Lavenham is a medieval village which found fortune in the wool trade and most of the buildings are from the 15th century. The Church of St. Peter and St Paul is beautiful inside and dominates the skyline, but it shows how wealthy this village was.
It is a very picturesque village as it is full of half-timber and thatched roof houses. It feels like you have gone back in time. The crooked house you see in the picture comes from the well known rhyme “there was a crooked man, who lived in a crooked house”.
It is a lovely drive down and a lovely place to go away to for the day or the weekend. I love just to go down there, have lunch at The Swan, browse the little shops and walk around.
This is a great last minute trip but booking ahead is advised at the Swan.
The Swan
The Swan is a great place to eat if you visit Lavenham. It is a 15th century Inn and has a great atmosphere. The food is really nice too.
It also has American ties. In the Old Bar, there are signatures and memorabilia from the 487th Bomb Group 8th AAF American servicemen which were stationed in Lavenham during WWII.
I always eat here when I visit Lavenham and the food is superb. It is in a very relaxing atmosphere. If you do bring your children here, I do suggest making sure that they are on their best behavior as it is a bit up market but I would suggest this in most restuarants anyways.
If you are out there, its worth taking a break and enjoying yourself.
The Guildhall
If you have the time, its worth popping into the Guildhall which is located in the market square. It has information about the history of Lavenham and its people.
Also "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" was written in Lavenham by Jane Taylor.
Little Hall
This is a well preserved timer house from the 14th century. It was then expanded in the 15th century. Great peak into the past of a house in this once prosperous village.