Bury St Edmunds is a 'unique and dazzling historic gem'

The UK is home to many towns and cities with a rich history and heritage, none more so than Suffolk's Bury St Edmunds.

Described by its official tourism website as a "unique and dazzling historic gem", the market town combines medieval architecture with Georgian squares, a stunning cathedral and Abbey gardens alongside modern-day necessities.

For those who require access to London, looking at houses for sale in Bury St Edmunds could be a wise choice as it is just 80 miles north of the capital. Links between the two destinations are also possible because of the train network, which means passing through Ipswich, Colchester and Chelmsford.

As mentioned, Ipswich is close by, with Norwich, Cambridge and King's Lynn all within reaching distance, while a trip to the coast can be enjoyed in nearby Great Yarmouth and Clacton-on-Sea.

Bury St Edmunds has a good choice of schools, including pre-schools like Acorns and All Saints Playgroup. Upper schools such as King Edward VI, St Benedict's and County Upper School also provide parents with varied options for their children.

Art and culture fans are well catered for and give plenty of opportunities for exploration at the weekend and during the holidays.

Bury St Edmunds' medieval past has a heavy influence and Moyse's Hall Museum is home to local and social history having previously been a gaol and police station.

The Theatre Royal was built in 1819 and is the only surviving Regency theatre left in Britain. It hosts a lively arts programme and visitors can also book themselves onto a guided tour which runs four times a week.

There are a number of restaurants to check out in Bury St Edmunds, with every taste catered for. Valley Connection will serve up Indian fine dining, while Carluccio's is the place to go for Italian treats.

Pea Porridge was voted the UK Best Newcomer 2011 in the Good Food Guide, and Zen Noodle Bar does what it says on the tin.