As we brace ourselves against the approach of winter months and our summer holidays and weekends of sailing, golfing, days out at the beach or just lazing in the garden become a distant summer memory, our minds turn to what we can do to get through the winter months. Generally, there is a certain gloom that approaches at this time of year, the thought of cold wet wintry weekends, dark mornings and dark early afternoons is a struggle for many but it really only takes a bit of imagination and a firm grit of the teeth to look at just what is available. Ignore the weather, get yourself some walking boots and a good water-proof jacket, hat, scarf and gloves and look for weekend breaks closer to home.



A popular weekend destination is Suffolk, a perfect location for long country and coastal walks and has an abundance of cycling routes for those that prefer two wheels rather than two feet! Boasting miles of unspoilt coastline, tranquil countryside, high quality arts, high quality food and enchanting towns and villages, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice!

Steeped in history, Suffolk has an abundance of historical houses, Ickworth, Kentwell, Melford and Otley hall to name just a few. There’s also a choice of castles, Framlingham Castle, a magnificent example of a late 12th-century castle and Orford Castle which was built between 1166 and 1172.

There are a number of towns and villages that are worthy of a visit, probably best known of them all is Lavenham. From the 14th to the 16th century, Lavenham was at the centre of England’s cloth making industry and it was exporting its famous broadcloth as far as Russia and North Africa. In 1524, it was named the fourteenth wealthiest town in the country, however heavy taxation in the mid 1520s and disrupted export markets through war on the continent brought a rapid decline in the industry. All this helps explain why most timber-framed buildings here date from about 1460 to 1530 since there was no wealth left to build anything of quality later in the century. Many reminders of its industrious past still remain, including the beautiful 16th century Guildhall which dominates the market square. Once a meeting place of wool traders, a prison, workhouse and almshouse, it is now owned by The National Trust and has a beautiful garden where dye plants are grown, including Woad which was used to dye various shades of the famous Lavenham Blue Cloth

Today, Lavenham is the country’s finest example of a Medieval town. With over 300 Listed buildings and a labarynth of small narrow streets, it has changed little since the 15th century. The Church of St Peter and St Paul, dating back to 1486, dominates the town, with its tower standing at 141ft high. Its significant size reflects the prosperity of Lavenham at the time.

For that bit of luxury after spending all day touring the wonderful sites of Suffolk, in the town of Lavenham you will find The Swan Hotel, with it’s 4 star rating it offers a blend of 15th Century heritage and 21st century comfort, and it makes a perfect base for touring. For those that appreciate fine dining, the restaurant boasts two AA Rosettes for its fine food.