Lavenham
Located in the heart of the stunning Suffolk countryside, Lavenham is considered to be Britain’s best preserved medieval village.
Its fine timber-framed buildings and beautiful church, built on the success of the wool trade, make it an immensely popular place to visit.
Most of the buildings in Lavenham date from the 15th century and the whole place has changed little since the demise of the wool industry.
Thus, the town is still very much on the same scale as it must have been in the 15th century.
Nowadays the village is a hub of independent boutique shops and galleries, fantastic restaurants, chic hotels and luxury holiday cottages.
Market Place
Here on the Market Place, you will find the village’s most celebrated buildings.
The Guildhall
Located on the edge of Lavenham’s marketplace, the Lavenham Guildhall is one of the village’s most impressive historic timber-framed buildings.
It was built in the 16th century as the headquarters of one of Lavenham’s four guilds who regulated the wool trade.
Little Hall
Across the Guildhall on the other side of the Market Place you can visit Little Hall.
Little Hall, built in the 1390s, was once home to the Causton family.
Since then, the house has changed a lot. Today you can visit Little Hall and explore the collection and relax in its tranquil walled garden.
We will include a separate post on the Gothic Church of St Peter and St Paul later on. This church is one of Lavenham’s top attractions.
Walking
The best way to make your way around Lavenham is on foot.
If you only have an hour to spare, then we would recommend the Crooked Houses walk.
Along this short heritage trail, you will see some of the perfectly preserved half-timbered houses.
Or explore the woodlands around Lavenham on a 3-mile circular walk which will give you the opportunity to visit the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul.
If you fancy a longer walk, then head for the pretty village of Long Melford, another well-preserved medieval wool town.
This 4,5-mile linear walk follows the route of the old Lavenham to Long Melford railway line, through woods and open fields.
Cool Places to Explore
Melford Hall | Bury St Edmund | Kentwell Hall | Constable Country | Framlingham Castle | Orford Ness | Orford Castle | Aldeburgh | Sutton Hoo.
Cool Places to Eat
Memsaab | The Great House Restaurant | Guildhall Tea Room | Munnings Tea Room| The Swan at Lavenham | The Unruly Pig | Pump Street Bakery | The Black Lion at Long Melford.
Cool Places to Stay
Blacksmith’s Cottage | Long Melford Swan | The Mill at Long Melford.