Groton

Settlement in Suffolk Babergh

England

Groton

Edwardstone village sign Suffolk has 400 villages and towns with village or town signs, give or take one or two.
The tradition of village signs is believed to have started in Norfolk early in the 20th century when Edward VII suggested that village signs would aid motorists and give a feature of interest on the Sandringham Estate.
Many of the signs were made by Harry Carter, an art and woodwork master at Hamond’s Grammar School, in Swaffham.
Many have now been replaced with fibreglass or modern plastics. The story behind the sign is given as accurately as possible. — Edwardstone village sign Credit: Bob Mitchell

Groton is a small village located in the county of Suffolk, England. Situated approximately 10 miles south of Ipswich, it is part of the Babergh district. With a population of around 1,200 residents, Groton is known for its picturesque countryside and historic charm.

The village is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, lush meadows, and scenic woodland areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In particular, Groton Woods and the nearby Hadleigh Great Wood offer ample opportunities for walking, hiking, and exploring the local flora and fauna.

One of Groton's notable landmarks is the St Bartholomew's Church, which dates back to the 15th century. The church features stunning architecture and a quaint churchyard, providing a peaceful spot for reflection. Another prominent feature is the Groton Windmill, a restored 18th-century windmill that serves as a reminder of the village's agricultural heritage.

While Groton is primarily a residential village, it benefits from its close proximity to larger towns such as Sudbury and Ipswich, providing residents with easy access to a wider range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The village also has a primary school, offering education for local children.

Throughout the year, Groton hosts various community events and activities, including fairs, festivals, and charity fundraisers, which bring the villagers together and create a strong sense of community spirit.

In summary, Groton is a charming village in Suffolk, England, offering a peaceful and idyllic setting, surrounded by natural beauty and rich in history.

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Groton Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.040716/0.857533 or Grid Reference TL9641. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Edwardstone village sign

Suffolk has 400 villages and towns with village or town signs, give or take one or two. The tradition of village signs is believed to have started in Norfolk early in the 20th century when Edward VII suggested that village signs would aid motorists and give a feature of interest on the Sandringham Estate. Many of the signs were made by Harry Carter, an art and woodwork master at Hamond’s Grammar School, in Swaffham. Many have now been replaced with fibreglass or modern plastics. The story behind the sign is given as accurately as possible.

Bob Mitchell

St. Mary the Virgin, Edwardstone

Geoff Pick

Old Houses in Boxford, Suffolk

This row of old timber-framed houses lies immediately west of the parish church.

Robert Edwards

St. Mary's church, Boxford, Suffolk

This fine looking perpendicular church sits right in the middle of the village with many old houses around it. The 14th century tower has an interesting 19th century lead spirelet on top. The most interesting feature is the timber-built north porch, which is said to be the earliest of its kind in the county.

Robert Edwards

Gatehouse to Edwardstone Hall, Suffolk

The entrance through this gatehouse leads to the parish church of Edwardstone. The actual Hall has largely been demolished and the church sits in the hall's grounds.

Robert Edwards

Daking Avenue, Boxford

Nowadays, even quite small villages seem to have a modern housing estate grafted on.

Oliver Dixon

Mystery structure in Boxford

Obviously not bus shelters. Believed to be an old 19th century fire station and gaol.

Oliver Dixon

Paddock near Groton

Various sheds dotted around.

Oliver Dixon

Cox Hill in Boxford

Oliver Dixon

Barn at Redhouse Farm, Wicker Street Green

Oliver Dixon

Beanfield at Castling's Heath, near Groton

Bean cultivation is widespread in Suffolk.

Oliver Dixon

Bin day at Edwardstone

Oliver Dixon

St Bartholomew's Church, Groton

John Winthrop worshipped in this church and was married here in 1615. In 1630 he led a group of Puritans across the Atlantic to settle in the New World, and eventually became the first Governor of Massachusetts.

Oliver Dixon

Groton Village

Small green at the centre of Groton village

Oliver Dixon

Groton Croft

Groton Croft is a large area of public meadow, owned by the Groton Winthrop Mulberry Trust. It was purchased in 1993 to protect and preserve the historic mulberry tree TL9542

Oliver Dixon

The Groton Winthrop Mulberry Tree

This tree is believed to have been planted in about 1550 by Adam Winthrop (1498-1562), grandfather of John Winthrop, the pioneer who in 1630 led a party of Puritans out to establish the first permanent settlement in North America, and subsequently became the first Governor of Massachusetts. The tree and the surrounding meadow (Groton Croft, TL9541) are cared for by the Groton Winthrop Mulberry Trust.

Oliver Dixon

Play area in Edwardstone Millennium Green, Mill Green

This is one of the 250 Millennium Greens established in the year 2000 by an initiative of the Countryside Agency and supported by the Millennium Commission. Link

This green includes both open space and a children's playground. The play area is in the hamlet of Mill Green, opposite the White Horse pub.