Page 389 - Aldeburgh Festival 2022 FINAL COVERAGE BOOK

9. See the place that inspired Constable — Flatford

Straight out of a painting. Image: National Trust

Train to Kings Head, then 12 min walk

If Flatford looks familiar, you've probably seen it hanging in the National Gallery — well, a painting
of it, anyway. Willy Lott's Cottage has changed little since Constable immortalised the thatched

farmer's dwelling in The Hay Wain — in fact the entire hamlet of Flatford is achingly picturesque,
from cottage to mill to farmhouse. There's also a free exhibition featuring some of Constable's
works. The surrounding landscape of Dedham Vale has some beautiful walks, with the River Stour

wending through it (boat trips are available, too), although the area has a dark history of witch
trials, adding a frisson of eeriness. Flatford, free