The Suffolk Smoothie

The Suffolk Smoothie is a short, easy two-day circular ride from Needham Market through the historic wool towns of South Suffolk. Riders pedal quiet country lanes past medieval churches, thatched cottages and traditional pubs, taking in Battisford's punchbowl, the six bells at Preston St Mary and the half-timbered splendour of Lavenham, with its towering church and Guildhall.

The overnight stop is Bildeston, at a Grade II listed former coaching inn known for its local fare. Day two continues through Chelsworth, Lindsey's thirteenth-century thatched chapel and the watersplash at Kersey, before passing Hadleigh's pargetted buildings and the village green at Barking Tye on the return to Needham Market. Both days offer a choice of longer or shorter route options.

Highlights:

• Historic wool towns of Lavenham and Hadleigh, with medieval churches and half-timbered buildings
• Overnight stay at a Grade II listed coaching inn in Bildeston
• Quiet country lanes through pink-thatched village hamlets
• Chelsworth's peacocks and Kersey's watersplash ford
• Choice of longer or shorter route each day
• Traditional country pubs en route

Surface and terrain:
Quiet country lanes throughout, with gently rolling Suffolk countryside. No significant climbs. Recommended, minimum and maximum mileage options offered each day.

Suitable for:
Riders wanting an easy, short introductory cycling break. Tour graded 2 (Easy) — suits couples or newcomers to cycling holidays.