10 things to do in Suffolk for couples

Suffolk is the perfect place for a romantic date with many things to do for couples. The county is full of charm, history and many breathtaking landscapes making it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a special day out. Whether you and your partner are into seaside strolls, exploring historic castles, unique experiences or intimate romantic dinners, Suffolk has plenty to offer for lovebirds wanting to make lasting memories.

From horse riding along the beach in Pakefield to picnicking at the grounds of the medieval Framlingham Castle, this list of 10 things to do in Suffolk for couples will help you plan the perfect date, whether you’re planning to celebrate an anniversary, a first date or just want to spend quality time together. 

Suffolk Secrets has a range of cosy cottages close to the things to do for couples in Suffolk on this list. So, whether you’re looking for a fun week away on the Suffolk coast, or a short break in a pretty cottage with your furry friends, our properties allow you to enjoy the best of Suffolk’s romantic spots while having a comfortable and stylish base to return to after your adventures.

Hire a rowing boat at Thorpeness Meare

If you’re looking for a romantic and peaceful experience while visiting Suffolk, hiring a rowboat at Thorpeness Meare should be at the top of your list of things to do in Suffolk for couples. The charming village of Thorpeness has a fairy-tale atmosphere and unique heritage and is home to the stunning Thorpeness Meare, a man-made boating lake that stretches over 60 acres and is dotted by tiny islands, inspired by Peter Pan. Look out for The House in the Clouds which is a disguised water tower that looks like it’s straight out of a cartoon.

Couples can hire a traditional wooden rowboat, large rowing boats, one-person kayaks, two-person kayaks, punts and sailing boats from the Thorpeness Meare Boating Lake and gently drift across the calm waters. Packing a picnic full of local Suffolk treats is also recommended to enjoy a floating lunch as you relax on the water. As you row, you will pass scenic reed beds, lush greenery and whimsical islands providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic date with your loved one. Unlike busier tourist hotspots in Suffolk, the Meare offers a quiet and intimate setting, perfect for spending quality time together.

Visit the River Orwell at Sunset

The River Orwell is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt, navigable deep-water rivers in Suffolk and is one of England’s most historic rivers. The river is said to look the same as it did when the Romans, Angles, Saxons, Danish, Norwegian and Dutch pirates swept in looking for loot and more living space, which adds to its appeal. The best place to view the River Orwell at sunset is Alton Water on the Shotley Peninsular which is a small stretch of land between the River Orwell and the Stour which was used as the setting for Arthur Ransome’s classic children’s book ‘We Didn’t Mean To Go To Sea’.

The Shotley Peninsula is flat, providing a great place to walk and cycle while getting a beautiful view of the golden skies reflecting on the water. Visitors can expect to see the wildlife native to the area while taking in the views and it is considered one of the prettiest and most picturesque places in Suffolk. There are also many local pubs and restaurants to visit for a delicious meal and a pint after you have watched the sunset. During the day, you can watch boats sail up and down the River Orwell which is the perfect backdrop for enjoying some delicious seafood washed down with a pint of local Adnams ale.

Romantic dinner at The Yaxley Bull at The Auberge

The Yaxley Bull at The Auberge is a two-Rosette, family-owned restaurant which offers amazing food and great wines in a cosy, traditional setting. It champions East Anglian and British produce offering seasonal delights, and has become a destination for locals and travellers alike. Their menus are changed at least four times a year and they offer exclusive tasting menus for notable dates and special occasions. The restaurant is housed in a former coaching inn dating back to 1462; the thoughtful restoration of this building merges history with contemporary style.

Their dishes are made from the finest local produce and many ingredients are grown in their own onsite garden. The Yaxley Bull also has an extensive wine selection, allowing couples to find the perfect pairing for their meal. The restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere with many unique features such as beautiful exposed brickwork and beams. It is the perfect setting for a romantic date in the heart of Suffolk with your loved one.

Wine tasting at Shawsgate Vineyard

For couples seeking a relaxed and intimate outing, wine tasting at Shawsgate Vineyard offers the perfect blend of romance, traditional Suffolk countryside charm and fine English wines. Nestled just outside the traditional market town of Framlingham, this family-run vineyard is one of Suffolk’s oldest, producing award-winning still and sparkling wines. 

Couples can enjoy a self-guided or hosted wine tasting where they can sample a variety of white, red, rosé and sparkling wines all crafted from grapes grown on site. The staff provide insights into the vineyard's history, the winemaking process and the unique flavours of each wine. Showsgate Vineyard is particularly perfect for couples due to its scenic and romantic setting with rolling vines and picturesque surroundings and its picnic-friendly grounds where couples can bring their own picnic or enjoy local cheese and charcuterie to accompany their wine in the vineyards outdoor seating area.

Luxury spa day at Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa

Whether you and your loved one want a calming massage, relaxing facial or to simply soak in the 18-metre pool, Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to destress. Nestled into the heart of the Suffolk countryside near Woodbridge, this historic Tudor mansion provides a serene setting for a rejuvenating spa day and wellness retreat. Signature treatments include a deep tissue and aromatherapy massage, revitalising facials, body wraps and scrubs and hand and foot rituals. Seckford Hall offers a number of different packages perfect for couples which include access to the spa, treatments and even afternoon tea.

The spa has many different facilities that help guests to unwind and de-stress such as an indoor hydrotherapy pool, a thermal suite, multi-sensory showers, couples’ treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge and an outdoor spa garden which includes a pergola, outdoor hot tubs, ice bath and sauna which are perfect for those colder winter months. 

Stargazing at Westleton Common

Westleton Common is the perfect place to stargaze in Suffolk and is one of the best things to do in Suffolk for couples. It is one of Suffolk’s two designated Dark Sky Sites which makes it a stargazer’s dream with low light pollution and peaceful surroundings. Not only does this location offer the chance to see some of the brightest stars above, but onlookers can also see the Milky Way, planets and meteor showers on a clear enough night.

Situated close to Dunwich on the coast, this open heathland provides great visibility on all sides and incredibly dark skies above which provides a breathtaking celestial display far from city lights. It has a quiet and romantic atmosphere with just you and your loved one, rustling trees and a sky full of stars. It is just a short walk from Westleton village with many nature trails leading to great vantage points.

Take a boat to Orford Ness

Taking a ferry boat trip to Orford Ness is one of the most unique and unforgettable things to do in Suffolk for couples, perfect for people who love adventures, nature and history. Orford Ness is a remote and mysterious shingle pit that is a former military testing site-turned-nature reserve. It is only accessible by boat which adds an exclusive feel to the boat trip. The trip begins in the charming village of Orford where you can grab a coffee or brunch at a cosy cafe before heading to Orford Quay. You can then take a short boat ride across the River Ore which has stunning views of the estuary and surrounding countryside.

At Orford Ness, you can explore the abandoned buildings with fascinating old radar stations and military structures giving it an otherworldly feel. The windswept shingle beaches, marshes and lagoons are home to rare wildlife making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography. Pack a lunch and find a scenic spot to have a picnic together surrounded by nature and then head back to Orford to end your day.

Have a picnic at Framlingham Castle

Framlingham Castle is a stunning 12th-century fortress surrounded by vast mere and rolling green parkland, providing the most beautiful backdrop for a picnic with your loved one. With its breathtaking views, it's easy to see why this amazing castle inspired Ed Sheeran’s hit song ‘Castle on the Hill’ where the singer is reminiscing about his upbringing in the town.

Pack a basket full of local Suffolk produce such as fresh bread, local cheeses, Suffolk ham, a bottle of English sparkling wine or some freshly pressed apple juice and bring a blanket. After the picnic, walk the castle walls for panoramic views of the countryside and the mere, explore the historic grounds and learn about its connection to Mary Tudor. Later, wander around Framlingham which is a charming market town with many independent shops, cafes and the famous Pump Street Bakery.

Horseback riding at Pakefield Beach

One of the best things to do in Suffolk for couples is a romantic ride across the beach on horses which offers the perfect blend of adventure, stunning scenery and quality time together. Whether you and your loved one are experienced riders or complete beginners, this seaside trek provides a magical way to connect with nature and each other. Located near Lowestoft, Pakefield Beach is known for its wide-open sands and amazing coastal views. It’s one of the few places in Suffolk where you can ride horses along the shoreline, making it a rare and special experience. 

At Pakefield Riding School, guests can choose from a one-hour beach ride with each ride tailored to suit those taking part. Children as young as two can ride, with staff leading the horses. For more experienced riders, you will be able to walk, trot and canter along the beach depending on your own ability and confidence levels. After the ride, pack a delicious picnic or head to one of the many tempting eateries in Pakefield such as Pakefield Pantry. 

Watch a movie at Electric Picture Palace

For a romantic and nostalgic date night in Suffolk, watching a film at Electric Picture Palace in Southwold is the perfect choice. This delightful 70-seat boutique cinema is an iconic place in Southwold that captures the magic of old-fashioned movies, offering a cosy and intimate setting that is far from the usual multiplex cinemas. The cinema is designed to resemble a 1912 picture house that has velvet seats, art deco touches and even a tiny Wurlitzer organ that plans before select screenings. 

The cinema shows a mix of classic movies, modern favourites and special features making it ideal whether you’re in the mood for a timeless classic romance or an exciting drama. There is a traditional intermission where you can enjoy locally made ice cream or a drink from the bar which adds to the unique appeal of this amazing cinema. To make the most of the evening, go for a delicious meal at one of Southwold’s charming restaurants or pubs such as The Swan for fine dining, and finish off the evening with an evening stroll along Southwold Pier or the sandy beach. 

Romantic self-catering cottages in Suffolk

Suffolk is the perfect place for couples wanting a romantic break with plenty of things to do. Whether you want to indulge in delicious local food, attend a vintage cinema or explore the mysteries of an abandoned military testing site, Suffolk has something for everyone. At Suffolk Secrets, we have a large range of cottages that provide the ideal base for your trip, so why not plan your next romantic adventure in Suffolk while staying at one of our cottages? Many of our properties have luxurious touches such as log fires, hot tubs and private gardens, making them ideal for a relaxing and intimate escape.

If you own a cottage in Suffolk and want to share it with others, then get in touch with our friendly team at Suffolk Secrets to help you let your cottage with us. We are a leading holiday letting agency with a diverse collection of properties, so whether you have a quaint cottage in a quiet village or a sprawling mansion set in the grounds of an estate, Suffolk Secrets has you covered.