Venture out into the Heart of Suffolk, home of the two happiest districts in the county, where you’ll find plenty of great attractions and activities that cater to all ages. From paddleboarding to petting farms, countryside walks to discovering museum exhibitions. The Heart of Suffolk is the perfect place for quality family days out.
We all know spending time with the family is important and finding something that everyone will enjoy is a priority when searching for things to do. We’ve put together some ideas that just might spark some excitement to make family time, everyone’s favourite time, either for a day out or a well-earned family holiday.
Open Air Theatre – Wherstead Park
This summer, the Cambridge Touring Productions are bringing Open Air Theatre to Suffolk! Wherstead Park is playing host to some incredible outdoor performances that aren’t to be missed, including The Reluctant Dragon and Arthur, The story of a King. If you and your family are lovers of the arts, then this is guaranteed to be a hit. Audiences are encouraged to get involved and enjoy the whole experience, so there’s little stress and only fun! If the kids want to eat their ice cream or munch on snacks, have a jump about, or shout at the actors, it’s all part of the fun. No one is judging.
Baylham Rare Breeds
Nestling in the lush beauty of the Suffolk countryside is Baylham House Farm. This is a working livestock farm that specialises in native breeds that were once common but are now very rare. The farm is popular with children and adults alike, with a wide range of activities to entertain the whole family. You will be able to feed the animals, even balance food on the outstretched tongue of a cow, tickle the belly of a piglet, swing across the river, or simply relax on the banks of the mere.
Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park
Starting as a traditional free-range livestock farm, Jimmy’s Farm on the outskirts of Ipswich has evolved over the years. It is now home to a Wildlife Park, restaurant, vegetable and flower gardens, farm shop, clothing, gift, and craft shops. There is an eclectic mix of animals from crocodiles, camels, and capybara to pigs, guinea pigs, and the very cheeky meerkats.
Children will love exploring Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park
Needham Lake
Needham Lake sits just outside the historic town of Needham Market. Its tranquil setting is a good place to enjoy the great outdoors. From here you can go on a Love Exploring adventure with interactive games the kids will love. The lake is teeming with birdlife, so it’s great fun feeding the ducks or sitting and watching the geese and swans as they parade about.
Children will love finding the wooden sculptures, stepping stones, and fun play area, with its hollow climbing logs. The park is quite compact making it very easy to get around. Close by is the River Gipping with a path to Alder Carr Farm, famous for its home-made ice cream. Needham market high street is also well-worth a visit with cafes, pubs and independent shops.
Nature watching at Needham Lake
Stonham Barns
The Crazy Golf at Stonham Barns has a brand new Smugglers Bay 18 Hole Adventure Golf course! The 18 hole mini putting course features a pirate-themed course with stand-out feature holes to keep everyone entertained. After a ’round’ of golf head to the aquatics and reptile centre, along with an intriguing antique store and tropical-looking garden centre.
Other family attractions at Stonham Barns leisure complex include the amazing Owl Sanctuary and fishing lakes plus regular family car boots. So depending on what day you wish to visit, you’re in for a good time. It’s an ideal trip for everyone from tiny tots to grandparents!
Baby owls at The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary at Stonham Barns
Lavenham Falconry
If you have an interest in or a love of birds and are looking for something a little different, why not try a hands-on Falconry Experience. They have over 60 different birds of prey available to fly, from the smallest of owls to the largest of Eagles. The centre is just outside the stunning medieval village of Lavenham. Not only is the village home to some of Britain’s finest medieval buildings, but it also played its part in the blockbuster movie, The Deathly Hallows Part 1 & Part 2 as Godric’s Hollow, the magical village where Harry Potter was born.
Anglia Adventure
If you and your family are looking for an adventurous day out, why not book a day with Anglian Adventures. Hire a canoe and explore the beautiful scenes along the River Stour. Through Constable Country, you can paddle towards Flatford mill, the famously painted by John Constable. You might even want to extend your day to a private overnight Bird Hide experience in the family Den situated on the edge of the river.
Take to the water with Anglia Adventures
So whether you’re a family of adventurers, theatre folk, or enjoy the simplicity of a countryside walk, there is something for everyone. Have the best time this summer making fun new memories with all your favourite people!
Discover more in The Heart of Suffolk.
