Lavenham
Discover Lavenham
Historic Lavenham
Take time to discover this delightful medieval town – one of the most beautiful in Suffolk – along with all it has to offer. What’s the history? Lavenham is one of Britain’s best preserved medieval towns. While the magnificent buildings that remain are testament to the wealthier aspects of its past and present, the town’s history hasn’t always been so fruitful. Its importance as a trading town was recognized as far back at the thirteenth century, and was granted its market Charter in 1257. The reign of Edward III saw it become of some international importance as it began exporting its famous blue broadcloth to Russia, trading with the notorious Catherine the Great. Lavenham’s industry went into a steep decline in the 16th century though, as Dutch refugees to Colchester brought with them cheaper, more fashionable cloth. What’s to see and do? Today Lavenham ranks amongst the most beautiful of villages; set in the lush green Suffolk countryside it makes the ideal weekend getaway. Overall the appearance of the town has changed little over the years. As if to emphasise this 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, a magnificent church with a spire of 141 feet which is among the finest in East Anglia. Also open to the public is The
Guildhall of Corpus Christi, owned by the National Trust. The 16th-century timber framed building overlooks the market place and houses a museum offering insights into local life. Outside is a walled garden with examples of plants used in the Tudor cloth industry and a village lock-up and mortuary. Little Hall is an example of a 15th-century hall house with a crown-post roof, containing the Gayer-Anderson collection of furniture, pictures and ceramics. Shopping and markets Tapestry Gallery offers medieval and contemporary woven artwork and furnishings while J & J Baker Antiques specialises in items from the
18th and 19th centuries. A newcomer to Lavenham, but known to many from its years in Long Melford is the delightful Cuckoo Flower gift, home and interiors shop. Set on the High Street next to Chilli & Chives Tearooms, its lovely Dickensian bow-fronted window displays a wonderful array of unusual and attractive gifts and items for the home. Step inside and you will find a veritable treasure trove of gift ideas, jewellery and accessories, items for the home, art and sculpture, indulgent toiletries and gifts for children. For the home there are attractive kitchen items such as jugs, mugs, teapots and napkins along with dining accessories, vases and lamps, bronze sculptures, hand-forged iron candlesticks, art canvases and photo frames. For ladies, The Cuckoo Flower stocks gorgeous scarves in shimmering colours, a wide selection of silver and costume jewellery, fabulous handbags and indulgent aromatherapy soaps and toiletries. Exploring the town Lavenham Tourist Information Centre, which offers guided walks, is open daily other than in January and February and can be found on Lady Street (01787 248207). n
No, you’re not seeing things!
Characterful doorway
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