Originally called Bedricesworth, pilgrims came to worship at the shrine containing the martyred King Edmund, thus lending his name to the town. The enormous Benedictine Abbey of St Edmundsbury, alas now in ruins, was one of the largest in the country, extending its influence over much of Suffolk. Its existence contributed to the affluence of the town - so much so that even kings held their Parliament here The town's affinity with Magna Carta is something...