Haughley (pronounced Horley), is said by many to be one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk. It is steeped in history, much of which is still in evidence. The large attractive green remains at the heart of the village and is surrounded by a delightful variety of cottages, some thatched, and all painted in traditional Suffolk pastel shades. Nearby, the 14th century church of St Mary stands proudly at the top of the hill, and, just along the road from the church the ducks swim lazily in the moat of the motte and bailey castle that was built by Hugh de Montfort around 1100 and was destroyed by the Earl of Leicester's army in 1173.

However, don't be fooled by its serene appearance. Haughley is still very much alive. Its pulse is beating as strongly as ever. There are many reasons for this, including a forward thinking Parish Council, and the presence in Haughley of many successful local businesses. The local catchphrase is that "Haughley means business". Haughley boasts a public house, a restaurant, a bakery (which was established over a hundred years ago), a Post Office (the oldest in Suffolk, and possibly the oldest in the country), a general foodstore, a hairdressing salon, a second hand furniture shop, a children's clothing shop, a picture framing shop, a vet and several farms. Visit Haughley on a Saturday and you can also experience the weekly auction. If you want to spend a day or two here, Bed & Breakfast and holiday accommodation is available.

On the community front there is also alot going on. At the centre of the community is the church, along with a highly successful football club, a bowls club, Women's Institute, Gardening Club, Evergreens, Bell Ringers, Choir, Brownies, Cubs, Guides and Scouts etc etc. For those who enjoy traditional dancing we have the Hageneth Morris Men and the Haughley Hoofers.

The local people take a great pride in their village, and this is particularly evident during the summer months when, under the direction of the "Haughley in Bloom" committee, the roadsides and houses are adorned with a beautiful and colourful variety of flowers. Indeed, in recent years Haughley has on a number of occasions been adjudged a winner of the "Anglia in Bloom" competition and has represented the region in the national floral competition finals.

If you would like any further information about Haughley, or if you would like to provide feedback on the information contained in these pages, please email D.J.Fleetwood@tesco.net

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