Explore life beyond the city limits with these regional staycation ideas for spring
The ship of the Fens at Ely
Whether you’re after history, nature or a quaint countryside escape, the areas surrounding Cambridge offer a wealth of destinations to explore. East Anglia has a rich and complex history; it takes its name from the Angles, a Germanic tribe that settled in the fifth and sixth centuries to form the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of East Anglia. This period saw the spread of Christianity, notably through St Edmund, a king of East Anglia who was martyred by Viking invaders in 869 AD. His shrine in Bury St Edmunds became an important medieval pilgrimage site.
During the Middle Ages, East Anglia thrived as a centre of wool and cloth trade, particularly in towns such as Lavenham and Norwich, which was once England’s second-largest city. The region played a key role in the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 and later became a Puritan stronghold, producing key historical figures such as Oliver Cromwell.
Fabulous Fenland
With its magnificent cathedral – known fondly by locals as the ship of the Fens – Ely has breathtaking architecture, riverside walks and the fascinating museum at Oliver Cromwell’s House. Just a short walk from the thriving high street is the River Great Ouse, perfect for a scenic stroll among willow trees fuelled by fare from The Cutter Inn or Peacocks Tearoom with its charming vintage crockery. Nearby, enjoy the superb nostalgia fix offered by Waterside Antiques, its creaky, timbered interior packed to the rafters with treasures from yesteryear.
River Great Ouse
One of the loveliest places to stay locally, just outside the city, is The Old Hall Ely – a beautiful, modernised Jacobean manor house that boasts plenty of Cambridgeshire countryside charm, fine dining and views of the cathedral. Ben’s Yard is another must-visit – an independent retail outlet on the Stuntney Estate, just off the A142; it’s the perfect place to shop, rest and recharge.
The Old Hall Ely
01353 663275
Stuntney Causeway, Ely
CB7 5TR
theoldhallely.co.uk
Escape into Essex
Saffron Walden
A short drive south of Cambridge, Saffron Walden boasts picturesque streets, the stunning Audley End House and Gardens, as well as a rich heritage of independent shops and cafes.
Famous for medieval architecture and links to the saffron trade, Saffron Walden is positively bursting with heritage. Strolling through its picturesque streets, visitors can admire the half-timbered buildings, browse independent shops and enjoy the vibrant, twice-weekly market. There are lots of cafes around the market square, but for a local independent, pop upstairs at family-owned furniture store Angela Reed or visit Cafe Coucou on St George Street.
Stars of Suffolk
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk is a haven of pretty countryside, charming market towns and dazzling coastline. One of the historic highlights just up the A14 is Bury St Edmunds, which boasts the magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral, atmospheric abbey ruins and a thriving food scene, including Greene King’s Westgate Brewery, which provides tours and even has a beer cafe. There are so many independent boutique dining options here that you’ll be spoilt for choice. Look out for No 5 Angel Hill, which offers views of the abbey; Ice Restaurant on Rougham Industrial Estate with its industrial decor; and The One Bull, a traditional pub with its own microbrewery, Brewshed.
The medieval town of Lavenham, with its half-timbered houses and historic Guildhall, is one of the best-preserved in England, offering a step back in time. For those seeking coastal delights, Southwold is a quintessential seaside town with pastel-coloured beach huts, a traditional pier and Adnams Brewery. Meanwhile, Aldeburgh, famed for its links to composer Benjamin Britten, combines shingle beaches with excellent fish and chips.
The Angel Hotel
01284 714000
Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1LT
theangel.co.uk
Visiting Norfolk
Holly Lodge in Thursford
Neighbouring Norfolk is a treasure trove of natural delights and historic landmarks. Its sweeping coastline, much of which is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty, boasts quaint seaside towns and abundant wildlife. Holkham is one of the UK’s finest beaches, with its golden sands and pine forests, while Wells-next-the-Sea offers colourful beach huts, crabbing along the quay and independent shops.
The perfect way to explore this vast landscape is to rent a holiday cottage. Owner-managed North Norfolk Escapes has three such character cottages in its portfolio – Creek Cottage at Salthouse, Green Cottage in East Runton and Beachcomber Cottage at Overstrand. Each is less than five minutes’ walk from a beach and located in a lovely village, ideal for fresh air, big skies, teeming birdlife, wonderful walks, samphire collecting or simply a quiet family holiday. Meanwhile, Holly Lodge, close to Fakenham, is part of Thursford Collection. With three deluxe bedrooms and a shepherd’s hut, there’s plenty of space for everyone. At breakfast, sample locally sourced produce, plus enjoy beautiful decor, landscaped gardens and free cycle hire to explore the area.
North Norfolk Escapes
01263 768440
northnorfolkescapes.co.uk
Holly Lodge by Thursford
01328 878477
1 The Street, Thursford Green, Norfolk NR21 0AS
hollylodgeboutique.com
