When we were leaving London about fourteen years ago, we chose Suffolk. It is a decision we are often asked about, and the answer is simple. Suffolk does not try to impress. It does not announce itself. It quietly gets on with being full of heart. Also, my mother’s family all hail from Walberswick, the most gorgeous village, sadly its just a little too far for commuting.
I was reminded of this most clearly while hosting a Christmas charity fair in aid of Belchamp Walter Church on a freezing cold winter’s day. People arrived wrapped in beautiful coats and well worn boots, taking time out of their day to support small businesses and the church. The house filled with the comforting smell of freshly ground speciality coffee from Prospect Coffee, alongside Becks’ (Founder of @prospect_coffee_uk), heavenly hand baked mini frangipani mince pies - I dare you to have just one! By the end of the day, we had raised £1,000 for the church, with the village turning out in its droves, generous with their time, their warmth and their goodwill. It felt unshowy and wholehearted, and quietly confirmed that this is a place where people really do show up for one another.
After many years living in London, I can honestly say I have had more fun in Suffolk than anywhere else. Long dinners that drift happily into the night, candles glowing, dogs under the table, food made with care, and conversations that linger long after the plates are cleared.
Here, you pop out for bread or to the post office and end up chatting to someone who has restored a farmhouse, started a small business, or had a glittering career without ever feeling the need to mention it. There is no pretence, just an extraordinary quality in people, in gatherings, and in the independent businesses that give the county its heart.
Suffolk does not need to shout about itself. The beauty is there when you take the time to notice it. A deep appreciation for craftsmanship and detail, a softer welcome, and a gentler pace of life. It opens the wine, gets out the nibbles, lays the table and invites you to stay a while. Before you know it, you have quietly fallen in love.
And perhaps that is why Suffolk suits Slow Squirrel so perfectly. It is a place that values slowing down, choosing carefully and gathering well. A place where beauty is useful, treasures are made to last, and the best moments happen around a table, not on a timetable.
'Find joy in the simple things and life will always be fulfilling'.
xx
Thank you to
@prospect_coffee_uk, @constanceanddenny, @harry.hyatt, @jbpostcards, @luciacooperdesigns,@tee_j_menswear, @ketteley_kit, @ooty_designs, @catherinehaddoninteriors, Amanda Seymour, Claire Walker and the Belchamp Walter Bakers for helping us to raise such a wonderful amount for the church.
