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Feeding the swans, ducks and other wildfowl on the River Stour has always been a well-enjoyed past time in Sudbury. Whether it is at The Croft, the Mill Pond or down at Friars Meadow, you will no doubt have regularly seen adults and children alike feeding our feathered friends. Ducks & Swan at The Croft - Photo Credit J Byham. But are we feeding them the best diet? Whilst you can still feed ducks bread, it is advised to only do this occasionally due to the low nutritional value and to ensure it is not mouldy, as this can make them ill. So what can you feed them instead? Sudbury Town Council have teamed up with The River Stour Trust & Sudbury Common Lands Charity to bring you all the information you need to feed the wildfowl a varied and healthy diet. Feed ducks as a treat - these birds already have everything they need in their natural environment, so feeding the ducks should be as much of a treat for them as it is you. Make good use of certain food waste - lettuce, kale & rocket are great snacks for ducks, swans and wildfowl, so before you throw leftovers in the bin, think about bagging it up and taking a trip to the Croft instead. Sweetcorn is a perfect treat for ducks. Again, save any leftovers or think about purchasing a tin of sweetcorn instead of a loaf of bread (it's also more cost effective). Still thinking about zero food waste, feed them some leftover rice. Please be sure to rinse any sauces off first. Uncooked rice can also be used. Frozen peas are also a tasty and nutritional supplement to wildfowl diet. These don't need to be cooked first but do need to be defrosted - take them out of the freezer the night before and you'll be good to go. Oats are always a great way to start the day, even for ducks and swans! Rolled oats, flapjacks and even instant porridge oats can be used when feeding them. Lastly, seeds, nuts and duck/swan pellets are always a great choice. Whether you're picking the nuts and seeds up in your local supermarket or visiting Wayne's Pet Supplies on Sudbury Market (Thursday, Friday & Saturday outside of the Town Hall), these are a special and nutritious treat for ducks and their friends. Wayne's duck pellets will also be available Mon-Wed from the Tourist Information Centre on Gaol Lane soon, so please keep an eye on our website and social media platforms for updates. Ducks enjoying the River Stour at the meadows - Photo credit A Longhurst. Please note, the following list are foods which should be avoided when feeding ducks, swans and other wildfowl: Crisps/other junk food. Popcorn - hard to digest and can become lodged. Cornflakes - these and similar cereals are high in sugar and additives. Citrus Fruits - can induce digestive issues. Onions (and related vegetables) - can cause diarrhoea and vomiting, hemolytic anaemia & respiratory illness. Spinach - this can induce egg binding issues by interfering with calcium production. Avocados - poisonous to birds, especially ducks, and can cause heart failure. Ducks enjoying a nutritious and bite sized treat down at The Croft - Photo credit J Byham. Other handy hints and tips: Feed ducks as a rare treat. Make sure food is in bite-sized portions as they do not chew their food. If they show no interest in eating, stop feeding them. Food that is left can attract bugs. Be cautious when feeding large birds such as geese and swans as they can become aggressive. Carefully dispose of any food packaging safely. There are several bins in and around the Croft and Meadows. Please refrain from allowing pets or children from chasing or disturbing the birds. If other people are already feeding ducks where you intended to, look for another place that is free, this reduces the risk of overfeeding. Please be mindful of wildfowl with babies, they can become aggressive when protective. During grazing season, please be mindful of cows on the meadows and ensure you provide a clear path if they are heading into the river. Cattle cooling down in the River Stour in Sudbury Water Meadows - Photo credit A Longhurst. If you have any questions on what to feed ducks, swans and wildfowl, there will be signage at designated areas, which can also be found here. Thank you for looking after our wildlife and enjoying Sudbury meadows and The Croft.

There's never been a better time to discover Sudbury's beautiful riverside! The Friars Meadow stretch of the River Stour has officially been awarded a 'Good' bathing water classification, marking an exciting milestone for one of Sudbury's most scenic outdoor destinations and gives visitors even more reason to spend time by the water this summer. Located just a short walk from the town centre, Friars Meadow has long been a favourite spot for families, ramblers, nature lovers and those looking to enjoy the tranquillity of the Stour Valley. Now, with the latest water quality results confirming a 'Good' rating, the area is set to become an even more attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. Make a Day of It Whether you're planning a family day out, a relaxing afternoon in nature or an active adventure on the water, Friars Meadow offers something for everyone. Pack a picnic or pick one up from an independent cafe and enjoy lunch beside the river, take a leisurely stroll along the waterside paths such as the Cornard Walk, or watch boats pass through one of Suffolk's most picturesque stretches of river. The meadow's open green space make it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the warmer months. For those looking to get a little closer to the water, the River Stour is also popular with paddleboarders, kayakers and wild swimmers, all drawn to the peaceful surroundings and beautiful countryside views. Fluidity Adventure rent out kayaks and canoes from The Henny Swan, a four mile drive away in the village of Great Henny, while The River Stour Trust run regular boat trips from The Granary in Quay Lane. Exploring the Stour Valley The River Stour is one of East Anglia's most celebrated waterways, famously defining the border between Suffolk and Essex. The same picturesque landscapes that inspired Gainsborough and Constable continue to capture the imagination of local artists, photographers and creatives. From Friars Meadow, visitors can explore more of Sudbury's riverside attractions, discover local wildlife, enjoy scenic walking routes, or combine their visit with a trip into the town centre, where independent shops, cafés, restaurants and cultural attractions such as Gainsborough's House, Sudbury Arts Centre and the Quay Theatre await. A River to Be Proud Of There are few places more closely connected to Sudbury's identity than the River Stour. The River Stour and Sudbury have long been inseparable partners. Winding through and alongside our historic market town, the river has inspired artists, supported wildlife, welcomed visitors, and provided us all with opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. The new 'Good' classification is a welcome endorsement of the quality of the River Stour at Friars Meadow and reflects the ongoing efforts of local organisations, volunteers and community groups who care deeply about the river's future. According to recent reporting by the BBC, Friars Meadow is one of only a handful of designated river bathing waters in England to achieve a classification above the minimum standard, making it a notable success story for both Sudbury and Suffolk. River Stour - Approaching Friars Meadow. c. 1920 Sudbury Photo Archive Staying Safe on the River If you're planning to swim at Friars Meadow, it's important to remember that rivers are natural environments and conditions can change quickly. Before entering the water, check the latest bathing water information on the Environment Agency's Swimfo website, which provides up-to-date water quality information and bathing water classifications. Water quality is monitored throughout the bathing season, but conditions can vary depending on rainfall and other environmental factors. Visitors should also check Anglian Water's storm overflow information before entering the water. Following periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall, storm overflows may operate to prevent flooding, which can affect water quality. Anglian Water provides information on storm overflow activity through its online map. If you're considering a swim: Only enter the water if you are a confident swimmer. Never swim alone. Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall, when water quality and river conditions may be affected. Be aware of river currents, submerged objects and changing water depths. Consider wearing appropriate footwear and a brightly coloured swim hat so you remain visible to other river users. Children should always be supervised by a responsible adult. If you're new to open water swimming, consider visiting with an experienced swimmer or organised group. The River Stour is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors, but it is imperative anyone looking to swim enjoys a safe experience.

Earlier in the year, the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) announced it was opening bids for the UK's very first UK Town of Culture 2028. For the first time, DCMS invited towns across the UK to enter the competition to showcase original storytelling, and empowering, accessible culture. The competition is targeted at all towns, whether small, medium or large. Inspired by the success of the flagship UK City of Culture, which is a proven model for cultural placemaking, this competition aims to spotlight the cultural contribution of towns to our national story. There will be small, medium and large-size category winners and from these three designations, an overall UK Town of Culture winner will be selected. The winning town will be awarded £3 million to deliver a cultural programme in 2028 of around six months. Additionally, the two finalists from their category will receive £250,000 each to deliver elements of their bid. Beyond the obvious, Sudbury's incredible cultural heritage extends way beyond being the birthplace of Thomas Gainsborough, the UK Capital of Silk or the inspiration for Dodie Smith's 101 Dalmatians. Culture is so much more, its about Sudbury's unique heartbeat - our 1000 year old charter market, our independent business community, our beautiful green spaces all central to Sudbury life today. Venues at the heart of our community like Sudbury Arts Centre, Quay Theatre, Mill Tye Gallery, Sudbury Library and of course Gainsborough's House all keep Sudbury's arts and community offerings at the forefront. But what about our beautifully biodiverse watermeadows, 242 listed buildings, award winning silk mills, brick makers or breweries, our food and drink offering, one of the last dedicated Tourist Information Centres in the region, our events programme, our community spirit! All of this makes Sudbury what it is today, and its our pride in our town that sets us apart. So with the support of our local cultural venues, Sudbury Town Council has thrown our hat in the ring for the very first UK Town of Culture. No matter the outcome, we'd love to hear from you to let us know your thoughts on what the town has to offer, and how we can work together to make it better. HAVE YOUR SAY Please take 10 minutes to complete our Sudbury Residents and Visitors Survey 2026 - whether you live, work or occassionally visit Sudbury (or you've only visited once!) please take the time to help us shape our town for the future. Oh and fingers crossed for us!

Mill Acre & The Croft The Croft and Mill Acre form one of Sudbury's most valued green spaces, and is an important natural landscape. Located alongside the River Stour and within easy reach of the town centre, the area provides a network of open grassland, mature trees, riverside habitats and walking routes that support a diverse range of wildlife. The area's varied habitats provide opportunities for birds, pollinators, small mammals and aquatic species, making biodiversity a key feature of this much-loved landscape. As both a recreational space and ecological asset, The Croft and Mill Acre play an important role in supporting wildlife while enhancing the wellbeing of residents and visitors alike. The Council is aware that many residents are keen to see progress on the former boating pond site at Mill Acre and understand the frustration that the area has remained undeveloped for a number of years. The redevelopment of the boating pond is a significant and complex project. Due to the site's location and environmental considerations as a flood plain, any proposed works will require detailed assessment and permissions from external bodies, including the Environment Agency. These requirements are essential to ensure that any future development is safe, sustainable and environmentally responsible. At the same time, the Council is managing other major projects across the town. These include the provision of a new cemetery, which has been identified as a priority due to the limited remaining capacity within the current cemetery. As with all large-scale projects, available resources and staffing mean that projects must be carefully planned and delivered in a realistic sequence. The Council remains committed to finding a long-term solution for the former boating pond site and has identified the project as one of its highest priorities. Work is continuing to establish the most appropriate options for the area and to secure the necessary approvals required before any redevelopment can proceed. As plans develop, further updates will be provided on this website. The Council appreciates the patience and understanding of residents while this important work is progressed Feeding the wildfowl at the croft and meadows Feeding the ducks, swans and other wildfowl at The Croft and surrounding meadows is an enjoyable way to spend some time, but please read through the information opposite before you set out. By feeding our feathered Sudbury residents the correct food stuffs, this not only provides more nutritional value for them, but also helps to keep their habitats and surrounding environment flourishing too. Wildfowl pellets can be bought from Wayne's Pet Supplie s on Thursday, Friday & Saturday outside of the Town Hall, and will soon be available from the Tourist Information Centre Mon-Wed. Update to follow.

Sudbury Cemetery Newton Rd, Sudbury CO10 2RN The Town Council's cemetery dates back to 1859 and has some fine Victorian memorials as well as a beautiful flint chapel which can be used for services. There is very limited space remaining for new graves and these are now only allocated for use as they are required. Our staff at the Town Hall may be able to assist with family history research of those interred in the cemetery. Located in close proximity to the town centre, Sudbury Cemetery is an oasis of tranquillity and a haven for wildlife. Please be respectful of your surroundings while visiting the cemetery and keep dogs on a lead at all times. Read the Terms and Regulations carefully before making an enquiry. Sudbury Cemetery Regulations Cemetery charges from April 1st 2026 Sudbury Cemetery charges 2026/27 Contact us if you have any further queries. Contact Us The Green Burial site Sudbury Town Council’s Green Burial Site offers the community an environmentally friendly alternative burial option in a peaceful natural setting, with a strong focus on supporting biodiversity. Green burials are carried out using only biodegradable materials, helping to minimise environmental impact while allowing the land to return naturally to nature. The site is managed to encourage native plants, wildflowers, insects, birds, and other wildlife, creating a rich and diverse natural habitat. Graves are left unmarked but are carefully recorded on a site plan. Trees and shrubs planted throughout the site are allowed to mature naturally, supporting local ecosystems and providing a lasting and meaningful tribute. Please contact us using the details above to discuss this option further. Eco-friendly maintenance Sudbury Cemetery is maintained in-house by our dedicated team of Community Wardens. Since 2023, we have introduced a range of measures to improve the environment, reduce waste, and encourage biodiversity. These include rainwater harvesting, composting green waste, recycling wood chippings for community use, creating undisturbed wildlife areas, installing recycled plastic bins, and replanting native hedgerows. The cemetery is now home to a wide variety of birds, insects, and wildlife, helping to create a greener and more sustainable space for the community. Cemetery Map To download a sections map of Sudbury Cemetery click the button below. For assitance locating a particular plot or grave please get in touch via the contacts above. The map also indicates what year each section of the cemetery was opened with the original Victorian part of the cemetery and main entrance accessed via Newton Road. Download PDF Map Commonwealth War Graves The Commonwealth War Graves Commission aims to commemorate the men and women of the Commonwealth who lost their lives during the World Wars. Part of this is telling their stories to ensure they are not forgotten. Search Commonwealth War Graves at Sudbury Cemetery here. Local Funeral Services J Edwards Independent Funeral Directors - visit website Hunnaball of Sudbury, Family Funeral Group - visit website Brown Fenn & Parker Funeral Directors - visit website Harvey Darke Funeral Service - visit website East of England Co-op Funeral Directors - visit website Image courtesy J Edwards Independent Funeral Services, Sudbury. Stonemasons The stonemasons listed below are frequently used by our clients. This information is provided for guidance only, and it is important to carry out your own research to find the provider best suited to your needs. Luxstone Abbey Memorials Hunnaball Memorials

Official website for the beautiful market town of Sudbury, Suffolk UK. Information on walks, trails, history, events, independent shops and more... Party in the Park Sunday 19th July 2026 00 days 00 hours 00 min 00 sec View Party In The Park Page Committee Meetings 2026 Meet Your Councillors Council Services NEWS Sudbury Services Survey 2026 June Newsletter Be a part of our events eXPLORE SUDBURY Explore Sudbury Places to Stay Tourist Information Centre