Suffolk offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy on your next visit. Whether you’re looking for history, art, outdoor sports or just want to soak up the charming rural atmosphere here, it’s the perfect haven for any staycation.
Here are five of the top places to visit!
Constable Country
People have been flocking to Constable Country for centuries to visit the backdrop that is so famously featured in John Constable’s works. Perhaps his most famous painting, The Hay Wain, was created in 1821 and is in the heart of Dedham Vale. You can stay at Idyllic Suffolk holiday cottages nearby and enjoy hiking, cycling or trips along the River Stour whilst you’re in the area.
Aldeburgh
No trip to Suffolk is complete without visiting the coast, and Aldeburgh offers one of the finest seafronts in the UK with beautiful, colourful houses and a shingle beach for those wind-whipped strolls. You can’t miss the 13-foot ‘Scallop’ monument that sits on the beach, created by local artist Maggie Hamlin as a tribute to former Aldeburgh resident Benjamin Britten. Fill up on delicious fish and chips to go – if you prefer, you can stock up on the daily catch sold from the huts on the beach.
Anglia Railway Museum
Based in Chappel and Wakes Colne, the museum is a heritage centre offering informative displays of the history of the railway including the Stour Valley line. You can travel to Sudbury or Marks Tey as part of your visit and take in the impressive 23-metre Chappel viaduct that includes 32 arches. This makes it the runner-up longest brick-built structure in England, second only to Battersea Power Station. Looking for some hands-on action? How about becoming a driver for a day and learn how to drive a steam locomotive?
Jimmy’s Farm
Jimmy’s is a farm, wildlife park and adventure centre all rolled into one. The farm park is based in Ipswich and you should plan to spend the day here as there’s a lot to do. Start by visiting the animals, which include wallabies, alpaca, meerkats and camels as well as familiar friends such as pigs, cattle, chicken and sheep. After that, kids and the young at heart will love bouncing on outdoor pillows in the adventure park. Once you’re ready for some nourishment, you can hit the barn tearoom or stock up tonight’s dinner by visiting the onsite farm shop.
Kentwell Hall
This red brick Tudor mansion with a moat is one of the top attractions in Suffolk and is set in 30 acres of stunning parkland. It is best known for turning back the clock and allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in Tudor history.
These five places may be the best places to visit in Suffolk, but there are plenty of other wonderful attractions to enjoy too. If you’re planning a trip in the next few weeks or months, remember to always book ahead to avoid disappointment.