Notes on the Bulcamp Oddity at Blythburgh
This
unusual structure is set into the embankment on the east side of
the A145, just north of the A145/A12 junction near Blythburgh.
Located
approximately halfway between Blythburgh and Bulcamp (grid ref:
TM450762) it perhaps gives the appearance of an uncomfortable bus
shelter. However, as it is believed to date from the mid-1800s the
wait for a bus would surely have proved intolerable and may account
for the belief that it is haunted.
Another suggestion is that it was indeed a shelter, but for those whose journey to the nearby Bulcamp Workhouse (a 'House of Industry' dating from the 1700s, now a private residential complex) meant that their arrival was after the House had closed for the night. Surely though, this structure is much too small to linger in.
Perhaps clues to its purpose lie in references to the Tollgate, or Turnpike, Cottages which stood nearby, just down the hill, but on the opposite side of the road. Was the structure in some way associated with the Turnpike road?
Or again, perhaps it should be noted that the land lying behind the structure is named 'Springhill', and, on a walkers' map, this stretch of road is named 'Springhole Lane'. Perhaps the structure marks the site of an ancient spring, now no longer in evidence.
Article by Eileen Heaps, photos by Tim Heaps
Some Favourite Websites For December 2024:
Green Haven Holidays - Wheelwrights Cottage – Self Catering accommodation for up to three people + two dogs, in Rumburgh near Halesworth
Just 500 metres to the dog-friendly CAMRA village pub! This beamed cottage has been beautifully modernised to provide one-bedroom accommodation with kingsize bed, plus additional single bed if required. WiFi. Front garden plus rear courtyard with outdoor furniture. Parking for two cars. Pets welcome at no extra charge. Short breaks available. Close to Halesworth and within 20 minutes drive to Southwold on the Suffolk Heritage Coast.
Valley Farm – A large family farmhouse in Walberswick
A Grade II listed farmhouse for up to 11, plus 2 cots, with amazing views across the marshes to the sea.
St James Village Orchard – A beautifully well kept natural space cared for and maintained by the community
At the western edge of the small Suffolk village of St James South Elmham is a triangular shaped field of about one acre, bounded on two sides by Metfield Road and Common Road and known as the Greshaw Green Enclosure. The St James Village Orchard Project has transformed the enclosure into a flourishing community orchard.
Singtong Neeyom Thai Restaurant – Delicious authentic Thai Cuisine
Take a look at Singtong Neeyom Thai Restaurant in the centre of Halesworth, for a range of delicious and skillfully prepared Thai dishes created by their own native Thai, Piek.
Rookyard Cottage, Holton – Eco-friendly self-catering cottage near Halesworth with private heated indoor swimming pool available
Set in over two acres Valley Farm offers two self-catering cottages, Rookyard Cottage and Swallow Barn, both with eco-friendly features and each sleeping up to four people + cot. Rated AA 4 Stars. WiFi. Private heated indoor swimming pool available. Ten miles from seaside at Southwold. Pets not accepted.