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Sudbury Town Guide 2026/27

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Tudor Church of England Primary School

Part of St. Edmundsbury & Ipswich Diocesan Multi Academy Trust

‘Life in all its fullness’

‘Live to learn and learn to live in fullness of life’.

We’re a ‘Good’ school with an Outstanding Early Years class.

We’re proud to be part of the St. Edmundsbury & Ipswich Diocesan MAT.

Come and see us for yourselves, we would be delighted to show you around!

www.tudorceprimary.co.uk Tudor Road, Sudbury, CO10 1NL

“My child has thrived and progressed so much!”

- 2025 ParentsSurvey

Thank you for picking up this guide and for your interest in Sudbury. In 2023, Sudbury was named Suffolk ‘Town of the Year’ for our ambitious eco-projects, community cohesion, and award-winning independent business community. We hope you enjoy exploring our historic market town!

Sudbury is an ancient market town in the heart of the Stour Valley on the Essex/ Suffolk border. A stone’s throw from the town centre is Sudbury’s unique riverside, with the ancient Common Lands and the beautifully biodiverse water meadows. This forms part of the outstanding landscape that inspired the 18th-century artist Thomas Gainsborough, who was born, lived, and worked in Sudbury.

Dating back to the 8th century, Sudbury’s heritage is anchored by its 11th-century market, which remains a local staple today. The town’s prosperity grew through the medieval textile trade, funding the characterful architecture and churches that define it as one of Suffolk’s iconic ‘Wool Towns’.

Sudbury has long been an industrious town. With three working silk mills and 95% of all silk produced in the UK being made here, Sudbury retains its status as

Welcome to Sudbury...

the UK capital of silk-earning us a visit from Catherine, Princess of Wales, in September 2025. An ancient market town, the architecturally diverse and characterful townscape features 242 listed buildings, most dating from the 15th through to the early 19th century.

Beyond its listed heritage, Sudbury’s intriguing past is yours to explore via self-guided trails or guided tours. Today, the town is a premier destination for history, culture, and those seeking a unique getaway surrounded by unspoilt natural beauty. The historic centre offers a vibrant mix of independent shops, eateries, galleries, and event spaces, complemented by a traditional twiceweekly market.

70% of the town centre businesses are independent, making for a unique and characterful high street. There really is something for everybody, and we hope our Sudbury hospitality will have you coming back time and time again. Two national trails, the St. Edmund Way and the Stour Valley Path, traverse Sudbury’s town and meadows; with a wide selection of places to stay, Sudbury is an excellent base for further exploration of the Dedham Vale National Landscape.

Image: Andy Longhurst

From world-class art and historic landmarks to hidden riverside gems, discover the stories and spaces that make Sudbury the cultural heart of the Stour Valley.

Sudbury Tourist Information Centre

Old Market Place, CO10 1TL sudbury-tc.gov.uk/events

Begin your journey at the Town Hall. Open year-round (Mon-Sat), our friendly team is your local concierge for everything from travel tips to the best hidden lunch spots. Beyond the “What’s On” guides for 2026, you can browse a curated collection of local history books and unique souvenirs. It’s more than an office - it’s the gateway to your Sudbury experience.

Sudbury Guided Tours sudbury-tc.gov.uk/guided-tours

Step into the Sudbury story with our professional Blue Badge guides. Taking place on the third Saturday of every month, these tours unmask the town’s secrets-from its Saxon foundations and world-famous silk industry to the gory and scandalous tales of the past. Don’t miss our 2026 specialist routes, including the literary “Dickens, Dragons, and Dalmatians” and the artisan-focused “Wool to Silk” walk.

Explore Sudbury’s Heritage & Culture...

Mill Tye Gallery & Arts Centre

3 Cornard Mills, Mill Tye, Great Cornard, CO10 0GW milltyegallery.co.uk

Escape the main streets to find this “bestkept secret” perched on the banks of the Stour. This boutique gallery celebrates the next generation of East Anglian talent. Browse a hand-picked treasure trove of screen prints, pottery, and sculpture in a stunning riverside setting. Mill Tye Gallery & Arts Centre has free entry and is open from March to December (Thu-Sun, 11am-4pm).

Continued overleaf...

Mill Tye Gallery & Arts Centre

...Continued from page 7

Sudbury Arts Centre

St. Peter’s, Market Hill, Sudbury, CO10 2EA sudburyartscentre.com

Witness the spectacular fusion of medieval architecture and modern community life. Following its landmark regeneration, this Grade I listed former church is now a thriving hub for live music, theatre, and festivals. Operated by The Bridge Project, it stands as a testament to Sudbury’s inclusive spirit. Check their website for the 2026 seasonal program.

The Quay Theatre

6 Quay Lane, Sudbury, CO10 2AN quaysudbury.com

Tucked beside the river in an 18thcentury granary, The Quay has been the beating heart of local performance for over 40 years. With an intimate 125seat auditorium, it offers an eclectic mix of drama, comedy, live-streamed screenings, and its famous annual panto. Relax in the public bar or explore their summer schools and performing arts courses.

Gainsborough’s House Entrance on Weavers Lane, CO10 2EU gainsborough.org

Explore the childhood home of Thomas Gainsborough, now an international destination for art lovers. Since its major transformation, the house seamlessly blends historic charm with state-of-the-art galleries.

Highlights include the silk-lined Gainsborough Gallery, the Camera Obscura’s unique town views, and the ancient Mulberry tree in the garden. Make sure to visit the newly re-opened Print Workshop, enjoy seasonal dining in the café, or shop for award-winning gifts.

Gainsborough’s House is open daily, from 10am-5pm.

Gainsborough’s House
Image: Chris Dorney/Shutterstock.com

Whether you’re here for the day, a long weekend, or scouting for a permanent move (a very common side effect of visiting!), here’s how to experience the very best of Sudbury!

Step into our Story

Start your journey at Sudbury’s absolute gem: the Heritage Centre & Museum. Located via the Gaol Lane entrance of the Town Hall, this free-to-enter museum is open Monday to Saturday year-round.

From Saxon beginnings to our worldrenowned silk industry, the brilliantly curated displays offer a fascinating window into our local evolution. Fully accessible and packed with hidden histories, it’s an essential first stop for the curious visitor.

sudburyheritagecentre.co.uk

The Pulse of the Town

There’s always something happening in Sudbury! Visit the Tourist Information Centre to grab our latest monthly events guide or scan our digital ‘What’s On’ listings. From seasonal fairs and guided walks to headline performances at The Quay Theatre, contemporary exhibitions at Mill Tye Gallery, and world-class art at Gainsborough’s House, your calendar for the year is full!

sudbury-tc.gov.uk/upcomingevents

Shop & Dine Locally

Take a break, grab a coffee, and ‘Shop Sudbury.’ Our town thrives on its independent spirit; explore the unique boutiques and eateries tucked away on North Street, Friars Street, King Street, and Gainsborough Street, or wander through the Borehamgate Precinct and Market Hill to discover our fantastic local businesses.

sudbury-tc.gov.uk/dine

Continued overleaf...

Making the Most of Your Visit...

...Continued from page 11

The Thousand-Year Tradition

Every Thursday and Saturday, Market Hill transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, continuing a tradition that has thrived for over a millennium. Whether you’re after local craft ales, fresh bakes, or artisan gifts, a mooch through the market is a sensory delight. Don’t miss our traditional fishmongers, butchers, and greengrocers for the very best of Suffolk produce.

Culture in the Heart of the Town

The Sudbury Arts Centre at St. Peter’s is a breathtaking fusion of history and creativity. Pop in to enjoy the café (operated by The Bridge), explore 700 years of architectural history, or engage with the story of Lady Elizabeth, the visionary behind our Market Hill. With a packed programme of concerts and craft fairs, it remains the town's cultural anchor.

sudburyartscentre.com

Walk the Living Landscape

Sudbury is defined by the painterly "Gainsborough" landscapes that embrace the town. Follow the Meadow Walk or Cornard Loop along the Gainsborough Trail to see our ancient water meadows - land that has never been ploughed and remains a haven for rare wildflowers and wildlife. These paths offer a unique perspective on our industrial heritage and stunning views that shift beautifully with the seasons.

Follow the Trail

For a walk through time, follow The Talbot Trail. This route of 14 bronze statues leads you through the town’s secrets, with each figure depicting a different chapter of our past. Turn to pages 18-19 for your map and to read more about the stories behind the statues, see pages 29-32.

Guided tour of Sudbury
Image: Andy Longhurst

Sudbury offers a warm welcome every day of the year. Whether you’re a culture seeker, a nature enthusiast, a dedicated foodie, or a history buff, there’s always something new to discover. From monthly guided walks and vibrant festivals to artisan markets and world-class exhibitions, Sudbury’s social calendar is the heartbeat of the Stour Valley.

Plan your visit: sudbury-tc.gov.uk/upcomingevents

• Market Hill Traditions: Don’t miss our historic market every Thursday and Saturday. For local flavours, the awardwinning Farmers Market by Suffolk Market Events takes over Market Hill on the last Friday every month.

Spring: As the landscape “springs” to life, Sudbury becomes a haven for ramblers, photographers, and wildlife lovers.

• Walking the Landscape: Lace up for the Suffolk Walking Festival in May, celebrating our unique built heritage and rolling hills. (suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk)

• Cultural Awakening: Experience fresh spring programming at Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury Arts Centre, Mill Tye Gallery, and The Quay Theatre.

A town for all Seasons...

• Garden Delights: Browse over 40 local nurseries at the Annual Plant Fair (Early May Bank Holiday Monday), supporting The Quay Theatre. (sudbury-tc.gov.uk/plantfair)

• Riverside Life: Watch the ancient tradition of “turning out” the cattle onto the Common Lands in April or May. Keep your binoculars ready at The Croft and Brundon Mill for egrets, kingfishers, and the occasional otter or terrapin!

Summer: Sudbury’s summer is defined by the sparkle of the River Stour and a packed calendar of community festivities.

• Guided Boat Trips with The River Stour Trust: Board the Rosette, Francis J, Edwardian Lady or the John Constable Lighter operating boat trips between Sudbury, Great Cornard and Great Henny from May-October. (riverstourtrust.org/boat-trips)

• Suffolk Artists Open Studios - Sudbury Trail: Local artists and makers open their studios and gardens in June. (sudburyartcollective.org/event)

...Continued from page 15

• Party in the Park: An annual free family celebration that takes place at Belle Vue Park on the third Sunday in July. The event’s packed full of fun, with activity stalls, fair rides, music, and a host of stallholders.

• Sudbury Regatta: Organised by Sudbury Rowing Club on the first Saturday of August every year, the regatta has a real festival feel out on Friars Meadow. One of the highlights of the regatta is the sprint eights event, racing for hip-flasks along the final stretch. (sudburyrowingclub.org.uk/regatta)

• Street Food Festival: In partnership with Sudbury Arts Centre, this culinary celebration is held on the August Bank Holiday weekend on Market Hill. Sudbury Arts bring a fully stocked bar, a celebratory atmosphere and plenty of seating to enjoy your Street Food purchases!

Autumn: As the leaves turn, Sudbury celebrates its rich history and artisan roots.

• Heritage Open Days: Go “off the beaten track” as historic buildings open their doors for free tours and expert-led walks in September. (sudbury-tc.gov.uk/hods)

• Sudbury to the Sea: Watch or join the annual 24-mile river odyssey from Sudbury to the Cattawade Barrier in September.

• Hoktoberfest: Raise a glass at the end of September with craft beers, gins, and live music at the Sudbury Hockey Club.

• Cultural Hubs: Autumn is peak season for the Sudbury Autumn Arts Trail and the return of Green Sundays (Sept/Oct), featuring harvest crafts and wildlifefriendly gardening tips.

Winter: Sudbury transforms into a winter wonderland, blending historic charm with seasonal cheer.

• Christmas Lights & Fair: On the last Friday in November, the town hosts its showstopping light switch-on with festive stalls and music.

• Christmas Tree Festival: Visit Sudbury Arts Centre in early December for a stunning display of community-decorated trees.

• Dickensian Guided Tours: Join Scrooge on the first Saturday in December for a theatrical stroll through our historic streets.

• Winter Escapes: Book a cosy cottage, luxury hotel, or quirky B&B at sudbury-tc.gov.uk/placestostay. Enjoy festive lights, independent shops, and frosty meadow walks. Nature lovers can also spot unique migratory birds across our winter landscape.

Party in the Park

Image: Sue Longhurst

Sudbury’s Riverside...

Sudbury’s ancient water meadows remain a jewel in the town’s crown. Remarkably, these lands have never been ploughed or treated with chemical fertilisers, preserving a rare pocket of biodiversity that supports a thriving community of wildflowers, insects, and birdlife. Today, the Sudbury Common Lands Charity continues the centuriesold tradition of summer grazing, a vital practice that keeps this unique ecosystem healthy and open for everyone to explore.

While much of the riverside is managed through grazing, specific areas are preserved as hay meadows, harvested in late summer to protect specialised wetland flora. These spaces offer a peaceful, timeless escape just a short walk from the town centre.

The Stour Navigation & Industrial Heritage

Flowing downstream from the Common Lands is the head of the Stour Navigation. For over 200 years, this waterway served as a bustling commercial artery, connecting Sudbury’s brickmakers and grain merchants to London and the North Sea. While the final commercial barges departed in 1913, the legacy of this “highway of water” remains etched in the landscape.

The attractive 19th-century granary buildings at The Quay have been beautifully re-purposed for modern life. They now serve as the vibrant home of The Quay Theatre, offering a diverse performing arts programme, and the River Stour Trust. To truly experience the river, a trip on one of the Trust’s seasonal pleasure crafts is essential.

Trails & Transitions

The arrival of the Stour Valley Railway in 1849 eventually superseded the river as the primary trade route, and today, that history has paved the way for the popular Valley Walk. Following the old railway line, this path is now a flourishing green corridor for walkers and wildlife alike. Whether you’re following the Valley Walk or the many meadow trails, you’ll find a landscape that shifts beautifully with the seasons, offering glimpses of Sudbury’s industrious past and its enduring natural beauty.

Plan your visit:

• Sudbury Common Lands sudburycommonlandscharity.org

• Walking Routes sudbury-tc.gov.uk/walking

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Step into the Sudbury story with our curated selection of self-guided trails. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll through the water meadows or a deep dive into our medieval architecture, there is a route for every pace.

Get the Map:

• Digital: Download guides at: sudbury-tc.gov.uk/walking

• In person: Visit the Sudbury Tourist Information Centre (Town Hall, Gaol Lane entrance, CO10 1TL) for free printed guides.

Local Favourites

Gainsborough Trail: The Meadow Walk

• Distance: 4 miles (Circular)

• Level: Gentle

• Start: Kingfisher Leisure Centre Car Park

This scenic loop is the first section of the Gainsborough Trail. It celebrates our most famous son, artist Thomas Gainsborough, who spent his formative years sketching the very landscapes you see today.

Walk, Cycle, Discover...

The Talbot Trail

• Level: Accessible

• Season: Year-round

• Start: Sudbury Heritage Centre, Town Hall, CO10 1TL

History comes to life through 14 bronze statues hidden around town, each depicting a unique episode from Sudbury’s past. Read more about The Talbot Trail across pages 29-32.

Suffolk Threads

• Level: Accessible

• Start: Sudbury Arts Centre at St. Peter’s, CO10 2EA

A must for architecture and heritage enthusiasts. By the 14th century, the wool trade had made Sudbury one of England’s wealthiest towns. This wealth is still visible today in our stunning timberframed houses and magnificent medieval churches.

Sudbury Common Lands
Image:
Sue Longhurst

...Continued from page 23

Three Mills Trail

• Distance: 5.5 miles

• Level: Moderate

• Start: Melford Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9AA

A beautiful country walk following the old Great Eastern Stour Valley Railway line. Look out for the “Three Mills”; Borley, Brundon, and Sudbury (now The Mill Hotel), which stand as silent monuments to our industrial river heritage.

Expert-Led & Long Distance

• Guided Town Tours: “You do the walking, we do the talking!” Mix up your exploration with professional tales of Saxon settlements, peasant revolts, and the world-famous Sudbury Silk. Book your place at the Tourist Information Centre or via: sudbury-tc.gov.uk/guided-tours

The

Painters’ Trail (Cycle)

• Distance: 69 miles (shortcuts available)

Ride through the National Landscape (formerly AONB) that inspired Constable and Gainsborough. The Sudbury section follows the traffic-free Valley Trail, offering stunning views of the meadows from your saddle. dedhamvalestourvalley.org

The Wolf Way

• Distance: 248 miles

Suffolk’s ultimate multi-day cycling adventure. Winding through bridleways and hidden tracks, the Wolf Way passes right through the heart of town. Sudbury is the perfect pit-stop for a well-earned meal or an overnight stay!

However you choose to explore, the paths are yours to follow; so grab a map, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the magic of Sudbury at your own pace!

The Valley Trail
The Mill Hotel

Named after the loyal hound on the town crest, the Talbot Trail is a 2.2-mile circular journey through Sudbury’s legends, scandals, and triumphs.

Established in 2008 by Robin Drury and sculptor Rob Pewsey, the trail features 14 bronze statues that guide visitors past historic landmarks and natural beauty. Now maintained by the Town Council, the route celebrates the town’s unique heritage through art.

Your adventure starts at the “Town Gaol” statue on Gaol Lane (behind the Town Hall). Navigate using the Go Jauntly app or pick up a printed map at the Sudbury Tourist Information & Heritage Centre.

1. The Town Gaol: On Gaol Lane (behind the Town Hall).

This 1820s gateway once led to the dark cells where prisoners awaited trial. Today, it’s home to the Sudbury Heritage Centre, where you can dive into the local archives before you set off.

The Talbot Trail...

2. 101 Dalmatians: Opposite the Town Hall steps, by St. Peter’s Church.

Look for the horse trough against the railings. This is the spot where Pongo and Perdita paused for water in Dodie Smith’s classic novel. Today, St Peter’s is a vibrant cultural hub for local events.

3. Boudicca: On King Street.

Sudbury was a stronghold for the Trinovante tribe, who joined Queen Boudicca’s fierce revolt against the Romans in AD60. While her exact path is a mystery, she likely rallied her troops through these very streets.

4. The Rotten Borough: Outside The Lady Elizabeth Hotel, on Market Hill.

Sudbury was once a “Rotten Borough” famous for electoral bribery. Charles Dickens was so amused by the local antics that he used the town as the model for ‘Eatanswill’ in The Pickwick Papers.

Continued overleaf...

5. The Running Boy: On Gainsborough Street, near Christopher Lane.

In 1879, young apprentice James Bigmore ran from Sudbury to Norwich (60 miles) in just six hours! This street is now a hotspot for independent cafés and the famous Gainsborough’s House.

6. The Great Blondin: On Friars Street, near the old Anchor sign.

In 1872, the world-famous tightrope walker visited the yard behind The Anchor. He famously pushed a local across a high wire in a wheelbarrow! Note that this street follows the “Great Ditch,” ancient Saxon defences.

7. Mr & Mrs Gainsborough: At 31a Friars Street.

8. River Transport:

Once a bustling industrial hub, barges loaded with local bricks and wool departed from here for London. Today, it is home to the Quay Theatre and the River Stour Trust’s boat trips.

9. Dancing Bears: On the corner of Friars Street and Church Street.

Continued on page 30...

Famed artist Thomas Gainsborough lived here after his marriage in 1746. It was in the surrounding fields and woods that he developed his lifelong passion for landscape painting. On Quay Lane, by the River Stour.

A darker glimpse into Victorian entertainment, bears were once brought to the passages beside 54 Church Street to perform. The route now leads you toward the beautiful All Saints Church. 5 6 7 8 9 - 28 -

10. Amicia de Clare: On Ballingdon Bridge.

The 12th-century Amicia de Clare founded a local hospital and built the town’s first stone bridge. The modern 2003 bridge continues her legacy, linking the town to the Ballingdon area.

11. The Water Meadows: On the Common Lands (accessible via Mill Lane).

Grazed for 1,000 years, these meadows have never been ploughed. They remain a breathtaking haven for wildlife and served as the muse for many of Gainsborough’s masterpieces.

12. The Peasants’ Revolt: At St. Gregory’s Church, on Gregory Street.

Simon of Sudbury, Archbishop and Chancellor, was decapitated during the 1381 rebellion. If you’re feeling brave, his skull is still kept in the vestry of St Gregory’s today.

13. Simon’s of Sudbury: Churchyard.

In St. Gregory’s

Despite his fate, Simon was a great benefactor. He founded a college for priests here, and the original gateway still stands in the churchyard. The church itself dates back to the 10th century.

14. William Kemp’s Jig: Near the end of the trail (returning toward the town centre).

The trail ends with a laugh. In 1599, Shakespeare’s favorite clown, Will Kemp, morris-danced from London to Norwich. On day five, he jigged through Sudbury, joined by a local milkmaid!

Need a Map?

• Audio & Digital: Download the Go Jauntly app for a guided photo tour.

• Guided Walks: Join the monthly ‘Step into The Sudbury Story’ for a rare viewing of Simon of Sudbury’s head.

• For more info, visit: sudbury-tc.gov.uk/talbot-trail

We are a firm of Chartered Accountants here to help businesses and individuals with their accounting and tax needs. From accounts preparation and tax services to payroll, bookkeeping, and audit, we offer practical support you can rely on. 01787 374055

01787 880066

mail@mooregreen.co.uk

www.mooregreen.co.uk

22 Friars Street, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2AA

At Great Waldingfield CEVC Primary, we take pride in our welcoming, inclusive church school where each child is recognised as an individual. Through a foundation of Christian values and with Jesus’ promise of “life in all its fullness” at its heart, our ethos encourages open minds and kind hearts. Our culture equips children to accept challenges and inspires them to flourish in all that they do.

We’re an Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ school. Sport is a key priority to maximise our promise of ‘life in all its fullness’; in recognition of this, we achieved the Platinum Sports Award in 2023.

We also offer on-site wraparound care for your before- and after-school needs. We warmly welcome prospective parents to visit our school.

admin@greatwaldingfield.suffolk.sch.uk

Stay a while?

The Cartlodge, Sudbury

This light and airy home-from-home sleeps up to 3 guests across a king-size and single bedroom. An ideal retreat for couples/small families. Dog friendly. Featuring a stylish open-plan kitchen and living area, a private enclosed courtyard, and modern comforts incl. bathtub with overhead shower, private parking for 2 cars.

Ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of Sudbury? Discover our curated selection of accommodations, each promising a comfortable and memorable stay. Stay a while... and let the journey unfold!

The Mill Hotel, Sudbury

A beautifully converted watermill, The Mill Hotel offers 62 rooms blending rustic beams and meadow views with modern en-suites and free WiFi. Accommodations range from cosy singles to a luxury suite with a roll-top bath. Dog-friendly rooms & a pet-welcoming bar are available, though four-legged guests must be pre-booked!

Ballingdon Mill Retreat, Sudbury

Set in an 18th-century windmill base on the edge of Sudbury, this unique “off-grid” artist’s retreat is a cosy escape for couples or groups of up to 4. Located in the heart of Gainsborough Country, it offers a spacious, dog-friendly bolthole (extra fee applies) perfect for romantic stays or wedding guests.

Aspen Loft, Assington Green, nr. Sudbury

This vibrant rural hideaway offers a comfortable 2-bedroom retreat feat. a full kitchen, and washing machine. Guests can enjoy modern essentials like free WiFi and a TV, alongside an outdoor dining area with a BBQ and scenic garden views. Pet-friendly and wellequipped, it’s the perfect base for a relaxing countryside escape.

Glamping Pod, Henny Riverside Camping

This luxury glamping pod for 2 combines a secluded hillside location with premium comfort. Queen-size bed, wood-fired stove, private toilet, and fully equipped kitchen. Large French doors and private outdoor seating offer panoramic views of Great Henny, providing a cosy “home away from home”.

Belchamp Hall Hayloft, Sudbury

Set within the historic 17th-century Belchamp Hall estate, The Hayloft is a luxurious 1-bed conversion sleeping 2. This romantic retreat features original oak beams, a Super King suite, and openplan living with views over a historic walled garden. Enjoy a private sun terrace, shared tennis court, and miles of scenic estate walks.

Dog Friendly Sudbury...

Whether you’re a local or just visiting Sudbury with your four-legged companion, you’re in luck! Between riverside paths, water meadows, and woodland trails, there is no shortage of scenic spots to explore.

Exploring the Valley Trail

Sitting on the banks of the River Stour, Sudbury offers easy access to the Valley Trail. Starting from the Leisure Centre, you have two main routes:

• The Upper Path: A wide, firm, allweather path leading toward Brundon Mill through meadows and woodland.

• The Meadow Path: A scenic route through grassy fields and over small bridges where you can see grazing cattle.

Both routes connect to the Stour Valley Path and loop back at Brundon Mill.

Beyond the Town

The surrounding countryside offers even more variety:

• Melford Country Park: Just a few miles north, this nature reserve features lakes and grasslands perfect for a woodland stroll and a picnic.

• Dedham Vale: A short drive south-east brings you to this Natural Landscape, offering endless rambling trails for you and your dog.

Pet-Friendly Sudbury

Most local businesses, pubs, and cafés are dog-friendly, welcoming families and their pets. Many shops even keep a jar of treats behind the counter! If you’re unsure, a quick check with the staff before entering is always recommended.

Guidance for Dog Walkers

• Adhere to local restrictions to protect wildlife and livestock.

• Keep your dog under control and use a lead when requested.

• Always bag and bin waste.

• Bring fresh water for your dog on longer walks.

Local vets:

Mulberry Vets

Melford Road, CO10 1JU 01787 881888, mulberryvets.co.uk

Ardmore Vets

Cornard Road, CO10 2XB 01787 372588, ardmorevets.co.uk

Local Information & Contacts...

Council Services: There’s 3 tiers of local government serving Sudbury; Suffolk County Council, Babergh District Council & Sudbury Town Council. sudbury-tc.gov.uk/council-services

Sudbury Town Council Town Hall (Gaol Lane entrance), CO10 1TL. Monday-Thursday: 9:45am-4:30pm Friday: 9:45am-4pm. Saturday: 9am-2pm 01787 372331

info@sudbury-tc.gov.uk sudbury-tc.gov.uk

Babergh District Council

Customer Access Point at: Sudbury Library, Market Hill, CO10 2EN

Every Monday & Thursday: 9am-5pm 0300 1234000, babergh.gov.uk

Suffolk County Council

Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, IP1 2BX 0345 606 6067, suffolk.gov.uk

Boots Pharmacy

12-14 Market Hill, Sudbury, CO10 2EA 01787 372617

Citizens Advice

Keyse House, Acton Lane, Sudbury, CO10 1QN, 01787 321400 advice@sudburycab.org.uk

GoStart Community Transport

South Suffolk Business Centre, Alexander Road, Sudbury, CO10 2ZX 01787 242116, gostart.ct@gmail.com

Hardwicke House Surgery

Stour Street, Sudbury, CO10 2AY 01787 370011

MP for Sudbury (James Cartlidge) 020 7219 4875 james.cartlidge.mp@parliament.uk

North Street Pharmacy

80 North Street, Sudbury, CO10 1RF 01787 371232

Suffolk Police suffolk.police.uk

Sudbury Library

Market Hill, Sudbury, CO10 2EN 01787 321595, help@suffolklibrries.co.uk

Siam Surgery

Sudbury Community Health Centre, Church Field Road, Sudbury, CO10 2DZ 01787 322420

Sudbury Train Station Station Road, Sudbury, CO10 6SU greateranglia.co.uk

Sudbury Foodbank (Storehouse Foodbank)

Vineyard Centre, Tudor Road, Sudbury, CO10 1NP, 07884 179266 storehouse@stourvalleyvineyard.org stourvalleyvineyard.org/storehouse

Priory Gate
Image:
Sue Longhurst

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