Travel feature #8: Lavenham -- Built from the wool trade Published May 20, 2008 By Judith Wakelam 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs RAF MILDENHALL, England -- The Tudor village of Lavenham; about 25 miles southeast of Mildenhall is reputed to be one of the best examples of a medieval wool town in England. Built on the woollen cloth trade, Lavenham prospered greatly during the 14th to16th centuries becoming very rich and influential due to the best wool at the time coming from Suffolk sheep. These riches are reflected in its abundance of large timber-framed buildings. The richness of a town or village can be judged by the size of its churches and the large imposing church of St. Peter and St. Paul, with its 141- foot tower, gives an indication of just how prosperous Lavenham became. It's a fascinating place in which to wander for a few hours; be sure to take a camera with you, if not you will regret it! You'll discover a photo opportunity around every corner. Firstly, visit the tourist centre where you will find lots of useful information on what there is to see. Beautiful buildings such as The Guildhall built in the first half of the 16th century is situated in the Market Square. It is a wonderful example of late medieval architecture. If it seems familiar to some of you it may be because it has featured in several period movies and TV programmes. Now owned by the National Trust the Guildhall is open to the public and stages various exhibitions during the course of the year. Also in the square can be found Little Hall, built in the 14th century and now owned by the Suffolk Preservation Trust. It's now a museum housing many interesting artefacts it also has a delightful walled garden. Because of their age many of Lavenham's buildings have been listed by National Heritage. This means they are considered to be exceptional or of great architectural or historic interest, and must be preserved, as much as possible in their original state. Being listed means there are very strict rules on what alterations can be made to a building and how they are carried out. This may be a nightmare for those living in them but these very strict rules will ensure the Lavenham we still see today, will look very much the same for future generations. Over the centuries many of the buildings have subsided leading to crooked walls and uneven floors. Tea-room tables have legs of varying lengths in order to provide an level surface; very quaint for the visitor but not quite so quaint for everyday living! The Swan Hotel with its inglenook fireplaces and many beams is situated in the main street and dates back to the 15th century. During World War II British and American serviceman stationed at Lavenham Airfield signed a wall in the Old Bar of The Swan. These signatures can still be seen today. . The main street has several antique shops and galleries to browse. The Phoenix Gallery is a particular favourite of mine as it regularly holds exhibitions of wildlife art and sculpture with works by well-known artists. Lavenham is a fascinating place to visit and being so close it would be a great shame to miss it. So, next time you have a few hours to fill treat yourself to a spot of Suffolk's architectural history. It doesn't come much better than Lavenham.