Our top ten Suffolk attractions

Do you love animals? Perhaps there’s nothing you like more than strolling through breathtaking landscapes? Maybe you’re drawn to amazing architecture and historical sites? Well you can enjoy all of this and more in Suffolk. Below we have picked our favourite Suffolk attractions that offer a holiday experience second to none.

1. Southwold

Situated on the Suffolk Heritage Coast is the attractive seaside town of Southwold. This is a great town to wander around with its mix of Georgian architecture, fisherman’s cottages and colourful beach huts. There is something to suit all visitors here, from the famous pier and beaches to golfing facilities and boat trips.

2. Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle looks exceptionally grand from its hilltop position and offers an equally grand day out for adults and youngsters. The Wall Walk should definitely not be missed, providing great views as visitors stroll along the exterior castle walls. The grounds of the castle are a lovely spot to enjoy picnics and the exhibition inside the castle provides insight into the people who lived in the building throughout its extensive history which dates from the 12th century.

3. Flatford

The enchanting hamlet of Flatford provided inspiration for several of John Constable’s most renowned paintings and visitors will be able to see sights such as the fantastic Flatford Mill and Willy Lott’s House which featured in the artist’s work. There is also an exhibition on Constable that can be viewed in Bridge Cottage.

4. Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds

The beautiful market town of Bury St Edmunds has a diverse range of enticing attractions including the lovely Abbey Gardens. These stunning gardens have won multiple Green Flag awards and contain the ruins of a Benedictine abbey dating from the 11th century. The magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral can be seen from the gardens too and is a striking piece of architecture well worth taking a closer look at.

5. Orford Castle

The well-preserved Orford Castle will captivate adults and children as they wander through the maze of passages that lead visitors to a variety of castle rooms. There is an interesting display in the Upper Hall containing ancient coins, seals and brooches and the views from the roof are spectacular.

6. The Museum of East Anglian Life

Holidaymakers with an interest in history should make their way to the Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket. The open-air museum stretches over roughly 80 acres of beautiful and varied landscapes and contains a collection of historic buildings and objects that provide superb insight into East Anglian life over the centuries.

7. Sutton Hoo

Offering insight into history of a different nature but no less fascinating, Sutton Hoo is a renowned ancient Anglo-Saxon burial site located in a stunning landscape that is perfect for exploring on foot. The exhibition at Sutton Hoo provides visitors with information on the treasures discovered at the site, while entertainments for the kids include the opportunity to dress up as an Anglo-Saxon and the chance to go wild in the adventure playground.

8. Minsmere

Minsmere is a fantastic nature reserve run by the RSPB. Located in the in the stunning Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this is a brilliant place to see wildlife and a birdwatchers paradise. There are walking and cycling tracks, a great café and shop, and regular events throughout the year.

9. Kentwell Hall and Gardens

Splendid interiors and gorgeous gardens provide an abundance of intriguing sights that will keep adults and children well entertained during their visit to Kentwell Hall and Gardens. Kentwell is over five centuries old and is also home to a working farm containing a number of rare breeds. Visitors may want to time their visit to coordinate with one of the fun events that take place throughout the year at Kentwell, such as the Tudor Days which provide excellent insight into life in the 16th century.

10. Africa Alive!

When it comes to safari adventures Suffolk is probably not the first place you would think of but such an adventure is exactly what you can enjoy with Africa Alive! located in Lowestoft. With daily informative animal talks and a wonderful selection of over 80 animal species to be seen, visitors are guaranteed to have a roaring good time in this exciting animal park.

Get ready to be spellbound by Suffolk

There’s no shortage of fantastic things to see and do in Suffolk no matter what visitors’ interests may be. Incredible historical architecture, striking landscapes and excellent insights into Suffolk’s diverse history will leave holidaymakers eager to return to this intriguing and beautiful region.