Business Details
15 Years
experience
Artisan Bakery in Bury St Edmunds
Founded in 2011, The Friendly Loaf is a family-run artisan bakery based in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. Our founder, Mark Proctor, brings over four decades of expertise from prestigious kitchens across the UK, Australia, and the Far East, including roles at Clarice House and The Ritz. We specialise in slow-proved breads, sourdough, and patisserie, using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients to create handcrafted products that celebrate traditional baking methods. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition, including Bakery of the Year at the Food Awards England 2023. We serve both the public and trade clients, supplying renowned restaurants, cafes, and catering companies across Suffolk and beyond.Our bakery shop in Nowton offers fresh breads, pastries, and English/French flours, alongside a popular programme of hands-on baking classes led by Mark. Every product reflects our philosophy of simplicity, quality, and community. With a focus on transparency and customer satisfaction, we ensure every loaf, croissant, and sausage roll meets exacting standards. Our dedication to innovation and tradition has made us a trusted name in the regions culinary landscape.
Services
Artisan Bread
Patisserie
Baking Classes
Wholesale Supply
Gift Vouchers
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in artisan baking
- Our team uses traditional methods perfected in Michelin-starred kitchens
- We source local, high-quality ingredients for consistent excellence
- We offer hands-on baking classes led by award-winning baker Mark Proctor
- We supply to leading restaurants and catering companies across Suffolk
Associations and certifications
- Food Awards England 2023
What people say
Great bread
Friendly staff
Best bakery
Incredible pastel de nata
Amazing selection
Services
Artisan Bread Making
We craft slow-proved artisan breads using traditional techniques and locally sourced flours. Our range includes sourdough, walnut bread, and barm bread with natural ingredients. Each loaf reflects decades of expertise and a commitment to quality.
Patisserie Production
Our patisserie includes croissants, Bakewell tarts, Portuguese custard tarts, and seasonal specialties. Made daily with butter, fresh produce, and time-honoured methods, these treats combine French and English traditions for exceptional taste.
Baking Classes
Led by award-winning baker Mark Proctor, our hands-on classes teach sourdough, bread-making, and viennoiserie techniques. Small groups use professional ovens to learn kneading, shaping, and baking skills for home environments.
Wholesale Supply
We supply artisan breads and pastries to restaurants, cafes, and catering companies across Suffolk. Our clients benefit from consistent quality, reliable delivery, and products made with the same care as our retail offerings.
Gift Vouchers
Our gift vouchers provide access to baking classes and retail purchases. Ideal for food lovers, they offer a tangible way to experience artisan baking traditions and hands-on learning in a working bakery environment.
People
Mark Proctor
Founder & Artisan Baker
Mark Proctor founded The Friendly Loaf after 40 years in professional kitchens, including roles at The Ritz and Clarice House. He specialises in traditional bread-making and pastry techniques, combining global experience with local sourcing.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We are open Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00am to 3:30pm at our bakery in Nowton, Bury St Edmunds.
Do you offer baking classes for beginners?
Yes, we run hands-on bread-making and sourdough classes suitable for all skill levels, led by our founder Mark Proctor.
Can I buy your products online?
While we focus on in-store purchases, we offer gift vouchers online and supply wholesale clients across Suffolk and surrounding areas.
Are your baking classes available for children?
Our classes are designed for adults, but we welcome inquiries about tailored sessions for younger bakers.
Do you cater for dietary restrictions?
We offer a range of breads and pastries, though our bakery contains allergens. Please ask staff for detailed ingredient information.
How can I stay updated on new products or events?
Follow our blog and social media for updates on seasonal items, class schedules, and bakery news in Bury St Edmunds.
