Back

Exploring Bury St Edmunds

Mar 18, 2019
Exploring Bury St Edmunds
The cultural hub of Suffolk, Bury St Edmunds has lots of history, drama and culture. Whilst exploring the architectural town, enjoy a taste of their independent eateries and peruse the local farmers market. Here are our favourite things to do in Bury St Edmunds.

Theatre Royal

Step back in history and visit the Theatre Royal, the only surviving Regency playhouse in Britain. History lovers will enjoy the ornate gold leaf décor, trompe l'oeil ceiling and classic red boxes which date back to the 1800s. Join a guided tour or book tickets for one of their many musicals, operas or concerts.

Abbey Gardens 

The breathtaking 14-acre Abbey Gardens are internationally renowned for their floral displays and have repeatedly won the esteemed Green Flag Award – the international mark of quality. The sprawling gardens are set against a backdrop of the former Abbey of St Edmund, the perfect spot for a picnic or spring stroll.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral

For over a 1000 years, St Edmundsbury Cathedral has attracted history lovers, architectural enthusiasts and those with religious interest. The imposing cathedral boasts Victorian stained glass windows and a medieval roof decked with angels. Climb the Cathedral Tower, the tallest point in Bury St Edmunds, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. If heights aren’t your thing, visit the Ancient Library for access to over 550 manuscripts from the sixteenth and seventeenth century. Those who like the outdoors will enjoy the cathedral gardens which grow species found in the middle ages.

Greene King Brewery 

The Greene King brewery has been brewing premium British beers in the area for over 200 years. They pride themselves on their quality ingredients, using local barley and water from ancient chalk wells. The brewery is open to daily tours and the trip ends in a beer tasting. This is one for the beer lovers.

Bury Market

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, Bury St Edmunds is home to a thriving market which dates back to the middle ages. The market offers a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, vintage fashion, antiques, food, and plants. With dozens of food and drink stalls offering tastes from around the world, this one is a must for the foodies.

Lavenham 

A short drive from Bury St Edmunds is the medieval village of Lavenham. With its Tudor cottages and 15th century wool church, Lavenham is undoubtedly one of the most charming places in England. Harry Potter fans are in for a treat as scenes from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 were filmed in Lavenham. The 14th century De Vere House, is one to watch as it was filmed as ‘Godricks Hollow’ where Harry grew up.