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Constable and Gainsborough

Constable's Flatford and East Bergholt, Gainsborough's House in Sudbury and the Ipswich galleries, from a base in the Stour Valley.
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Tour Summary

As the birthplace of Thomas Gainsborough, John Constable, Aldred Munnings and Maggi Hambling, Suffolk boasts the largest collection of Constable and Gainsborough works outside of London.

  • 5 singles with NO supplement included
  • Price is based on 30 passengers 

 

Included in This Tour

  • 4 nights at the Mill Hotel, Sudbury
  • Breakfast and all evening meals
  • Private coach travel
  • Entrance to National Trust properties if member
  • Services of an experienced driver
  • 5 singles with no supplement
  • Cancellation Protection

Tour Itinerary

East Bergholt

John Constable was born in 1776 in East Bergholt, a village on the River Stour in Suffolk. Throughout his life he felt great affection for the Suffolk landscape and the villages surrounding his home, telling a friend: “I should paint my own places best; painting with me is but another word for feeling.” Of all the paintings by John Constable, perhaps the most famous is The Hay Wain. It depicts a horse and cart crossing the River Stour, a white cottage visible on the left bank. 

Gainsborough House

In 1958, Gainsborough’s House Society was formed to purchase the house and establish it as a centre for Thomas Gainsborough. The Museum opened to the public in 1961 and has remained open for over 50 years. The beautiful historic garden at the heart of Gainsborough’s House is maintained by a devoted body of volunteers.  

Christchurch Mansion

One of Suffolk’s most treasured buildings, this beautiful Grade I listed Tudor mansion is the jewel in the crown of Ipswich’s historic past, boasting over 500 years of history. Explore the period rooms from the Tudor kitchen to the sumptuous Georgian saloon and the beautifully detailed Victorian wing.  Gaze at the fine collection of art from Suffolk artists including the biggest collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings outside of London.

Ipswich Museum

Ipswich Museum is currently under-going major refurbishment, however it will open its doors to visitors in 2025. The museum is a Grade II listed building, hosting a beautiful victorian atmosphere. The museum is expanding, ensuring there will be plenty of wonderful exhibitions to explore.

Ipswich Art Gallery

Alongside Ipswich Museum, the Art Gallery is also undergoing refurbishment to improve their facilities and exhibitions. You can find incredible displays here from local to international artists. Their varied programme is sure to interest and excite you.

Flatford

Accessible from East Bergolt, Flatford lies in the incredible Dedham Vale. This charming hamlet inspired many of John Constable's most famous pictures. Wander through the hamlet and you will feel like you are within one of his paintings.

Accommodation

Night

Mill Hotel, Sudbury

Set on the banks of the River Stour, this relaxed hotel in a restored water mill is a 4-minute walk from the birthplace museum of Thomas Gainsborough. The rooms, many with river or meadow views, provide free Wi-Fi, TVs, tea and coffeemaking facilities and en suite bathrooms. The brasserie-style restaurant has river views and the bar overlooks the open meadow..

Explore this accommodation

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