This UK village is like stepping back in time (Image: Getty Images)
A picturesque village is like stepping into the pages of a fairytale, with its colourful medieval architecture and selection of cosy tearooms.
Nestled in Suffolk’s countryside is the chocolate-box village of Lavenham, boasting more than 300 listed timber-framed structures that have rarely changed since the 15th century. It’s known for being one of the best-preserved medieval villages in England, and a wander along its streets is enough to feel as though you’ve gone back in time.
Its most iconic building is the wonky, storybook facade of The Crooked House, dating back to 1395. The vibrant orange structure appears on the verge of collapsing and is said to have inspired the English nursery rhyme ‘ There was a Crooked Man’.
The Crooked House in Lavenham (Image: Getty Images)
Steeped in history, The Crooked House has been under ownership by Alex and Oli Khalil-Martin since 2021, who have been restoring and preserving the 600-year-old home. The pair shared with the Express in 2023: « The fairytale facade of The Crooked House makes it an Instagram favourite. People come from all over the world to see it, which makes us feel very lucky to live here every day! »
Fans of Harry Potter will also recognise Lavenham as it served as the backdrop for Godric’s Hollow in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. The Lavenham Guildhall was transformed into the derelict house of Harry Potter’s parents, and in the movie, Harry visits their graves and his birthplace.
The famed building has since drawn crowds near and far, hoping to experience a sense of the wizarding world, and is said to be one of the most photographed buildings in the UK. However, Potter fans can actually stay at the 14th-century De Vere House, which was also featured in the film, and book it on Airbnb for a remarkable staycation.
Lavenham Guildhall was used as the derelict home of Harry Potter’s parents (Image: Getty Images)
There’s plenty of other fascinating architecture to admire in Lavenham, with its Grade II-listed Church of St Peter and St Paul and the yellow Little Hall with its timber beams. The charm of the village only expands through its beautiful courtyard garden at Lavenham Guildhall and along its high street with the Byron & The Bard bookshop and The Boutique, ladies’ clothing store.
Yet its tearooms are among the most delightful features of this quaint village. Blue Vintage Tea Rooms, Francesca’s, and Guildhall Tea Room each offer a timeless atmosphere for enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of Victoria sponge, in a time that stands still.
Elsewhere, there’s a range of independent shops, selling everything from homeware, gifts, fashion and vintage gems, along with a traditional butchers, bakers and grocers. High Street, Water Street and the Market Place are said to be among the best spots to browse the shops, while visitors can also marvel at the art found in the Lavenham Contemporary gallery.
There are charming streets and shops to explore in the village (Image: Getty Images)
One visitor to the village shared on TripAdvisor: « This old village is a real ‘must visit’. Look for somewhere to park as you drive in because parking can be difficult in the village centre, although we had no difficulty on our visit. A walk around the village will show you some amazing, very old houses. The church, just outside the main village, is well worth visiting, as is the Cock Horse pub (great meals), and there is a large car park right next door. »
A second said: « Very pretty place, with lots of medieval buildings. Very nice high street, make sure you visit the market square. Lots of lovely teashops. Visit the Little Hall in the market square. »
But it’s not just the village itself that provides an idyllic escape or day out. Lavenham is surrounded by the rural Suffolk countryside, with plenty of winding footpaths and circular walks to enjoy through ancient woodlands and meadows that are in easy reach from the village.
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