Lives On The Lines
Kings, Country and Concertos along the East Suffolk Lines
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Episode notes
What unites romantic sea mists, Green Men, haunting musical scores and Anglo-Saxon Kings?
It’s Greater Anglia’s East Suffolk Lines! Get comfy for a tour through one of England’s most magical and diverse landscapes by train.
From Felixstowe pass through Ipswich and on to Melton, a rural spot on the River Deben over which Sutton Hoo presides. Excavations at this burial ground revolutionised our understanding of history, giving a precious insight into the beliefs, rituals and society of the Anglo-Saxons. The National Trust’s Archaeology and Engagement Manager Laura explains some of the incredible learnings from this site.
The line wends its way through magical, musical landscapes: home to the music of Benjamin Britten, the Aldeburgh Festival and vibrant market towns. We stop off to meet local artist Michael Bullen in Walberswick and hear how he’s been inspired by the ebb and flow of quayside life.
In Halesworth, local historian Dave treats us to a tour around town. Often missed by tourists visiting by road, this hidden gem is a cornucopia of history, from its station house museum to traditional high street and gorgeous buildings. Dave shares some of Halesworth’s secrets including tales of a cheeky fox, incredible architecture, Green Men and wartime trysts in Crinkle Crankle Walls!
For our final leg of the journey we’re joined by Trevor, who’s lived and worked along this line for most of his life. He explains how life and opportunity has changed here, from the days of steam to modern day tourism, education and work. Trevor guides us to Lowestoft where the newly refurbished station buildings are home to a fantastic Tourist Office where he volunteers – a great starting point for an adventure by the sea!
Spoiler alert: this episode features ice cream.
Lives on the Lines is created on behalf of the Community Rail Partnerships with Greater Anglia.
Presented and produced by Katharine Kerr for Fresh Air Production.
Explore the East Suffolk Lines at https://eastsuffolklines.co.uk
https://eastsuffolklines.co.uk/community-rail-partnership
And explore travel with Greater Anglia at https://www.greateranglia.co.uk
Find out about National Trust Sutton Hoo https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo
Halesworth and District Museum https://www.halesworthmuseum.org.uk
Explore Halesworth https://www.halesworth.net
East Suffolk Travel Association http://www.eastsuffolktravel.org.uk
Discover Lowestoft https://www.discoverlowestoft.co.uk
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