If you’re looking for a quintessentially English staycation, Suffolk is one of the best counties to visit. Scattered with rural towns, pretty villages, vast expanses of countryside and beautiful coastline, Suffolk is an ideal place to unwind. Many people visit Suffolk for its famous ‘Constable Country’, a collection of rustic villages straddling the Essex border that were made famous by the English landscape painter John Constable.
Although best for its peaceful and relaxing attributes, you can still find some excitement in Suffolk. Ipswich is a lively town with a bustling waterfront and interesting attractions. There are plenty of places to eat and drink, and it is definitely worth a visit. You’ll also find historic wool towns like Lavenham and Bury St Edmunds which make for interesting day trips. Sold on taking a staycation in Suffolk? Read on to start planning.
Types of accommodation
Suffolk has quite the choice of accommodation to suit all kinds of needs and budgets. Staycations don’t have to be expensive and a great way to save money is by going camping. Plus, it’s a fun way to make the most of the outdoors. There are many campsites available in Suffolk, ranging from basic to luxury. If you want to splash out, there are also plenty of options for glamping. Stay in safari tents, pods, wooden cabins, gypsy caravans, Mongolian yurts – the choice is yours. Since a staycation is all about relaxing and treating yourself, we highly recommend glamping!
If you prefer somewhere with a bit more service, there are many hotels and B&Bs to choose from in Suffolk. From fancy halls to traditional inns and farmhouse B&Bs, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Planning a longer break or visiting with family? A holiday home or cottage is the ideal place to stay. You’ll find all the amenities you need like a fully equipped kitchen, plus there’s plenty of space for the whole family to unwind. There are many options around the county, from stylish barn conversions to cosy cottages. Fancy something unique? How about this luxurious two bedroom windmill?
Different attractions
When it comes to attractions in Suffolk, you won’t be disappointed. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it here. One of our favourites is the Mid Suffolk Light Railway. Affectionately known as the ‘Middy’, this railway runs steam trains which you can climb abroad to experience Edwardian England.
If you’re interested in historic houses, Suffolk has its fair share of magnificent period mansion. There’s Helmingham Hall, a magnificent stately home completed in 1510. The house is surrounded by spectacular gardens with different themed areas. Another historic house is Kentwell Hall, one of the finest moated Tudor houses in the country. As you explore the house, you’ll see rare pieces from fine paintings to period furniture. These are just two examples, there are plenty more dotted all around the county!
Suffolk also has several castles to explore. One of the must-sees, especially if you’re an Ed Sheeran fan, is Framlingham Castle. This 12th century fortress inspired the musician’s hit song ‘Castle on the Hill’. Another great castle is Orford Castle, one of England’s most complete and unusual keeps.
Fond of animals? Suffolk has a wide choice of places you can get up close and personal with all kinds of creatures. If it’s birds you’re into, Suffolk Owl Sanctuary and the Lavenham Falconry offer fantastic days out for the whole family. Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park is also a must-visit. There are all kinds of activities and animal experiences to get involved in, with over 80 species and breeds onsite. Alternatively, visit Africa Alive! – a walking safari set in 100 acres and home to over 80 species from around the world.
Places of interest
As well as exciting attractions, Suffolk also has a wealth of beautiful areas worth the visit. The Broads National Park is a network of over 125 miles of navigable rivers and waterways that cover Norfolk and Suffolk. The best way to explore the National Park is from the water. Canoe, kayak, row or take a boat trip through peaceful countryside and picturesque villages. It’s also teeming with wildlife!
Another must-visit is the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB. This beautiful area of the county covers ancient woodland, commercial forestry, estuaries, coastal towns, ancient heaths and 60 miles of coastline. There’s plenty of things to do here, like cycling, sailing, walking and wildlife watching.
For more outdoor adventures, Thetford Forest has 18,730 hectares to explore. It’s the largest pine forest in Britain, and is a haven for wildlife and plants. It’s a great place to visit if you’re a keen cyclist, with trails ranging from family friendly to challenging mountain biking routes. For some history and heritage, visit Grimes Graves, a Neolithic flint mine where you can explore one of the mine shafts.
Another notable historic place of interest is Sutton Hoo. This is the site of two early medieval cemeteries that date from the 6th to 7th centuries. But it’s much more than just a grave. It’s a spectacular monument – a 27m long ship with a burial chamber dazzled with riches. Intrigued? Head to Suffolk and start exploring!
More Suffolk Guides