Suffolk Villages and Towns – Needham Market
By Keith Sadler
Another beautiful Suffolk destination within easy distance of Woodfarm Barns is the lovely little village of Needham Market.
One of the things that makes Suffolk such a popular tourist destination for those seeking a quintessential English rural break are the hidden gems like Needham Market.
Whilst larger settlements like Southwold, Bury St Edmunds and Woodbridge take the lion’s share of attention from holidaymakers there are some fantastic small villages which are equally unique and worthy of a visit.
Many of our guests take great pleasure in seeking out these hidden treasures and uncovering all they have to offer. A great place to start ‘digging’ for such holiday gold is the small village of Needham Market.
Set on the River Gipping, Needham Market is a fascinating place. The whole High Street has been designated as a Conservation Area.
Whilst the street may appear at first glance to be a normal village thoroughfare, there are many hidden marvels to be discovered.
Anyone interested in medieval architecture will be in awe of the roof inside St John the Baptist Church on the High Street. Looking up from inside the roof appears impossible at first glance. Through extraordinary craftsmanship the entire roof was constructed using the double hammer beam method. Meaning that it resembles the inside of an upturned boat. A sight that has to be seen to be believed.
If that weren’t reason enough to spend a proportion of your Suffolk holiday in Needham Market the village has more to offer.
The Ancient House on Hawks Mill Street, for example, was build in 1480 and has been lovingly restored. A short walk further down Hawks Mill Street and you’ll come across the mill from which the street derives its name. There has been a mill on this site since the times of the Doomsday Book and the current building dates from 1887. The mill has now been converted into residential flats.
If all that exploring makes you thirsty then there are several pubs in the village including The Limes Hotel and The Swan Inn.
Needham Lake, a former clay pit, provides leisure facilities and a wildlife habitat. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon stroll.
Are you looking to explore the hidden treasures of Suffolk, like Needham Market? Then why not stay in a luxury holiday cottage as you do so?
You can check our availability here.
