English Countryside Villages Walk: Little & Great Thurlow

Little Thurlow and Great Thurlow are two neighboring villages located in the West Suffolk district of eastern England, not far from the Cambridgeshire border and just a few miles south of Newmarket. Surrounded by rolling fields, hedgerows, and quiet lanes, they offer a perfect setting for a relaxing countryside walk through traditional English village life.

The name "Thurlow" is believed to come from the Old English þurh (meaning “through”) and hlāw (meaning “hill” or “mound”), possibly referring to a passage or road through hills. The names Great Thurlow and Little Thurlow distinguish the larger and smaller of the two settlements, which are historically and geographically close but separate.

Both villages have deep historical roots, with records dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout the medieval and early modern periods, they were largely agricultural communities, owned and managed by local lords and gentry. A notable feature of the area is the River Stour, which flows through both villages and historically supported local mills and farming.

St. Peter’s Church in Little Thurlow and All Saints’ Church in Great Thurlow are both historic parish churches, each with medieval origins and beautiful architecture. The villages also feature traditional Suffolk cottages, estate buildings, and old farmhouses that reflect the rural heritage of the region.

Today, Little and Great Thurlow remain quiet, close-knit communities that have retained their charm and character. Walking through these villages offers visitors a glimpse into the peaceful, scenic life of the English countryside, along with a sense of the deep historical roots that define the region.

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