Things to do in Suffolk

Whether you’re holidaying in Suffolk as a couple, a family with little ones or teens, or you’re coming to celebrate a sparkling occasion with a favourite group of pals, you’ll need a list of great things to do that offers fun and entertainment for everyone.  

We’ve done the hard work and put together a list of all our favourite things to do in Suffolk, including ideas for a rainy day, inspiration for things to do with the kids, and dog-friendly activities right the way across the county.  

So, whether you’re a culture vulture, adrenaline junkie or top sports fan, check out what’s on in Suffolk for you. And if you’re feeling inspired to take a trip to the UK’s most easterly county, browse our huge range of holiday homes.

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Things to do in Suffolk for couples  

Whether you’re heading off on your first weekend away with your new beau or celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary, Suffolk is an ideal destination for a romantic break. With plenty of opportunities for strolls while holding hands, top-notch restaurants for a candlelit dinner, and bars for those late-night, just the two of you drinks. Here are our favourite things for couples to do in Suffolk.  

Late-night beach stroll  

What says romance more than a walk along a moonlit beach, hand in hand with your loved one? Suffolk is the perfect place to make that happen. The Suffolk coast stretches for almost 50 miles so you’ll find plenty of spots for a stroll, shoes in hand, and waves lapping your toes.   

Watch a show  

Suffolk has a large number of theatres dotted all over the county, from the Grade I-listed playhouse Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds to the award-winning New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich. So whatever your taste in theatrical entertainment, including comedy, drama, rock and roll, and ballet, Suffolk will no doubt have a show for you and your partner to be entertained by.      

River cruise  

A perfect way to make new memories is a romantic river cruise on the Orwell Lady. Departing from Ipswich, there’s a whole host of trips on offer to suit all tastes. Alongside the regular sightseeing cruises, you can enjoy an afternoon tea on the water, ideal for a day date. For those that like to boogie, they run regular event nights such as 70s disco, or for a real taste of romance, watch the sun go down on their sunset cruises.  

Picnic in Abbey Gardens  

The Abbey Gardens in the heart of Bury St Edmunds is a perfect spot for enjoying time with your other half in peaceful surroundings. Created in 1831 as a botanic garden, Abbey Gardens has transformed over the years, with numerous different areas to capture the interests. Explore the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund, meander through the Rose Garden, or take a walk alongside the picturesque River Lark. Once you’ve discovered your perfect picnic place, pop down a rug and people-watch while you eat.  

Suffolk Secrets have a whole host of properties for you to enjoy a romantic holiday with your beloved. For a sprinkle of extra romance check out our hot tub cottages, or perhaps make the most of being away without the kids and book in one of our luxury properties for two.   

Things to do in Suffolk for younger children  

Suffolk is the perfect county for a holiday with little ones. With miles of beaches, holiday cottages in the heart of the action, and plenty of family-friendly activities on offer - suitable even for the youngest of guests - you’ll have a perfect stay either by the coast or in the country.  

Visit Thorpeness   

Thorpeness is a magical place to visit, whether for a day trip or to stay in one of our many holiday cottages. Once a tiny fishing village, the estate was turned into a fantastical holiday village in the early 1900s. With its country club, beach and interesting architecture, it’s a wonderful place to visit no matter your age, but little ones especially with love the magical boating lake, inspired by J.M. Barrie’s (himself a regular visitor to the village) Peter Pan, complete with mini-islands dotted throughout. You can find out more about the history of Thorpeness in our guide.

Easton Farm Park  

Ideal for small visitors to Suffolk, Easton Farm Park is an excellent way to spend a fun-filled family day out. There are animals to meet, a family train, a Barrel Bug ride, an adventure playground, and indoor soft play - perfect for visiting whatever the weather. They also run events throughout the year to keep the whole family entertained.  

Hit the beach  

Whatever the weather, one of our top recommendations for things to do with children in Suffolk will always be to hit the beach! With almost 50 miles of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from, from quiet bays to big family shores with ice cream and fish and chips on tap. In the winter, wrap up warm with the little ones and explore the rock pools or try and find gemstones on the Amber Coast, and in the summer enjoy splashing in the sea.  

Southwold Maize Maze  

With a play park, zip wires, jumping pillows, and ride-on tractors, to name but a few activities, Southwold Maize Maze is a fabulous place to spend a day with the kids! There’s also a delicious café on site and walking trails. But it’s in the summer when this fantastic venue really comes into its own, with its amazing Maize Mazes! The Main Maze is fun for the whole family and the Mini Maze is perfect for little visitors.  

Whether you’re bringing babies, toddlers, or older children to Suffolk on holiday, we have a wide range of properties to suit all needs, many properties come with all you’ll need for a family break from cots and highchairs to board games and games rooms.  

Things to do in Suffolk for older kids  

Whether your pre-nagers and teenagers are history buffs, beach bunnies, or like to keep active, there’s plenty to do and see in Suffolk to keep even the grumpiest teens entertained! Here are some of our favourite Suffolk activities for older children.  

Suffolk Ski Centre  

This fun-filled activity venue has something for everyone. Hit the (dry) slopes and try your hand at skiing or snowboarding; lessons and courses are available. If you don’t fancy your chances of staying upright, there’s also the option of tobogganing (4+) or ringos (8+). Those with a head for heights can take on Suffolk Leisure Park’s climbing wall and high ropes course. Or for a more sedate day out, it’s also the home of the Ipswich Driving Range where there is a mini golf course for the whole family to enjoy.    

Anglia Indoor Karting  

If you have a young Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen if your family, make sure you head to Anglia Indoor Karting in Ipswich for a day of thrills! Kubz Karting is suitable for 5 to 7 year olds, and kids aged 8 to 15 can take on the children’s track. Older teenagers get the full thrills on the adult track.  

Southwold Pier  

Tagged as “British Seaside Family Fun” at its loudest and brightest, Southwold Pier is guaranteed fun for the whole family come rain or shine. As a family, check out the Under The Pier Show, a unique collection of some of the most eccentric interactive inventions in the world. For older kids, load them up with change in the arcade while you sit back with a coffee and cake in one of the pier’s restaurants.  

Curve Motion  

Let the teens go retro at the roller disco! Curve Motion is an exciting indoor interactive venue offering activities for all the family including roller skating, soft play, and mega slides. Featuring the biggest play frame in East Anglia, there is also a wide variety of interactive areas for ages up to 12, as well as mega slides suitable for all ages and a vertical drop slide. An ideal venue if you’re a family with children spread across a range of ages. Take the toddlers to soft play, and let the pre-teens loose on the slides while the teenagers skate and make friends.   

Whatever the size of your family, we have a wide range of child-friendly properties. To help keep the kids entertained, we have cottages with fantastic extra features such as swimming pools, perfect for making memories to last a lifetime.  

Things to do in Suffolk for dogs

With a long coastline and miles of rolling country, Suffolk is a fantastic place for a holiday with the furry members of your family. Towns such as Aldeburgh and Southwold are always popular coastal hot spots for a dog-friendly holiday and inland, there’s a whole host of dog-friendly towns to choose to visit or stay in. Our favourite dog-friendly things to do in Suffolk are.....  

Ickworth Estate  

With miles of parkland, ancient woodland, and working farmland, the Ickworth Estate is a great place for long walks with the dogs. They’re welcomed across the estate on leads (except for the Italianate Garden and Walled Garden) and dog water is available across the property. For a special treat, dog cupcakes, and ice cream are available from Porter's Lodge.  

Jimmy's Farm  

One of only two wildlife parks in the country where you can bring your dog, Jimmy's Farm is a fantastic day out for the whole family including the four-legged members. On the lead, they’re allowed across most of the park, except for indoor areas, meaning you and your dogs can check out the animals and activities across the estate. Dogs are also welcome in the snug area of the restaurant so you can enjoy lunch and a day out with the pooches.  

Beach walks  

If your pup loves nothing more than the feeling of sand under their paws and splashing in the waves, then they’ll love a trip to Suffolk! With its 50 miles of coastline, there are plenty of places for them to enjoy a walk on the beach. Some of the bigger beaches do have seasonal restrictions for dog access, but there are plenty that allow your furry friends all year around including Covehithe Beach and Walberswick. See our guide to the top Suffolk beaches.

Visit a dog-friendly pub  

Put tired paws (and feet) up at one of Suffolk’s dog-friendly pubs after a long day exploring the county. Wherever you’re staying, you’ll no doubt find a pub nearby that welcomes pups with open arms, and maybe even a dog biscuit! The Ship at Dunwich and The Westleton Crown have their own doggy menus, and The Kings Head in Orford has a cosy fire for your pooch to curl up in front of.  

After busy days getting muddy paws or exploring sandy shores, you and your pups will need a paw-fect property to relax at, and we have you covered with our range of Suffolk dog-friendly cottages. Whether you’re after a beachfront apartment or a large country abode, we’ll have your dream holiday let.  

Things to do in Suffolk for friends  

Whether you want to gather the gang to celebrate a big birthday, have a short break with the girls, or a refined break with your couple friends, Suffolk has things to do for the most varied of interests.  

Hit the races  

Newmarket is one of the UK’s most well-known racecourses and is a perfect activity for a group on holiday in Suffolk. With a wide range of meets and festivals throughout the year, it’s a great day out whatever your interests. Racing fans can get close to the action or if you’re more into hospitality than horses, there’s a selection of options to suit different tastes or budgets.  

Visit a vineyard  

Suffolk is something of a secret hot spot for vineyards. There are several spread out across the county creating some of the finest English wines. Many of which offer tours, or have restaurants on site to enjoy a delicious dinner with your drink. Giffords Hall offers private vineyard tours for groups of two and above, and Flint Vineyard has a range of experiences including their Discovery Tour which includes lunch.  

Spa day  

Perfect for a day out with the girls, Suffolk has a wealth of spas available. Catch up with your bestie whilst having a massage, mingle with your mum friends in the sauna, or get the whole girl gang together to relax around the pool. We love the spa and afternoon tea option at Riverhills Spa in Ipswich, the incredible outdoor pool at Aqua Sana Spa at Elveden Forest, and the treatments available at Spa Kesgrave Hall.  

Coastal Voyager  

If you like to feel the wind in your hair and the waves beneath you, we’d highly recommend taking your friends on the Coastal Voyager. Setting off from Southwold, there’s a selection of trips available, from a 30-minute sea blast to a cruise on the River Blyth. The boat is also available for private hire if your group wants it to themselves.  

Whether your crew is 2 or 22 people, we have a property for you! If you’re bringing the whole gang check out our large cottages, and if your group's perfect end to a day would be relaxing in some warm bubbles, we have a hot tub holiday for you too.  

Things to do in Suffolk for culture vultures  

Culture and Suffolk go hand in hand. It has produced some of the nation’s most famous painters in Constable and Gainsborough, as well as arguably the country's most famous composer Benjamin Britten, alongside a whole host of writers, actors, and performers. Those that like their holidays with a side of culture will love a stay in Suffolk.  

Celebrate Benjamin Britten  

One of Suffolk’s most famous sons is musician, conductor, and composer, Benjamin Britten - and there are plenty of ways to celebrate this musical genius when on holiday in the county. During the summer months, you can visit the Red House, the home he shared with partner Peter Pears, to learn more about his history and see his collections and exhibitions. Or you can take in a concert or performance at Snape Maltings where you’ll find Britten Studio and the larger Concert Hall. Another must-see for Britten fans is The Scallop on Aldeburgh Beach, a sculpture which is a tribute to him on the beach he walked daily by local artist Maggi Hambling.  

Constable Country  

Taking in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and straddling the border between Suffolk and Essex is Constable Country. This beautiful area, full of picture-perfect villages and instantly recognisable views, has gained its name due to its links to the famous landscape artist John Constable. A visit to the site of the famous Hay Wain painting, Willy Lotts House is a must-do for culture-lover visitors. See our full guide to Constable Country for more information.

Gainsborough's House  

Suffolk’s other most famous artistic son, Thomas Gainsborough, was born in Sudbury, Suffolk in 1726, and went on to become a highly renowned portrait and landscape painter. His childhood home has now been turned into a museum, aimed at celebrating Gainsborough as well as his local contemporaries such as John Constable. Having undergone a £10 million refurbishment, the Gainsborough's House museum now houses paintings, books, and artifacts from his life, a most interesting way to spend a day.  

Visit Lavenham   

Lavenham, nestled in the heart of the stunning Suffolk countryside, is one of England’s finest medieval wool villages. Medieval charm can be found around every corner with its winding streets, thatched cottages, and timber-framed buildings. Lavenham truly is the perfect place to visit if you wish to immerse yourself in Suffolk’s rich history. See our top 10 things to do in Lavenham for more inspiration. 

Whatever type of culture floats your boat, you’ll be able to find the perfect property from which to explore Suffolk. Britten fans should head to Aldeburgh, whilst you can get the full Constable Country experience from one of our many cottages in the area.   

Things to do in Suffolk for foodies  

From Michelin-star restaurants to some of the best fish and chips in the world, Suffolk is an ideal destination if your favourite things to do on holiday include trying incredible local food and drinks.   

Afternoon tea  

Suffolk has a huge range of delicious spots to enjoy an afternoon tea. From The Swan at Lavenham’s famous luxury tea to an afternoon tea with a side of activity at Southwold Boating Lake, there’s something for everyone. Even the doggos don’t miss out on afternoon tea in Suffolk, with The Ickworth Hotel offering The Waggy Tails Tea Time where dogs can dine on dishes including homemade paw-nut butter biscuits, canine carrot cake with pawsome frosting, and a puppacino! See our top 5 recommended afternoon teas in our guide.

Fish and chips on the beach  

Suffolk is famous for fish and chips and a visit to the coast just can’t be done without grabbing a portion from one of the many chippies, and (weather permitting) eating them on the beach. Maybe not haute cuisine, but there’s nothing quite like it! Whilst you’ll find battered cod and deliciously salted chips right across the county, Aldeburgh is an absolute hot spot for these tasty treats. Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop has been operating for over 50 years and is widely regarded as being one of the best in the whole of Britain.  

Make your own gin  

To say that gin has become the 'in thing' in the last few years would be an understatement, and if you and your fellow Suffolk visitors are partial to a G&T, then you can make your visit extra special by enjoying a Make Your Own Gin Experience at Adnams Gin Lab in Bury St Edmunds. You will learn about how to craft a great-tasting gin, from balancing a wide variety of flavours and aromas to understanding the influence of the distillation process. Your Gin Maker will help you develop your own recipe from a selection of provided botanicals and you will go on to distill, fill and name your bottle.  Now that’s an incredible souvenir to take home from a holiday!  

Chocolate masterclass  

Another fantastic way for foodies to get hands-on in Suffolk is to try one of Artistry in Cocoa’s Workshops. There are masterclasses, family workshops, and adult chocolate-making classes among the fun activities on offer at the Newmarket venue. A perfect way to spend time with family or friends in Suffolk.  

Whether you want to be in the heart of the action to try all the tasty pubs and restaurants in your chosen town or have a huge kitchen to cook up all the fresh local food you’ve purchased whilst on your Suffolk adventure, we’ll have the perfect holiday cottage for you.  

Things to do in Suffolk for sports fans  

It doesn’t matter if your sporting interests lie in taking part or sitting back and watching, you’ll find some exciting ways to make sporting memories whilst on holiday in Suffolk.  

National Horse Racing Museum  

Suffolk’s most famous sport is no doubt horseracing, and whether you’re already a passionate punter or have never watched a race, we think a visit to the National Horse Racing Museum is a must-do in Newmarket. The museum tells the story of horseracing in a fun and interactive way, and no visit would be complete without trying out the racehorse simulator!  

Ipswich Town FC  

If you're a football fan, or just fancy trying something different on your holiday, why not take a trip to Portman Road to watch Ipswich Town? They currently play in the Sky Bet League One and tickets are available for matches throughout the season at very reasonable prices.  

Ipswich Speedway  

If faster thrills are more your thing, then a visit to the Foxhall Stadium to watch the Ipswich Witches Speedway team is an absolute must! Events run on various evenings from March to August and you'll see some top-class biking action.    

Hit the golf course  

If you’re a golfing fan, then Suffolk will make a fantastic holiday destination as it has several courses across the county to suit everyone from beginners to pros, all set within swathes of beautiful countryside. Fynn Valley Golf Club near Ipswich has a challenging 18-hole course with picturesque valley views, tree-lined fairways, contoured greens, and just under 100 bunkers, while The Royal Worlington and Newmarket Golf Club’s 9-hole course has been called the best 9-hole golf course in the world.

The sport doesn’t even have to stop once you’re back at your holiday cottage if you don’t want it to! We have cottages with swimming pools and tennis courts, for active holidays, or if fishing is your hobby it’s available at or near these holiday lets.  

Things to do in Suffolk for lovers of the outdoors 

Suffolk is a fantastic place for those who love being outdoors. With its miles of coastline, rivers, and rolling countryside, it’s perfect for long walks, cycling or even taking to the water in a canoe. Here are our top four active things to do in Suffolk.  

Rendlesham Forest  

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Rendlesham Forest is a wonderful day out for the whole family. Explore the ancient woodland on foot, on two wheels, or even on four hooves as horses are allowed. There's something for everyone, including children's play areas, cycle trails, sculptures to discover in Tangham Wood, and plenty of places for a picnic. Make sure you walk the UFO Trail and discover more about the famous UFO sighting in December 1980.

Alton Water  

For those who like to stay active on holiday, Alton Water is a must-visit whilst in Suffolk. For a waterside, dog-friendly Suffolk walk, you can't beat the Alton Water Circular Trail. An easy and mostly flat 8-mile route around the reservoir, it takes around 3 hours to complete on average. You can also cycle the route if you prefer to be on two wheels. Or if you would rather be on the water rather than next to it, there are a range of water sports available.  

Bike through Dedham Valley  

Hire some bikes and whizz through the Dedham Valley AONB. There are numerous routes available from short family-friendly trails perfect for a picnic along the way, to all-day routes for serious cyclists. The Painter’s Trail is a 69-mile route taking you through the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Stour Valley, passing major artistic landmarks on the way, and cycling through the scenery that inspired some of the world’s greatest landscape painters.  

Canoe through Suffolk

Suffolk has a multitude of rivers, perfect for exploring by canoe, kayak, or even stand-up paddleboard. Remember, you’ll need a river license but if you don’t have the gear, that can be easily hired from providers around the county. A meander down the river from Sudbury offers excellent views and landmarks as you go, or if you like your paddles with extra wildlife, we’d recommend a trip from Snape Maltings where the marshlands give chances to see a variety of creatures.  

For easy access to all those country walks and rides, take a look at our countryside cottages. And after such busy days, you’ll need the perfect Suffolk holiday home to relax in, so why not book a hot tub cottage to soak those sore legs?   

Things to do in Suffolk for rainy days  

Let’s face it, you can’t always rely on the Great British weather to provide end-to-end sunshine, even when holidaying in the height of summer. So, it’s always good to have a few ideas for rainy days in your back pocket. Here are some of our favourite things to do on rainy days in Suffolk.  

Ipswich Transport Museum  

From buses to bicycles, lawnmowers to lorries, and fire engines to funeral hearses, you’ll find it all at Ipswich Transport Museum. Learn about the history of the area and transportation, and for little ones, there are activity zones and a model railway.  

Catch a movie  

Heading to the cinema is always a good idea for a rainy day, and there are a number of them right across Suffolk. Aldeburgh Cinema has been running for over 100 years, and still maintains lots of its original features, as does the beautiful Leiston Film Theatre. Or to watch in complete comfort, book a sofa at the Ipswich Empire!  

Go back in history at Christchurch Mansion  

One of Suffolk’s most treasured buildings, Christchurch Mansion is a Tudor home-turned-museum in Ipswich. Step back in time and discover the lives of the people who have called it home. From the Tudor kitchen to the Georgian saloon, there’s interesting history all around.  

Visit Lavenham Guildhall  

Often described as one of England’s finest timber-framed buildings, Lavenham Guildhall takes visitors on a journey through five centuries of history as seen by those who worked and lived there. Alongside the fascinating museum is the Courtyard Garden, filled with plants used to make dye for Lavenham’s famous wool.     

Whether you want to visit Suffolk in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, we’ll have a cottage for you. For cosy evenings in after rainy days out, we’d recommend curling up by the fire in one of our cottages with a wood burner.  

Things to do in Suffolk for adrenaline junkies  

It doesn’t matter if being an adrenaline junkie means riding a rollercoaster or jumping out of a plane to you, you can do it all in Suffolk. Whilst Suffolk is normally thought of as a pretty flat country, you’ll need a head for heights for some of these adventurous days out!  

Feel the thrills at Pleasurewood Hills  

Dare to ride the white-knuckle rides at East Anglia’s biggest theme park, Pleasurewood Hills. Adrenaline junkies can be hurled through the huge loops on the Wipeout rollercoaster or test out the Jolly Roger with its 60mph vertical drop.      

Reach new heights at Clip n Climb  

From toddlers to big thrillseekers, there are lots for everyone to do at Ipswich’s Clip n Climb. With its 10m-high climbing walls and extreme challenges, the Leap of Faith and Vertical Drop Slide, you’ll need a head for heights and an adventurous spirit to reach the summit!  

Go ape at Go Ape  

Zip wire through the Thetford Forest, 35 feet above the ground, at Go Ape. Make your way through a series of platforms to get to the final challenge. Perfect for those who like a little thrill on their holidays!  

Skydive over Suffolk  

Fancy hurling yourself out of a plane at 13,000 feet and seeing Suffolk from a new perspective? Head to Beccles Airfield and find out who the brave ones of the group are with a skydive. UK Parachuting offers tandem jumps as well as courses in Suffolk.

After all that action, you’ll definitely need a nice relaxing holiday home to rest your head, and wobbly legs. We have a huge range of cottages across the county, from coast to country, perfect for wherever your action holiday in Suffolk takes you.  

Things to do in Suffolk for animal lovers  

If you’re a family that just can’t get enough of creatures big and small, then you’ll love a self-catering break in Suffolk. With animals from giraffes to horses and lions to owls, there are plenty of things to do in Suffolk for animal lovers  

Africa Alive  

Say hello to the giraffes, lions, chimps, and other wild animals at Africa Alive! near Lowestoft. Set in 100 acres of idyllic Suffolk countryside, Africa Alive Zoological Reserve, run by the Zoological Society of East Anglia is a national conservation hub committed to preserving the future of animals. To make your trip extra special, they have a range of animal experiences on offer so you can get extra close to the residents.   

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary  

Bird lovers should take a visit to the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary to see over 70 owls and birds of prey from all around the world. There’s a magical woodland walk, Meerkat Kastle, bug hotels, ladybird houses, and a hedgehog hotel too so there’s plenty to see and do. Summer months also bring with them spectacular flying displays. 

Oasis Camel Park  

If you’ve always wanted to get up close and personal with a camel, or take a ride on one, there’s only one place in the UK that it’s possible – The Oasis Camel Park in Suffolk. There’s more than just camels on offer though, there’s a whole host of animals including lemurs, meerkats, and wallabies. There are also pedal go-karts, play areas, and crazy golf to keep everyone entertained.   

Suffolk Punch Trust  

The Suffolk Punch Trust is dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Suffolk horse, England’s oldest breed of working horse. And you can help them with their work by enjoying a fantastic day out meeting these gentle giants. There are tractor rides, a play park, meet the animals, walking trails and so much more on offer at the farm.  

If you’re an animal lover you’ll be glad to know we have a wide range of properties available to you. If you want to see animals before you’ve even left your accommodation, don’t miss out on our holiday cottages on working farms.  

Holidays in Suffolk

Now you have the activities sorted, it’s time to select your Suffolk holiday home. With our range of over 700 properties right across the county, you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Whether you require a dog-friendly holiday cottage, family-friendly self-catering accommodation, or a home that’s large enough for all your friends, we have something for you. And if it’s the something special that makes your holiday dreams come true, we have hot tub holidays and cottages with swimming pools and games rooms too!  

See our full range of cottages in Suffolk.