Touring In Suffolk

Suffolk is a county of wide open skies, outstanding coastline, rolling countryside and a range of quality destinations. It has managed to escape brash commercialism in favour of retaining a traditional and rural lifestyle, envied by many and fiercely protected by people in Suffolk.

Whether choosing Suffolk for the first time or for a return visit, there is always something new to discover and enjoy in this quintessentially English county. It is typified by its picture postcard villages with quaint pink thatched cottages and the many market towns that are full of hidden treats, including fantastic places to eat, quality boutiques, arts, crafts and a wealth of cultural experiences. The landscape that so inspired artists such as John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough is just one of the peaceful destinations ideal to explore on foot or bike on the quiet country roads.

Suffolk is simply brimming with attractions and as a visitor you will be spoilt for choice when planning a day out. Ancient and historic sites include the fabulous 12th Century Castle at Framlingham and the awe inspiring Sutton Hoo – a burial site of Anglo Saxon kings and the location of one of Britain’ most famous archaeological excavations.

Nature lovers can choose from literally hundreds of wildlife sites including National Nature Reserves at Walberswick and Redgrave and Lopham Fen – the Fen being one of the last remaining refuges of the enigmatic Great Raft Spider.

The fascinating story of Suffolk’s contribution to British aviation and military history is told at numerous sites throughout the countryside including Bawdsey Radar Station, which played such a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.

The Suffolk Wool Towns are a reminder of the prosperity of the cloth trade that flourished in the county in medieval times. Lavenham is arguably the jewel of these towns, a fascinating scene of crooked half-timbered buildings from the 14th and 15th Centuries. The peak of this perfection is the National Trusts’ Guildhall.

Located in the town is The Swan Hotel, a blend of 15th Century heritage and 21st century comfort. It makes the perfect touring base, boasting as it does a AA four star 81% rating and two AA Rosettes for its fine food. The Swan at Lavenham might be considered a hidden gem but it will reward any effort to discover all it has to offer the discerning visitor.

The Swan Hotel is in Lavenham, perhaps one of England's most iconic hotels; it’s a wonderful place in which to celebrate a variety of special occasions including romantic weddings, christenings and family get-togethers. It is also a unique venue for seminars, where 15th century inspiration combines with 21st Century innovation. For further details for The Swan Hotel, Visit our website.

Kris Smith has been living and writing about Suffolk Hotel for several years, The Swan Hotel is in Lavenham, It’s a wonderful place in which to celebrate a variety of special occasions. For further details go to www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk or telephone 01787 247477.