Eastlife Summer 2020 (Web)

Suffolk
Beccles &
Bungay
Beccles and neighbouring Bungay, are two gorgeous Georgian
towns, nestled in the Waveney Valley. Suffolk’s coastal towns
may often steal the limelight but if you’re looking for an enjoyable
day out or weekend away, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with
what the historic towns have to offer.
All Aboard
Beccles is home to the most southerly navigable point of the
Broads National Park, perfect for taking to the water with a day
boat or canoe. Local company Hippersons Boatyard
(www.hippersons.co.uk) have a fleet of day boats, canoes,
kayaks and pedal boats available for hire and can advise on
routes along the Broads, rivers and waterways. You can also
make the most of the area with a stay in one of their cool
glamping huts or quirky riverboats.
If you prefer to let someone else do the driving, hop aboard the
Big Dog Ferry, which offers a three-mile boat journey along the
River Waveney where you can spot an abundance of wildlife.
River walks
If you’d rather stay on dry land, Beccles has many beautiful walks
where you’ll still get to take in the beauty of the river and spot
some wildlife. The Beccles Marsh Trail is a popular option with a
series of walks and cycle routes.
Tales in Bungay
Located 6.5miles west of Beccles, Bungay captivates visitors
with its history and folklore. Famous for the tale of Black
Shuck; a ghostly black dog that supposedly appeared in 1577,
causing havoc in the church, injuring and killing some of the
congregation. There’s even a beer and gin named after the
mythical creature! You can visit St Mary’s Church, which today
still hosts services and regular exhibitions and events to help
raise funds for the upkeep of the building.
The charming town is also home to the remains of a Norman
Castle. Discover the history at the visitor centre, café and gift
shop, where displays help you imagine what the castle would
have been like in the early 12th century. Entry is free but
donations are welcomed.
113