Framlingham Suffolk Attractions - September 28, 2009 -

Aside from the major attraction at Framlingham castle, the town has a varied history and many local attractions for visitors to enjoy.

The Church of St Michael the Archangel

St Michael’s church has a rich history, with most of the building being built between the period of 1350 to 1555. The church includes a number of impressive features for visitors to enjoy, such as the wall painting that dates back to 1400 and tombs of the Howard family that rest in the chancel (built 1674).

The Village Pump

The pump, consisting of two spouts, was, in the past, one of the main sources of water to the town.

Framlingham Mere

Since 1988 Framlingham Mere has been leased by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust as a nature reserve. The mere is home to roughly 290 species of plants, with many wild flowers growing throughout the year. This includes the ragged robin, marsh marigold and flag iris.

There are also 80 species recorded at the mere including kingfishers and barn owls. Some of the lake birds include swans, ducks and herons. Some rare species living there include the water vole and a number of species of bat.

There are a number of theories as to the origins of the mere. Some archaeological evidence may suggest that the mere predates the castle, and is natural, though others think that it was man-made to supply the construction of the castle.

Lanman Museum

The museum is named after Harold Lanman, who was an important resident of Framlingham (1893-1979). Lanman had collected local items that were of special historical interest, and there are a number of artefacts helping to outline local life in the past 150 years.

Wildlife Walks

As well as the attractions listed above, Framlingham boasts a number of beautiful wildlife walks in the surrounding area. The Mere is perhaps the most famous, providing stunning views and a chance to see rare breeds.

If you have the time, it can be worth taking the A1120 away from Framlingham to Mickfield Meadow. This is a meadow full of flowers, and always contains a number of wildflowers, many of which are very rare in the area. This is also a beautiful habitat for wildlife, making it an interesting walk for all visitors to the area.