Top 10 Things To Do in Suffolk

Top 10 Things to Do in Suffolk

Suffolk is a beautiful county in East Anglia, that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of exciting things to do and see in Suffolk.

Here are the top 10 things to do in Suffolk that you don’t want to miss!

1. Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle is a majestic 12th-century fortress located in the market town of Framlingham in Suffolk. It was built by Roger Bigod, a knight, after the Norman conquest of England in 1066. Mary Tudor was proclaimed queen of England inside the fortress in 1553. The castle has also served as a school, a poor house, and a prison.

The castle has been the inspiration for many artists, including the famous singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. Sheeran grew up in the town of Framlingham and wrote his hit song “Castle on the Hill” about the castle. The castle also appeared in the music video for the song.

2. Gainsborough’s House

Gainsborough’s House is a museum and art gallery located in Sudbury, Suffolk. It is the birthplace of the famous English painter Thomas Gainsborough.

The museum is the largest of its kind in Suffolk and showcases a wide range of Gainsborough’s masterpieces. It is also a registered charity that relies on donations to continue its operations.

3. Southwold Pier

Southwold Pier is a popular tourist attraction located in the coastal town of Southwold in Suffolk.

The pier extends 190 meters (620 feet) into the North Sea and offers breath taking sea views, delicious food, and excellent shopping options. It also features an arcade, a clock house, and an under-the-pier show.

4. Sutton Hoo

Sutton Hoo is an archaeological site located near Woodbridge, Suffolk. It is the site of two early medieval cemeteries dating from the 6th to 7th centuries. The area was excavated in 1938, revealing a ship burial containing a wealth of Anglo-Saxon artefacts (as depicted by the film ‘The Dig’ in 2021)

The site is important in establishing the history of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of East Anglia and illuminating the Anglo-Saxons during a period which lacks historical documentation.

5. Africa Alive!

Africa Alive Zoological Reserve is a conservation hub for some of Africa’s most vulnerable species of animals. The reserve is located in Kessingland, Suffolk, and spans over 100 acres of land.

It is home to various animals, including the Southern White Rhinoceros, African Lion, Reticulated Giraffe, and Blue-Eyed Black Lemur. The reserve also offers daily feeding talks, conservation education, and a discovery centre for visitors.

By visiting Africa Alive, you can learn about the importance of conservation and support the protection of endangered species.

6. Aldeburgh Beach

Aldeburgh Beach is a beautiful pebble beach located in the coastal town of Aldeburgh, Suffolk.

The beach is home to many interesting attractions, including the Moot Hall museum, lifeboat station, and lookout towers and has inspired many artists and writers over the years.

The beach is also a popular destination for birdwatching and offers stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating as well as enjoying world famous fish and chips.

7. Ickworth

Ickworth is a historic house located in Suffolk. It was built by the 1st Marquess of Bristol in the 18th century and features a magnificent curved frontage, a central domed Rotunda, and a rich collection of portraits, furniture, silver, and ceramics.

The estate also boasts of an ornamental woodland laid out by ‘Capability’ Brown. It’s a perfect place to get back to nature and explore the rich history of the place.

8. Greene King Brewery

Greene King Brewery is a historic brewery located in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. It was founded in 1799 and has been producing quality beers ever since.

The brewery offers tours to visitors, where they can learn about the history of the brewery and the brewing process. The brewery also has a beer shop where visitors can purchase their favourite brews.

It’s a perfect place for beer enthusiasts to explore the rich history of the brewery and enjoy some delicious beer.

9. Abbey Gardens

Abbey Gardens is a beautiful park located in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

It features medieval abbey ruins, formal floral displays, an aviary, a kids’ play area, tennis courts, and a tranquil water garden.

The park also has a Pilgrims herb garden, which features many traditional medicinal plants believed to cure most ills and also ward off evil spirits.

It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

10. East Anglia Transport Museum

The East Anglia Transport Museum is an open-air museum located in Carlton Colville, Suffolk.

It features a wide range of preserved vehicles, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a narrow gauge railway.

The museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of transport and the brewing process. It’s a perfect place for transport enthusiasts to explore the rich history of the museum and enjoy some vintage rides.

Conclusion

Suffolk has been a favourite tourist destination for decades, with pristine beaches and fascinating history that appeals to visitors of all types.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an adventure, Suffolk has plenty of activities and attractions to fill your time during your stay in the area.