Notes on the Bulcamp Oddity at Blythburgh
This
unusual structure is set into the embankment on the east side of
the A145, just north of the A145/A12 junction near Blythburgh.
Located
approximately halfway between Blythburgh and Bulcamp (grid ref:
TM450762) it perhaps gives the appearance of an uncomfortable bus
shelter. However, as it is believed to date from the mid-1800s the
wait for a bus would surely have proved intolerable and may account
for the belief that it is haunted.
Another suggestion is that it was indeed a shelter, but for those whose journey to the nearby Bulcamp Workhouse (a 'House of Industry' dating from the 1700s, now a private residential complex) meant that their arrival was after the House had closed for the night. Surely though, this structure is much too small to linger in.
Perhaps clues to its purpose lie in references to the Tollgate, or Turnpike, Cottages which stood nearby, just down the hill, but on the opposite side of the road. Was the structure in some way associated with the Turnpike road?
Or again, perhaps it should be noted that the land lying behind the structure is named 'Springhill', and, on a walkers' map, this stretch of road is named 'Springhole Lane'. Perhaps the structure marks the site of an ancient spring, now no longer in evidence.
Article by Eileen Heaps, photos by Tim Heaps
Some Favourite Websites For May 2026:
Kate Mawdsley Printmaker – Buy unique and varied Lino Cut and Etching prints of the Blyth Valley countryside
It’s a wonderfully refreshing change to produce individual hand printed images. Each one is unique with its subtle variations in colour and texture. Kate only produces a very limited number of each print and particularly enjoys creating prints of the local Suffolk countryside.
Hetty’s Little Copy Shop – A wide range of printing services - including 3D - plus passport photos and more
The Little Copy Shop is in Thoroughfare, Halesworth, and offers all sorts of useful services involving printing, laminating, scanning, binding and copying plus various photographic services including passport photos.
Walberswick Ferry – Offering river trips as well as special occassion bookings
Climb aboard the launch Daybreeze and follow the River Blyth towards Blythburgh through Walberswick Nature Reserve - an Area of Outstanding National Beauty.
Sandpiper Beach Hut – A Traditional beach hut on Southwold seafront available to rent by the week
Sandpiper Beach Hut is a traditional Southwold Beach Hut. It has an excellent position overlooking Southwold Beach and Promenade with superb sea views and a stunning sandy beach.
Wissett Village Hall – A well furnished and practical Village Hall for use for events up to 70 standing or 50 seated
Wissett Village Hall prides itself on high quality affordability and is used regularly for a wide variety of events, including but not limited to carpet bowls, yoga, meetings, dinners and parties, jumbles sales, quizzes, horticultural events and art classes.