On Sunday 29 June, Dunwich Heath will be celebrating in style, as the property reaches 40 years in the care of the National Trust and what better way to mark the occasion than a big birthday party!
In 1968, amid concerns that the fragile landscape of Dunwich Heath was being damaged by caravans and campers, the heath was sold to the National Trust, the first property in Suffolk purchased through the National Trust Enterprise Neptune Campaign, thanks to a generous donation from the H.J. Heinz Company. Since then, the National Trust has protected this valuable area and maintained it as open heathland, restoring many areas to their former state.
Just imagine how many people have enjoyed walking across Dunwich Heath and its open tracts of heather and gorse, or spent the day on the pebbly beach with an ice cream, since 1968. Come along and reminisce, or see what you have missed and join in the celebrations with the team. Throughout the day, there will be plenty to entertain youngsters, with face painters, games and storytime. Trusty the Hedgehog will also be putting in an appearance!
The Barley Brigg Morris Dancers from Yoxford will be putting on a show, and the award winning tea-shop will be offering a menu from the last 20 years. Local suppliers including a bakery and drinks company will all be offering tasters of the best local food. But don’t forget to save some room for a slice of the enormous birthday cake!
As part of the 40th anniversary celebrations, a commemorative plaque, written with ruby writing will be unveiled on the wall of the tea-rooms. Local school children from nearby Middleton Primary School will also be coming along on the day, to bury a time capsule that they have made, as part of a project of what Dunwich Heath means to them.
The old bus that used to run from Dunwich village up to the heath will be on site, 12 years since it has been in operation and old staff members have been invited back to enjoy the atmosphere of this special day. So, whether you are a local or visiting the area, come and join the party at Dunwich Heath, which kicks off from 10am until 2pm.
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