Saxmundham, Suffolk

Saxmundham is an historic market town, locally nicknamed 'Sax'. It is located in the centre of the Heritage Coast of the county of Suffolk, and includes a number of facilities and attractions for both locals and visitors to the area.

The town itself is located in the valley of the River Fromus, and the population of Saxmundham was projected at around 4,500 residents in 2008.

Some of the most famous residents of the town include Sam Miller, a television director, and Hamlet Walting, a painter and schoolmaster.

Saxmundham History

The name itself suggests that it was first settled during the Saxon era. It is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where the name has a variety of different spellings. In this recording, it was stated that the lands were owned by Roger Bigod (Bigot), and before 1066 was owned by Algar.

There was a market held in the town on Thursdays up until 1854, when Woodbridge changed its market day and trade fell. Since then, the market day in Saxmundham has always been Wednesday.

There was also a fair to be held annually on the Feast of Decollation of St John the Baptist.

The Bell Hotel of Saxmundham was first built in 1842, and has an exciting history. When it operated as an inn, it was visited by King George II in 1737.

Saxmundham Today

Today the town is still a popular market town, and has many links to close by towns and cities. It is a popular location with tourists, especially since it won second place in the 'Anglia in Bloom' competition in 2000.