Clare Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Clare with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health information, and transportation options.


Introduction to Clare

Nestled in the heart of Suffolk, Clare is a quintessential English town that boasts a rich history dating back to medieval times. With its charming streets, picturesque countryside, and friendly people, Clare is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic English experience.

List of Places to Visit in Clare

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Clare Ancient House Museum

Located in the heart of Clare, the Clare Ancient House Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the town’s rich history. The museum’s displays include artifacts dating back to the 16th century, providing a fascinating insight into the lives of the town’s inhabitants over the centuries.

Clare Castle Country Park

Situated on the banks of the River Stour, Clare Castle Country Park is a beautiful green space that offers visitors the chance to explore the town’s ancient history. The park’s centerpiece is its stunning Norman castle ruins, which provide a sense of tranquility and tranquility to visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Natural Attractions of Clare: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Clare Walks

Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to explore Clare’s stunning countryside by foot. Clare has a variety of walking routes that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including the Clare Castle Country Park Walk, which takes visitors on a scenic route through the park.

The River Stour

The River Stour is one of Clare’s most beautiful natural features. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, hire a boat to explore the waterways, or even try their hand at fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clare

Clare is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the area on foot or by bike. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Clare Castle Country Park Walk
  • Clare to Cavendish Bike Ride
  • Clare to Glemsford Circular Walk

Best Things to Do in Clare: Activities and Tours

Clare Antiques and Interiors

Antique lovers will be delighted by Clare Antiques and Interiors, which offers an extensive range of antiques and vintage items.

Clare Artisans

Clare Artisans is a cooperative made up of a range of craft makers and artists. Visitors can explore the shop, which features an array of handmade products ranging from jewelry to pottery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Clare

Day Activity
1 Visit Clare Ancient House Museum
2 Explore Clare Castle Country Park
3 Go hiking at Clare Walks
4 Visit Clare Antiques and Interiors
5 Explore Clare Artisans
6 Go biking along the Clare to Cavendish Bike Ride
7 Take a leisurely stroll along the River Stour

Food and Drink Scene of Clare

Must-Try Dishes

No trip to Clare would be complete without trying some of its traditional dishes, such as:

  • Suffolk ham and eggs
  • Suffolk sausages
  • Fish and chips

Local Beverages

If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to quench your thirst, try the Suffolk Cyder from the Hoxne Cider company or a locally brewed beer from the Mauldons Brewery.

Where to Stay in Clare: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Clare has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some of the best options include The Bell Hotel, The Old Barn Inn, and Clare Priory.

What to Buy in Clare: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to remind you of your trip, consider picking up some locally produced items such as:

  • Clare Priory honey
  • Clare Community Orchard apple juice
  • Beautifully crafted pottery from the workshops in Clare Artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Clare

Clare has a rich cultural heritage dating back hundreds of years, and visitors to the town will be struck by the strong sense of community that exists here. The people of Clare are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are always made to feel at home.

Best Time to Visit Clare

The best time to visit Clare is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is alive with activity. However, the town has something to offer visitors year-round, and many people enjoy visiting during the quieter winter months when they can enjoy the stunning countryside in peace and tranquility.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clare

Do:

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the River Stour.
  • Visit The Bell Hotel for a traditional English afternoon tea.
  • Explore the quaint streets of Clare on foot or by bike.

Don’t:

  • Forget to try some of the local dishes, such as Suffolk ham and eggs or fish and chips.
  • Be disrespectful to the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clare

Clare is a peaceful and safe place to visit, and visitors are unlikely to face any serious safety challenges. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as locking your belongings away when you’re out and about.

Health in Clare

Clare has a range of medical facilities, including a hospital and several doctors’ surgeries. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance before traveling.

Getting to Clare: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Clare

The nearest airports to Clare are Stansted Airport and Heathrow Airport, which are both approximately 70 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Clare

Clare is well-served by bus, with regular services to nearby towns such as Sudbury and Bury Saint Edmunds.

Other Options

Visitors to Clare can also reach the town by train via the Sudbury branch line, which connects to Marks Tey, with onward services to London Liverpool Street.

How to Get Around in Clare

The best way to get around Clare is on foot or by bike. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and many of the local attractions are within walking distance of each other. Bikes can be hired from a range of local providers, and there are several dedicated biking routes in and around the town.

Where to Go Next from Clare: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Clare is ideally located for exploring the surrounding area, and there are several nearby destinations that are well worth a visit. Some of the best options include:

  • Bury Saint Edmunds
  • Lavenham
  • Long Melford

Conclusion

Clare is a picture-perfect English town that offers visitors the chance to experience authentic English culture and countryside. With its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and friendly people, Clare is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life.