Play it again Fram
And local company Suffolk Secrets has some corkers in the area. Ours came with a range cooker, a real fire and an outdoor area for pre-dinner cocktails. Surrounded by a chorus of wild birds in full song, it was a bit like Come Dine With Me meets Countryfile.
When we ventured out into the town and its surrounding countryside, we found plenty to do as well as a lovely peaceful ambience about the place.
Framlingham is only 15 miles from Aldeburgh on the coast and Minsmere Bird Reserve is nearby.
And the castle itself is definitely worth a visit. Framlingham has been around since Anglo Saxon times and is mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086 when it consisted of several manors which William the Conqueror presented to the then sheriff of Norfolk Roger Bigod.
The present castle was built between 1190 and 1210 by the last Roger Bigod. It’s probably still in such good nick because it never saw any war action – although it was once owned by Queen Mary Tudor and was also home for a while to Mary Queen of Scots.
Suffolk Secrets has a cosy self-catering holiday cottage which backs directly on to the castle grounds. Isaacs Retreat has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The highlight for us was the market which takes place on Market Hill every Tu e s d a y an d Saturday. Locals first started setting up stalls there in the 13th Century and it’s still a thriving twice-weekly event now.
Our favourite attraction was The Over The Moon cafe trailer, serving waffles, pastries, cake, crepes and croissants.
Other historic points include an original ducking pond on the village green and an original water pump which dates back to when people first settled in the area.
It wasn’t an adventure holiday and if you’re a thrill-seeker after an adrenaline rush, it’s probably not for you. But for a relaxing break away from the chaos of the rat race it was spot on.
We would definitely go back. If only for another waffle. abelliogreateranglia.co.uk
A waffle or crepe at the Over The Moon Cafe on market days or lunch in the child-friendly Castle Inn. Main courses run from sizzling ribs for £6.50 to King John’s hearty hotpot for a £10. castleinnframlingham.co.uk
The castle really is incredible and takes you back in time, which is surprisingly interesting. It costs £7.60pp to get in or family tickets for two adults and up to three children are £19.70. www.english-heritage. org.uk
Seven nights’ self-catering at Isaacs Retreat, which sleeps up to five people in three bedrooms, starts at £488 through Suffolk Secrets. suffolk-secrets.co.uk, 01502 722717