Suffolk Villages and Towns – Long Melford
By Keith Sadler
History, art, culture and nature. Long Melford has it all and more…
Long Melford is a fantastic large village, a short drive from us here at Woodfarm Barns. It is undisputedly one of the most stunning villages in Suffolk. Maybe in the whole of the UK too! In a nationwide poll by Savills, the estate agent, Long Melford came 7th in the most desirable villages in Britain.
It’s little surprise then that Francis Bacon was a frequent visitor to Long Melford in the 1700s. Making many journeys to Westgate House. Which at the time was owned by David Edwards who was the brother of Bacon’s lover. No doubt the rural setting provided much needed escape for Beacon from the many pressure of life in London.
I’m pleased to say that Long Melford still provides many people with the same kind of escape today.
The village is well worth visiting for the many pubs, restaurants, art galleries and local shops on the main street alone.
However, here are some of the other reasons so many people choose to make Long Melford a part of their visit to Suffolk:
Melford Hall, the home of the Hyde Parker family now belongs to the National Trust and has been made open to the public. There are many wonderful events hosted at the hall every year including the annual Beatrix Potter Fun Day in July. Full opening times are available on the National Trust website. And also the Leestock Music Festival which we are proud to have worked with for many years now
Another magnificent hall. just over the road is Kentwell; a moated Tudor mansion which hosts yearly reenactments of everyday life in Tudor times. Up to 200 people descend on Kentwell for these events. They work hard to act and dress as authentically Tudor as possible. Bringing the period back to life in Long Melford.
If you’re visit to Suffolk doesn’t coincide with the re-enactments then there’s still plenty to see at Kentwell including beautiful gardens and buildings and an open air theatre. The theatre is used for plays and concerts during the summer season.
Do you only have a short time to spend in Long Melford? Then the Heritage Centre is the place for you. Run by local volunteers with a passion for sharing local history. The centre is an ideal place to get a taste of local culture.
Planning a visit to Suffolk to enjoy some of the finest villages in Britain? Then why not treat yourself and stay with us? You can check our availability here:
