Freston Tower, Tudor folly tower in Freston, Suffolk, England
Freston Tower is a six-story brick structure built with one room on each floor, rising prominently beside the River Orwell. The building features Gothic details such as pointed arches and crenellations that decorate its distinct levels.
A wealthy merchant named Thomas Gooding built the structure around 1578 after purchasing Freston Manor. The construction took place during a period of significant cultural and economic development in England under Queen Elizabeth I.
The tower served as a local landmark that people could recognize from great distances due to its distinctive height and shape. Its unusual purpose and striking appearance made it stand out in the rural landscape of Suffolk.
The structure is maintained by the Landmark Trust organization and can be rented as a holiday accommodation. Visitors should check in advance whether access is available if they want to photograph the exterior or explore the surrounding area.
The building was temporarily repurposed in the 1770s for medical treatment, serving as a facility for smallpox inoculation procedures. This unexpected use lasted only a few years before the structure returned to other purposes, making it a detail many visitors overlook.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
