Memory
Having lived away in different countries during my early adulthood, I’d always look back with fond memories of growing up in Lavenham. Such an idyllic place to explore with the beautiful countryside of rolling fields, small winding rivers as well as ancient woodlands and forests.
Landmark
The iconic Lavenham Marketplace. Surrounded by those amazing Tudor timber-framed buildings, one of which was my parent’s hotel and restaurant The Great House which they owned for over 30 years and where I spent most of my childhood. It’s also where my love and interest of all things food started. Whatever the weather, the Market Place offers a stunning vista no matter where you stand and admire it from.
Place to eat
Food is at the centre of every decision I make. I now live in Bury St Edmunds and am spoilt for choice as to fabulous places to eat on my doorstep and there are so many I want to list. I love The One Bull. Folk Café, 1921 and Lucy’s Pizzeria are cracking places too!
Pub
The One Bull does serve a mean pint. I’ll often make the detour through Hawkedon on my way home and drop in on The Queens Head for a pint too!
Day out/attraction
I love heading off to the sea and the Suffolk coast has such a lot to offer for the whole day and of course there’s some great places to eat and drink. I have fond memories of canoeing when I was young in Thorpeness with my cousins when they would visit us from France.
Town/Village
Lavenham, obviously! I’m in awe of its history and how it’s retained its charm throughout all these years.
Beach
Dunwich beach as I find its quieter and a little wilder than others on the Suffolk coast. There’s fantastic fish and chips from Flora Tea Rooms too.
Shop
Walker’s Cheese in St John’s Street, Bury sells only the finest British and Irish artisanal cheeses, many of which are local. Having a French upbringing I’d normally side with French cheeses, but Nic Walker stocks such a fabulous selection and is so passionate and knowledgeable about his cheeses. It’s a pleasure to visit.
Export
Dare I say Twinkle Twinkle Little Star? One of England’s most famous lullabies was written by the author Jane Taylor who lived in Lavenham. Otherwise, beer. Adnams and Greene King as well as some notable smaller breweries such as Nethergate in Bury who supply our restaurant Amelie, and Star Wing based in Redgrave.
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