Laura Kerslake
31 January 2023
Lavenham, nestled in the heart of the stunning Suffolk countryside, is one of England’s finest medieval wool villages.
Medieval charm can be found around every corner with its winding streets, thatched cottages, and timber-framed buildings.
Lavenham truly is the perfect place to visit if you wish to immerse yourself in Suffolk’s rich history. See our cottages in Lavenham by clicking on the button below.
Fly away to Lavenham Falconry
For an experience that won’t be forgotten, take a special trip to spend some time with a range of majestic birds of prey. Set amongst 2 acres of wildflower meadows, Lavenham Falconry invites you to have handling and flying time with some of their many trained hawks, owls, and falcons. Lavenham Falconry also offer the opportunity to experience other activities including field archery, rifle shooting, and survival skills.
- Address: The Owl Barn, Bridge Farm Barns, Monks Eleigh, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP7 7AY
- Need to know: Variety of experiences available, must be booked 8 weeks in advance
Visit Lavenham Guildhall
Often described as one of England’s finest timber-framed buildings, Lavenham Guildhall takes visitors on a journey through five centuries of history as seen by those who worked and lived there. Alongside the fascinating museum is the Courtyard Garden, filled with plants used to make dye for Lavenham’s famous wool.
- Address: Market Place, Lavenham, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9QZ
- Opening times: Hours and days vary throughout the year.
- Facilities: Drop-off point available. Accessible toilet. Ground floor of Guildhall and parts of garden accessible.
Eat, drink and be merry in Lavenham
Lavenham is a hotspot for delicious restaurants and fabulous pubs. Visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to eat and drink. The Swan at Lavenham offers lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea in its luxurious restaurants. The Cock Horse Inn is a traditional pub that serves delicious seasonal food for breakfast lunch and dinner in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. For casual refined dining with a European influence try out the Lavenham Greyhound.
Explore magical Lavenham – visit the Harry Potter house!
Visitors to Lavenham may discover it looks rather familiar if they’re Harry Potter fans. The town was used as the setting for Godric’s Hollow in the penultimate film in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. The CGI-transformed DeVere House which was Harry’s birthplace and Lavenham Guildhall were also featured.
Go back in history at Little Hall House
Built in the 1390’s Little Hall is one of the oldest buildings in Lavenham and now operates from April to October as a museum showcasing Lavenham, the house, and the people who have lived there over the centuries.
- Address: Market Place, Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9QZ
- Opening times: April to October. 1 - 4pm. Open daily except Mondays
Visit the church of St Peter and St Paul
St Peter and St Paul's Church, Lavenham is a Grade I-listed parish church. A church has been on the site since Anglo-Saxon times but the beautiful stone structure but the current building dates back to the 14th Century. It's regarded as one of the finest examples of late perpendicular Gothic architecture in England.
Lavenham farmers' market
Known to be one of the best farmers markets in the UK, Lavenham Farmers' Market is held on the fourth Sunday of every month outside Lavenham Village Hall. Everything sold at the market comes from within a 30-mile radius which means local produce is guaranteed! Try tasty treats, regional cheese, and a wide selection of locally sourced meat.
Admire Lavenham’s historic houses
Widely acknowledged as the best example of a medieval wool town in England, it’s no surprise that Lavenham is packed with impressive historical homes. Most of the buildings were built in the 15th century and remain the same today. Make sure you take a visit to one of the most famous properties in Lavenham, The Crooked House.
Take a scenic walk
Lavenham has a multitude of beautiful walks of all lengths and suitable for all ages and abilities. The Lavenham to Long Melford Railway Walk is a wonderful trail through woods and open fields and should take around 2 hours to complete. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you wander.
- Starting point: Lavenham Guildhall, Market Place, Lavenham, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9QZ.
- Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2km)
- Terrain: An easy walk but terrain is uneven and there are steps.
Indulge in retail therapy in Lavenham
Lavenham offers a wide range of independent shops and boutiques. From traditional toyshops and bespoke jewellers to teddy bear showrooms and eclectic gift shops, there’s something for everyone.
Enjoy a holiday to Suffolk
If you’d like to see all that Lavenham has to offer, why not take a look at our holiday cottages?
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.