|
Bigod
Way
"A
variety of walks in and around the town"
BIGODS
CASTLE
The remains of Roger Bigod's Castle rebuilt on the site of previous
castles in 1294. form the focal point for all the walks described.
BIGOD
WAY
(10 miles)
The main loop encircles Bungay and can be reached from Bigod's Castle
along any access paths shown on the map. The Bigod Way passes through
areas outstanding natural beauty. The route offers a variety of wildlife,
rare plants, and many sites of historical interest. At rambling pace
this walk can he completed in 4/5 hours.
(1) BATH HILLS WALK (5.5 miles)
These lovely hills are steeped in history and are arguably one of the
most attractive areas in England. South facing, they have been vineyards
for centuries even in Roman times. Roger Bigod had extensive vineyards
here in 1240. In Georgian times a cold spring bath existed close lo
Bath House and Bungay was a famous spa town. The "stinking iris",
a rare plant, is also to be found in this area.
(2) RABBITSKIN RUN (2.6 miles)
This short walk is associated with George Baldry, a local folk hero
whose life story is featured in the book "The Rabbitskin Cap".
At the foot of Bath Hills and on the edge of Outney Common the foot
path crosses the Waveney by two narrow
footbridges. Here stood the Mill House where George had his boats. workshops
and strove for the secret of perpetual motion.
(3) METTINGHAM CASTLE RAMBLE (5 miles)
At its eastern extremity. the Bigod Way passes close to the ruins of
Mettingharn Castle. In 1342 John de Norwich castellated his residence
and added a massive gateway with portcullis. It is this structure that
remains and is visible from the
northern approach.
(4) SCOTCHMAN'S LANE (4.8 miles)
After leaving Bungay over the Joyce Meadows this walk links with Scotchman's
Lane, a former track leading to Mettingham Castle. For many years this
track has been blocked and overgrown. Recent clearance work has revealed
a most attractive footpath.
(5) CONSTITUTION STROLL (4.6 miles)
This route takes in high ground just to the south of Bungay and includes
Constitution Hill. From this vantage point impressive views of the town
are
visible, as well as a magnificent view of Earsham Church across the
marshes.
(6)
RIVERSIDE WALK
A
new walk was recently opened around the common area by kind permission
of the common owners. This area that follows the River Waveney is particularly
picturesque and many interesting features can be seen including the
home of Sir Rider Haggard.
To see
some photos of the area provided by Andrew Atterwill click
here
FOLLOW THE COUNTRY CODE
• Leave no litter • Guard against all risks of fire •
Protect wildlife, plants and trees • Respect the life of the countryside
• Keep to paths • Keep dogs
under proper control • Fasten all gates • Avoid damaging fences,
hedges and walls • Go carefully on country roads • Safeguard
water supplies •
BUNGAY
TOWN CENTRE - Shops & Services
On completing the Bigod Way, why not take time to explore Bungay's ancient
town centre which offers numerous shops and services for visitors. These
can he found in the Market Place (alongside Bungay's famous Butter Cross),
Earsham
Street. Broad Street. Bridge Street and St Mary's Street (which all
lead from the Market Place) and also in Upper Olland Street. Here you
can enjoy the following:
* A variety of eating places offering fish & chips, takeaways, quiet
tea shops and restaurants - all offering excellent fare.
* Bungay's host of "real ale" pubs which provide traditional
hospitality in historic yet comfortable surroundings.
* A chance to browse and explore tile extensive number of antique shops,
hook shops as well us shops of special interest. Here attractive premises
are combined with polite and
individual service
We hope you enjoy your visit to Bungay.
www.bungay-suffolk.co.uk
|
