The towering 12th century fortresses at Framlingham and Orford dominate this tour that visits the tranquil rivers Alde, Ore and Deben.
Suffolk is also blessed with 50 miles of seashore, much of it protected by the National Trust, most of it entirely unspoiled. This coastline and the salt marshes and heathland that lie behind it are haunting and beautiful, a haven for a wide variety of birdlife. For the cyclist, there is an unsurpassed network of almost traffic-free country lanes that criss-cross the rolling countryside. The scenery is full of interest but presents no more than a moderate challenge to even an occasional cyclist. Add to this probably the driest climate in the UK and you can see why Suffolk is absolutely ideal cycling country.
Tour Details
Duration
4 Days/3 Nights
Location
Suffolk, England
Season
April - October
Tour Type
Road Touring
Nearest City
Ipswich
Physical Condition Required
Fair
Destination(s)
England, United Kingdom
Fully Guided
No
Bike Rentals Available
Yes
Bike Brands
Claud Butler 21-speed hybrid touring bike
Accommodations
Accommodations are at Needham Market, Framlingham and Woodbridge.
Rates
$417.00 - $448.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Needham Market, explore the area and spend your first night in this small market town.
Day 2: Head through the lanes to Debenham, a pretty village with its over-hanging houses and antique shops, then on to Saxtead Green. Here you can visit the beautifully restored 18c post mill and, perhaps, take refreshment at the inn nearby. A detour to one of the vineyards in the area is well worth the visit. Spend the night in the quiet market town of Framlingham where the 12th century castle, the one-time home of Mary Tudor, and church are both superb. (Rec 22; Min 21; Max 38 miles)
Day 3: Cycle to Snape Maltings where the Aldeburgh Festival concert hall sits among the little arts community on the banks of the river Alde. Those with plenty of energy left can continue on the recommended route to both Orford, with its impressive castle keep, quaint quayside and boat trips, and Shingle Street, a quiet spot where the River Ore meets the sea. Mere mortals can amend their route to exclude one or other, bringing the mileages down to 28 and 30 miles respectively. Just outside the lovely maritime town of Woodbridge where you stop for the night, you can visit the site of the rich Anglo-Saxon ship burial at Sutton Hoo. (Rec 39; Min 13; Max 46 miles)
Day 4: An opportunity to explore the quay and Tide Mill at Woodbridge before cycling through rural Suffolk to return to Needham Market, possibly stopping for a cream tea at the beautiful Helmingham Hall Gardens on the way. Further options include a riverside pint and possible boat trip at Waldringfield, or a peaceful walk through the woodland garden at Blakenham. (Rec 19; Min 18; Max 28 miles)
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