King Raedwald gets a Makeover as National Trust Spruces up for Spring

Across the county, Suffolk's National Trust properties are a hive of activity, preparing for the new season opening this Spring.

At Ickworth house, dusting the Rotunda's stonework may be one of the chores, followed by restoration work of its old masters by Gainsborough, Hogarth and Titian. At Sutton Hoo in Woodbridge, cleaning preparations are in full swing to launch a new exhibit about the burial of Anglon Saxon King Raedwald, former ruler of East Anglia. King Raedwald is usually treated to an annual "make over" that may include brushing his hair and ensuring that the objects surrounding him are clean and shiny. At Lavenham Guildhall, "Ramesses", the mummified cat, is normally treated to a spring time grooming. Ramesses was originally found in the roof of a Lavenham home, believed to ward off evil spririts.

For more details of each property's activities and spring opening times, visit the National Trust website. If you are combining your visit with a holiday in Suffolk, there are plenty of holiday cottages near to the National Trust sites in Woodbridge and Lavenham.