Holidays near Long Melford in Suffolk

For many people over a certain age, the village of Long Melford in Suffolk  is known as the area where the Lovejoy series was filmed.  Lovejoy being a fictional antique dealer and loveable rascal.  And indeed, if you visit Long Melford today, you will find more  antiques shops than in most places, regular antique fairs and many connections with history and the arts.

The village itself is similar to many in Suffolk with houses of all ages and styles co-existing side by side; covering the whole spectrum from Medieval through to Victorian, Georgian and modern day.

Long Melford is a pleasant place to visit with a good variety of pubs, restaurants,  interesting  and original local shops, including an old-fashioned butcher.  There is even a pottery along the high street which is worth a browse. 

Pottery tucked away in the high street	Long Melford high street with shops

One thing about Suffolk which always contributes to making any visit successful is the slower pace of life and general courteousness of ordinary people.  And, there's always reams of history and tradition. The elegantly clipped hedges of a house with equestrian connections can be seen in the image below.  There's something very traditional and middle class English about formal hedging.  The same could possibly be said of antiques.  Personally, I think the British are obsessive about beautiful objects and ancient houses.  We would rather restore a crumbling ruin at great cost sooner than demolish and build from new.  Is it because we're sentimental and attach a historical importance and sense of romance to anything above a certain age?  

Elegantly clipped hedges	Kentwell Hall for Tudor re-enactments

Long Melford is blessed with two stately homes; Melford Hall which is cared for by the National Trust and moated Kentwell Hall, of Tudor re-enactment fame. These re-enactments enlist the assistance of armies of volunteers who recreate life at the manor, in villages and on a farm. They are highly recommended for an authentic 'step back in time' experience for people of any age.  Allow a whole day to enjoy the activities and interact with people in the Tudor age.  

Melford Hall is the second stately home in Long Melford.  Sir William Cordell  indirectly inherited the land and hall of Melford Manor following Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries.  He rebuilt  the hall and entertained Queen Elizabeth I in 1578. The panelled banqueting hall of the house is much as it was in the 17th century, and there is a good collection of fine furniture and Chinese porcelain on display.  

Beatrix Potter enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the house contains a Beatrix Potter room with a  collection of her paintings and memorabilia.  Beatrix Potter was  related to the family and a frequent visitor at the time.   A country fair is now held at Melford Hall in June each year.  There are also various art exhibitions and displays held throughout the year.   A 'Big Night Out' is advertised as the local 'happening' for the first Friday in November.  If you're planning to visit Long Melford, it would be advisable to check local events and to pay a visit to at least one of the stately homes. 

If you're exploring Long Melford then you will most probably come across the Church of the Holy Trinity. 

	The church of the Holy Trinity is said to be one of the finest in the area, built in the 'early and late perpendicular styles', although there are so many beautiful churches in Suffolk that it's difficult to decide.  It's walls show local flintwork and the skill of the stonemason.  The ancient graveyard makes for an intriguing walk.
The superb decoration on the tower and entrance
The church of the Holy Trinity contains more medieval stained glass windows than any other in Suffolk. so do go inside and take a peek. There is also a memorial to Sir William Cordell who rebuilt Melford Hall.
Opposite the church is an ancient hospital building of red brick.   It was originally founded as the Hospital of the Undivided Trinity for the poor by Sir William Cordell in 1573, then later redesigned and improved in 1847.  Amazingly, the building is still in use.
Set in the Stour Valley, Long Melford is close to Constable Country, medieval Lavenham and myriads of pretty Suffolk villages.  If you enjoy beautiful countryside, a good walk, and appreciate history and antiques, then Long Melford in Suffolk is the perfect destination for you. Find self-catering country cottages for your holiday or short break using the menu on the left.