Here is yet another theory for Martlesham: OE m?rels, márels 'mooring-rope'. This seems to fit the earliest forms well (Merlesham DB), and suits the topography perfectly - there is even today a meadow next to a mooring place at the head of a creek. The same idea would suit Marlesford. If you object that a place could not be named after such an insignificant item, I offer the parallel of Windsor 'windlass-bank'. Or, perhaps the sense was extended to mean 'wharf'.
Keith
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