Hadleigh
Once famous for its wool cloth, Hadleigh is a remarkable mix of old and new. Over 600 years ago, Hadleigh was among the most important wool and market towns in the area and by the 16th century, only nearby Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds were richer. At the heart of Hadleigh is a rich and important architectural history with origins in Saxon times. Once a royal town for the 9th century Danish King Guthrum, reputedly buried here – the Council for British Archaeology placed Hadleigh among 51 towns “so precious that ultimate responsibility for them should be a national concern.”
As late as 1840, Hadleigh boasted 52 shoemakers, 23 bakers, 22 carpenters, 28 farmers and five surgeons among the list of trades and professions for a population of under 4000. Today, Hadleigh is a bustling market town, with plenty to do for visitors. The Guildhall is open to the public and offers cream tea in the pretty walled garden and there is also the Deanery Tower and St Mary’s Church from the 15th and 13th century respectively. The riverside walk, along the River Brett, is a pleasant way to spend a half hour or so and there are picnic tables at the top end near the 14th-century Toppesfield Bridge.
Hadleigh is well known for it specialist shops and good choice of eating places. Tourist information is available in the library in the high street.
Must see and do
Related Links
See more destinations in Essex
