What’s it like living in Bury St Edmunds?
Bury St Edmunds, fondly referred to as “Bury,” is an enchanting market town in Suffolk that consistently earns its place among the “Happiest Places to live in the East of England,” according to Rightmove. Recognised for its historical interest and lively atmosphere, Bury has also secured a spot in the “Top 10 Places to Live in Suffolk” by Good Move.
Times have changed and in the past twenty years alone, Bury St Edmunds has transformed from a provincial market town to a thriving modern property hotspot. A large new shopping centre, multi-cinema complex and cultural venues like the local theatre and galleries contribute to the town’s growing popularity.
History: Once home to England’s first patron saint, St Edmund, Bury St Edmunds has a rich history and unique character. The iconic St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the picturesque Abbey Grounds, along with its association with malting, brewing and the renowned Silver Spoon Sugar factory, contribute to the town’s distinctive characteristics.
Ideal for Families and Education: Families are drawn to Bury St Edmunds for its excellent schools. The town and its suburban areas offer a range of highly rated primary and secondary schools, with several receiving outstanding or good ratings from Ofsted.
Transport Links and Accessibility: The town’s strategic location provides excellent transport connections, including the A14 for easy access to Cambridge, Ipswich, Colchester and London. Bury St Edmunds is also a “walkable” town, with attractions, shops and amenities within a short stroll. Robust public transportation, local bus services and the National Express coach service enhance the town’s accessibility.
Affordable Living and Housing Options: Compared to major cities in the UK, Bury St Edmunds offers good value in terms of housing, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between town amenities and affordable living.
Leisure, Amenities and Festivals: With over 200 shopping outlets, a diverse restaurant scene and numerous entertainment options, Bury St Edmunds caters to varied tastes and preferences. The town hosts markets and festivals, including the acclaimed Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre and the Whitsun Fayre.
Where to live in Bury St Edmunds and surrounding area
Some of the best places to live include:
- Town Centre and Abbeygate Ward:
- Living in the heart of the town centre and Abbeygate Ward means being close to historic landmarks, cultural venues and a plethora of amenities. The central location provides easy access to shops, restaurants and entertainment, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively urban lifestyle.
- Hospital Area – South Side:
- The area around the hospital on the south side of Bury St Edmunds offers a peaceful residential setting while maintaining proximity to essential services. Residents can enjoy a quiet environment with convenient access to healthcare facilities, schools and transportation links.
- The ‘Fornham’ Villages:
- The ‘Fornham’ villages, including Great and Little Fornham, offer a blend of rural charm and proximity to the town centre. These areas provide a more relaxed pace of life, scenic surroundings and easy access to Bury St Edmunds for shopping and cultural activities.
- Ixworth:
- Ixworth, a charming village near Bury St Edmunds, appeals to those seeking a peaceful and close-knit community. With picturesque landscapes and a range of local amenities, Ixworth offers a serene escape while remaining well-connected to the town.
- Woolpit:
- Woolpit, located a short distance from Bury St Edmunds, provides a village lifestyle with excellent transport links. Residents can enjoy the tranquility of village life while having convenient access to the amenities and opportunities offered by the market town.
Bury St Edmunds has a lot to offer, making it worth considering for buying or investing as prices look poised to rise in the coming years.
Abbeygate Ward Safety & Community: The Abbeygate Ward in Bury St Edmunds, including the town centre, has recorded a total of 1,205 crimes in the past year, with a rate of 190 crimes per 1,000 people, ranking it third highest in the county. Violent and sexual offences had a rate of 83.2 crimes per 1,000 people, exceeding Suffolk and England average.
Insider Tip
- Parking Perks: Parking in the town centre can be pricey. Consider resident parking permits or explore park-and-ride options on the outskirts.
Explore Bury St Edmunds – Useful Links for Residents and Visitors
- Bury St Edmunds and Beyond: The official tourism site for Bury St Edmunds and Beyond, providing comprehensive information about attractions, events and local services.
- Bury In Bloom: Celebrate the town’s floral beauty and stay updated on initiatives to enhance Bury St Edmunds’ green spaces.
- Bury Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Bury St Edmunds with the town’s annual festival featuring live music, theatre and arts.
- Bury St Edmunds Past & Present Society: Delve into the town’s rich history with the Bury St Edmunds Past & Present Society, exploring archives and preserving historical records.
- The Bury Society: Connect with The Bury Society, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage and character of Bury St Edmunds.
Transportation and Infrastructure
- Car Parks in Bury St Edmunds: Find information about parking facilities in Bury St Edmunds to make your visits convenient.
- Car (Electric) Charging Points in Bury St Edmunds: Stay eco-friendly with electric vehicle charging points across Bury St Edmunds.
- Cycle Parking in Bury St Edmunds: Explore cycling options and locate cycle parking spaces in Bury St Edmunds.
Local Guides and Directories
- Our Bury St Edmunds: An online guide to Bury St Edmunds, offering insights into local businesses, events and attractions.
- Permit Parking in Bury St Edmunds: Learn about permit parking options in Bury St Edmunds for convenient and hassle-free parking.
Events and Entertainment
- What’s On West Suffolk: Stay informed about events, activities and happenings in Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding area.
- Visit Bury St Edmunds Events: Explore a curated list of upcoming events in Bury St Edmunds, ensuring you don’t miss out on the town’s vibrant cultural scene.

