Allie Hubers If you’re considering a trip to Bury St Edmunds, you might be wondering whether this historic market town in Suffolk is worth your time. My response? Absolutely!
With its charming, quaint atmosphere, rich history, and plenty of things to see and do, Bury St Edmunds makes for a fantastic day trip or weekend getaway.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a picturesque town to explore, this guide will show you why Bury St Edmunds should be on your travel list.
Where is Bury St Edmunds?
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town located in Suffolk, England, about 80 miles northeast of London. It’s relatively small, with a population of around 40,000 people, making it an easy-to-navigate destination without the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Despite its size, Bury St Edmunds has a rich history, a lively food scene, and popular attractions, making it a wonderful place for visitors. There’s plenty to see and do in this quiet town, especially if you’re looking to escape the buzz in bigger cities, like nearby London or Cambridge.
Why visit Bury St Edmunds?
If you’re looking for an idyllic English town to explore, Bury St Edmunds should definitely be on your list!
Located in the west Suffolk district of England, Bury St Edmunds offers the perfect mix of history, gardens, culture, and modern conveniences.
Whether you’re exploring the Abbey Gardens, enjoying a delicious meal, or learning about its World War II history, you’ll find so much to love about this Suffolk gem. With its easy accessibility, friendly atmosphere, and fantastic selection of shops and cafés, it’s a destination that’s well worth a visit.
7 reasons you should consider visiting Bury St Edmunds
1. A quaint, historic town with a unique charm
Bury St Edmunds embodies the quintessential English market town feel, with its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. You might be surprised by the unique charm of the city, as it feels like a quiet town for locals.
The town center is filled with a mix of historic buildings and modern conveniences, creating a perfect blend of old and new. Whether you’re strolling past timber-framed houses or enjoying the buzz of the bustling market, you’ll be enchanted by the town’s character.
2. Abbey Gardens: A beautiful escape in Bury St Edmunds
One of the biggest attractions is Abbey Gardens, a stunning park set among the ruins of a former Benedictine abbey.
The gardens are beautifully maintained, making them a perfect place to take a peaceful walk, have a picnic, or simply soak in the surroundings. The gardens are family-friendly and dog-friendly. Kids can enjoy the playground, located right by the river, and pups are welcome to stroll through the garden on paved paths.
The ruins of the Abbey, which date back over 1,000 years, add an extra layer of historical intrigue to this already scenic spot. The remains are primarily those of the former Abbey, which was once a very powerful Benedictine monastery founded in 1020.
3. Easy to navigate and perfect for exploring
One of the best things about Bury St Edmunds is that it’s incredibly easy to get around.
The town center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for a leisurely day of sightseeing. Unlike larger cities where you have to rely on buses or taxis, you can easily walk to all the major attractions within the city. This makes it a stress-free destination for visitors who want to explore at their own pace.
4. Convenient train location and great connections
Bury St Edmunds is well-connected by train, making it a hassle-free destination for a day trip.
The train station is just a short walk from the town center, and there are frequent services from Cambridge and Ipswich. London is just a few short train rides away too, making it an easy day trip.
This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking to escape the city for a relaxed, historic experience.
5. A foodie’s delight: Restaurants and coffee shops
Bury St Edmunds has no shortage of places to eat and drink. From traditional English pubs to cozy cafés and upscale restaurants, there’s something for every taste. Some must-visit spots include:
- Alema Coffee House – A favorite among locals, Alema offers a great selection of coffee and pastries in a cozy setting. It’s the perfect place to start your day or take a mid-afternoon break.
- Lottie’s Waffles & Coffee – If you have a sweet tooth, Lottie’s is a must-visit. Their waffles are divine, and the coffee is top-notch, making it a great stop for a treat. The decor is very cute with pink walls and chandeliers!
- Harriet’s Tea Room – For a classic English tea experience, Harriet’s is the place to go. With its vintage decor and delicious afternoon tea offerings, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break.
- Rustico – One of the best family-run Italian restaurants in the heart of the city. The lasagna is incredible!
Beyond these highlights, the town is filled with an array of independent eateries, ensuring that you’ll never go hungry while exploring.
6. Local shops and modern amenities
Shopping in Bury St Edmunds is a delight, especially if you love browsing unique, independent stores.
The town has a great selection of boutiques, selling everything from clothing and accessories to homeware and gifts. There’s also a lively market twice a week, where you can pick up fresh produce, artisan goods, and handmade crafts.
In addition, you can access many modern stores in the city’s newer shopping area, which is just steps away from the city center. You can find a large selection of name-brand retailers, like Primark and H&M, here.
7. Master of the air history
History lovers will love the connection to the events depicted in the Masters of the Air.
During World War II, the town played a significant role as an airbase for the US Army Air Forces. Many American airmen were stationed in the area, and their legacy is still remembered today. You can visit the Rougham Control Tower Aviation Museum, which tells the story of these brave servicemen and their contributions.
Walking tours are also available for those who want an in-depth experience of wartime in England and the city’s historic role.
How to get to Bury St Edmunds from London
Getting to Bury St Edmunds from London is straightforward and convenient. I’ve highlighted a few options, including by train, car, or bus.
By train
The easiest way to reach Bury St Edmunds is by train. Direct trains run from London Liverpool Street to Bury St Edmunds, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours.
Greater Anglia operates direct trains connecting Bury St Edmunds with Cambridge, Peterborough, and Ipswich, making it a well-connected hub for travelers.
If there’s no direct train available, you can take a train to Cambridge and change for a connecting service to Bury St Edmunds.
By car
If you prefer to drive, Bury St Edmunds is easily accessible via the A14. The drive from London takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic.
There are several parking options in the town, including short-stay and long-stay car parks.
By bus or coach
While not as fast as the train, National Express operates coach services from London to Bury St Edmunds. The journey takes around 3 hours and is usually cheaper than taking the train.
Once you arrive, the train station is just a short walk from the town center, making it easy to start exploring right away.
