 

and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games. 

THE SWAN MOTEL, A MOTEL, 

RESTAURANT AND PUBLIC HOUSE 

SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF GILLINGHAM 

ON THE NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK BORDER 

JUST OUTSIDE THE MARKET TOWN OF BECCLES. 

The Bar Area At The Swan 

Friendly Staff, plenty of drinks and 

good company at 

The Gillingham Swan 

Fine Restaurant And Sunday Lunch 

We have 2 restaurants for you to dine in. 

We offer food from the main menu but we also 

have daily specials and bar food. We also have 

a carvery which is available on Sundays 

Magnificent Rooms 

To Complete Your Stay 

Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208 

Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS 

www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk 

We have 14 fully refurbished rooms for 

you to choose from including our Double- 

Deluxe-Ensuite-Honeymoon Suite 

Loddon Road, Gillingham, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0LD | 01502 470005

Beccles, credit: The Suffolk Coast 

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. Its attractive 

riverfront and quay make 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 town’s 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 Bear & Bells 

in The Old Market and The Swan House, 

a restaurant and boutique hotel near the 

bell tower is highly recommended. Among 

them are quality food shops, including 

Bailey’s Delicatessen on Hungate, which 

also has an upstairs bistro. 

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 

is the fiercely contested charity Rubber 

Duck Race. 

Bungay, credit: The Suffolk Coast 

BUNGAY 

The 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 its 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. 

Worth a look are the unused St Mary’s 

Church and the ruins of Bigod’s Castle, 

built in 1170, details of which can be found 

at the castle visitor centre on Cross Street. 

For a bite to eat there’s the well-loved 

Buttercross Tearooms and Tea Gardens, 

lunch 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. 

eastlife.co.uk 125

Immerse yourself in 1000 years of history at Suffolk’s 

Cathedral and take a guided trip up our magnificent 

Millennium Tower* Guided tours of the cathedral also 

available with our friendly and knowledgeable guides. 

Browse a huge range of gifts in our shop and refresh 

yourself in our welcoming Pilgrims’ Kitchen café which 

serves hot and cold food and drinks and has free Wi-Fi. 

Help us build history by laying a brick on our LEGO 

® model. We’re building our cathedral out of 200,000 

LEGO bricks and need your help! Donate £1 

and lay a brick on the model. 

You are assured of a warm welcome 

at our services and events. 

For full details of services, events and news go to 

www.stedscathedral.co.uk 

The Cathedral Office, Abbey House, 

Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LS 

*tower tours only available on certain dates. Please check website for details. 

Greene King Brewery Tours 

7 days a week 

“Outstanding” 

“Absolutely fantastic!” 

“If you haven’t already 

done this tour… Why?” 

Visit our Beer Café 

open Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm 

Call us 01284 714297 

greenekingshop.co.uk 

Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1QT 

EUSTON HALL 

OPEN DAYS 

EUSTON HALL 

OPEN DAYS 

Following our success last year Euston Hall will be 

Open again as below: 

Monday 7 th to Saturday 12 th May 

Following our success 

Monday 25 

EUSTON th last year Euston 

to Friday 29 

HALL 

th Hall will be 

Open again as below: 

June 

Monday 167 th th to Saturday 12 th 21May 

st July 

Monday 20 

OPEN th 25to th to Friday 24 29 

DAYS 

th June August 

Monday Monday 10 th to 16 th to Saturday 15 th 21September 

st July 

Monday 20 

Come and view one th to Friday 24 

of the th August 

finest Stuart art 

collections Come and in the view country, one of as the well finest as the Stuart extensive art 

park collections and gardens, in the historic country, watermill, as well as the bygones extensive room 

and park Church and gardens, of St. Genevieve. historic watermill, bygones room 

Please and visit Church our of website St. Genevieve. www.eustonhall.co.uk for 

Please visit our website www.eustonhall.co.uk for 

further visitor information. Tickets can also be 

further visitor information. Tickets can also be 

purchased purchased from from the the Leaping Hare Hare Box Box Office, Office, in in 

Thetford: Thetford: 

T: 01842 T: 01842 751 751 975 975 www.leapinghare.org 

Following our success last year Euston Hall will be 

Open Monday again as 10 below: th to Saturday 15 th September 

Monday 7 th to Saturday 12 th May 

Monday 25 th to Friday 29 th June 

Monday 16 th to Saturday 21 st July 

Monday 20 th to Friday 24 th August 

Monday 10 th to Saturday 15 th September 

Come and view one of the finest Stuart art 

Come 

collections 

and view 

in 

one 

the 

of 

country, 

the finest 

as 

Stuart 

well as 

art 

the 

collections 

extensive 

in the 

country, 

park and 

as well 

gardens, 

as the 

historic 

extensive 

watermill, 

park and 

bygones 

gardens, 

room 

historic 

watermill, 

and Church 

bygones 

of St. 

room 

Genevieve. 

and Church of St. Genevieve. 

Please 

Please 

visit 

visit 

our 

our 

website 

website 

www.eustonhall.co.uk 

www.eustonhall.co.uk 

for further 

for 

visitor 

further 

information. 

visitor information. 

Tickets can also 

Tickets 

be purchased 

can also 

from 

be 

the 

Leaping purchased Hare Box from Office, the Leaping in Thetford: Hare Box Office, in 

T: 01842 Thetford: 751 975 www.leapinghare.org 

T: 01842 

Euston 

751 

Hall, 

975 

Euston, 

www.leapinghare.org 

Suffolk, IP24 2QW 

Euston Hall, Euston, Suffolk, IP24 2QW 

All profits will benefit local Charities 

All 

Euston 

profits 

Hall, 

will 

Euston, 

benefit 

Suffolk, 

local 

IP24 2QW 

All profits go to local charities Charities 

All will benefit Charities 

All profits All profits go go to local local charities charities

BURY ST 

EDMUNDS 

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds 

Portrait of Matthew Vernon (Sub Dean) of 

St Edmundsbury Cathedral 

Few 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. 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. 

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. 

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. 

The Abbey Gardens are well known for its 

stunning floral displays. St Edmundsbury 

Cathedral was mostly built in the 16th century 

and has been a cathedral since 1914 but 

in recent years has been completed with the 

addition of a new Gothic style lantern tower. 

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 

the East of England. The town is a shopper’s 

delight, 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. 

Visit the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds; a 

restored Regency playhouse with a yearround 

programme of performances. The 

Apex is the town’s hub for entertainment. 

It hosts events, music, comedy shows and 

more throughout the year. Don’t miss the 

Bury St Edmunds Festival from 18-27 May; 10 

days of great music, theatre, film and exhibitions 

taking place throughout the town. 

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 declared the 

smallest pub in the country. 

Image credits: Visit Suffolk | www.visitsuffolk.com 

eastlife.co.uk 127

CONSTABLE 

COUNTRY 

Constable 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. 

Rippingdales Antiques Shop, Clare | www.visitsuffolk.com 

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. 

CLARE 

A delightful little wool town on the River 

Stour, it has a captivating history, offering 

a wide range of shops, antique outlets 

and excellent local 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. 

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, which 

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.

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 (homemade 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. 

eastlife.co.uk 129

Euston Rural 

Pastimes Event 

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Traction engines 

Sunday 10 June 2018 

10am-5pm 

Dog shows 

Bolddogs Kangaroo Lings- Display Kid Team 

Scurry and Trials 

Euston Park, Euston, IP24 2QH 

www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk 

Classic cars 

Plus much more! 

Helmingham is famous for its Grade 1 Listed gardens, 

redesigned by Lady Tollemache (a Chelsea Gold 

Medallist) set in a 400 acre deer park surrounding 

a moated Tudor Hall. Visitors are enchanted by the 

herbaceous borders within the walled kitchen gardens, the 

herb & knot garden, rose and wild gardens. A delicious 

range of local food is served in the Coach House 

Tearooms and the Stable Shops offer a wide array of local 

produce, plants, garden accessories and local crafts. 

Winner of the HHA/Christie’s 

Garden of the Year Award 2017 

Many special events including The Festival of Classic & 

Sports Cars and specialist Plant Fairs are held throughout 

the season and groups are warmly welcomed. Please 

contact us for further details of group booking discounts. 

Open May – September Tues, Wed, Thurs and Sun 

11:00 – 4:30 

Helmingham Hall Gardens, Helmingham, 

Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF 

t: 01473 890799 

e: events@helmingham.com 

w: www.helmingham.com 

Photos copyright of Marcus Harper

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 

almost the entire length of the beach from Languard 

Point to Felixstowe Ferry. 

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. 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, which this year takes place 

on 2 September. 

FELIXSTOWE 

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. 

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, enjoy excellent fish and chips at the Ferry Café 

and catch the small ferry boat across the estuary to 

Bawdsey. 

eastlife.co.uk 131

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FRAMLINGHAM 

HADLEIGH 

Framlingham, 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 (March - November, 

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 March 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 special find. A twiceweekly 

market takes place on Market Hill 

every Tuesday and Saturday. 

Hadleigh, in the south of Suffolk close to 

the border of 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 it is 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 Cut, a centre for arts 

in the community, offers a whole range 

of arts and entertainment and is host to 

the Halesworth Arts Festival from 13-28 

October. The Town Park hosts Gig in the 

Park every August; a showcase of local, 

national, and international musical talent. 

Market day is every Wednesday. 

eastlife.co.uk 133

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HAVERHILL 

Haverhill is a market town that dates back 

to Saxon times. Whilst most of its historical 

buildings were lost to the great fire on 

14 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 retail quarter, 

and a leisure complex 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 there’s also the award-wining East 

Town Park. 

IPSWICH 

Once a solid centre of maritime commerce 

and activity, the Ipswich ‘Docks’ has been 

transformed into the 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. 

Ipswich Maritime Festival | www.visitsuffolk.com 

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 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, fringe theatre and an unrivalled 

arts festival can all be found at venues such 

as The Regent Theatre, the Corn Exchange, 

DanceEast 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 Sailmakers Shopping Centre. 

eastlife.co.uk 135

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LAVENHAM 

LONG MELFORD 

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 and the many 

magnificent buildings that remain are a 

testimony to the town having been the 

fourteenth wealthiest in England. 

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. 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. Much recommended is a walk along 

the disused railway line, followed by a 

wander through the gift and antique shops, 

then a spot to eat in one of the many 

fabulous tea rooms, pubs and fine-dining 

restaurants scattered around the town. The 

Angel, believed to be Lavenham’s oldest inn 

is great for a bite to eat and the renowned 

Swan is perfect for afternoon tea. 

Long Melford is one of Suffolk’s most 

attractive villages. It has a 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 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 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 

mitretopped turrets. Spend the afternoon 

strolling around the many art galleries, 

which Long Melford has become known for. 

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. 

eastlife.co.uk 137

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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 

changes over recent years to make them more 

accessible to visitors. The improvements included the 

introduction of the Princess Royal Fountains, consisting 

of 74 individual water jets that provide the perfect 

attraction for children throughout the day and a visual 

spectacle in the evenings. 

Lowestoft also offers a great 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. 

eastlife.co.uk 139

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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 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. 

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. If this 

is your particular fascination, you’ll be 

pleased to find the National Stud here, the 

National Heritage Centre for Horseracing 

& Sporting Art, Tattersalls and also the 

impressive Newmarket Racecourses 

themselves, which welcomes big-names in 

music at its summer concerts, ‘Newmarket 

Nights’. 

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. 

eastlife.co.uk 141

ORFORD 

Steeped 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 walking on 

shingle). Don’t leave without trying the 

locally cultivated oysters!

SAXMUNDHAM 

Saxmundham 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 local 

shops and businesses, sports and leisure 

facilities. There’s also a market every 

Wednesday. It’s home to RSPB Minsmere; 

a fantastic coastal nature reserve that’s 

perfect for families. There’s something for 

everyone to enjoy including long and short 

walks, wildlife, a café and Wild Zone natural 

play area where the kids can let off steam. 

(www.rspb.org.uk/Minsmere) 

PIN MILL 

On 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. 

The wild Konik Horses at Minsmere RSPB Reserve | 

www.visitsuffolk.com 

eastlife.co.uk 143

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are all made fresh to order and where and when possible local produce and suppliers are used. 

We have seating inside for 50 people and far more outside and can cater for Families, Groups, and Private Hire such as 

Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Mother and Toddler groups and Wakes, small Wedding Parties and Coach Parties. 

Outside on the Boating Lake Veranda we have Lloyd Loom chairs for your comfort, sit and watch children in the paddleboats, 

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To enquire or make a booking call Penny or David 07771781739 

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Facebook: SouthwoldBoatingLakeAndCafe Twitter: @boatinglake

SOUTHWOLD 

Southwold 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. 

by the local – and world famous – Adnams 

Sole Bay Brewery. The Adnams stamp is 

everywhere and reflected in the cluster of 

great pubs in the area. The brewery can 

be found on East Green, which has both 

brewery and distillery tours available. 

The Swan Hotel, which dominates the 

Market Place, is not only an excellent 

place to stay but has a highly regarded 

restaurant. 

In the summer, Southwold’s sandy beaches 

are a huge draw and out of season some of 

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 

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. 

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 

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 Lifeboat Museum. 

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. 

eastlife.co.uk 145

Gainsborough’s House Museum 

Open: Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 11am to 5pm 

T: 01787 372958 | www.gainsborough.org

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, 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. 

Foster traction engine, Museum of Rural Life, 

Stowmarket | www.visitsuffolk.com 

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. 

eastlife.co.uk 147

Minsmere 

Family-friendly fun on the Suffolk coast 

Kidsgo free! 

Get your voucher at rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere 

• Wild Zone play area 

• Nature Discovery Centre 

• Coastal trails 

• Woodland dens 

• Family-friendly café 

• Less than an hour’s drive 

/RSPBSuffolk 

/RSPBMinsmere 

RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast, IP17 3BY 

Girl image by Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com), dragonfly by Fotolia and ladybird by iStock. 

The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. 851-1289-16-17.

People queueing for The Ferry at 

Walberswick | www.visitsuffolk.com 

THORPENESS 

WALBERSWICK 

If 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 to play 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 Thorpeness 

Regatta, attracting visitors looking to enjoy 

the numerous boat races and impressive 

fireworks display. 

Walberswick is a village across the River 

Blyth from Southwold. 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. 

Considering its size, an inordinate number 

of British celebrities own holiday homes in 

the village including Emma Freud and her 

husband Richard Curtis. 

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. 

From 1981 to 2010 the village hosted The 

British Open Crabbing Championship. 

Visitors can still join in the fun, simply set 

yourself up on a jetty or footbridge and 

see what you can catch! The village has 

tearooms, restaurants, public houses, an art 

gallery, original crafts and gift shops. 

eastlife.co.uk 149

2018 01 East of England Visitor Guide General QP.qxp_90.5mm h x 128mm w 30/01/2018 09:47 Page 

Hidden treasure 

for all to enjoy 

Ufford Park Woodbridge 

A warm welcome and fantastic views await you 

at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa. 

Open to guests, members & non-members, our 

family-friendly hotel boasts a fantastic 18 hole, 

par 71 golf course (suitable for all abilities), 

thermal suite spa, health club, swimming pool, 

Congo Rapids Adventure Golf Course and 

delicious locally sourced food served all day. 

Everyone is welcome, even your 

four-legged best friend. 

Why not pop in for a Paddy and Scott’s coffee, 

and a piece of homemade cake? 

We would love to see you. 

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) 

w www.uffordpark.co.uk 

Yarmouth Road|Woodbridge|Suffolk|IP12 1QW 

One of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards 

producing a range of White, Red and Rosé wines 

as well as Quality English Sparkling wines. 

For more information, including full tasting 

notes, go straight to our online shop! 

OPEN 

May to September - Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm 

For full contact details and to view our online shop, 

please visit our website: 

www.shawsgate.co.uk

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. 

For a fun family day out, head to The 

Suffolk Punch Trust. With stables, a farm, 

pretty walks, heritage garden, museum and 

barn there’s plenty to discover. The Trust is 

dedicated to preserving the Suffolk Punch 

breed but also the skills of the people 

needed to handle these wonderful horses. 

Families can get involved with a range of 

activities including stable demonstrations, 

feeding the resident pets, tractor trailer 

rides and arts and crafts. 

There’s some lovely walks to enjoy too as 

this part of the South-East Suffolk coast 

is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, 

popular with dog walkers. 

eastlife.co.uk 151

SUFFOLK 

ATTRACTIONS 

Adnams Brewery 

Adnams’ 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. Take a guided tour of the 

brewery or the distillery for £20 per person. 

Southwold. 01502 727225 www.adnams.co.uk 

Anglia Indoor Kart Racing 

Indoor racing karts and exhilarating 

multi-level circuit, bringing the thrills of 

motorsport to all adrenaline-seekers. Ipswich. 

01473 240087. www.angliakarting.com 

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. 

Southwold. 01502 723394. 

www.ambershop.co.uk 

Beccles Lido 

Heated pool situated by the river Waveney. 

Beccles. 01502 713297. www.beccleslido.com 

Abbey Gardens 

Beautiful public gardens surrounding the ruins 

of the Abbey. The gardens include a host of children’s 

play area, 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. 

www.abbey gardenfriends-burystedmunds.com 

Aboard the Allen Gardiner 

Operating from the historic waterfront’s 

Ipswich Haven Marina in the Wet Dock, 

cruise the River Orwell down to the Port of 

Felixstowe, whilst enjoying fine food from an 

a la carte menu. 01473 558712. 

www.lady-florence.co.uk 

Adventure Island Play Park 

Excellent purpose-built children’s indoor soft 

play centre. Pinbush Road, Lowestoft. 01502 

519933. www.adventureislandplaypark.co.uk 

Alton Water 

The largest reservoir in Suffolk offering 

fishing, sailing, windsurfing, picnic area, 

footpaths, water sports centre extension and 

visitor centre. Cycle hire available. Stutton, 

nr Ipswich. 01473 328408. 

www.altonwater.co.uk 

Bentwaters Cold War Museum 

Museum housed in a command post or 

bunker on what was the USAF air base at 

RAF Bentwaters. Bentwaters Parks. 

07588 877020. www.bcwm.org.uk 

Africa Alive 

An 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 Africa. Home 

to more than 80 species of animals from 

around Africa. Lowestoft. 01502 740291. 

www.africa-alive.co.uk 

Brandon Country Park 

32 acres in the heart of the Brecks with 

walks, cycle and easy access trails. Brandon. 

www.brandoncountrypark.org.uk 

The Brecks 

One of the great natural areas of Britain with 

over 370 square miles of forest, heathland 

and countryside. www.brecks.org 

Carlton Marshes 

Over 100 acres of beautiful Suffolk grazing 

marsh, fens and peat pools to explore via 

waymarked trails. Carlton Colville, Lowestoft 

01502 564250. 


Christchurch Mansion 

A 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. 

www.cimuseums.org.uk 

Clare Castle Country Park 

Beautiful 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. 

www.clarecastlecountrypark.co.uk 

Coastal Voyager 

Fast exciting sea trips from the harbour. 

Southwold Harbour Kiosk. 07887 525082. 

www.coastalvoyager.co.uk 

The Seething Control Tower Museum 

Learn the fascinating history of this 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. www.seethingtower.org 

Deben Cruises 

Cruises on the River Deben for organised 

parties. The Quay, Waldringfield, 

Woodbridge. 01473 736260. 

www.debencruises.co.uk 

Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre 

Enjoy wonderful walks and fabulous views at 

this site of specific interest within an Area of 

Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dunwich. 

01728 648501. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunwich-heath-and-beach 

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. 

www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk 

Easton Farm Park 

Delightful 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. www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk 

Euston Hall 

Home for the Dukes of The Hall, it 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. 01842 766366. www.eustonhall.co.uk 

Euston Rural Pastimes 

The annual celebration of rural pursuits and 

agriculture featuring Traction and Stationary 

Engines, Classic and Vintage Cars, crafts and 

more. This year the event takes place on 

Sunday 10 June. www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk 

Electric Picture Palace 

Owned and run by Southwold Film Society, 

the Electric Picture Palace shows films in 

seasons throughout the year, with a short 

break between each season. Tours of the 

Palace are also available. Tour times vary 

week to week. They are usually at 2.30pm 

and last for 45 minutes to one hour. The cost 

is £6 adult, £3 child under 16. Blackmill Road, 

Southwold. 07815 769565. 

www.southwoldcinema.co.uk 

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 

25m pool, fitness suites, activity hall, bowls 

hall, soft play area and more. Seafront, 

Felixstowe. 01394 694600 

Framlingham Castle 

A magnificent example of a late 12th century 

castle. 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 

eastlife.co.uk 153

Looking for a 

GrEAT Group 

Visit? 

With discounts for pre-booked groups as well as talks and tours 

tailored to your needs, you could enjoy a great day out at the 

Museum of East Anglian Life 

www.eastanglianlife.co.uk 

Kelvedon Hatch 

Secret 

Nuclear Bunker 

Come and witness the three lives of 

the bunker starting with its role as an 

RAF ROTOR Station, then a brief 

period as a civil defence centre through 

to its most recent life as a Regional 

Government HQ. Designed for up to 

600 military and civilian personnel, 

possibly even the Prime Minister, their 

collective task being to organise the 

survival of the population in the awful 

aftermath of a nuclear war. 

Adults £7.50, 

Child £5.50, 

Family (2 plus 2) £18.00 

www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk 

Tel: 01277 364883 Email: mike@japarrish.com 

www.secretnuclearbunker.com

the fine castle gatehouse. Events are held 

throughout the year. Church St, Framlingham. 

0370 3331181. www.english-heritage.org.uk 

Fritton Lake 

A 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. 

Gainsborough’s House 

Gainsborough’s House and garden is the 

birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest artists, 

Thomas Gainsborough R.A (1727-88). The 

Georgian fronted townhouse and exhibition 

gallery shows an outstanding collection of 

his paintings and has a changing 

programme of displays and temporary 

exhibitions throughout the year. Sudbury. 

01787 372958. www.gainsborough.org 

Glemham Hall 

An elegant, red brick Elizabethan mansion 

surrounded by 300 acres of parkland. 

The estate now hosts a variety of events 

including a country fair, open-air opera and 

theatre. Little Glemham. 07920 855041. 

www.glemhamhall.co.uk 

Market Place, Hadleigh. 01473 822544. 

www.hadleightownhall.co.uk 

Helmingham Hall Gardens 

Spectacular Grade 1 listed garden in the 

grounds of the 500-year-old house, 

Nr Stowmarket. 01473 890799. 

www.helmingham.com 

High Lodge 

Sporting 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 more. HawWood, 

Hinton, 01986 784347. www.highlodge.co.uk 

High Lodge Forest Centre 

Right at the heart of Thetford Forest, with 

over 70km of cycle trail, 20km of walks and 

a huge children’s Play Arena, it is perfect for 

families. Home to bike hire and Go Ape, High 

Lodge has all the facilities you need. Big 

summer music concerts in the forest. Open 

all year. Thetford. 0300 0674400. 

www.forestry.gov.uk/highlodge 

Ipswich Witches 

Top speedway racing. Foxhall Stadium, 

Ipswich. www.ipswichwitches.co 

Go Ape! 

Extreme tree-top challenge course - an 

amazing trail of nets, rope bridges, slides 

and trapezes high up in the trees. Brandon. 

0845 094 9732. www.goape.co.uk 

Greene King Brewery 

The visitor centre is full of interesting 

exhibits and displays about the brewery, 

Bury St Edmunds. 01284 763222. 

www.greeneking.co.uk 

Hadleigh Town Hall & Guildhall 

A 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. 

Ickworth House, Park and Gardens 

One of England’s most extraordinary houses. 

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 and plant centre, plus regular 

events. Horringer, nr Bury St Edmunds. 

01284 735270. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth 

Ipswich Museum 

This museum gives a fascinating insight into 

the town and surrounding area’s intriguing 

past. High Street, Ipswich. 01473 433551. 

www.cimuseums.org.uk/Ipswich-Museum 

Jimmy’s Farm 

A working farm but also open for visitors 

seven days a week, there is plenty to do for 

eastlife.co.uk 155

a great family day out, including a nature 

trail, woodland walk, beautiful gardens, farm 

shop, adventure play area and field kitchen. 

Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich 

014736 04206. www.jimmysfarm.com 

Kentwell Hall and Gardens 

Moated redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil 

parkland setting. Renowned for its incredible 

recreations of everyday Tudor life and of 

WWII daily life, along with events such as 

Scaresville at Halloween. The present 

owners’ efforts 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 Lakes 

This 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 728541 

Lady Florence River Cruises 

For a different fine dining experience, cruise 

the calms waters of the river Alde and Ore 

while enjoying a freshly prepared meal. 

Orford Quay, Orford. 01473 558712. 

www.lady-florence.co.uk 

Lavenham Guildhall of Corpus Christi 

One of the finest timber-framed Tudor 

buildings in Britain, with tearoom, shop and 

children’s guide. Market Place, Lavenham. 

01787 247646. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 

Main Street, Leiston. 01728 832189. 

www.longshopmuseum.co.uk 

Lowestoft Family Bowl 

Indoor bowling, nine-hole mini-golf. Capital 

Estate, Rant Score, Whapload Road, 


www.richardsonsfamilybowl.co.uk 

The Malthouse Project 

Restored old maltings, which dates back to 

the 17th Century. Risbygate Street, 

Bury St Edmunds. 01284 732550 

Mannings Amusement Park 

This fun park has been run by the Manning 

family since 1946. Traditional fairground 

rides and amusement arcades. Seafront, 

Felixstowe. 01394 282370. 

www.manningsamusements.co.uk 

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. Blacksmith Road, Cotton, 

01379 783350. 

www.mechanicalmusicmuseum.co.uk 

Melford Hall 

Romantic Tudor mansion, home of the 

Hyde-Parker family. New interpretations, 

craft displays, special events. 

Long Melford. 01787 379228. 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/melford-hall 

Leiston Abbey 

One of Suffolk’s most impressive monastic 

ruins of a 14th century abbey with a 16th 

century brick gatehouse. Leiston. 

01728 831354. www.english-heritage.org.uk 

Long Shop Museum 

Discover Leiston’s history and visit the home 

of the Garrett collection. An award-winning 

museum housed in the original Garrett 

works buildings. Four exhibition halls, 

resource centre, picnic garden and gift shop. 

Mid Suffolk Light Railway Museum 

The MSLR was a classic case of a railway built 

late in the great railway age that never paid 

its way. This example of quirky English history 

is remembered in Suffolk’s only railway 

museum. Themed open days held throughout 

the year. Brockford Station, Wetheringsett. 

01449 766899, www.mslr.org.uk 

Mildenhall Greyhound Racing 

Evening racing with up to four races per 

hour, every Tues and Fri. Mildenhall Stadium, 


West Row, Mildenhall. 01638 711777. 

www.mildenhalldogs.co.uk 

Moyse’s Hall Museum 

Housed in the oldest domestic building open 

to the public in East Anglia, Moyse’s Hall 

dates back over 800 years. Cornhill, 


www.weststow.org/moyses-hall 

Orford Castle 

The polygonal tower keep of Orford Castle 

stands beside the pretty town and former 

port which Henry II also developed here 

in the 1160s. An 18-sided drum with three 

square turrets, and a forebuilding reinforcing 

its entrance, the keep was built to a highly 

innovative design. Orford. 0370 3331181. 

www.english-heritage.org.uk 

Museum of East Anglian Life 

Open-air museum in 75 acres of beautiful 

countryside. Explore nearly 3km of woodland 

and riverside nature trails, learn about 

fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional 

Gypsy culture and discover splendidly 

restored historic buildings. Plus steam 

engines, animals, including Suffolk Punch 

horses, and more. Stowmarket. 01449 612229. 

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk 

Newmarket Racecourses 

One 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. 

www.newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk 

Newmarket Tours 

Palace House can arrange hour long tours of 

historic Newmarket, explaining in depth its 

associations with Royalty and the Sport of 

Kings. Newmarket. 0844 7489200. 

www.discovernewmarket.co.uk 

Nowton Park 

200 acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside 

landscaped over 100 years ago in typical 

Victorian style. Open all year. 


www.visitburystedmunds.co.uk/nowton-park 

Oasis Camel Centre 

Farm Park that specialises in camels, llamas, 

alpacas, plus a pets corner, play areas, crazy 

golf, bouncy castle, walks and gift shop. 

Orchard Farm, Halesworth. 

07836 734748. www.oasiscamelpark.co.uk 

Orwell River Cruises 

Enjoy the sights and scenes of the beautiful 

River Orwell from the comfort and tranquillity 

of the Orwell Lady – a custom-built river 

cruisersailing from Ipswich Wet Dock to 

Harwich Harbour. Meander along the River 

Orwell enjoying a traditional homemade 

English Afternoon or a Suffolk Savoury Tea 

cruise on-board Orwell Lady. Cruises from 

Ipswich between May and September. Orwell 

Quay, Ipswich Wet Dock. 01473 258070. 

www.orwellrivercruises.co.uk 

Pakenham Water Mill 

Suffolk’s last working water mill, producing 

traditional stone ground flour. Beautiful 

setting with garden by the millpond, guided 

tours, tearoom, shop and special events. 

Pakenham. 01284 724075. 

www.pakenhamwatermill.org.uk 

Palace House: National Heritage Centre for 

Horseracing & Sporting Art 

The National Heritage Centre is situated 

in King Charles II’s sporting palace and 

stables and spans five acres in the heart 

of Newmarket. It comprises the National 

Horseracing Museum, a national gallery of 

British Sporting Art, and a chance to meet 

former racehorses and learn what they do 

after racing, in the flagship home of Retraining 

of Racehorses. There is so much to 

see and do for all the family. Palace House, 

Palace Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8EP. 

01638667314. www.Palacehousenewmarket.co.uk 

Pleasurewood Hills 

Set within 59 acres of enclosed coastal 

parkland and just 10mins from the seaside 

eastlife.co.uk 157

town of Great Yarmouth, the theme park is 

a great family day out. Enjoy thriling rides, 

family rides, entertainment and attractions, 

including wonderful shows with sea lions, 

parrots, acrobats and clowns. New features 

added regularly. Corton, Lowestoft. 

01502 586000. www.pleasurewoodhills.com 

River Stour Trust 

Boat 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. 

www.riverstourtrust.org 

RSPB Minsmere 

A nature reserve where visitors can see the 

huge range of birds that pass along the 

Suffolk coast. Saxmundham. 01728 648281. 

www.rspb.org.uk 

RSPB Havergate Island 

The island is famous for its breeding avocets 

and terns. The boat trip to the island adds 

to the interest of your day out. Orford Quay. 

01394 450732. www.rspb.org.uk 

RSPB Lakenheath Fen 

A wetland area filled with life: marsh 

harriers, hobbies, bearded tits and warblers. 

Lakenheath. 01842 863400 

RSPB Wolves Wood 

One of the few remaining areas of an ancient 

woodland that used to cover much of East 

Anglia. Hadleigh. 01206 391153 

St Edmundsbury Cathedral 

There has been a church on the site of Suffolk’s 

Cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. The 

last 40 years have seen several additions to 

the church and its associated buildings, culminating 

in the Millennium Project. Regular 

exhibitions and concerts available. Angel Hill, 


www.stedscathedral.co.uk 

Sandlings Forests 

The 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. 

Saxtead Green Postmill 

This 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. However, 

due to conservation works, Saxtead 

Green Post Mill will be closed until further 

notice. Saxtead Green. 

www.english-heritage.org.uk 

Somerleyton Hall & Gardens 

A Jacobean Manor with 12 acres of beautiful 

gardens with famous 1846 Yew Tree Maze. 

Guided tours of the hall, garden trail, walled 

garden and special events. Somerleyton, 


www.somerleyton.co.uk 

South Pier Leisure Complex 

Ten-pin bowling, amusement arcades, luxury 

casino and more. Royal Plain, Lowestoft. 

01502 512793. www.thesouthpier.co.uk 

Southwold Lighthouse 

Enjoy a tour of this marvellous operational 

landmark, first lit in 1889. Stradbroke Road. 

01255 245156. www.trinityhouse.co.uk 

Southwold Maize Maze 

A 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. 

07801 065845. www.southwoldmaizemaze.co.uk 

Southwold Pier 

Southwold Pier is 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. North Parade, 

Southwold. 01502 722105. 

www.southwoldpier.co.uk 

Snape Maltings 

Visit this remarkable collection of redeveloped 

Victorian industrial buildings for 

world-class concerts and events, distinctive 

independent shops, cafes, galleries, walks 

and abundant wildlife, all set against a 

breathtaking expanse of reeds, water and 

sky. It is home to the flagship Aldeburgh 

Festival and the folk, world music and jazz of 

the Snape Proms. Snape, nr Aldeburgh. 

01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 

Sutton Hoo 

One of Britain’s most important and 

atmospheric archaeological sites, burial 

ground of the Anglo-Saxon kings of East 

Anglia. Explore the exhibition hall which tells 

the compelling story of early English history, 

The Royal Burial Mounds and Tranmer House. 

You can also enjoy sandlings heathland and 

woodland walks. Events are held throughout 

the year. Nr Woodbridge. 01394 389700. 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo 

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary 

A delightful place to visit to watch, study 

or simply enjoy the 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 

plus a mini-maze. Stonham Aspal. 

03456 807 897. www.owl-help.org.uk 

The Suffolk Punch Trust 

The Trust is dedicated to preserving the 

Suffolk Punch breed but also the skills of the 

people needed to handle these wonderful 

horses. Visit the stables where you can meet 

some of The Colony Stud’s star characters 

- the horses and foals. There’s also a farm, 

Heritage Garden, walks, activities and cafe. 

01394 411327. www.suffolkpunchtrust.org 

Thornham Walks 

Twelve miles of footpaths through the woodland, 

farmland and parkland of the 

Thornham Estate. Red House Yard, 

Thornham Magna, Eye. 01379 788345 

The Thornham Walled Garden 

Restored 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. www.beyondthewall.org.uk 

Thorpeness Windmill 

This working mill dates from 1803 and is a 

visitor centre for Suffolk coast and heaths 

area of outstanding natural beauty. Uplands 

Road, Thorpeness. 

Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure 

A working farm and a diverse, multi 

award-winning equestrian leisure centre. 

Attractions include an animal collection 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 

www.valleyfarm.co.uk 

Waveney River Centre 

A range of vessels available for hire from 

rowing boats and canoes to luxury day 

cruisers. A great way to take in the sights 

and sounds of this beautiful stretch of water. 

Overnight accommodation also available. 

Burgh St Peter, Beccles. 01502 677343. 

www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk 

Waveney River Tours 

River trips from Oulton Broad to a number of 

destinations along the southern Broads. Selfdrive 

day boats available for hire. Mutford 

Lock, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft. 01502 574903 

www.waveneyrivertours.com 

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village 

A reconstructed Anglo-Saxon village built 

eastlife.co.uk 159

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. 01284 728718 

www.weststow.org/Anglo-Saxon-Village 

West Stow Country Park 

125-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. www.weststow.org 

Wildtracks Off Road Activity Park 

Purpose-built offroad activity park dedicated 

to a range of fun outdoor events for the 

public and corporate entertainment market. 

Enjoy activities such as offroad driving, 

karting and clay pigeon shooting to name a 

few! Chippenham Road, Kennett, Newmarket. 

01638 751918. www.wildtracksltd.co.uk 

Woodbridge Tide Mill 

By the early 1950s Woodbridge was home 

to the only surviving tidal mill in the country. 

It regularly grinds high quality wholemeal 

flour when conditions are suitable, and at 

most low tides the machinery will turn. It affords 

a fascinating and educational glimpse 

into our industrial and technological past. 

Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge. 01394 388202. 

www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk 

Woodbridge Museum 

Local history museum. 

Market Hill, Woodbridge. 01394 380502. 

www.suffolkmuseums.org 

Image: Sunset at Southwold by Nicola Pursey

WHAT’S ON? 

7-8 Apr INK Festival 

Halesworth Cut Theatre 

inkfestival.org 

21-22 Apr Woodbridge Mind Body 

Spirit Festival 

Woodbridge Community Hall, IP12 4AU 

www.lifearts.co.uk 

6 May & 12 Aug Beccles Antiques Street 

Market 

Beccles Town Centre 

12-May Into the Woods ‘A Pirate’s Ball’ 

Thorington, IP17 3RB 

www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 

12 May - 3 Jun Suffolk Walking Festival 

Various locations 

www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk 

18-21 May 1940s Weekend 

Town Centre, Lavenham 

www.discoverlavenham.com 

18-27 May Bury Festival 

Various venues, Bury St Edmunds 

www.buryfestival.co.uk 

26-28 May Framlingham Gala Fest 

Framlingham Castle, IP13 9BP 

www.framlinghamgalafest.co.uk 

30-31 May Suffolk Show 

Trinity Park, Ipswich 

www.trinityparkevents.co.uk 

31 May - 2 Jun Red Rooster 

Euston Hall 

www.redrooster.org.uk 

8-24 Jun Aldeburgh Festival 


www.aldeburgh.co.uk 

8-10 Jun Homegrown Festival 

Church Farm, Barrow 

homegrownfest.co.uk 

10-Jun The Taste of Sudbury Food & Drink 

Festival 

St. Peter’s Church, Sudbury 

www.tasteofsudbury.co.uk 

23-24 Jun Dragon Fest 

West Stow, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 6HG 

www.weststow.org 

23-Jun Great East Swim 

Alton Water Sports Centre 

www.suffolksport.com 

21-Jun Suffolk Day 2018 

Various venues and locations 

www.visitsuffolk.com/blog/Suffolk-Day.aspx 

12-15 Jul Latitude Festival 

Henham Park, Southwold 

www.latitudefestival.com 

21-22 Jul Jimmy’s Festival 

Jimmy’s Farm, Wherstead, IP9 2AR 

www.jimmysfestival.co.uk 

27-29 Jul Felixstowe Carnival 

www.felixstowecarnival.org 

29-Jul Suffolk Dog Day 

Helmingham Hall Estate 

www.suffolkdogday.com 

1 Aug - 1 Sep Snape Proms 

Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh 

www.aldeburgh.co.uk 

11-Aug East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival 

Oulton Broad, Lowestoft 

www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk 

17-19 Aug FolkEast 

Glemhall Hall, Woodbridge 

www.folkeast.co.uk 

18-20 Aug Aldeburgh Carnival 

www.aldeburghcarnival.com 

26-27 Aug The Bury St Edmunds Food and 

Drink Festival 

Town Centre, Bury St Edmunds 

www.burystedmundsfestivals.com 

24-26 Aug Maui Waui Festival 

Peakhill Farm, Theberton 

www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 

22-23 Sep The Woodbridge Shuck 

Whisstocks Quayside woodbridgeshuck.co.uk 

eastlife.co.uk 161

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES & OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS 


Bury St Edmunds 

Hadleigh TIC 

Newmarket TIC 

USEFUL WEBSITES: 

Charter Square St, 

Hadleigh Library 

The Guineas Centre 

discoversuffolk.org.uk 

IP33 3FD 

Tel: 01473 823778 

Tel: 01638 719749 

Tel: 01284 764667 

visithadleighsuffolk. 

suffolkcoastal.gov.uk 

visit-burystedmunds. 

co.uk 

Stowmarket TIC 

co.uk 

Crowe Street 

choosewoodbridge.co.uk 

Ipswich TIC 

Tel: 01449 676800 

Felixstowe TIC 

St Stephen’s Lane 

visitsuffolk.com 

Beach Hut, 

Tel: 01473 258070 

Woodbridge TIC 

Undercliff Road 

allaboutipswich.com 

Station Buildings 

southwoldtouristinfor 

Tel: 01394 276770 

Tel: 01394 382240 

mation.co.uk 

visitfelixstowe.org.uk 

Lavenham TIC 

Lady Street 

visit-aldeburgh.co.uk 

Tel: 01787 248207 

discoverlavenham.com 

lovelowestoft.co.uk 

snapemaltings.co.uk 


The Lady Rothschild Holiday Houses 

Country Estate Luxury 

Holiday Rental Houses 

Spectacular self-catering holiday houses located on 

the famous Ashton Estate nr. Oundle surrounded by 

wildflower meadows, rolling farmland and magical 

woodlands. The houses are finished with an emphasis 

on quality, in a style that is both comfortable and 

elegantly modern. Perfect for family get-togethers, 

celebrations, wedding groups and short breaks. 

The Constable House – Sleeps max.12 

The Turner House – Sleeps max. 10 

The Gainsborough House – Sleeps max. 8 

Newmarket Rooms – Sleeps max. 4 

Morland Manor – Sleeps max. 10 

www.ashtonestatecountryholidays.co.uk 

estateoffice@ashton.ohllimited.com 

Tel: 01832 272264 @rothschildholidayhouses

East of England Visitor Guide 2018

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