After the infamous 1645 Manningtree witch trials, self-appointed ‘Witchfinder General’ Matthew Hopkins and his assistant John Stearne expanded their witch finding efforts into Suffolk and the surrounding counties. Between 1645 and 1647 around 240 accusations of witchcraft came before the authorities in East Anglia resulting in 100 executions.
Remembering Suffolk’s Forgotten Witches
The Suffolk witch trials were some of the most widespread in England, yet many of the stories—especially those of the 60+ people accused in Babergh and Mid Suffolk — have been lost to history. With records scattered and incomplete, their voices have faded, overshadowed by the notoriety of the witchfinders who condemned them.
This project is about bringing those stories back to light. Instead of focusing on the persecutors, we’re looking at the lives of the accused—who they were, what happened to them, and how these events shook their communities. These weren’t witches; they were ordinary people caught up in fear and suspicion, and by exploring these trials, we can better understand a time when fear and rumour could mean the difference between life and death.
While these events belong to history, they still have something to teach us today through enduring themes of persecution, misogyny, and the fear of difference. A stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and prejudice.
Talks:
Well respected local historian and author, Pip Wright, will be presenting a talk about the Babergh and Mid Suffolk witch trials on two dates during the festival.
21st March 7pm for 7.15pm at The Bank, Eye. BOOK HERE
26th March 7pm for 7.15pm at Brantham Leisure Centre. Details to follow.
Walks:
Use our Love Exploring app to explore the Babergh and Mid Suffolk towns and villages that were home to the persecuted victims of the Suffolk witch trials
Film Screening:
Join us for a screening of Gossip, a short film set in 16th-century East Anglia that tells the untold story of witches as they really were —midwives, healers, and women with knowledge and power. The film will be followed by a Q and A session with Director Hannah Renton and score composer Kate Huggett.
28th March, The Quay Theatre, Sudbury 7pm for 7.15pm – BOOK HERE
31st March, The Regal, Stowmarket 7.15m for 7.30pm – BOOK HERE
“Hannah Renton’s period short Gossip is a dramatic look at the power of community during Britain’s era of witch trials. A small, prominently female community on the fringes of East Anglia set about their daily routine but when a due mother begins the process of labour she relies on those around her to guide her through. Renton’s short does an excellent job of showcasing the important relationship mothers share with midwives during labour whilst also depicting the shadowy looming male presence that seeks to disrupt it”.