10 Best places to relax in Suffolk

TOP 10 PLACES TO LOVE TO RELAX AND UNWIND IN SUFFOLK

Switch the big city lights for a relaxing holiday in Suffolk. From Southwold Harbour to Thetford Forest, we discover their hiding places among some of the hidden, and not-so-hidden, gems in our coast and countryside. Join them and discover your ideal place to unplug in Suffolk.

1. RSPB MINSMERE NATURE RESERVE

Explore the reserve at RSPB Minsmere with its idyllic views, diverse landscapes and natural discoveries, including some of the UK’s rarest wildlife, bearded tits, avocets and bitterns, and maybe the odd bat!

Discover some of the UK’s rarest wildlife amongst a diverse landscape of reed beds, wet grassland, woodland, shingle vegetation and coastal lagoons.

2. HIGH LODGE, THETFORD FOREST

You could spend an entire day exploring acres of woodland with friends in tow by choosing one of four walking trails or three off-road cycling routes. The Brecks is idyllic all-year-round.

Exploring the depths of Thetford Forest in The Brecks

3. OULTON BROAD

Oulton Broad offers year-round water sports, but you may just want to opt for boat hire and sail along the Broads. Alternatively, take a stroll to nearby Carlton Marshes – a lowland reserve in the Waveney Valley consisting of meadows, reedbeds and woodland.

Cruising through Carlton Marshes Cruise along the waterways of Oulton Broad.

4. KESGRAVE HALL SPA

Drawing from the natural beauty of its woodland surroundings, Spa Kesgrave Hall blends seamlessly into the Suffolk countryside.Whether you’re looking for a full day’s relaxation and pampering, an evening of rejuvenation, a half day escape from the busy world or celebrating a special occasion with a group of friends, you’ll find something that’s just right for you.

5. THORPENESS BEACH

A magical coastal haven with miles of wide open, shingle beach and perfect for dog walking in winter. Explore the area further and you’ll come across the Peter Pan inspired boating lake, golf course and iconic Tudor buildings.

Enjoy the space at Thorpeness Beach.

6. FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE

The “Castle on the Hill” in Framlingham, made more famous by Ed Sheeran, is one of Suffolk’s most historic landmarks, dating back to the 12th century and once home to Mary Tudor.

Framlingham Castle and mere.

Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’.

7. ABBEY GARDENS, BURY ST EDMUNDS

The 14-acre park in the heart of Bury St Edmunds is described as “the perfect spot for enjoying peace and quiet whilst watching the world go by”. Located in the heart of the town, there are plenty of other things to do here, like grabbing a coffee and a good book.

Abbey Gardens, Bury St Edmunds

Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the peace in Abbey Gardens.

8. SOUTHWOLD HARBOUR

Stroll along Southwold’s promenade on the Suffolk Coast for a good 20 minutes and you’ll reach the open air of the River Blyth. Check out some of the fine fishing eateries before crossing a bridge into the picturesque village of Walberswick. Expect sand dunes, crabbing, black beach huts and a place to harbour the peace, either in a cosy tea-room or gastro pub like The Anchor.

Walk around the harbour at Southwold, discovering tasty bites and fantastic views

9. SUTTON HOO, NEAR WOODBRIDGE

The 255-acre estate has far-far-reaching views over the River Deben with an awe-inspiring archaeological back-story. This hidden gem is close to the town of Woodbridge and was where the story of ‘The Dig‘, a recently released film on Netflix was created.

Discover Anglo-Saxon treasure and stunning landscapes at Sutton Hoo.

10. CHRISTCHURCH PARK

Christchurch Park is a 70-acre area of rolling lawns, wooded areas, and delicately created arboreta in central Ipswich. Sitting within the park is Christchurch Mansion – a public museum and art gallery, housing one of the largest collections of Constable outside London.

Wander the grounds of Christchurch Park for a bit of peace, then head to Christchurch Mansion, within the grounds, for a spot of culture.