Suffolk is quintessential British countryside territory, where acres of green fields are dotted with picturesque villages, many of which looked exactly the same 500 years ago.

But with so many to choose from, which ones should be at the top of your list? To help you make the most of your time exploring the delights of Suffolk, we’ve put together a list of 4 of the quaintest villages that the county has to offer.

1. Cavendish 

Cavendish is a picture-perfect village that you can find between Bury St Edmunds and Sudbury. The green in the centre is charming, and the thatched, pink cottages nestling in front of the impressive parish church make for a beautiful photo opportunity. The George is a cosy restaurant on the village green serving delicious food made with fresh local produce. 

2. Lavenham 

Just down the road from Cavendish, Lavenham looks like it was frozen in time in the 16th century. Step back in time for an afternoon and try and decide which of the tudor cottages is the most wonky. This village was used as Godric’s Hollow in the 7th Harry Potter film, but you don’t have to be a fan of the franchise to appreciate Lavenham’s magic. Treat yourself to a cream tea in one of the villages many classic tea shops or go all out and indulge in a three course meal at The Swan. Have a peak at the village’s website for more information.

3. Hartest

Hartest is another example of a classic village set around a beautifully maintained green, and is very close to the market town of Bury St Edmunds. Admire the perfectly preserved, colourful cottages that cluster around the green and then head to The Crown for a restorative pint of the local brew, or a bite to eat.

4. Kersey

Kersey is a little further away from Bury St Edmunds, but it’s more than worth the drive, especially if combined with a trip out to the Suffolk coast or Ipswich. Like Lavenham, coming into Kersey you get the impression that everything would have looked exactly the same if you’d trundled on a horse and cart 5 centuries ago. Apart from the cars, that is. Pause for refreshment at The Bell Inn.

We find that all these villages are at their most charming during the Great British summer, but they are beautiful at any time of year.

Have you been to Suffolk? Do you have another candidate for our most-picturesque village list?