SUFFOLK

If you’re looking for a slow-paced UK staycation that will impress all ages, Suffolk should be top of your list. Not only is it home to a rich history, beautiful villages and bustling market towns, but it’s also a great base for exploring the incredible Suffolk coast as well as nearby Norfolk. 

Nestled in East Anglia, there really is something for everyone. And holiday accommodation is just as varied too. Choose between traditional cottages with features like exposed beams, huge farmhouses with ample outdoor space and stylish barn conversions with a whole host of luxury additions. 

At Staycations UK, we can help you to plan the perfect Suffolk staycation too – whether you know what you want or have no idea. We also have a range of deals and last minute offers available so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank. Why not start your search today?

Best towns for a staycation in Suffolk

From coastal to countryside and everything in between, Suffolk is home to some of the prettiest destinations in the UK. 

Bury St Edmunds

Best for: Lazy days spent wandering the town 

The bustling yet charming market town of Bury St Edmunds will definitely keep you busy. Steeped in history and boasting a great selection of shops, bars, cafes and local attractions, it’s not hard to fill your days here. For something truly special, a wander around the Abbey Gardens has got to be on your list. And afterwards, you could even stop at the Greene King Brewery. 

Lavenham

Best for: Harry Potter fans

Fans of Britain’s favourite wizard will probably recognise the streets here but that’s not all Lavenham is famous for. It’s said to be the best kept medieval village in Britain and now houses some of the best restaurants and tearooms in the area. There’s also lots of countryside to explore meaning it’s an ideal choice if you want to bring your dogs along. 

Aldeburgh

Best for: Those who love watersports 

Home to a gorgeous shingle beach, Aldeburgh is popular with those seeking fantastic waves and blue oceans. In fact, the water conditions are perfect for watersports. If you’d rather stay dry, however, the streets are lined with boutique shops and independent stores which are ideal for perusing. 

Woodbridge

Best for: Getting close to nature

The historic riverside town of Woodbridge sits on the edge of an area of outstanding natural beauty. Stroll along the water’s edge, take a look at the local boatyards and don’t forget to head to the monthly Farmers’ Market for a few delicious goodies. 

Southwold

Best for: A traditional seaside break

Southwold is a picture-perfect seaside town boasting a gorgeous promenade, bright coloured beach houses and lots of fantastic places to eat. Popular with families and couples, days can be spent exploring the streets and its shops, tasting the local cider or relaxing on the golden sands. 

Ipswich 

Best for: A charming town feel 

Sitting pretty on the River Orwell, Ipswich is a waterfront town that boasts a great selection of cafes, shops, galleries and museums. As one of the oldest towns in Britain, there’s a lot of stories about its past and fantastic art and theatre scene to bring it to life.

Best walks in Suffolk

From hour-long strolls to challenging hikes, Suffolk has lots of walking routes – some which are easy and others which are set to challenge you. 

Nowton Park Loop

Location: Bury St Edmunds
Difficulty: Easy

Walk length: Four and a half miles

The circular Nowton Park Loop is an easy way to explore some of the best green parks in Bury St Edmunds, and can be enjoyed by all ages and walking abilities. Ideal for an afternoon stroll, it’s relatively flat all the way round. 

The Lavenham and Long Melford

Location: Lavenham
Difficulty: Medium

Walk length: Nine and a half miles
The Lavenham and Long Melford walk will see you head through a conservation area, along signposted footpaths and through medieval towns. As well as being a great opportunity to explore the local area, there’s also lots of independent shops and cafes ready to welcome you. 

Aldeburgh Circular Walk

Location: Aldeburgh
Difficulty: Medium

Walk length: Six miles

Nature lovers will be mesmerised during the Aldeburgh Circular Walk which takes you through the town of Aldeburgh, along the river and through some marshes. Expect to see lots of wildlife, dense plants and rolling meadows. For this reason, it’s very popular with birdwatchers. 

Sutton Hoo Ferry Cliff Walk

Location: Woodbridge
Difficulty: Medium

Walk length: Three Miles

Famous because the sixth-century burial ship was found here in 1938, the Sutton Hoo Cliff Walk will lead you directly to the spot. The Sutton Hoo estate is also home to a beautiful estate house which makes for a fantastic day trip. You could also take a picnic to enjoy in the estate grounds. 

Southwold Harbour

Location: Southwold
Difficulty: Medium

Walk length: Just over three miles

A gentle coastal walk around Southwold Harbour is a great way to either kickstart your day or bring it to a close. Covering countryside and town paths, it’s suitable for everyone and even your four-legged friends can run along ahead. Why not book a table at one of the local pubs for afterwards?

Around Ipswich Walk

Location: Ipswich
Difficulty: Moderate
Walk length: Eight miles

If you want to explore Ipswich on foot, the Around Ipswich Walk is a great way to do it. The route takes you around the town, past rivers and through lots of green spaces. You’ll also join the Suffolk Coast Path which will take you up to the harbour and marina if you want to carry on your walk. 

Must see places in Suffolk

Foodies, sports lovers, adventurers and more won’t be bored in Suffolk, with plenty of things to do and see – whatever the season. 

Southwold Pier 

Best for: Taking in those sea views

Did you even visit a traditional British seaside town if you didn’t wander along the pier with fish and chips in hand? We think not. Described as the Jewel in the crown of East Suffolk, Southwold’s famous pier attracts visitors from all over. And it’s easy to see why. Along the 620ft feature, there’s plenty of arcade machines and lots of ice cream huts dotted around too. 

Wyken Vineyard 

Best for: Tasting the good old stuff

Situated in Suffolk’s incredible countryside, a day out at Wyken Vineyard provides you with an opportunity to try some local delicacies, explore the beautiful gardens and fields and discover how the wine is made. The farm is also home to llamas, cattle and sheep and there’s an award-winning restaurant on-site too. 

Tide Mill 

Best for: Learning about the area’s past

Give your kids a history lesson that they’ll enjoy at Suffolk’s Tide Mill – a working water mill on the banks of the harbour. Learn about how flour has been made here for the last 800 years and you can even take a bag home with you for your next batch of cakes! With lots of interactive activities and videos on show, it’s an easy way to spend an hour or two. 

Snape Maltings

Best for: Those looking for a pitstop 

If you’re travelling through the area and want to break up your journey, Snape Maltings is a great choice. It sits on the River Alde and houses shops, restaurants and a concert hall. It’s also surrounded by marshes which make for a great adventure after being cooped up in a car for hours. 

The Great Church Yard

Best for: Seeing inspiring architecture 

Head to Bury St Edmunds and you’ll find the Great Church Yard hidden between St Mary’s Church and the Abbey Gate. Here, old ruins have been transformed into contemporary dwellings as well as a quiet green space that’s perfect for spending a few hours in. If you’re looking for somewhere calm, this has got to be top of your list. 

Orford Castle 

Best for: A fun-filled family day out

Orford Castle is an original castle built by Henry II to protect the port. Head inside, adventure up the staircase and look out over Orford Ness. Just minutes from the river Alde, there’s plenty of cafes nearby to keep hungry tummies full, and lots of scenic routes to wander along once you’ve finished exploring. 

Best places to eat in Suffolk

A long seafood lunch, honest pub grub or a quick bite to eat in a local cafe, whatever you’re looking for in Suffolk, there’s plenty of eateries to choose from.

The Crown and Castle 

Location: Orford

Owned by Ruth Watson who has appeared on TV and hosted the Hotel Inspector, The Crown and Castle is a traditional inn that’s popular with tourists, locals and four-legged friends. The menu includes locally-caught fish as well cheese and goodies from Neals Yard. It can get quite booked up though so it’s worth reserving a table.

The Great House

Location: Lavenham

This award-winning restaurant has been named as one of the best in England by the Sunday Times, and we don’t disagree. Boasting a menu of classic and sophisticated French cuisine, this place is ideal for special occasions or simply splashing the boat out. The building itself also dates back to the 14th century and its architecture will definitely impress you too.

The Sail Loft

Location: Southwold 

This relaxed eatery is ideal for those looking for a laid-back dining experience. In fact, there’s almost a Shoreditch feel to the place. Industrial furniture mixed with pendant lighting help to create an informal yet enjoyable environment. On the menu, you’ll find dirty burgers and asian salads, and there’s also a beachside hamper for those heading to the sands. 

The Leaping Hare 

Location: Bury St Edmunds

Situated in the grounds of the Wyken Vineyard, this restaurant and cafe serves up delicious meals – whatever the time of day. Ideal for lunch, afternoon tea or a full dinner experience, all ingredients are either grown in the kitchen garden or caught locally. The local area and estate is also great for a wander afterwards to work off your meal. 

The Swan

Location: Long Melford

Looking for something special? This two AA Rosette restaurant offers a modern British menu with the likes of beef wellington and steak & kidney pudding. In terms of interior, it’s contemporary and sophisticated with a newly built garden room towards the back. Dogs and children are welcome here, meaning the whole family can enjoy a meal together.

1921 Angel Hill

Location: Bury St Edmunds 

The kitchen here is run by Zack Deakins – who trained under a Michelin-starred chef. The establishment itself is elegant yet relaxed, and famous for its menu of frog leg canapes and Denham Castle lamb. If you’re looking for a special occasion meal but without the formalities, this is your place.