Between Cambridge And Ipswich Is A Cathedral Town With Craft Brews, Award-Winning Bites, And Fun Shops

Those willing to explore outside the London region will learn that there's more to the town of Bury St. Edmunds in Suffolk than what first meets the eye. That's because this unassuming hub with just over 40,000 residents according to City Population is home to a cathedral, brewery, and lively market. 

Another major perk of Bury St. Edmunds is its connectivity. Getting there is a breeze, as it's 40 minutes' drive from Ipswich, 50 minutes' drive from Cambridge, and under 85 miles northeast of London. Bury St. Edmunds has an active train station, so you might find it more convenient to travel by public transportation than to get a rental. Once you're there, the town is exceptionally walkable. 

History buffs could group the town with other notable nearby destinations such as Colchester, England's oldest city which is rich with history and scenic trails. It's also less than 90 minutes' drive from Lowestoft, a coastal town with beaches, tasty restaurants, and an award-winning family park.

A well-rounded Bury St. Edmunds itinerary wouldn't be complete without a visit to St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, the town's most recognizable landmark. While the cathedral has 11th century roots, it was significantly rebuilt during the 15th, 16th, 18th, and 19th centuries, and gained cathedral status in 1914. That's why, today, it has an impressive combination of styles, comprising features such as a lantern tower, whitewashed walls, nave roof decorations, sculpture collection, and Victorian stained glass windows. Entry is free.

Want to go further back into the town's history? The remains of a Benedictine abbey, just outside the cathedral, are also worth visiting. The monastery dates back to 1020, but because it was largely demolished in the 16th century, today you can only see what's left within the Abbey Gardens. The site has Green Flag status, which means it's clean, safe, and environmentally sound. It features a gorgeous rose garden with over 400 bushes, formal beds surrounded by benches, and a children's play area. 

The medieval market town has dozens of stalls on Wednesdays and Saturdays on Buttermarket. Shoppers can also take advantage of the 200 or so stores scattered around the town's Georgian squares and medieval streets, many of which are independent and locally-owned. Beyond arc – a shopping center home to national retailers – there are a couple of fun finds worth browsing. Pocket Watch & Petticoats is known for its 1950s swing dresses and other vintage-inspired pieces. Those searching for a gift to take back home can visit Buy the Light next, a local gem that's been operating for nearly 30 years. It's known as the "Smelliest Shop in Town" thanks to its fragrance and candle selection. 

Beer has been an essential part of Bury St. Edmunds' history since 1086. The town is the home of the Greene King brewery, which has been running for over 200 years. There are plenty of places where you can try its craft beers, such as the timbered Bull Hotel. A tour of Westgate Brewery, meanwhile, takes you through the entire process of how the drink gets its flavor. Be warned: You'll have to climb over 100 stairs, but you'll receive a free bottle of beer at the end. Book a tour through Greene King's website. 

Looking for a traditional pub? There are plenty of them around town, such as the 17th-century Dog & Partridge. Open since 1867, The Nutshell is another unique pick thanks to it holding the title of Britain's smallest pub, measuring at just 15 feet by 7 feet. Don't worry, though, there's outdoor seating available. 

While English cuisine has long been considered Europe's worst, it's making an unexpected comeback in London and elsewhere, including Bury St. Edmunds. Pea Porridge is Suffolk's only Michelin-starred venue. Despite the Moorish eatery's accolades, it retains a warm, neighborhood-restaurant feel. A husband and wife team own and run it, cooking on a charcoal grill. Lark, on the other hand, has a Michelin Bib Gourmand award, which recognizes great value eats. Order tapas-style dishes including mushroom arancini, cured sea bass, and lamb sweetbread made with local ingredients.