5 Reasons to Visit Stowmarket

Although the largest town in mid-Suffolk, Stowmarket is often overlooked as an area to visit in the county. The Suffolk Spy shares her five reasons to visit the market town:

The Regal 

Built in 1936, this cinema and theatre has been at the heart of Stowmarket for many years and is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Sit back and relax with your favourite tipple from the bar and enjoy one of the latest blockbusters or a wonderful theatre production in this charming institution.

Fitness

EnsoFit, based in Stowupland, is a brand new personal training studio offering personal training and small group classes. The classes offered are slightly niche but currently very popular in the fitness industry including Animal Flow and MyZone HIIT. Classes can be booked on a pay as you go basis at www.ensofit.co.uk.

Taught from a converted garage in the heart of Stowmarket, Yoga with Imelda offers a variety of small group yoga classes within a private studio. Classes are £5 each and can be booked via www.yogawithimelda.com.

Mid Suffolk Light Railway

Restored by enthusiasts, the museum and railway at Brockford Station has recreated a slice of Edwardian railway travel. Check the events programme, hop on board one of the steam trains and ride along Suffolk’s only standard gauge preserved railway. Entry is £10 for an adult or £4 for a child.

Finbows Yard, Bacton

Full of independent local Suffolk businesses, it is easy to spend time meandering around Finbows Yard. Book an appointment and appreciate the wonderful artwork and home accessories by Suffolk artist, Lucy Dawson, at Bella Art’s Studio. If you’re feeling thirsty, call in at Heart of Suffolk Distillery and purchase some locally distilled premium gin or alternatively, join the team for one of their gin tasting evenings which can be booked online at www.heartofsuffolkdistillery.co.uk. Finish your visit by popping over the road to EmZo Café and then peruse the crafts, jewellery and furniture in the attached shop.

Eating out

Food wise there is a great variety of options for eating out. Slightly hidden off the High Street but well worth the visit is Cabbages and Kings at the Mix, which serves up reasonably priced breakfasts with 100% of their profits being invested in delivering youth work. For a special occasion, head to The Buxhall Crown for a fantastic meal using fresh seasonal ingredients.