Woodbridge is a picturesque market town that was voted by Country Living in April 2010 as one of only six top Foodie Town’s in the UK. You’ll soon see why when you visit Woodbridge. The Market Square hosts a fortnightly farmers market and there are often other events and markets taking place there, including a very popular antiques market, so please see What’s on in Woodbridge for an up-to-date guide to events in Woodbridge and you might be lucky!
The town lies on the River Deben and across the river is Sutton Hoo, the Saxon Royal burial ship. In fact, everywhere you look in Woodbridge you’ll be reminded of times gone by! But Sutton Hoo is exceptional as it is one of Britain’s most important and atmospheric archaeological sites. In 1938 the owner of the site commissioned an investigator to find out what was beneath the mounds in her garden. He unearthed the remains of a large burial ship of an Anglo-Saxon warrior king, which included the iconic warrior’s helmet, shield, gold and silver treasures. There is a permanent exhibition at Sutton Hoo telling the compelling story of Anglo-Saxon warriors, as well as a large estate including walks with estuary views, Suffolk Sandlings heathland and woodland trails. It is managed by the National Trust and is open to visitors – just click on the link above to find their opening times.
Woodbridge is a town that has every right to be proud of its heritage. The River Deben is the home to the Woodbridge Tide Mill (pictured above) which is thought to be one of the earliest examples of a tide mill in the UK, and dates from 1170. The Mill has been restored recently and is now open to the public at certain times, including April weekends, every day from 1 May to 30 September and Weekends in October 11.00 – 5.00 pm. It is seen by many as the image of Woodbridge and has inspired many artists and photographers. Find out what’s on at Woodbridge.
Another interesting & unique experience on offer is a visit to Martlesham Heath Control Tower which is just outside Woodbridge. The airfield at the site was operational from 1917 to 1967 and the exhibition’s at the Tower tell the story of the RAF based there through these years. The tower is open to the public through the Summer months.
The idyllic countryside around Woodbridge is ideal for those who love walking and you are never far away from beautiful riverside views. There are many walks that you can choose to follow; Daisy’s Walk is near to Rendlesham Forest and if you head towards the attractive town of Orford you can visit one of Suffolk’s RSPB reserves at RSPB Havergate Island. This is a great place for Birdwatching in Suffolk.
In February 2008 Woodbridge became a Fairtrade Town so if shopping is something you enjoy then you can be assured of finding ethically traded goods on offer here. Head along the Thoroughfare – here you will find a lovely mix of small, independent shops and things to do alongside the large chain stores that you would expect to find in a town centre.
Woodbridge Antiques Centre, located between the Riverside and the Thoroughfare just two minutes walk from the railway station, is a wonderful and fascinating place to stop by. Marvel at their 20+ showcases featuring wonderful antique jewellery and household items from times gone by. You are sure to find a gem here, or the perfect gift for someone special.
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