This easy, well-signposted walk through farming country is quiet and feels remote, but is only a mile or two from Laxfield. We walked this from the finger post near Sunflower Farm, on the road leading to Hulvertree Farm (Holly Tree Farm?)
4.5 miles, 2 hours
Start of the walk
OS Explorer Map 231, 1:25,000
Be careful at no.1. The path to the left goes straight across the field, not diagonally as on the map; take this path anyway and turn right at the far end of the field to come out on the road. Be aware that the footpath across the field at no.2 was closed off, so continue down the enclosed path (below) and finally turn left towards Badingham Church.
In the orchard alongside Badingham Church
The path leads into the graveyard behind the Church of St John the Baptist, Badingham. This fascinating church would repay a leisurely visit, and there is good information from Simon, and in other sites.
Entering the graveyard of St John the Baptist, Badingham
St John the Baptist, Badingham
The interior of the church is filled with treasures and we lingered.
Single hammerbeam angel roof
Seven sacrament font, Badingham Church, carved c.1485
The tomb of William Cotton (d.1616) of Colston Hall, & his wife Lucie
Outside in the graveyard, as in many Suffolk churches, there is also a reminder of war.
War grave, Badingham Church
Be vigilant at point no.3. The day we did the walk the field had been freshly ploughed, with no path markings, so we walked around the boundary and found the opening on the left hand side of the field, point no.4, where the path leads to Redhouse Farm.
Looking back to point no.4
The cart lodge on the road at Redhouse Farm
The Priory
Ash Tree on the edge of Laxfield Wood
Laxfield Wood
And at the end of the walk a splash of colour.
