Overview
Start at Colchester, the oldest recorded Roman town in England, before relaxing in the inspirational landscape of Constable country at Dedham and Flatford. Unwind with a luxurious stay at Wivenhoe House Hotel, located just 5 minutes from Colchester. Explore the historic Suffolk countryside of Lavenham, Kersey and Long Melford, home to the TV series Lovejoy.
Colchester
Historic Colchester was the first British Roman capital and is Britain’s oldest recorded town. Castles Park is home to Colchester Castle built on the site of Roman temple and Hollytrees a Georgian townhouse museum. For the more lively visit Colchester Zoo, Jump Street, the leisure centre and swimming pools.
Dedham
Bridging the Essex / Suffolk border, Dedham is a peaceful spot to hire a rowing boat and make your way to Flatford through the landscape that inspired painter John Constable. Or if you prefer, enjoy some food and drink at The Boathouse or take a picnic and walk along the river bank.
Dedham Boathouse Boat Hire
Boats are available to hire 7 days a week from 9am until 4pm between March to October. Enjoy the beauty and relaxing experience of rowing down the river Stour in a traditional clinker built rowing boat. View the Dedham Boathouse Boat Hire's profile.
The Kitchen @ Dedham Boathouse
The Kitchen @ Dedham offers a wide selection of cakes and savoury & sweet pastries - open 7 days a week from 9am until 4pm. Chef prepared food available from Wednesday to Sunday. View The Kitchen @ Dedham's profile.
Flatford Mill
The village of Flatford is famous for the 18th century Watermill and Willy Lott’s House. Flatford Watermill is a Grade 1 listed mill, famously featured in John Constable’s painting called The Hay Wain. Explore the historic buildings or take in the views on a walk along the River Stour to Dedham.
⚡Charge your electric vehicle at Fields Kitchen Farm Shop.
The Angel Inn
John Constable drew and painted in Stoke-by-Nayland including a number of works depicting St Mary's Church. Constable loved the impressive bell tower of St Mary's and he drew and painted it on a number of occasions. It is believed Constable visited The Angel Inn on several occasions when making these sketches and paintings. Learn more
Hadleigh
An historic market town dating back to 1252 alongside the River Brett, Hadleigh is filled with crooked, half-timbered houses reflecting the historic wool and cloth trades of yesteryear. Take in a walking tour or visit the nearby ancient woodland of RSPB Wolves Wood.
Kersey
The historic wool village of Kersey and surrounding hamlets occupy a steep hill with the high street forded by a tributary of the River Brett. The skyline of the charming village skyline is dominated by the 11th century medieval St. Mary’s Church. Why not pop in to Glass & Craft for a handmade souvenir or visit Bridge Farm Barns Corn Craft Gift Shop & Tea Room for shopping and refreshments.
Lavenham
Half-timbered medieval cottages and the 15th century church are central to the history of picture postcard Lavenham. The wool town is steeped in history and you can visit The Guildhall of Corpus Christi and the 14th century Little Hall or take the railway walk to Long Melford. Jane Taylor the author of the poem Twinkle Twinkle Little Star lived with her family at Shilling Grange in Shilling Street, Lavenham, however the poem was written whilst she was living in Ongar. Why not also visit The Lavenham Greyhound for a drink or a spot of lunch.
Cavendish
Located between Clare and Long Melford, the picturesque Suffolk village of Cavendish is well known for its “Suffolk Pink” thatched cottages, the historic Norman tower church and local pub overlooking the vibrant green.
Clare
Situated on the north bank of the River Stour the old wool town of Clare is steeped in history with plenty for the visitor to explore, including a medieval church, museum, Clare Country Park, 13th century Augustinian Priory and Clare Castle ruins dating back to William the Conqueror.
Long Melford
From Melford Hall overlook the village green in Suffolk’s great cloth village where you can join in the annual Beatrix Potter festival or just browse the antique shops on the main street. Other local attractions include the Long Melford Heritage Centre and nearby moated Tudor Kentwell Hall.
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