Bungay Area Guide

Bungay is a small market town sitting in the Waveney Valley, just over five miles from Beccles.

Due to the positioning on a neck of a meander of the River Waveney, its rich history dates back to Anglo-Saxon times where the site had a good defensive position. The remains of the Norman Bigod Castle can still be found in the town centre and is home to one of the historical walking trails. The other, the Town Trail, includes the historic buildings and churches of the town centre and along the River Waveney and both are well worth a visit if you want to find out more about the town’s history.

The Fisher theatre is one of the oldest provincial theatres in the UK, first opening in February 1828 and still shows films, exhibitions and plays today. The town also has a strong literary tradition and is home to ‘Clays’ which is one of the largest printworks in the country and is where Harry Potter was originally printed!

Bungay is home to lots of independent shops selling items from clothing and jewellery to arts and antiques. You’ll also find some exciting food producers and restaurants in and around Bungay, including Suffolk Stonehouse and Earsham Street Café. If you’re after a deli item or a foodie gift, Earsham Street Deli is a must. Travelling a little outside Bungay, you’ll find Flint Vineyard, Ampersand and St Peters Brewery, all perfect for those who like a tipple. Fen Farm Diary is also worth a visit, where you’ll find handcrafted raw dairy products and even a milk vending machine.

Bungay sits just off the A143 which runs from Bury St Edmunds to Great Yarmouth and is only 35 mins from Norwich via Beccles. Bungay is served by five primary schools within three miles of the town and one high school rated good. Langley School is an independent school located within seven miles of the town.