Explore Suffolk this winter

The weather may be a little on the chilly side, but that should certainly not stop us from getting out and about to explore Suffolk and make the most of what this lovely county has to offer. There is much to see during all four seasons, and here is our pick for things to do this winter. Snape marshes in the snow (c) Visit England / Johnny Gooderham

Explore the home of British horseracing and learn all about the 'sport of kings'  at the new National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and British Sporting Art in Newmarket. 

The five-acre site has a horseracing museum, gallery and a live horse experience as well as a gift shop and cafe.

Suffolk brewers Greene King in Bury St Edmunds have brewery tours running every day.

Learn how their beer is brewed using traditional methods and you will also be invited to enjoy a panoramic view of the town from their rooftop, as part of the tour. Beer tasting in the beer cafe is included at the end of your visit.

Greene King Brewery Tap sign (c) Karen Roe

Pay a visit to the Suffolk Food Hall on the beautiful Shotley Peninsula to stock up on local produce.

There is a traditonal butcher selling locally-reared beef, an artisan baker, fishmonger and plenty of Suffolk veg, cheese and chocolates.

Apart from food, there is also a gift shop, garden centre and cookery school and don't miss the fabulous Cookhouse restaurant with the most spectacular view of the Orwell Bridge and peninsula.

Have a whizz around the race track at Anglia Indoor Karting in Ipswich. Suitable for anyone age five and upwards, no previous experience is necessary and it's a fun day out for the whole family.

RSPB Minsmere on the Suffolk coast is host to birdwatching events all year round, including workshops for beginners.

Wrap up warm and explore this peaceful nature reserve, take a guided tour or simply grab a pair of binoculars, a bird book and see what you can spot. 

Warm up in the cafe with a hot chocolate and homemade cake afterwards.

Marsh harrier (c) RSPB Minsmere / Jon Evans

Thomas Gainsborough was born in Sudbury in 1727 and his birthplace is open as a museum and gallery.

Gainsborough's House has more of his work on show in a single setting than anywhere outside of London and also has an interesting programme of temporary exhibitions.

Visit one of the county's many cinemas, theatres and concert halls and enjoy a top notch performance. There's a lively programme of modern dance at the Jerwood Dancehouse in Ipswich; music and storytelling at Snape Maltings on the Suffolk coast; and comedy at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds. Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

Brew yourself a nice pot of tea, sit back and watch our films about Suffolk from the comfort of your armchair.

We can take you for a (virtual) spot of wild-water swimming, we can show you the Suffolk coast in spring, summer, autumn or winter; and we can tell you about some of our most famous myths and legends...