Aboutsuffolk Autumn 2025

about suffolk

Issue Sixteen

Look no further than aboutsuffolk, the local magazine that packs a Suffolk punch! Autumn 2025

Pickmeup and take me home!

our autumn issue of aboutsuffolk

The autumn issue of aboutsuffolk brings with it the feeling of misty mornings, bracing sea air, woodland wanderings and comforting supper dishes. We jump in a Land Rover to meet a herd of Herefords that have made a welcome return to Benacre estate, have a yarn with Mabel & Co about their beautiful handwoven blankets and are tempted to sink a pint or two over at The Chevallier Brewing Company. We also explore the stunning collection of luxury retreats at Restaries, turn the pages of a new children’s book set in Framlingham, and offer you the chance to win dinner at the wonderful Watson and Walpole.

As always, we have a round-up of the latest news, dates for your diary, inspiration for the home and garden, plus just a little sprinkling of Christmas sparkle. Now it’s over to you to embrace the shifting seasons, hunker down with a brew and enjoy the read.

Kathy & Sarah

Editorial

Kathy Churchill Sales

Sarah Clarke

Designer Lucy Hart

Silverlace Creative

aboutmedia info@aboutmedia.co.uk 01728 666352 www.aboutmedia.co.uk

lucy@silverlacecreative.co.uk www.silverlacecreative.co.uk

Images Safia Shakarchi, Emma Lavelle and Rebecca Hope about interiors page 24

Jannine Newman about design page 52 (image on page 54)

If you would like to sign up to the weekly aboutfram e-newsletter, please subscribe at www.aboutmedia.co.uk/aboutfram

out & about who’s about about style about you about interiors about town about time about the land about design about gardens about food about taste round & about

6 Shaggy dog story

We chat to Natalie and Stuart Compton about their charming children’s Christmas story about their three naughty dogs and a stolen string of sausages.

12 Out and about

A round up of local events.

15 Competition Time

Your chance to win a £250 dinner voucher for Watson & Walpole in Framlingham.

16 Fashion Fix

New styles for a new season.

20 Health & beauty

New treatments to turn back time, a retreat to make you smile, how to smell divine, and new nails for autumn.

24 Rest awhile longer

We take a visit to Restaries, a luxury retreat which effortlessly combines contemporary design with timeless character.

30 Get the look Chic ideas for restyling your home.

34 about town

What is popping up in Southwold this autumn, artwork that is set for liftoff, and a new campaign to combat loneliness that gets our stamp of approval.

36 Time to savour the season

Where to head for a surprising change of scene and to take inspiration in the written word, plus just a little sprinkling of Christmas sparkle.

42 Gifts galore

Our pick of seasonal gift ideas that might also help with filling a few stockings.

46 Herd it here first

We jump in the Land Rover to explore Benacre Estate and meet the herd of Hereford cattle that has made a welcome return.

52 Warp and weft

We have a yarn with James and Katie of Mabel & Co to find out what it takes to make one of their beautiful handwoven blankets.

58 Leaf it out

With leaves falling all around, this miniguide to leaf identification will help you work out which of our native trees they have come from.

64 Caskmasters

We raise a glass to The Chevallier Brewing Company that is bringing a fresh take to Suffolk’s traditional brewing tradition with its award-winning keg and cask ales.

70 about taste

We bring you globally inspired dishes and the finest Suffolk produce.

72 Beef Bourguignon

A comforting and hearty casserole to soothe the soul during the colder months.

74 The thick of it

A circular walk from Rendlesham Forest that loops back through the Staverton Thicks, a mystical, ancient woodland containing some of the oldest oaks in England.

79 Stockists

Where to buy all the lovely stuff!

out & about who’s about about style about you about interiors about town about time about the land about design about gardens about food about taste round & about

who’s about

Stuart and Natalie Compton have just published a children’s book, ‘Aggie, Pepper & Percy – Their Christmas Eve Adventure’, which tells the tale of their three naughty dogs and just happens to be set in Framlingham, which is where I meet them (and Pepper) to find out more about how this all came about.

A busy professional couple, Stuart works within cyber security and Natalie is a lawyer, neither of them have any previous experience in writing fiction - let alone a children’s book - so I was intrigued to discover when they had the idea and how, within just 12 months, it is now available to order via Amazon. Over coffee, they explain how last Christmas, whilst relaxing at home they came up with the idea of writing a story that would become a legacy to their three dogs. “We liked the idea of writing a story that captured their different characters and so we spent the

evenings brainstorming ideas and scribbling notes, and slowly the story started to emerge.” Set in Framlingham, it features their three dogs: Aggie, a mischievous Westiepoo with a talent for trouble; Percy, a spontaneous Bichon Frisé who always thinks about where his next meal is coming from; and Pepper, a gentle but easily influenced Yorkipoo.

The tale follows the antics of this lovable trio and what unfolds when, on Christmas Eve, they steal a string of sausages from the local butcher. They meet a handful of characters who’s about

who’s about

along the way, including Herbie the robin who helps them to understand the impact of their actions, and there is an underlying message of the importance of kindness running throughout the narrative. Once the framework of the story was established, Stuart and Natalie then set about finding an illustrator who could capture its warmth and humour. After a long search, they were lucky to come across Emma Valenghi, an experienced and talented illustrator who specialises in children’s books and whose charming drawings perfectly matched the tone of their story. “Emma is based in Yorkshire so for her to familiarise herself with the dogs and work on their character development we had lots of Teams calls –which as you can imagine, was quite chaotic at times! We also had to send her photos of the dogs out on their walks, at home on the

sofa, playing in the garden, waiting for their supper etc., but it was all worth it as Emma has definitely managed to bring Aggie’s cheekiness, Percy’s bouncy energy, and Pepper’s gentle eyes to life on the page.”

This was an important part of the process, as Stuart and Natalie really wanted Emma to capture each of the dogs’ unique mannerisms. “We would work on one page at a time. Emma would send us a vignette of the dogs in a particular scene and we would go back and forth with small adjustments until it felt right.” This perseverance and attention to detail have certainly paid off as the result is a series of enchanting illustrations that give the story its heart and visual magic. Next came the challenge of publishing. With no prior knowledge of the book industry, Stuart and Natalie spent weeks researching self-

publishing options, learning about formatting, ISBNs, and the world of Amazon listings, and contacting as many publishing houses as they could find. It was a steep learning curve, filled with late nights and plenty of trial and error, and so when, in July, Troubador

Publishing replied saying they loved the extract they had been sent and would be happy to publish, Stuart and Natalie were overjoyed and also slightly amazed.

The book is aimed at 5-7 year olds and is being printed as a lovely glossy hardback that Natalie and Stuart hope will grace the bookcases of families for years to come. “We set out to write a story that was a fitting tribute to Aggie, Percy and Pepper. A touching tale about friendship but with the message that kindness, honesty and forgiveness are the true gifts of Christmas,

who’s about

and we really hope that it will become a bedtime favourite - or a Christmas story that families read together every year.” This unexpected literary journey has been one of hard work and determination, but now that pre-orders have already started coming in, Natalie and Stuart should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. They do say that everyone has at least one book in them, but with talk of a second adventure, this time set in Brighton, already being mapped out, I don’t think this is the last we’ve seen of this adorable trio.

‘Aggie, Pepper & Percy – Their Christmas Eve Adventure’ is available to pre-order via Amazon and Waterstones. You can also follow them on Instagram @aggiepepperpercy.

November Events

Friday 14th 7-9pm An evening with stylist/fashion writer Alexandra Fullerton to launch her ‘Ultimate Guide Series’ - book signing, drinks & nibbles.

Wednesday 19th 7:30-8:30pm Monthly Book Club

Join us for an evening of discussions all overseen by journalist Catherine Larner.

Friday 21st 7-9pm ‘Poetry Please’ Join us for an evening of nibbles, wine and a spin on the poetry fruit machine.

Thursday 27th 7:30pm An invitation to discover the Independent British Book Publisher Fitzcarraldo Editions.

For more information or to book your place at any of our events visit our website or enquire in the shop. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Monday-Saturday 9:30-4:30pm 10a Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN www.ottieandthebea.com

November:

1st: Liturina Baroque Ensemble Blending period instruments with innovative programming. Chapel Hall Arts, Fressingfield

1st-2nd: Slow Living Market

A lovely selection of beautiful artisan and craft items from independent makers. Orford Town Hall

7th: Sonic Wave

Cinematic music with a rare performance from film composer David Julyan reworking his Memento soundtrack. The Cut, Halesworth

8th: The Hound of the Baskervilles A one man stage. Expect an atmospheric drama at its very best with this superb Victorian gothic thriller! Wingfield Barns

9th: Sing for Victory - A Wartime Songbook The Vibettes pay homage to the songs and sweethearts of the wartime years. Seagull Theatre, Lowestoft

12th: The Woolf String Quartet

Formed at the Royal Academy of Music, four young creatives deliver a vibrant and nuanced chamber music performance. St Michael’s Church Framlingham

14th: Dark Fairy Tales

Master storyteller Viktor Wynd and his merry band, The Blackshore Collective, tell spooky and eerie fairy tales set to original live music. New Street Market

14th-19th Dec: Illuminated

Garden Trail Wander through the historic gardens of Helmingham Hall, transformed by a spectacular display of light, colour, and sound.

15th: Christmas Market

Festive shopping events with lots of stalls. Free entry. High Lodge

18th: FLOOK

Brilliant, dynamic and inventive, this folk band delivers technical brilliance and bold adventurous imagination. Wingfield Barns

21st: Abbey Hall Christmas Fair

A wonderful gathering of artisans for this festive fair. Abbey Hall, Eye

22nd : Christmas Craft Fair

Christmas crafts, fine Suffolk food and artisan produce. Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall

22nd: Christmas Gift Fair

A festive fair with over 30 stalls held at Aldeburgh Yacht Club

22nd: Aurora Orchestra

Performance of Mendelssohn’s “Italian” Symphony alongside Prokofiev’s Second Violin Concerto, featuring violin superstar Chloë Hanslip. Snape Maltings

23rd: Christmas Market

Local makers and artisans come together at Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve. 11am-3pm

23rd: Five Children and It

An imaginative take of E.Nesbitt’s timeless classic. Perfect for all the family. Seckford Theatre

27th-10thJan: Treasure Island

Join Eastern Angles on tour for Treasure Island, a voyage to the lost town of Dunwich!

29th: Daisy Chute and Ed Blunt

A special Christmas Show by these accomplished singersongwriters. Pakenham Church

December:

2nd-4th Jan: Alice in Wonderland

Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and experience the whacky world of Wonderland. Red Rose Chain Theatre

4th-10th: The Connection Project 8 photographers, 8 personal stories of connection with Suffolk’s natural world. Art Space, Woodbridge

5th-14th: Magic of Christmas

The Coop Juniors bring a spectacular new dance show bursting with energy and a generous sprinkling of festive magic. Snape Maltings

6th-7th: Christmas Market

Over 22 festive stalls, woodfired pizzas, mulled wine, tea and cakes and Christmas carols. Wingfield Barns

10th-18th Jan:

January:

Sherlock Holmes Smells Evil! Dark deeds at Queasy Pines Sanatorium as Holmes and Watson risk more than their health. Common Ground Theatre Company

13th-14th: Christmas Grotto

Take all the family to enjoy all the festivities at The Suffolk Punch Trust

14th: Discover Minsmere in Winter Enjoy a guided walk around Minsmere’s beautiful and varied habitats.

19th: The Furrow Collective

Wonder-filled story songs, spine-tingling harmonies and masterful storytelling. Part of FolkEast. Blaxhall Village Hall

19th-30th: Thumbelina

Expect water pistols, tumbles, and custard pies in this fun, family show. Seckford Theatre

21st: The Snowman

The Snowman with live musicmaking in Snape Maltings Concert Hall.

9th: Margaret Catchpole: fact or fiction Guided tour around Ipswich to uncover this local legend. Run by Suffolk Archives.

10th: Mike “Squeaky” McClean Imagine Derren Brown… but funnier, cheaper, and slightly less psychic. Regent Theatre, Ipswich

16th: Ellie Gowers

Ellie explores folklore and stories of her hometown, Warwick. Run by FolkEast. Blaxhall Village Hall

22nd: NTL Hamlet

A live screening of this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. The Hold, Ipswich

31st: Professor Brian Cox

An intimate evening where you get exclusive access to his latest live show. Ipswich Corn Exchange

Competition!

Win a £250 Dinner Voucher for Watson and Walpole

For six years Watson and Walpole, a stylish neighbourhood restaurant in Framlingham, has been delighting local customers with its authentic Italian food. Rob Walpole, head chef and co-director, makes superb pasta in the dedicated pasta room every day, and the wood-oven also plays a key part in the cooking.

Seasons are respected and local produce is used as often as possible — olives are yet to grow in Suffolk. Favourite dishes include burrata with wood-roasted grapes and hazelnuts, beef fillet carpaccio, agnolotti alla Gricia, gnocchi with Byzantine crab salsa, pappardelle with beef shin ragù and scallops with delica passata and ‘nduja — not to mention the most glorious boozy tiramisu spooned out at the table.

Just as importantly, the service is friendly, informed and professional. The point of a restaurant is for guests to eat good food, yes, but also to relax and thoroughly enjoy themselves. watsonandwalpole.com

For a chance to win dinner for four up to the value of £250, please answer the following question correctly:

Which dairy product should never be part of a carbonara or risotto?

Send your answer to prize@ aboutfram.com quoting

and Walpole in the subject header.

The competition closes at 23.59 on 31 December 2025

Fashion fix

@ O&C Butcher

£120

Oui @ Darcy B

£145

9.

Pairs

£18

10.

Redback @ Ernest Doe

£119.95

11.

Lunar

£55

Timothy

@ The Worn Works

£95 (pre-worn)

£90

We’re pumped!

Sisters, Victoria and Alexandra have recently taken over No10 Market Hill in Framlingham, rebranding the beauty salon as No10 Beauty and Aesthetics. As well as the usual range of services, one of the exciting new treatments they are offering is Polynucleotide Injectable Treatment. Polynucleotides are bio-stimulating injectable gels derived from fragments of Salmon DNA that work on a cellular level to repair, rejuvenate, and regenerate the skin by stimulating fibroblasts - the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. This treatment is particularly effective for reducing dark circles, fines lines and crepey skin around the eyes, tightening the face, neck and décolletage, and supporting scalp health and hair growth.

The main benefits are:

• Deep Hydration • Skin Regeneration by encouraging natural cell turnover • Improved Elasticity • Reduction of Fine Lines & Wrinkles

• Brightening Effect • Healing Support by aiding recovery after laser, microneedling or other aesthetic procedures

It’s all about Mii

Embrace the cooler months with the fabulous new autumn/winter nail colours from Mii. Featuring rich autumn tones and winterready hues, from deep, dramatic shades to soft, shimmering finishes, these seasonal polishes are perfect for cosy autumn days or festive winter nights. Available from Angels Beauty Clinic in Saxmundham, they’ll add warmth, elegance, and long-lasting shine to every manicure. To book, visit www.angels-beauty-clinic.co.uk

Treatments are usually performed as a course of 2-4 sessions, spaced 2–3 weeks apart, and another huge benefit is that there is minimal downtime.

Follow on Instagram @no10beautyandaesthetics

Be happy!

Tired of self-help courses, endless meditation, and wellness “shoulds” that leave you feeling stuck?

The Happy Movement Retreat in Suffolk is different. It’s about reconnecting with your inner child and healing through play.

Jessie Eloise has developed a unique method that blends yoga, qigong and theatreinspired practices, with play at the heart of every experience.

During days 1–2 you’ll reconnect with your playful, curious self, while days 3–4 focus on bringing that joy and lightness into your everyday adult life.

There are two retreats a year: 27-30th November and 9-12th April 2026.

Roll on!

Book today for a retreat that will reignite your joy, clear your mind, and create real, lasting change, once and for all!

Visit: www.the-happy-movement.com/ happy-movement-retreat for more details, or email jessie@jessie-eloise-yoga.com to book.

New to fashion boutique Anna in Woodbridge, Rollr is an anti-odorant and a de-perspirant with a refillable roll-on system that pairs skin-friendly science with sustainable luxury. Powered by natural ingredients and enriched with organic botanicals, it blends high-performance odour control with a cooling roller and elegant glass design.

First choose your gemstone rollerball; either rose quartz, green aventurine or blue dumortierite, and then your scent – Vetiver and Lemon, Mandarin and Cedarwood or Clary sage and Rosemary. These come as a powder which you add to the glass bottle, then just top up with water and shake. Each sachet lasts 3-4 months so you can swap scents depending on your mood or the seasons, every time you need to re-fill.

www.shopannastore.com

about interiors

Rest awhile longer

Two years ago, Thom and Gem left the fast-paced rhythm of their London lives behind, buying a 16th century farmhouse with a range of outbuildings that they have transformed into Restaries, a collection of luxurious retreats where guests are invited to escape, relax and restore.

Paradise Farm is located just north of Halesworth, and it was the first property that Thom and Gem looked at when they were searching for the starting point of a new chapter, and as it turned out, the one that stole their hearts. Both had built successful careers in fashion, marketing and PR, and initially the idea was for Thom to commute whilst Gem, busy with a newborn and a toddler, was to convert the Gate House into an annexe for their parents. However, as they settled into Suffolk and adjusted to the slower pace of rural living, an idea started to form.

“We had fallen in love with Suffolk and knew

that we could create something very special here: an unforgettable space where people could come to escape the busy schedules, deadlines and back-to-back meetings; a place to really rest and switch off.”

The farm had once been used for cider production and the outbuildings were just perfect for conversion into guest suites and beautiful wellbeing areas. They began the work in May 2024, slowly transforming the disued apple stores and stables into lightfilled sanctuaries, where rustic charm now meets understated luxury. Each space has

about interiors

been designed with extraordinary attention to detail: muted Farrow & Ball tones shift gently in the autumn sunshine; beds are dressed in soft linens with rich upholstered headboards; and bathrooms hide deep Japanese soaking baths. There are shelves lined with novels, soft throws folded over armchairs, and boxes of vintage toys for children to play with. Each space is designerled with shaker-style handmade kitchens, complete with Grind coffee makers and top-of-the range cookware from Our Place. Bespoke sofas invite you to enjoy lazy afternoons and long conversations, and artisan textiles and abstract artwork sit alongside a carefully curated mix of contemporary and vintage pieces. The interiors speak of calm - earthy, tactile and beautifully balanced - creating an aesthetic that is authentic and timeless.

Thom and Gem did much of the work themselves but collaborated with friends Design and That on the interiors and work with well-known brands that align with their own values and vision for the perfect stay. “We also love to support local businessesnobody leaves here without visiting Pinch for a coffee and cruller! - and our welcome hamper is stocked with treats from Black Dog Deli and Fen Farm. The stoneware crockery is made by Sophia Mcevoy, a ceramicist from Saxmundham, and we regularly have Southwold Flower Company here to run workshops.” They also offer a private dining experience, giving guests the option to enjoy dinner alone or to come together for a shared experience, with supper being laid out on the terrace or tucked away in the woods, the table lit by candles and strings of fairy lights. Guests also get to meet the small gang of

animals who live at Paradise and are part of the family. Pygmy goats, chickens, alpacas, Valais Black Nose Sheep and Kune Kune pigs roam the paddocks, and meeting them is a highlight for many, but especially the children who love wake to up to see the goats peering into the kitchen! “There’s something incredibly grounding about caring for animals,” Thom says. “You can’t rush them. They remind you to slow down… and they always make you smile.”

There are five suites in total, offering a choice of one, two and three-bedrooms, and beyond the buildings, the grounds cover 12 acres of wildflower meadows and woodland that Thom and Gem are gently allowing to roll back to nature. There are also plans to rejuvenate the neglected walled vegetable garden and homegrown produce will be on

the menu next summer. Guests can wander freely to find a secluded spot to read a book or unroll a yoga mat, and on warm days, the swimming pool becomes the heart of the place, whilst on chillier nights the glow of the fire pit proves irresistible, people appearing out of the darkness like moths to a candle.

What began as an escape has turned into a way of life for Thom, Gem and their two girls, and it is down to their hard work, warmth, unbounding energy and dedication to making moments of magic happen, that Restaries is fast-becoming one of the top places to stay in Suffolk. It truly is remarkable. A calming, restful retreat where you instantly feel at home - a place to breathe again.

www.restaries.com

7. Harvest hand-carved candlesticks

Alex Walshaw @ The Merchant’s Table £180

8. Samphire blanket Mabel & Co From £240

9. Interior inspiration Pippa Murphy

10. Porcelain ceramics

Sophie Cook From £165

11. Antique treasures Yoxford Antiques

12. Blue and white china Green Door Antiques

Take a look at www.oldjet.gallery about town

Artworks lift-off

Exciting news! The Old Jet Gallery has just been updated with over ninety new works from a selection of established artists. The online gallery was set up last year as part of Old Jet’s innovative Airspace programme, which was created with the aim of supporting the next generation of visual artists in East Anglia and to help breakdown barriers to professional careers in the arts.

The new artwork now available online includes:

Limited Edition photographic prints by Thom Pierce

*Poster-style prints by Brie Harrison *Pen works by Adam Riches *Ink drawings by Gracie Hailstone

*Oil paintings by Jennifer Pitchers

*Oil works by Jelly Green

*Photographic works by Mel Perkins

Sales commission from Old Jet Gallery art purchases will directly fund crucial aspects of artist development, including studio space, mentoring, and industry contacts.

Seaside pop-up

Making a return visit to Southwold this autumn is a fabulous pop-up shop showcasing local independents Gallery Thea, Brie Harrison, Pocket Kids, Constance & Denny, and Focus Organic. Beautifully curated, you can expect a wide array of gifts including hand-made cards, prints, ceramics and textiles, as well as sustainably sourced presents for children and a range of homeware. Find them at 37 High Street –open daily until 1st January. Southwold is definitely a great place to head to for lots of lovely unique gifts this Christmas!

Feeling Lucky?

We are thrilled to announce the opening of Oh Lucky, a brand new independent store just off the Market Place in Southwold. After testing the water with a pop-up in Southwold last year, Jo and Jon Esson knew it was the perfect seaside town for the location of their second shop.

Jo has been creating gorgeous prints, gifts and homewares for over 10 years with her successful business Lucky Lobster Art, and these will form the main focus of the shop, alongside brightly designed cards and gifts from other British designers and makers.

Pop by and pick out something fun and colourful to brighten your world. Follow on Instagram @ohluckygifts and @luckylobsterart.

Answers on a postcard

People living across Norfolk and Suffolk are being encouraged to get involved in a new project which has been set up by The Recovery College to help combat loneliness and stay connected with others over the winter months. The Winter

Connections Challenge is asking people to design a postcard and then post it to someone they know who may feel isolated or lonely at this time of year.

Recovery College Manager, Ash Moorcroft, explains, “By sending a postcard, not only will we brighten someone’s day when it lands on their doormat, but it lets them know we are thinking of them. A postcard feels different to a text message, it doesn’t demand an answer, but it might be enough to spark a connection and give someone the opportunity to reach out if they need support.”

The blank postcards can be ordered by emailing the team at recoveryonline@nsft.nhs. uk. A £50 gift card is also being offered for the most inspirational design, so if you are proud of your artistic talent, email a photo of your design to recoveryonline@ nsft.nhs.uk by 31 December 2025.

about time

About time to savour the season

As the autumn sets in, there’s a gentle sense of the year winding down, and although our minds are drawn to planning the Christmas season, now is the perfect moment to reset, slow down and savour Suffolk at its most peaceful. Think misty woodland walks, a dose of bracing sea air followed by a pint and bowl of mussels, or a stroll along your local high street, quieter now that the tourists have gone, finished with tea and cake in a cosy tearoom. It is also a great time to pull up a chair at the kitchen table: making preserves to sit alongside the Christmas cold cuts, cooking with local game, or turning to seasonal crafts. Wherever autumn takes you, enjoy it with gusto!

time to get out & about

Head to RSPB Minsmere for migrating birds and the end of the red deer rutting season - a spectacular sight unique to this time of year - before warming up by the fire at the pub!

Embrace the outdoors Scandinavianstyle with a wood-fired sauna session. Try out the brand new Hidden Sauna at Be Well Barn - a delightful hot cold therapy experience in a secluded green space with the views overlooking peaceful countryside.

With Suffolk’s wide skies and low light pollution, autumn is perfect for spotting constellations - Westleton Common or Orford Ness are great spots - or for something special, visit Orwell Park Observatory, a Victorian gem where you can peer through one of the UK’s largest refracting telescopes.

Join a local expert to hunt for edible mushrooms then turn your finds into an autumn feast.

Hire an e-bike and set off through the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, or along the coastal lanes to the sea, without breaking too much of a sweat.

time for the written word

There’s never a better time to start a good book than when the nights draw in, especially if by an open fire. For inspiration, why not visit some of the many independent bookshops dotted throughout the area? Dial Lane Books, Ipswich’s only independent bookshop, is right in the town centre, offering a wide range of titles, including some hidden gems you didn’t even know existed. Woodbridge Books is a much-loved spot, perfect for browsing new releases or uncovering a favourite find. And for the younger generation, Ottie & the Bea in Framlingham has a broad selection of fiction for all ages, from tiny tots to teenagers, as well as regular events for adults.

Now’s the perfect moment to set pen to paper and draw up your Christmas lists. Rather than scribbling on scraps of paper, savour the task with a beautifully designed notepad. There are plenty to choose from - pop into one of the area’s many independent shops where makers, artists, and local businesses are beautifully showcased. Try Thrive in Felixstowe and Helmingham Hall, Converge in Framlingham, Market Place Artisan Store in Halesworth, or Huus, also in Halesworth, and in Southwold. Don’t forget Snape Maltings, and as featured in this issue, Mabel & Co in Orford. Wherever you choose, you’ll be sure to come away with more than just a notepad!

time to Sparkle!

As winter closes in, Suffolk comes alive with light and sparkle. From historic houses and gardens illuminated against the night sky, to twinkling villages, and the glow of candlelit concerts, this season is about atmosphere as much as tradition.

Lights!

Queen of the sparkle has to be the Illuminated Trail around the historic garden at Helmingham Hall, as it transforms into a spectacular display of light, colour, and sound. Step across the historic drawbridge, through glowing walkways, pausing at flickering fire pits for toasted marshmallows. Enjoy festive street food and drink, browse for unique gifts in the Stable Shops, and warm up with a complimentary mulled wine. www.helmingham.com

Step foot into a new light trail located in Christchurch Park in Ipswich. Illuminate will be transforming all aspects of the park into a winter spectacle which will take you on a magical journey through the grounds of the park like you’ve never seen them before, a mulled wine in hand. www.illuminate-ipswich.co.uk

Camera!

Tickets are selling fast for the Christmas Movie Soundtrack Candlelit Concert at St Peter’s Church by the Waterfront in Ipswich on December 19th. With hits such as ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ from Love Actually and ‘Believe’ from The Polar Express, this is one for all the family! www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com

Action!

Experience the magic of the season at the East Anglia Transport Museum’s Ride the Lights event, a festive celebration of vintage transport and holiday cheer. Held on select weekends in December, this event offers a unique opportunity to enjoy tram, trolleybus and train rides to a sparkly backdrop. Follow up with a visit to East Point Pavilion for some warming fare and a spectacular seaview from the most easterly point in the British Isles! www.eatm.co.uk/events

The Suffolk Tractor Light Parade is an annual event that brings festive cheer to the rural communities of East Suffolk. On Sunday, 14th December, it starts out at 4:30pm from Campsea Ashe Auction House, weaving through Wickham Market, Melton, Woodbridge, Eyke, Rendlesham and Tunstall. Proceeds from the parade benefit local charities - free parking is available at Clarke & Simpson Auction House. Find them on Facebook/ The Suffolk Tractor Light Parade

Gift emporium

£130

£115

£34

8. Sponsor an animal @ Jimmy’s Farm From £35

9. Master bunny Sally Nencini @ Pocket £40

10. Organic extra virgin olive oil Racalia @ Essen Deli

11. Gifts galore Ruby Tyger Clips £5.50 / Fluffy socks £9.95

12. Masterclass casserole Woodbridge Kitchen Company £64.99

13. Always Remember Charlie Mackesy @ Woodbridge Books £20.90

14. Bright pink scarf Black Colour @ Loveone £40

15. Greeting card Brie Harrison £3

Benacre Estate was once home to an award-winning herd of Redpoll, so it is wonderful that Victoria Vere Nicoll , who only returned recently to help run the family business, is now overseeing the return of cattle to this ancient parkland by introducing her own herd of Herefords.

The estate has been in the Gooch family since the 1700s, and it was Victoria’s grandfather who was well-known and respected for his champion Redpolls, which were a familiar sight on the farm, often seen grazing alongside his Suffolk sheep and majestic Suffolk Punches – collectively known as the Suffolk Trinity. However, for over forty five years the farm had seen an absence of livestock, and it was only when Victoria’s father passed away and she and her sister Lucinda made the decision to return to Suffolk to help their mother, Lady Gooch, to run the estate, that cattle have made a welcome return. It was a big lifestyle change for both sisters as, apart from their love and

respect for the family home, they had no practical knowledge about running a farm, let alone managing such a large estate.

Located between Lowestoft and Southwold, Benacre covers over 7000 acres that stretch from salt-tinged marshes along the coast, across woodland to ancient pasture and heathland, and is also home to an important nature reserve that is recognised as being one of the finest wildlife sites in Britain. When Victoria returned home to Suffolk, she hadn’t planned on becoming a cattle farmer, but, with Lucinda happy to take on more of a managerial role, she soon discovered a love for being

On the day I visit, we meet in the boardroom, where photos of previous champions and black and white photos of the farm decorate the walls, so it is not until we leave the formalities behind and head to the stockyard that I see this carefully balanced dynamic emerge. Victoria’s passion is evident, and when Dobby, one of the calves who needs bottle feeding trots over, Robert smiles and about the land

outside and for getting stuck into the practical side of farming. After so many years of intensive arable farming it was decided to reintroduce cattle to put some much needed nutrients and fertility back into the soil and add some diversity to the farm.

Although Benacre has long been associated with Redpoll cattle, they can be flighty and skittish, so they opted for Herefords due to their calm temperament, adaptability, and reputation for producing top-quality beef. Victoria oversaw the initial formation of the herd, but it wasn’t until they employed Robert Clarke as stockman in 2022 that she threw herself wholeheartedly into learning about their care, breeding and management. Robert has worked with livestock all his life and brought with him an encyclopaedic knowledge of animal husbandry, calving, and

the nuances of breeding for both temperament and quality. From the very beginning, their working relationship was built on mutual respect: Victoria’s enthusiasm and willingness to learn perfectly balanced with Robert’s quiet expertise and practical wisdom, and although she is technically his boss, when it comes to the cattle, Victoria is very happy to take direction and do as she is told – knowledge far outweighing any sense of hierarchy.

rolls his eyes, explaining that so far Victoria has four favourites - the Fab Four - that are to live out their lives on the estate, and looking at her affectionately scratching Dobby’s curly head I do wonder if this will soon become the Fab Five!

We jump into Rob’s truck and drive out across the parkland, past swathes of woodland and ancient oaks, until we spot the herd down by the water tower. As soon as they see the vehicle they trot over to investigate, and once we are on foot they really are quite impressive. The cattle live out all year, their diet supplemented by fodder beet that is grown on the farm, and are brought on slowly to make the highest quality beef. The cows calve once a year and currently have three stock bulls to help improve and strengthen the bloodlines. In another meadow, mothers and their newly

born calves watch us approach and Rob reassures me that it is fine to walk in. Luckily their reputation is upheld and these gentle giants just calmly carry on grazing, although I do notice that they keep one wary eye on us.

At the Suffolk Show this year, Victoria and Robert’s hard work was recognised with an impressive fluttering of rosettes, the herd bringing home three firsts: male champion and breed champion, female champion and reserve breed. These accolades are important for the reputation of the Benacre Herefords, but it is evident that for both Victoria and Robert, it is more the quiet pride of watching healthy calves in the autumn sunshine that gives them the most pleasure, and I am sure they wouldn’t trade a single early morning for anything else.

Follow on Instagram @benacre_herefords_1

about design

Warp and weft

James and Katie are the owners of Mabel & Co, a designer maker studio that focuses on traditional craft practices including letterpress printing, pottery and weaving. I visit their workshop at Sudbourne Park to pick up the threads of the story behind their beautiful handwoven woollen blankets.

It is a story worth telling as it has taken almost ten years to come to fruition and in that time, James and Katie have had to master the complexities and nuances of restoring an original Harris Tweed weaving loom and teach themselves the art and science of weaving. Working with traditional crafts, James had been saddened about the negative environmental impact of the textile industry and wanted to try and have a positive response to this by learning to make high quality blankets that were handcrafted and sustainable. The origins of tweed can be traced back centuries, and Harris Tweed is a

cloth handwoven specifically by the islanders of the Scottish Outer Hebrides, so it seemed fitting that when James discovered a loom for sale, it was located on the northernmost tip of the Isle of Lewis!

“It was the autumn of 2016, and we drove up with the Land Rover and trailer to get it. We didn’t really know what state it was going to be in. It belonged to a crofter but had been abandoned in an open barn for years. Our hearts sank when we took off the seed sacks and we could see that it had suffered from being exposed to the sea air, but having

about design

driven 800 miles to get it, we really didn’t want to leave empty handed.” Dating back to 1890, it is an original Hattersley Domestic weaving loom that is treadle powered so does not require electricity, and it would have been used by crofters in their remote cottages to produce handwoven cloth. This connection to centuries of weaving tradition and the possibility of creating something lasting and beautiful was their motivation, but even so, the restoration process took several years, James and Katie having to search for missing parts or painstakingly work out how to make new ones.

For some years, although now in full working order, the loom sat quietly in the corner of the studio. “The letterpress printing took off, and during Covid we opened a temporary shop in Thorpeness, so were kept busy with that, and it wasn’t until 2022, when I joined

the business full time, that we turned our attention back to the loom and set about finally tying to crack it,” explains Katie. The process itself is slow, meditative and complex. It takes four days to prepare the loom and for a double blanket 54 bobbins of weft thread need to be wound. The footpowered treadles raise and lower specific shafts that hold the thread, which need to be sequenced to produce a particular pattern. “We work the treadles and then the shuttle passes the weft thread through this gap in the warp, called the shed.” James jumps into the driving seat to give me a demonstration and suddenly the workshop comes alive with the rhythmic clatter of the loom, the shuttle containing the weft thread banging back and forth at an alarming speed.

Every blanket is woven using Yorkshire spun undyed yarn from British rare breeds, chosen

for their unique character, softness and natural hues. The result is textiles that feel alive - warm, weighty, and deeply connected to the land from which they come. Their unique designs are inspired by the Suffolk landscape: Samphire resembling the stalks of this coastal plant; Bird Migration which takes the shape of birds in the sky; Shingle, with its muted tones and subtle shifting textures that mirror the pebbled beaches; and Coastal Road, a bolder design that echoes the strength and directness of the ancient Roman road leading to Dunwich. These names are more than labels - they are memories woven into wool, each blanket telling a story of place and season.

Today, James and Katie are among the UK’s few truly independent blanket makers. Working entirely by hand means they can only produce about 100 blankets a year, but

each one is a masterpiece of texture, colour and patience. They are sold from their Seed Store shop on Sudbourne Park, and are also released as seasonal drops online – the next one will be in time for Christmas, with the release of just twelve blankets. In an age of mass production and disposable textiles, these blankets really do stand as quiet testaments to craftsmanship, sustainability, and James and Katie’s dedication to finding a way of threading their passion and pioneering spirit into every single one.

Mabel & Co will be at The Slow Living Fair, Orford 1st-2nd November and Sudbourne Open Studios 29th November to 21st December.

www.mabeland.co

Catching a leaf for luck whilst out on an autumn walk is irresistible, whatever your age - that zigzag run with hands out-stretched in the hope it will flutter within your grasp, and the triumph when it does! At this time of year, they are displaying their most striking colours and shapes and so, if you want to turn this game into a lesson, pay attention to leaf form, colour and arrangement and see if you can recognise some of our native species.

Ash: These are made up of 7-13 smaller leaflets arranged opposite each other along a central stalk. They often turn a pale yellow before dropping early in the season.

Willow: Long and narrow with finely serrated edges. In autumn, they often take on soft yellow or silvery tones, especially along riverbanks and wet ground.

Alder: Rounded leaves with a slight notch at the tip and serrated edges. They remain green longer than many other species before turning a dull yellow. Often found near water.

Beech: Oval leaves with wavy edges and a glossy surface. In autumn they transform into a rich copper or russet colour.

Hawthorn: Small, deeply lobed leaves turning yellow before the red berries—haws—stand out vividly against the branches.

Elm: Leaves are rough to the touch, with a distinctive asymmetrical base and serrated edges.

Maple and sycamore: Distinctive hand-shaped leaves. Field maple leaves are smaller and turn a clear golden yellow, while sycamore leaves are larger, with five broad lobes, and often display dramatic yellow or reddish-orange hues.

We are blessed in Suffolk with a rich autumnal landscape, and right now our native trees are putting on a wonderful display. Why not get out and enjoy the show and see how many leaves you can identify – if you can catch them first.

Seasons slow

November is the month to get the garden shipshape and prepare it for winter. Clear borders of faded annuals, cut back perennials and remove weeds before the seed drops. Rake fallen leaves from lawns, paths and ponds, and add to the compost heap for future mulch. Trim the hedges, and if you have gaps, now is a good time to plant bare-root hedging – Dog Rose is a lovely addition as it is hardy and quick-growing, with pretty, scented pink flowers in the summer and small red hips in the autumn. After such a warm autumn, the rush is now on to plant your spring bulbs before the weather turns. Be generous and plant in drifts for sweeping banks of colour, come the spring.

The chill of winter creeps in with December, so keep warm by digging over beds and preparing the soil for next year’s planting. Climbing roses, wisteria and overgrown shrubs will all benefit from a prune to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth, and check tree stakes and ties

to protect against damage from windy weather. Enjoy making festive decorations from evergreens such as holly and ivy and keep an eye out for old man’s beard that is often found twisted through hedgerows – its fluffy seedheads can be wound into the most delightful Christmas wreaths.

January… and the garden sleeps. Now is the time to turn your attention to the tools of your trade. Give them a good clean, oil wooden handles, sharpen blades and have your lawnmower serviced. If you have a greenhouse, wash it out with a mild disinfectant to prevent disease, and clear out old seed trays and any broken pots. Bring a little colour to the doorstep with pots of cyclamen and viola, and savour the moment your first snowdrops push through to welcome the start of a new gardening year. There is much to look forward to, so take this moment to pause and reflect on the year gone by and indulge in new seed catalogues and make plans for the busy months ahead.

November

Rake leaves

Plant spring bulbs

Tidy borders

December

Hang birdfeeders

Prune climbing roses

Tie in climbers

January

Mulch borders

Sharpen tools

Put up nest boxes

Henry and Barry Chevallier, whose surname is synonymous with Suffolk’s rich agricultural heritage, are best known for successfully building and later selling Aspall Cyder. Now, they have turned their attention from apples to barley, joining forces with skilled brewer Marc Medland to set up The Chevallier Brewing Company.

Barry and Henry’s connection to brewing dates back to their four times great grandfather, the Reverend John Chevallier, who is believed to have been the first person to propagate barley in the early 1800s, pioneering the Chevallier barley strain, a variety that went on to revolutionise malting in the 19th century and is still used to this day. For Henry and Barry, this new enterprise is both a continuation of their family story and also a fresh chapter in Suffolk’s long brewing tradition, and the new company blends

their experience in quality and brand building with Marc’s contemporary brewing expertise – he originally set up Bruha Brewery and has earned a reputation as one of the most skilled and adept brewers in the region.

The new brewery is based just outside Eye, and I meet Henry there for a tour. It is very state-of-the-art, with huge stainless steel vats that have the capacity to hold half a million litres, and the brewing process is now highly technical; every step being

controlled and monitored to ensure they produce the perfect pint. There is real innovation at play here, yet also craftsmanship and intuition, and the beers are all of the highest quality with fresh, well-balanced flavours that have already earned them two gold medals at the recent World Beer Awards, winning Best in Country for their Cornwallis Eye PA and their Czech-style Pressburger Pils.

Chevallier Brewing produces both cask and keg ales, the former being harder to master as it undergoes a secondary fermentation in order to bring out the complexities of the flavours. They really show off the skill of the brewer who needs to master the nuances of the process and exercise great precision when reintroducing the sugar and yeast. The brewery produces three cask ales:

Cupshot Bitter, a light contemporary bitter; Niksun Pale, a session pale ale with a long hoppy finish; and Yugen Ruby, a soft fruity red ale with a subtle aroma of blackcurrant. They also produce a nitro stout called Paladin, a term associated with someone ‘who is committed to the just and noble cause’ and as far as they are concerned, this luscious, jet black stout with a silky smooth palate with hints of oak and cedar, is both just and noble.

All the keg ales carry a piece of family history as they are named after members of the Chevallier family or figures linked to their estate and past. Their highly drinkable signature beer, Temple Helles is named after Temple Chevallier, a captain in the East India Company who was known to like a tipple and infamously shipwrecked off the

Cornish coast. The fresh and hoppy Trapnell Pale is in honour of Miss Trapnell, who married into the family, bringing with her an enormous dowry, and most intriguingly named is The Suffolk Blonde. This golden lager, with hints of citrus and dry hops, takes its name from Mary Sargeaunt, a tragic young woman who was jilted at the altar and brought to Aspall Hall, which, during the 1800s, was briefly run as an asylum. The story goes that she arrived in her wedding gown and never left, the clocks in her room set to the time of her intended wedding. Apparently, Dickens worked on ‘Great Expectations’ whilst staying in Suffolk, and so perhaps poor Mary was his inspiration for Miss Havisham!

Everyone at Chevallier Brewing has an immense passion for quality, and their mission is to make modern, essential ales that have complexity and yet are still satisfying and eminently sessionable. Sustainability is also a driving force and they have therefore adopted the German approach of aspiring to be the best brewer to deliver within a 30-mile radius of home. This not only means the beers you find at your local pub will be freshly delivered, they will also have a deep connection to East Anglia, and in bringing together history, innovation, and storytelling, Henry and Barry have created more than just a brewery - they’ve revived a legacy, brewing character and craftsmanship into every last pint.

www.chevallier-brewing.co.uk

Boxing clever

Fans of the wonderful café that was Martha’s Barn have relished the news that its fabulous chef, Sophie Calver, is back to the pass but with a twist! Sophie has travelled much of the world with her chefs’ knives and, amongst other culinary adventures, once worked for the Budweiser family as its private chef. Earlier this year, Sophie was approached by Harvey and Co Bakery with the offer of setting up kitchen at Vida Haus in Pettistree. Harvey already has a coffee shop on site, and folk come in from far and wide to pick up bread and pastries to take home. Now you can enjoy delicious lunches as well as sweet bakes and cakes from Abbi – a superb baker too – who works alongside Sophie.

Aptly named The Box Kitchen, Sophie’s delicious creations are brought together in a container on site, and although space is tight, the output is expansive, with lip-smacking dishes such as celeriac rösti, smoked trout and horseradish cream, and tempura of vegetables and tiger prawns served with pickled ginger, wasabi & lime aioli. Follow them on Instagram for news on the latest, including current opening hours and supper clubs, or just pop in!

Instagram @thebox_kitchen

Thoroughly Good Fare

Another great spot to head to with a widely travelled chef / patron is Bistro @47a on the Thoroughfare in Woodbridge, run by Paul McCarthy. Having cooked his way from London to Australia, then settling in Felixstowe where he previously owned both Winkles Seafood and Carnita’s Taqueria, Paul has now taken on the reins of this much-loved 20 seated bistro.

With a weekly changing, seasonal menu, each course is freshly made with local produce. Diners have been singing the praises of dishes such as a hearty Soupe de Poisson and 58° Sirloin served with dauphinoise potato, horseradish butter, and a red wine jus.

Look out for the new lunchtime menus, Thursday evening theme nights and Christmas specials. Tables fill up quickly though so best to book. www.bistro47a.co.uk

Great Service!

Since opening in August, 21 Young Hearts Community Cafe in The Square, Martlesham Heath has been overwhelmed by the support of the local community.

The cafe is the long-time dream of local couple, Stuart and Sharon Hobbs, who wanted to find potential employment and support routes for their son Kyle who has Down Syndrome. Kyle is one of 12 trainees currently training with a dedicated cafe team and care team, who manage and co-ordinate all aspects of running a busy cafe, at the same time providing a person-centred approach to support the young trainees. Anyone visiting the cafe can be guaranteed of a great cuppa, delicious cake – savouries coming soon - and a big smile! If you’d like to support this fantastic not-for-profit venture, please visit www.21younghearts.co.uk or email hello@21younghearts.co.uk.

Open 8.30am - 4.30pm Monday – Saturday

From soil to sourdough

In 2022, married couple Emily and Alexander started their micro-bakery, ACRE Bakery in a small converted potting shed. What began with a few loaves quickly grew as locals fell in love with their bread. Soon after, they took on the 270-acre family farm where they grow milling wheat using a soil and nature focused approach. Three years later, they purchased a traditional wooden flour mill, allowing them to mill their own wheat and bake with flour grown on their farm. Together, they bake bread that is honest, nourishing, and handcrafted by a dedicated team. Now you can enjoy their bread at their newly opened shop on Market Hill in Woodbridge, where you’ll also find sweet treats and pastries, all made with care and the finest ingredients.

A tasty titbit!

Lawson’s Deli in Aldeburgh is expanding and opening a Food Hall in what is currently Orlando’s. Due to open in November, it’ll be a fabulous One-Stop-Shop with nothing but the best for your table, including a range of ready-to-go meals from Lawson’s Deli kitchen, organic fruit and veg, fresh and cured local meat, a wide range of ready-wrapped cheeses including a selection from Neal’s Yard, and even a fresh milk machine. Yum, yum!

Beef Bourguignon

Nothing heralds the autumn months more than a comforting beef casserole spooned over dollops of creamy mash. This recipe is one that Victoria (see about the land) has been serving since she spent a year at Leith’s School of Cookery and is now a much-loved family favourite.

Ingredients (serves 4)

900g chuck steak

1 tablespoon beef dripping or oil

12 small button onions or shallots

30g butter

1 clove of garlic, crushed

2 teaspoons plain flour

300ml red wine

300ml beef stock

1 bouquet garni (bay leaf, sprig of thyme, few parsley stalks and 1 celery stick tied up with string)

50g fatty bacon

115g button mushrooms

Chopped fresh parsley, to garnish

Method

Heat the oven to 150°C/300°F/ gas mark 2

Heat half the dripping or oil in a flameproof casserole and brown the beef on all sides, a few cubes at a time - transferring to a bowl as they are done. Add more dripping/oil as needed. Once complete, deglaze the pan by adding a little water and swirling it around, and then pour this liquid - the déglaçageover the browned meat.

Immerse the button onions in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immerse in cold water. Peel off the skins, dry them and then fry in half the butter until well browned. Add the garlic and stir in the flour and cook for one minute before pouring in the wine and stock. Stir until boiling and then add the browned meat and déglaçage to the casserole. Pop in the bouquet garni, season with salt and pepper, cover and cook in the hot oven for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is very tender.

Whilst this is cooking, cut the bacon into 1cm cubes and blanch in boiling water for 1 minute. Refresh with cold water and drain well. Halve or quarter the button mushrooms - no need to peel or remove the stalks. Melt the remaining butter in a frying pan and, when foaming, add the bacon and mushrooms and cook until golden brown. Lift them out and add to the beef when it has been cooking for two hours. Return the casserole to the oven for a further hour, or until the meat is tender.

Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to lift the meat, bacon and vegetables into a clean casserole. Remove the bouquet garni from the remaining sauce and check the seasoning. Bring to a rapid boil and reduce until it is of a syrupy consistency and then pour over the beef. Serve with a sprinkling of fresh parsley, dollops of creamy mash and a glass of red wine.

(Recipe from Leith’s Cookery Bible)

The thick of it

This walk is the first that Sarah and I have managed to do together for quite a few issues, so it is lovely to stride out together on this circular route from Rendlesham Forest that takes in part of the Sandlings Walk and brings us back through the mystical Staverton Thicks.

We park at the Plane Spotter carpark, which is just past the runway as you drive in to Rendlesham Forest, and then retrace our steps along the road to the start of the walk which is on the left and clearly marked with the Sandlings Walk motif. The runway was part of Woodbridge Airfield and the site of the famous UFO sightings back in 1980, but there were no unusual goings-on today,

unless the sight of me on a low flying bicycle and Sarah wrestling in the undergrowth is worth a mention! We walk along the wide gravelled track enjoying the stillness of an autumn morning and the earthy scents of the forest, and at the corner, bear right.

Here the woodland closes in, with bracken forming a dense golden layer beneath the striking silver birches and the air comes alive with the twittering of birdsong. We both reach for our trusted Merlin app and within seconds are rewarded with a long list of feathered visitors: great tits, blue tits, robin and wren are all there, plus goldcrests and chaffinches, and, rather excitedly, we also pick up the chatter of a rare firecrest. It is a

tiny jewel of a bird and, although we fail to spot it, it is lovely to know it is here. Not wanting to do the full 7.7mile circuit, on a slight bend by the Rendlesham Campsite we take a small path through the bracken until we reach the Woodbridge to Orford Road. Here we turn left and walk along the verge until we reach Gate 5 on the right, where we pick up another open path through the trees.

This path leads through a mix of Forestry pines, all straight lines and uniformity, as well as swathes of native broadleaves such as ash, oak and beech, whose smooth dark trunks cause a little excitement as Sarah heads off in search of the elusive porcini mushrooms. Sadly, only milk caps are hiding under the leaves, but as we continue we come across several magnificent specimens

of mushroom including the fairytale red and white spotted Amanita muscaria and statuesque parasols, both of which look like they have come straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairytale. The path winds gently though the trees and eventually we rejoin the Sandlings Walk and turn right, stepping aside to let a flurry of cyclists slip past and I am surprised when one shouts out my name - there’s no hiding in Suffolk!

At Wantisden Park campsite, the path takes us right past farmland and grazing paddocks until we turn right and head into Staverton Park. Here we take in the views out across the lakes, where in the distance we can see the silhouette of a pair of swans, and although we linger by the water’s edge, are not lucky in spotting a kingfisher. The sandy

track does however show us that red deer have passed this way, their huge hoof prints perfectly imprinted in the sand. We go past The Shepherd’s Cottage, a thatched 18th century cottage nestled on the edge of the ancient woodland and now enter The Thicks. Here, we wonder at the extraordinary landscape. Hundreds of pollarded oaks stand like gentle giants, reminiscent of the trees from Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, their gnarly boughs intertwined as if in deep conversation. They are magnificent, in their midst the air stills as if in reverence for this ancient, magical place. There are believed to be over 4000 oaks, many of which are over 400 years old and you cannot fail to wonder at what stories they could tell.

The path then winds though thicker woodland, where several fallen trees lie like prehistoric beasts and the canopy closes overhead so that it feels dark and slightly foreboding. However, we soon reach the main road and cross to pick our path back towards the main entrance of Rendlesham Forest and along the road to the carpark. It has been a lovely excuse to catch up, to talk love, loss and friendship, to discuss recipes, Christmas and travel plans, and also to connect with the colours, sounds and smells of autumn. Walking is always a good idea and this two-hour circuit is just the tonic we both needed. Now, pass the gin!

Angels Beauty Clinic

5 High Street

Saxmundham IP17 1DF www.angels-beauty-clinic.co.uk

Anna 32 Church Street

Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.shopatanna.com

No 10 Beauty and Aesthetics

10 Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN T: 01728 561848 @no10beautyandaesthetics

The Happy Movement E: jessie@jessie-eloise-yoga.com www.the-happy-movement.com

Fashion emporium

Bluebell Lane Jewellery www.bluebelllanejewellery.com @bluebelllanejewellery

Boho & Blyth

7a Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN 49 Thoroughfare Halesworth IP19 8AR www.bohoandblyth.com

Bulstrodes

27 Bridge Street Framlingham IP13 9AJ @billbulstrode

Collen & Clare 25 Market Place Southwold IP18 6ED www.collenandclare.com

Darcy B

The Hill House 13 Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN www.darcy-b.co.uk

Ernest Doe Broadwater Road Framlingham IP13 9LL www.ernestdoe.com

Joli

158 High St Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ www.jolisuffolk.com

Moose Market Hill

Woodbridge IP12 4LU @mooseonthehill

Muse 4 Earsham Street Bungay NR35 1AG www.musebungay.co.uk

New Street Market

70 New St

Woodbridge IP12 1DX www.newstreetmarket.com

O&C Butcher

129-131 High Street

Aldeburgh IP15 5AS www.ocbutcher.co.uk

Ruby Tyger

No 1 The Mews

Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN www.rubytyger.com

The Worn Works www.thewornworks.com @thewornworks

Stockists

Interiors emporium

Blue Crocus

5 High Street

Wickham Market IP13 0RA www.bluecrocustextiles.com

collated

Guildhall, Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9BD www.collatedonline.com

Earsham Hall Antiques

Denton Rd

Bungay NR35 2AN www.earshamhallantiques.co.uk

Green Door Antiques

7A Broad Street

Eye IP23 7AF www.greendoorantiques.co.uk

Mabel & Co

The Old Forge

Sudbourne Park Orford IP12 2AJ www.mabeland.co

OTTO Home Interiors

24 Market Place

Beccles NR34 9HD www.ottohomeinteriors.co.uk

Pippa Murphy

@pippamurphyltd www.pippamurphy.co.uk

Snape Maltings

Snape Bridge Snape IP17 1SP www.brittenpearsarts.org

Sophie Cook Porcelain @sophie_cook_porcelain www.sophiecook.com

The Merchant’s Table

10 Church St

Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.themerchantstable.co.uk

Thrive

Helmingham Hall Gardens

Helmingham IP14 6EF & 34 Orwell Road

Felixstowe IP11 7DB www.thrivelifestylestore.co.uk

Yoxford Antiques

Askers Hill

Yoxford IP17 3JW www.yoxfordantiques.com

Gift emporium

Brie Harrison www.brieharrison.com

Constance & Denny

@constanceanddenny www.constanceanddenny.com

Converge

4 Church Street

Framlingham IP13 9BQ @convergeframlingham

Essen Deli

23 Market Hill

Woodbridge IP12 4LX www.essendeli.co.uk

Framlingham Wine Shop

28 Station Rd

Framlingham IP13 9ED www.framwineshop.com

Harris & James @harris_and_james www.harrisandjames.com

Jimmy’s Farm

Pannington Hall Lane Wherstead Ipswich IP9 2AP www.jimmysfarm.com

Loveone

Peters Street

Ipswich IP1 1XF www.loveone.co.uk

Pocket Kids

26 Church St

Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.pocketkids.co.uk

Ruby Tyger

No 1 The Mews

Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN www.rubytyger.com

Suffolk Food Hall

Wherstead Ipswich IP9 2AB www.suffolkfoodhall.co.uk

Tea and Kate 10A Victoria St

Felixstowe IP11 7ER www.teaandkate.co.uk

The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

7 Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AA www.woodbridgekitchen company.co.uk

Vanil

17 Church Street

Woodbridge IP12 1DS @vanil_ltd www.vanil.co.uk

Woodbridge Books

66 Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AL www.woodbridgebooks.co.uk