The Swan Hotel is situated in Lavenham, one of the most beautiful small towns in England.

From the 14^th to the 16^th century, Lavenham was at the centre of England’s cloth making industry and it was exporting its famous broadcloth as far as Russia and North Africa. In 1524, it was named the fourteenth wealthiest town in the country, however heavy taxation in the mid 1520’s and disrupted export markets through war on the continent brought a rapid decline in the industry. All this helps explain why most timber-framed buildings here date from about 1460 to 1530 since there was no wealth left to build anything of quality later in the century. Many reminders of its industrious past still remain, including the beautiful 16^th century Guildhall which dominates the market square. Once a meeting place of wool traders, a prison, workhouse and almshouse, it is now owned by The National Trust and has a beautiful garden where dye plants are grown, including Woad which was used to dye various shades of the famous Lavenham Blue Cloth.

Today, Lavenham is the country’s finest example of a Medieval town. With over 300 Listed buildings and a labarynth of small narrow streets, it has changed little since the 15^th century. The Church of St Peter and St Paul, dating back to 1486, dominates the town, with its tower standing at 141ft high. Its significant size reflects the prosperity of Lavenham at the time.

The best way to explore this historic town is by hiring a guided walk from the Chemist in the High Street, just up from The Swan. Alternatively, Lavenham Tourist Office is situated near to the rear entrance of The Swan in Lady Street. For more information, contact 01787 248207. It is open seven days a week from Easter until end of October: 10am-4.45pm, weekends only in March and November: 11am-4pm and closed from December until

Nestling in the centre of the town is the Swan Hotel, perhaps one of England’s most iconic hotels and an ideal choice for a short break to explore this beautiful corner of England.

The Swan dates back to the 15^th century when it played a key role in Lavenham’s wool trade. Today it is a quintessential English country hotel and restaurant, proud of its achievement of an AA four star 81% rating and two AA Rosettes. Ancient oak beams and inglenook fireplaces blend beautifully with rich furnishings and fabrics to create the perfect ambiance for rest and relaxation. The historic Old Bar boasts a wonderful collection of memorabilia including a wall signed by British and American airmen stationed at Lavenham Airfield during World War II.

Each of the Swan’s 49 en-suite bedrooms boast a mix of rich fabrics and contemporary furnishings co-ordinated in soft and mellow colours while pure linen sheets and feather pillows ensure a good nights sleep. Named after local Suffolk villages many of our bedrooms are original in style. From standard double rooms to mezzanine suites and fours poster beds, they are sure to delight. Oak beams and original medieval wall paintings abound and you will take great delight wandering through corridors and discovering the truly original character of The Swan.

Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, plasma TV screen, a DVD/CD player and tea and coffee making facilities. Suites and feature rooms provide use of bathrobes.

Staying at this heritage hotel in Suffolk is a delight. Whether as a short break hotel or touring hotel, the Swan Hotel at Lavenham will give you a warm welcome.

Kris Smith has been living and writing about Suffolk for several years, and especially the swan hotel. To enjoy the best that Suffolk has to offer, take a look at the Swan Hotel at Lavenham. Go to www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk or telephone 01787 247477.