Lavenham… What’s it like?

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to answer the common question of “Lavenham… What’s it like?” It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we answer tonnes of FAQs and give you lots of information to help you get the most out of Suffolk.

At Woodfarm Barns & Barges, we understand that planning the perfect getaway involves many questions and uncertainties. To help you navigate through these and to ensure you have the best experience possible, we’ve launched our ‘You Ask, We Answer’ initiative. This approach isn’t just about promoting our Barns, Cottages and Barges; it’s about providing valuable information, solutions, and peace of mind to our prospective guests.

Anyway, this is the video, and the transcript is below it if you wish to go back over anything.

This is what I said…

Discovering the Charm of Lavenham: A Medieval Gem in the Heart of Suffolk

Lavenham is a beautiful, historic, and picturesque village located in the heart of Suffolk. This charming destination is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region. You could call in to Bridge Farm Barns on the way there.

Start Your Journey at the Tourist Information Centre

Your exploration of Lavenham can begin at the Tourist Information Centre, conveniently located just off the Market Square. The Market Square is a focal point of the village, surrounded by stunning architecture that reflects the town’s medieval roots. While you may spot a few luxury cars parked around, it’s the buildings that truly steal the show. Lavenham is one of the old wool towns, a significant player in Suffolk’s history, alongside other notable towns like Long Melford.

Antique Shops and Architectural Wonders

Lavenham is a treasure trove of antique shops, with many unique finds to discover. One of my favourite spots is an antique shop located at Number 8 on the Market Square, where I’ve sourced numerous items for Woodfarm. The village is filled with medieval architecture, quirky buildings, and beautiful old structures that are a delight to explore.

One particularly quirky building that caught my eye is a large, distinctive structure near the Market Square, which I nearly purchased! The building’s unique brickwork is just one of the many examples of Lavenham’s architectural charm. Though I didn’t buy it, it would have made an incredible Holiday Cottage.

Strolling Through Lavenham’s High Street

As you walk along Lavenham’s High Street, you’ll notice the village’s blend of residential spaces, coffee shops, tea rooms, and more antique shops. The mix of businesses adds to the vibrant atmosphere, and the stunning medieval buildings provide a picturesque backdrop for your stroll.

One of the most photographed buildings in Lavenham is the Crooked House Gallery, an eye-catching ochre-colored structure. Fun fact: the house next to it with the white front door is where I purchased some granite worktops, which will eventually find their place at Woodfarm.

A Glimpse Into Lavenham’s Celebrity Connection

Lavenham isn’t just known for its architecture; it also has a touch of celebrity glamour. Claudia Schiffer, the famous supermodel, once stayed at The Swan, a beautiful hotel in the village. My daughter and I had a memorable experience when we unexpectedly found ourselves in the same tea room where paparazzi were eagerly awaiting her arrival.

A Village Full of Stories

As you continue exploring, you’ll come across the black and white building where I purchased my first Holiday Cottage. This building was famous for always having a full-size Steve Martin cutout in the window, which locals affectionately referred to as the “Steve Martin house.”

Postcards and Memories

While wandering through Lavenham, I stumbled upon a collection of postcards featuring iconic Suffolk landmarks, including Woodbridge Tide Mill. These postcards often showcase buildings I’ve lived in, reminding me of the region’s timeless beauty.

Lavenham: A Must-Visit Village

Lavenham is a village that never fails to impress. Its combination of historic buildings, charming shops, and fascinating stories make it a perfect destination for a day out in Suffolk. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Lavenham is sure to captivate you.

Thank you for joining me on this virtual tour of Lavenham. I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering this incredible village. Please don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more videos like this. Also, be sure to subscribe to our newsletters via the homepage of our website to stay updated on cancellations, last-minute availability, and exciting competitions. Follow us on social media as well, and I look forward to seeing you in the next video!