BRITS BITS: Lavenham - Stepping back in time with crooked houses, cream teas

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
Wandering around Lavenham, the first thing you notice are the unusual houses. Not only are they half-timbered, but many are painted rich colours and noticeably crooked, literally.

Lavenham, in Suffolk, has a rich history and was once a medieval town, founded on the wool trade. In Saxon times, it was part of the "Babergh Hundred," a district defined by the population of 100 free men and consisting of two manors - "Overhall" and "Netherhall," - both of which were given to William the Conqueror's brother-in-law, Alberic de Vere, shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1066. In 1103, King Henry II made Alberic's grandson, Aubrey de Vere, the Earl of Oxford. Twenty earls succeeded him until the title became extinct in 1703.

De Vere House is located on Water Street. Moviemakers used this house to create the fictional village of "Godric's Hollow" in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1." They captured many photos were taken over a period of two years, and featured the 14th-century cottage as part of the birthplace of both Harry Potter and his mentor and headmaster, Albus Dumbledore.

In 1257, Lavenham received its first Market Charter, and less than a century later, records show that the town had already become a cloth-making centre of England; it was during this time the town became involved in the wool trade. The Guild Hall and The Wool Hall are a big part of the town's history.

Lavenham is extremely picturesque and quintessentially English. Walking down the High Street, you stumble across cafes, antique shops, small boutiques and those selling fresh, local produce.

The town also has a history with the military. During World War II, American Airmen from nearby bases would head to the "Old Bar" of The Swan hotel. Inside, the renamed "Airmen's Bar," the walls are covered in photos, military patches and scribbled messages from the Airmen who frequented there.

There is also a memorial plaque in the market square, dedicated to members of the 487th Bomb Group who were stationed in Lavenham during World War II.

The Swan also serves a variety of cream teas, ranging from the Traditional English Afternoon Tea, which is a simple cream tea consisting of a variety of cakes, scones (with, of course, jam and clotted cream) and dainty sandwiches, served with a pot of tea, to the Emperor Afternoon Tea. The traditional afternoon tea is utterly delicious and a well-deserved treat - but make sure you book in advance; otherwise you might miss out!

There are also pubs and other eating establishments in the town as well as small shops to explore. And unlike many other places, parking in the town is free!

It's also well worth taking a walk up to the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, which is very ornate and beautiful. Inside, there is an area dedicated to both British and American Airmen lost in World War II. The American flag is also on display, showing the town's relationship and bond with Americans.

Lavenham is definitely worth a visit, and being just on the other side of Bury St. Edmunds, is right on the doorstep of RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath.

For more information and ideas on places to visit in the U.K., call Information, Tickets and Tours on DSN 238-2630 or commercial 01638-542630.

Editor's note: Information courtesy of The Swan, Lavenham. No federal endorsement is intended or implied.