River History Walk: Tales of Mildenhall’s River
We will immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of the river Lark and get a sense of its importance in the history of the town. On the walk we will hear stories from locals about swimming, fishing and having fun in the rivers, and see sites of Mildenhall’s fascinating trading, industrial and social history.
The walk begins by skirting Jubilee Fields and crossing the river Lark on the footbridge next to the nature reserve, then follows the river along past the Gas Pool, passes the Bridge Mill, crosses the newly restored footbridge and past the cricket pitch to Wamil Walk, past St Mary’s Church and back through town to the starting point. At key points we will stop to hear amusing and interesting stories of recreation, trade and industry, and the social history of some key buildings in the town – including of the workhouse, alms-houses, and the historic manor house. We will also invite people to immerse our senses and take in the sights and sounds of locations along the way. We might extend the walk by adding an additional stretch of river and returning along Wamil Walk, depending on participants and weather conditions. Optional visit to the fascinating Mildenhall Museum afterwards.
The walk will be led by Imogen Radford and other project volunteers. Imogen is the project lead for Tales from the River, a BFER project uncovering a wide range of local stories about the Brecks Fen Edge and rivers including oral histories, myths and legends.
River History Walk: Tales of Mildenhall’s River
When: Wednesday 11 September
Where: Mildenhall, Suffolk
Time: 13:30pm -15:30pm
Distance: Approx. 1.5 miles
Meeting Point: We will meet at the first bench by the river in Jubilee Fields, which has an easy route from the lower car park.
What Three Words: ///stub.steaming.costumed
Tickets (booking required): Fully funded with thanks to the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Book now here: Tales of Mildenhall’s River
Further Information
Accessibility: This will be an easy going walk along riverside pathways. Paths may be narrow in places or muddy underfoot. The route is of mixed terrain, most being well surfaced. The route is mostly level with some gentle slopes. This route is suitable for mobility scooters. If you have any concerns about accessibility, please contact the walk leader Imogen Radford for further information: imogen36@googlemail.com
Facilities: Toilet facilities are available in Sainsburys supermarket. There are multiple places to buy refreshments in Mildenhall town centre.
Dogs: Assistance dogs only
Travel: The closest bus stop is located at St Mary’s Church, Mildenhall, which is a 5 minute walk from the meeting point. Find information about bus times and services on the bustimes website.
Free car parking is available in the car park adjacent to Jubilee Fields. There is a 2.1 m barrier. This is the lower car park, located next to the Jubilee Centre behind Sainsburys supermarket. Do not park in the Sainsbury supermarket car park, as it has a two-hour limit. (Jubilee Centre address: Mildenhall, Bury St Edmunds IP28 7HG)
What to wear/bring: Please wear clothing suitable for the weather, such as rain and sun protection, and warm layers. Please wear closed toe footwear, and be aware that some of the paths may be muddy under foot. You may wish to bring a bottle of water.