VISIT BURY
Culture fix One of the most-visited free attractions in the UK, the Abbey Gardens provide the perfect opportunity to take in some culture while soaking up the scenery and watching the world go by. These picturesque gardens are encircled by the ancient abbey wall, which carves its way from the 13th-century Abbot’s Bridge through the grand facade of Abbey Gate to St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Home to an aviary, aromatic floral displays and charming fountains, these 14 acres sprawl across the remains of the former Benedictine Abbey of St Edmund. Rumour has it that Edmund’s remains are still to be found buried somewhere within the precinct, supposedly under some former tennis courts! Continue your journey with a visit to St Edmundsbury Cathedral nearby. Outside, you’ll find the perfect photo opportunity THE SCENIC ROUTE Explore the vibrant Abbey Gardens (below left), enjoy a show at the historic Theatre Royal (middle), then end your day with a drink at Britain’s smallest pub The Nutshell (right)
of prison paraphernalia. Currently, visitors can enjoy a special exhibition showcasing the work of illustrator Quentin Blake. Finally, there’s nothing like taking in some culture with a trip to the theatre. Aside from its vibrant array of shows and performances throughout the year, Bury’s Theatre Royal is a spectacle in itself. As the UK’s only surviving Regency playhouse, this stunning building has been entertaining audiences for over 200 years. Immerse yourself in this historic venue by taking in a show. While its Christmas panto may be legendary, the theatre has a summer showstopper waiting in the wings with its upcoming production of Dorothy, Back in Oz , following on from the success of last year’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz . This fun, high-energy musical is a must-see for any families visiting the town this summer. Whether you have been to Oz a thousand times or this is your first visit, an epic adventure awaits! For a host of other live entertainment, be it music, comedy or theatre, The Apex
with the iconic St Edmund Statue by Dame Elisabeth Frink. This Gothic revival architectural achievement began life as a parish church in the 16th century, but went on to become the official cathedral of Suffolk in 1914 after the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich was established. The spiritual heart of the town, don’t miss the chance to climb the Millennium Tower, which offers panoramic views of Bury and its surrounding countryside – having been completed as recently as 2005. After taking in all the sights, Pilgrims’ Kitchen allows you to press pause with some much- needed refreshment. In the centre of Bury, the atmospheric Moyse’s Hall Museum has stood proudly in the same spot overlooking the town’s dynamic marketplace for the past 900 years. Located in what is thought to be a medieval Jewish merchant’s house, its eclectic collection promises to transport you from the magical to the macabre. The artefacts range from the history of witchcraft in the area to a few grisly pieces
48 JUNE 2024 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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