Suffolk: the artistic heart of the eastern counties

Dating back to the 1500s, Gainsborough’s childhood home features one of the most comprehensive collections of his art (1727-88). Also on display are a series of Gainsborough’s possessions letters, books and manuscripts which really bring the incredible artist’s life into context - all set against a backdrop of 18th-century costume, furniture and textiles. At the house’s heart is an historic garden with a 400-year-old Mulbury Tree and celebrated Suffolk ‘crinkle-crankle wall plus an inviting café.

This romantic, redbrick mansion dates back to Tudor times, and gives a grand impression with its fine walled gardens and tranquil moat. The grounds around the property combine ancient features and beautiful landscaping with more contemporary planting.

Standing on a hill in the village of Long Melford, the Grade I listed Holy Trinity Church, which was constructed between 1467 and 1497, is one of the great Suffolk medieval wool churches, acknowledged as one of the most magnificent parish churches in the country. It boasts many original features, a 152.6 feet (46.5 m) nave and medieval stained-glass windows.

With an ancient ruined abbey sitting amongst lovely gardens and alongside fine Regency architecture, the ancient pilgrimage town of Bury St Edmunds is picturesque as well as rich with history. With local breweries and a foodie scene, it’s also a great place to sample local flavours.

In the heart of the ancient town of Bury St Edmonds, lies the impressive St Edmundsbury Cathedral covering the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.

Originating in the 11th century, it become a Cathedral 100 years ago. Surrounded by ornamental gardens, the spectacular stain glass windows and ornate vaulted ceiling made of European oak are particular highlights to look out for.

Charmingly situated, this Georgian palace was commissioned to house the treasures collected by the 4^th Earl of Bristol on his tours around Europe. The elegant Rotunda showcases an exquisite collection of artefacts accumulated by the Hervey family over 200 years, as well as portraits by Gainsborough, Hogarth and Reynolds. Within the tranquil grounds of the property is the earliest Italianate garden in England.

One of Suffolk’s most treasured Tudor buildings, the Grade I listed Christchurch Mansion was built by Edmund Withypoll in approximately 1547. The historic rooms are set in period fashions, from a Tudor kitchen to a richly decorated Georgian saloon and beautifully decorated Victorian wing. It’s also home to the largest collection of paintings of Gainsborough and Constable paintings outside of London, on display in the Wolsey Gallery.

Dating back to the 16^th century, the spectacular and well-preserved timber-framed building dominates the centre of pretty Lavenham. Its situation in the heart of the village is testament to the historic importance of this once wealthy wool town.