Living in Bury St Edmunds – an essential guide

Considered the ‘jewel in the crown of Suffolk’, the charming market town of Bury St Edmunds often ranks highly as one of the best places to live in the UK.

It’s been voted the best place to live in the East of England by The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide not just once but many, many times. Whilst Bury may have missed out on the top spot in this year’s rundown, the thriving destination remains a desirable place to live.

Bury St Edmunds also received another prestigious title cementing its status as a top place to live. We’ll let SuffolkNews explain more:

“Two Suffolk towns are among the happiest places to live in the UK, a survey has said. Rightmove’s Happy at Home index for 2022 noted that Woodbridge and Bury St Edmunds were third and eighth, respectively, for the entire nation, hinting residents consider them contenders for the best places to live. They were the only two towns in the East of England to break the top 20.”

So, what’s it really like to live in Bury St Edmunds? Here we share an essential guide to living, working and enjoying the beautiful town of Bury.

Food and drink

As Suffolk’s foodie capital, Bury St Edmunds offers endless options for those looking to dine out. Whether it’s fine dining you have a taste for – Bury is home to the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the county! – or some good quality pub grub, you’ll find plenty to keep you satisfied.

The area’s best food and drink is celebrated regularly with various events, including the annual Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival, which takes place every August and provides a jam-packed itinerary.

If it’s a good drink you love, Bury’s 1,000-year history brewing real ale and craft beer will certainly delight.

Activities and attractions

Explore history, nature, art and culture in one place as a Bury resident. Thanks to the town’s long list of activities and attractions, no two weekends or evenings have to be the same!

The Greene King Brewery, Abbey Gardens, Theatre Royal, Ickworth House, St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Abbeygate Cinema, and Fullers Mill Garden all make for fantastic excursions for locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bury, the Suffolk coast is also just under one hour away.

Work and education

The thriving community makes work and education priorities in Bury St Edmunds. When relocating to Bury, you’ll find an active jobs market, with positions available locally at all levels. Bury is also home to many good schools, making it a popular spot for families.

Transport and travel

Bury St Edmunds is perfectly positioned for commuters or residents looking to explore beyond the town. Its local train station offers frequent and reliable services to London. London’s Liverpool Street station is just 1 hour and 45 minutes away.

Bury St Edmunds is popular with those working in Cambridge too, with those living in Bury St Edmunds and commuting to Cambridge £1,128 better off and enjoying an easy 43-minute commute.

Looking to relocate to Bury St Edmunds with a property purchase? Our local experts can help with independent mortgage advice that gets you there, whether you’re a first time buyer or a home mover. Contact our team today to discuss your next steps.