A market town on the River Stour
Sudbury sits on the River Stour in south west Suffolk, close to the Essex border. It is one of the oldest market towns in the county, with a busy centre built around Market Hill and the tower of St Peter's Church.
The town is the natural hub for a ring of villages including Long Melford, Lavenham, Great Cornard, Glemsford, Bures, Boxford, Clare, Acton and the Waldingfields - which is why this directory covers the whole district, not just the town.
Gainsborough's town
The painter Thomas Gainsborough was born in Sudbury in 1727. His statue stands on Market Hill in front of St Peter's, and his childhood home on Gainsborough Street is now Gainsborough's House, a museum and gallery dedicated to his life and work.
Silk weaving heritage
Sudbury has been a centre of silk weaving for centuries, and silk is still woven in the town today. Fabrics made here have been used for fashion houses, royal occasions and fine interiors - a quiet piece of local pride many visitors never hear about.
Market days
Sudbury's traditional market is held on Market Hill on Thursdays and Saturdays, with stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, clothes and household goods. Combine a visit with the independent shops, cafes and pubs that line the surrounding streets.
Getting around
Sudbury is the end of the Gainsborough Line, a branch railway that connects to Marks Tey on the main line between London Liverpool Street, Colchester and Ipswich. Local buses link the town with the surrounding villages, Colchester and Bury St Edmunds.
There are several town centre car parks within a short walk of Market Hill. Check signage for current charges and time limits.
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