Visiting the sites of some of John Constable's most well known paintings, this tour takes you to the historic towns and rolling countryside that make up 'Constable Country'.
On this tour - as with our other tours - we detail the recommended route mileages but longer or shorter alternatives are available.
Day 1: Arrival in Needham Market
After arriving at Needham Market you will be able to explore the area and spend your first night in this small market town.
Day 2: Needham Market to Dedham, (Rec 29: Min 20: Max 30 miles.)
Cycle the lanes to the prosperous ‘Wool Town’ of Hadleigh with its fine old buildings and quiet riverside walks, with an option to visit Kersey and splash through the ford in this quaint village. Continue through the tiny riverside hamlet of Shelley (or take the off-road option along the old railway line) then on to East Bergholt, the birthplace of John Constable. Visit Flatford Mill and perhaps take a guided walk to seven sites painted by Constable including ‘The Haywain’, take a rowing boat on the River Stour, or simply relax in the riverside tea room. Continue on to Dedham and your overnight accommodation. You may also enjoy a short walk over the fields and along the river between Flatford and Dedham.
Day 3: Dedham to Needham Market, (Rec 33: Min 27: Max 39 miles.)
The return to Needham Market takes you through some more of the prettiest villages in England. There are options to visit Langham Church and Stoke by Nayland, both with close links to John Constable, then splash through the ford at Kersey, then to Chelsworth with its narrow bridge and pretty weavers cottages. There is also the opportunity to visit Lavenham, the most spectacular of the wool towns with its unique collection of medieval buildings.
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