On the east coast of England, Suffolk is a great destination for short breaks for families, with its beaches and attractions. When visiting on holiday this summer, why not do something a little different, such as visit the stunning stately homes or have a tree top adventure?
These are some of the best attractions in Suffolk to check out on your short break:
Melford Hall
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Melford Hall
Melford Hall looks like it could be something out of a fairytale with its turrets. The mansion has an association with Beatrix Potter through the Hyde Parker family who live at Melford Hall, and in the house, there are collections of Beatrix Potter memorabilia along with porcelain, naval artefacts. Melford Hall also has a lot of art and fashion to explore when you visit.
Thetford Go Ape
If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, Go Ape at Thetford is the place for you. There are swings, zip slides and rope bridges strung through the trees. You can spend a day there, channelling your inner Tarzan, and if heights are not for you, there are plenty of ground-level activities such as Segway rides.
Framlingham Castle
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Framlingham Castle
Home to Mary Tudor in the 1550s, this historic castle is centuries old, and visitors can walk along the defensive walls which offer gorgeous views of the surrounding Suffolk countryside. To get down from the walls, there is a 6.6 metres slide, much more fun than steps! The castle also hosts exhibitions about the castle’s history and its former residents to discover and a new café to get lunch.
Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre
Near to Saxmundham, Dunwich Heath is home to warblers, nightjars and woodlarks. You can take a guided walk along the nature trails where you can learn about the wildlife that calls Dunwich Heath home and enjoy the purple heather and yellow gorse which blooms during the summer months.
Lavenham
MemoryCatcher
Lavenham
You will feel like you have truly stepped back in time when you visit the town of Lavenham. The Suffolk wool town is famous for its slightly crooked, 15th-century half-timbered Tudor houses. You can take a walk through the town to see all the houses, painted in wonderful colours. One of their most famous houses even featured in the Harry Potter films.
Southwold
The mixture of fisherman’s cottages and Georgian houses makes Southwold a wonderfully picturesque village to visit. Take time to browse the shops, pop into the characteristic museum and check out the centuries-old graffiti at St Edmund’s church. Southwold is also a lovely place to stop off for afternoon tea, with lovely views out to sea to accompany your meal.
Suffolk is a great choice for a holiday destination. With a stunning coastline, an expanse of green rolling hills and a range of fun attractions, your holiday will be filled with enjoyment and fond memories. Below are just some of the great experiences and days out you can have in the area.
Greene King Brewery
For ale and beer drinkers, a trip to the Greene King Brewery is a must during your holiday to Suffolk. The cask ales have been brewed on the same site in Bury St Edmunds for over an impressive 300 years. After all that time, it is safe to say, they have mastered the drink and can brew to perfection. The brewery is in action every single hour of the day, with a dedicated, small team ensuring all goes to plan for the ideal pour. Greene King also has a microbrewery, where the craftsmanship of the employees comes to life, with experimentation and creativity contributing to around eight exciting new drinks to sample each week. Why not take the day finding out how your go-to drink is made? Tour around the brewery with the knowledgeable staff to gain some understanding of the history of the place and how the cask ale is made.
Jimmy’s Farm
The farm is a great attraction for kids and adults alike. With a wildlife park including exotic and traditional farm animals, you can go from taking your holiday snap with a wallaby to a donkey. You can also learn more about the daily farm functions, from feeding to cleaning and petting. The animals will always welcome a bag of tasty food, which you can buy from various places around the farm, to give them a tasty treat while you’re there.
Jimmy’s Farm also has a large woodland, which is perfect for that afternoon stretch of the legs. The path takes you on a tour around the forest, where you can enjoy being surrounded by wildlife and nature.
Helmingham Hall Gardens
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Helmingham Hall Gardens
Discover some of Suffolk’s rich history at Helmingham Hall Gardens. The 500-year-old property and Grade 1 listed gardens offer a tranquil space for you to wander around. Spend a couple of hours in the house learning about the occupants over the years and admiring the stunning interior. Then, head outside and explore the award-winning gardens. If your day’s discovery has built up an appetite, the Coach House Tea Rooms serve up a delicious and well-earned cake and cup of tea.
New Wolsey Theatre
For your cultural activity, a trip to the town of Ipswich needs to be on your itinerary. With a show to suit all tastes at the New Wolsey Theatre, the programme will not disappoint. Ranging from family and kids shows, comedies, musicals and dramas be sure to check out what’s on and head to a performance on your holiday. Treat yourself and make an evening of it by heading out for a meal in one of the great restaurants in the area.
RSPB Minsmere
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RSPB Minsmere
This coastal nature reserve on the Suffolk coast is a stunning spot to spend the day. There are plenty of opportunities to get out, enjoy the fresh air and go for a walk. With routes ranging in difficulty and length, there is a path to suit all abilities. The untamed trails, stunning beach and array of wildlife is enchanting and offers a place to really relax and unwind.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
Just outside of Suffolk, is the Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach. The amusement and theme park provides a great day out. Take a trip into the Haunted Hotel for the ultimate scare or witness the incredible view of the North Sea from the 33-metre-high Ferris Wheel. There are rides suitable for all ages, so everyone can have some fun on your family short breaks UK.
What will you be doing on your holiday to Suffolk? We would love to hear about your plans via our social media channels!
