Hi Gree
Suggestions for a day out in Suffolk. Leave Bury and head for Long Melford, maybe visiting Kentwell Hall. Visit Melford’s beautiful ‘wool’ church, look at the antique shops, morning coffee at The Bull? Then on to Lavenham. Walk around, admire houses, visit Guildhall, a little shopping? lunch at the Swan?
The on to Clare/Cavendish. Drive through or linger. Then to Kersey – tiny medieval village once famous throughout Europe for the quality of its cloth. Shakespeare mentions it in his plays. Only evidence of the industry now is extra big windows in some of the ancient buildings, built to let in maximum light for the cloth workers centuries ago. Note stream running across the main village street and give way to the ducks. Read up about Maria Marten and the murder in the Red Barn, and drive through Polstead. On to Constable country and visit Flatford Mill, East Bergholt and Dedham.
You will now be flagging, so head the short distance to the A14/A12, a fast road that will deposit you back in Bury before you know it. Quick shower and change. Evening meal at Maison Bleue, Churchgate Street, Bury. Talk about your day and all you have seen over a delicious meal.
Several places I have mentioned are in the control of the National Trust. I believe there is a similar organisation in the USA and if you are a member you can use this to gain entry into the English places. Sorry, don’t know more than this.

Just to say that Morgana's idea of how to spend a day in Suffolk is absolutely perfect for someone visiting. Kersey is a gem. Constable country is a must. Don't forget to stop for afternoon tea at the Dedham branch of Wilkins and Sons Tiptree jams - world famous and apparently James Bond's favourite!!

Another fun idea is to stop off at Corncraft in Monks Eleigh the next village along from Lavenham on the way to Kersey where there are some interesting handicrafts such as corn dollies and some other unusual gift ideas

If you like unique, interesting pubs and wonderful beer seek out the St. Peter's Brewery and restaurant in South Elmham. We were amazed at the architecture, food, service and the drinks were good too. Their hours can be odd so check the website http://www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk. It is near Bungay and well worth the trip! I also love their London pub too.

Thanks for all of the suggestions! I have an excellent idea and plan for our time and with all the suggestions will plan to return for a longer time next time! thanks again!

Thanks Morgana for all your ideas. I will look into everything and make some decisions.