THE FACTS ABOUT ANTIQUE SHOPS IN SUFFOLK

England Suffolk

Browse antique shops in the half-timbered wool town of Lavenham from the comfort of 13th-century Lavenham Priory, which has a great hall, Jacobean staircase and Elizabethan wall paintings. Set in the central market square, the hotel has six rooms, four with four-posters, all with beamed ceilings and oak floors. For frills and furbelows, choose the Great Chamber with its Polonaise bed in frilly Napoleonic style, inglenook fireplace and slipper bath. The largest (and most expensive) room is the Priory Suite, in muted pinks and creams with a huge four-poster swathed with pink toile de Jouy. X-FACTOR The excellent restaurants within walking distance, including the Great House (01787 247431) and The Angel (01787 247388). CONTACT Lavenham Priory, Lavenham, Sudbury, Suffolk (01787 247404; www.lavenhampriory.co.uk). Doubles from £110; Great Chamber £140; Priory Suite £150. Minimum two-night stay at weekends.