Explore the rich heritage and coastal charm of Suffolk and Essex with these unforgettable destinations. Woodbridge is a delightful market town on the River Deben, known for its tide mill, riverside walks, and artisan shops. Just down the coast, Ipswich offers a vibrant waterfront lined with restaurants, galleries, and maritime history. A short drive away, the bustling Port of Felixstowe combines seaside appeal with a working harbour, long beaches, and a classic promenade. For a more tranquil escape, the elegant coastal town of Aldeburgh offers fresh seafood, independent boutiques, and stunning sea views. Lastly, step into the UK's oldest recorded town, Colchester, where Roman ruins sit alongside the world-renowned Colchester Zoo and a thriving cultural scene.
Things to do in and around Woodbridge, Suffolk
Endless activities, just steps away
Woodbridge
Distance from hotel: 2 miles
Woodbridge sits on the edge of the River Deben. Visit the iconic Tide Mill, dating back to 1170, which is one of the oldest examples of a tide mill in the UK. Explore the magnificent Market Hill and The Shire Hall, a historic building built by Thomas Seckford over 450 years ago,now serving as an administrative centre.
Sutton Hoo
Distance from hotel: 3 miles
Sutton Hoo is one of Britain’s most important archaeological sites, home to the famous Saxon Royal burial ship. Discover the story of Anglo-Saxon warriors through an exhibition, or enjoy walks with spectacular views over the river and Woodbridge. You may recognise Sutton Hoo from the film, The Dig.
Easton Farm Park
Distance from hotel: 5.7 miles
Discover Easton Farm Park, a family-friendly destination in the heart of Suffolk. Meet a variety of farm animals, enjoy daily activities like egg collecting and pony grooming, and explore the expansive outdoor adventure playground.
Parham Airfield Museum
Distance from hotel: 6.7 miles
Explore Parham Airfield Museum in Suffolk, celebrating the history of the USAAF 390th Bomb Group and Britain’s secret Auxiliary Units. Visit original wartime buildings filled with personal stories, artefacts, and interactive exhibits that bring WWII history vividly to life.
Framlingham Castle
Distance from hotel: 9 miles
Framlingham Castle, surrounded by parkland and a picturesque lake, was once home to powerful earls and dukes. Conquer the castle’s wall walk for stunning views over the town and countryside. Explore the castle’s interactive exhibition, uncovering stories of ambitious barons, a Tudor queen, and more.
Rendlesham Forest
Distance from hotel: 9 miles
Rendlesham Forest offers something for everyone with cycle trails, sculptures to discover, and picnic spots. Walk the UFO trail to learn about the famous 1980 UFO sighting, or explore children’s play areas and the stunning surroundings in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Snape Maltings
Distance from hotel: 10 miles
Snape Maltings, set beside the River Alde, offers a beautiful setting for events, concerts, and shopping. Originally built in 1841 to malt barley, it now hosts a range of activities throughout the year. Enjoy a riverside walk towards Aldeburgh or Iken, and remember to check the tide times for the best experience.
Orford Ness National Nature Reserve
Distance from hotel: 11.7 miles
Orford Ness, Suffolk’s wild and remoteness-defining shingle spit, blends rare natural beauty with startling history. Accessible only by ferry from Orford Quay, visitors explore fragile vegetated shingle, grazing marshes, and Cold War-era military relics like labs, radar buildings, and the Black Beacon. Secrets of radar and atomic testing whisper through the site’s haunting ruins, while a thriving colony of grey seals lazes safely along its shores
Aldeburgh
Distance from hotel: 15 miles
Aldeburgh, famed for its connection to composer Benjamin Britten, offers a delightful 19th-century seaside charm. Wander along the promenade lined with pastel villas, visit the pebble beach with fishing huts, and immerse yourself in the town’s cultural heritage, including galleries and the Aldeburgh Literary Festival.
Felixstowe
Distance from hotel: 15 miles
Visit Felixstowe, a charming seaside town with a long promenade, beach, and scenic views of the pier. Explore arcades, shops, and cafes, or take a stroll through the nature reserve towards the Port of Felixstowe, the UK’s largest container port. Stop for a drink while watching ships dock and unload.
Jimmy’s Farm
Distance from hotel: 16 miles
Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is fun for all the family, with over 100 species to see, including capybaras, pigs, monkeys, and more. Get up close with animals through feeding sessions and daily talks. Enjoy the adventure playground and explore nearby woods for a full day out.
Southwold Pier
Distance from hotel: 24.8 miles
Southwold Pier offers a quintessential British seaside experience, extending 623 feet into the North Sea. Enjoy traditional amusements in the arcade, quirky inventions at the Under the Pier Show, and stunning sea views from the Boardwalk Restaurant. With its blend of nostalgia and novelty, it's a must-visit for all ages.
Colchester Zoo
Distance from hotel: 34 miles
Discover over 160 species at Colchester Zoo, set within 60 acres of parkland. See everything from Komodo Dragons to white rhinos and giraffes. The zoo is open daily, except Christmas Day, with varying closing times depending on the season.
Lavenham Guildhall
Distance from hotel: 34.3 miles
Step back in time at Lavenham Guildhall, a 16th-century timber-framed building that once served as the Guild of Corpus Christi. Explore its rich history through exhibits, wool-spinning demonstrations, and seasonal events like guided medieval walks and family-friendly activities. Relax in the charming courtyard garden or enjoy a treat in the Tudor tea-room
