Is Halesworth the most underrated town in Suffolk?

Halesworth in east Suffolk often goes under the radar, but it has so many great things going for it and is definitely worth a visit. 

The Racehorse, in Westhall near Halesworth, was recently crowned CAMRA's Rural Pub of the Year award after also featuring in a national beer guide.

Steve Gray, co-founder of the pub said: "We started by running a bar at the village hall once a month, then formed a committee focused on trying to buy the pub."

The Race Horse with its CAMRA award (Image: The Race Horse)

As well as this, there is a number of great places to go out for food and drink including Cleone's Italian restaurant, The Queen's Head and Fire and Feast. 

The small market town is built upon a Roman settlement and has a number of interesting buildings. 

Halesworth has a pretty town centre (Image: Newsquest)

It also has great places to stay – including the Coach House at Belle Grove just north of the town, which was recently included The Guardian's list of the 20 best cosy UK cottages.

Halesworth has good transport links, with local bus services connecting it to nearby towns including Southwold, Beccles, Bungay, Lowestoft and even as far away as Norwich. 

Halesworth market days are usually busy in the town (Image: Newsquest)

During the coronavirus pandemic, the kind-hearted people of the town set up a larder as well as a community bus service to help the vulnerable get to their vaccination appointments.

Halesworth has also been recognised for its great walks, which is a perfect way to spend the day with family and friends or if you need some time on your own. 

Markets take place in the market place every Wednesday from 8am, where there is a selection of fresh fish, fresh fruit and vegetables and bulbs. 

Where do you think is the most underrated town in Suffolk?