Historical Sites to Visit in Suffolk

Lavenham

Suffolk was one of England’s wealthiest regions during medieval times, thanks to the booming wool trade. Wealthy merchants spent their riches on lavish homes and churches, many of which remain intact today. These buildings can be found in a cluster of towns and villages towards the west of Suffolk, known as the Wool Towns.

Lavenham is one of the most popular Wool Towns and is home to 340 listed properties. Here, you’ll find some of the best-preserved Tudor properties in the UK, making it an excellent setting for a historical walk in Suffolk. Highlights include the medieval Lavenham Guildhall, where you can learn about life in the town during this time.

Melford Hall

Melford Hall is a must-visit when sightseeing in Suffolk. Only a 10-minute drive from Lavenham, this 16th-century mansion features a blend of architectural styles, from Georgian to Victorian. Today, you can wander through the estate, admiring Tudor portraits and even Beatrix Potter artefacts. As the cousin of Melford Hall’s current owners, the beloved author and artist frequently visited the mansion.

Constable Country

Constable Country is a must for any art fan. Located near the southern county border, this area was once the home of world-famous painter John Constable. He also used the landscape as the backdrop for his best works, including The Hay Wain. You can visit the cottage depicted in this painting in Flatford, on the banks of the River Stour.

Not only an important site for British art history but Constable Country is also set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This makes it one of the best historical walks in Suffolk.

Ipswich

With over 1,500 years of history found in just one town, Ipswich is bursting with heritage. Visit the Christchurch Tudor mansion to admire the architecture and take in the UK’s most extensive collection of John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough paintings outside of London. Then, head to Ipswich Museum to learn more about the area’s history and discover Ancient Egyptian relics and Anglo-Saxon artefacts.

Not only a historic town, but Ipswich also has a bustling community and is home to boutique shops and superb restaurants, making it a great place to call home. You can find beautiful brand-new properties in this area, including our Abbots Green development.

Newmarket

Any horseracing fan needs to visit Newmarket on their Suffolk sightseeing trip. The village is a hub of horseracing history and today boasts two racecourses that host some of the most important events in the sport’s calendar. You can also visit the National Horseracing Museum to learn about the sport’s history and view rare artefacts, including jockeys’ silks.

Sutton Hoo

Sightseeing in Suffolk isn’t complete without a visit to Sutton Hoo. This Anglo-Saxon royal burial site is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries. Set in a vast 255-acre estate, learn about the history of the king who was found here and the archaeological dig that uncovered him. Climb to the top of the viewing tower for a bird’s eye view of this rare find.

Framlingham Castle

Castle walks in Suffolk don’t get any better than this. Framlingham Castle dates back to the 12th century and has been the home of many a duke and earl. The ancient castle was also the site where Mary Tudor became the Queen of England. Walk along the 10.5-metre castle walls to enjoy spectacular views of Suffolk, then head to the workhouse for educational exhibitions.