Cultural Days Out In Suffolk
Suffolk has a rich cultural heritage across the ages. From homes of artists to knights and duchesses, museums dedicated to engineering, the advent of RADAR and ancient kings, there is something to see every day of the week.
Look out for special events with What’s on in Suffolk.
Discovered on the eve of the Second World War Sutton Hoo is thought to be one of the greatest archaeological discoveries made in Britain. The site offers visitors a glimpse into the closing stages of the Roman empire and the dawn of the Norman conquest. See a full sized reconstruction of the ship chamber that entombed an Anglo-Saxon king and his treasure for over 1,300 years. A guided tour of the royal burial mounds will allow you to view exhibitions and listen to expert talks on this fascinating period of history in the Suffolk countryside.
With its rich red brick Tudor facade Kentwell Hall has become a deserved Suffolk landmark. Sweeping parkland leads down from the house to a moat that encircles the estate creating an atmosphere of untouched 16th century beauty. Visit on one of Kentwell Hall's pioneering 'living history' events and experience Tudor or WWII life there. Witness traditional farming methods in use then stroll around the gardens and listen to a few ghost stories along the way.
The imposing 18-sided towerkeep of Orford Castle dominates the skyline sitting beside the pretty Suffolk town of Orford. As a former port Henry II built the unique polygonal castle at Orford to keep a watchful eye on turbulent East Anglian barons and to guard the coast against foreign mercenaries. From the roof with its breathtaking views to exploring the castle's basement and every uneven room in-between, there is plenty to see, learn and imagine.
The National Horseracing Museum
Discover the origins of British horseracing from its royal beginnings to its modern day heroes. Learn about the daily routines of rearing, training and caring of our countries thoroughbreds. View famous works of art and artefacts collected and loaned to the museum in the galleries.
Experience horseracing from a Jockey's point of view - no not from your knees. Put on your racing silks, weigh out and ride to victory on the galloping horse simulator before posing in front of the winner's blanket.
A focal point for Christian faith and medieval architecture, Suffolk's St Edmunds Cathedral has opened its doors to pilgrims for centuries. Walk through magnificent stone arches to behold some of the finest stained glass windows in the country. Find a little moment for quite contemplation and peace before admiring the rest of the architecture and enjoying the surrounding grounds.
A truly unique architectural wonder set in acres of lush woodland and sweeping lawns, Ickworth house in Suffolk is a sight not to be missed. Situated just outside of Bury St Edmunds the striking Georgian oval is crammed to the rafters with one mans passion for art and Italy.
The only artist's birthplace open to the public in Britain, Gainsborough's House is a modest, Georgian fronted building situated in Sudbury, Suffolk. While the house displays a large collection of Gainsborough paintings, drawings and prints it is also home to more contemporary exhibitions and furniture. Outside surrounded by a walled garden the museum hosts sculptor exhibitions during the summer, whilst an old coach house has been converted to be used as a print workshop. There is also an education centre, coffee shop and gift shop on site.
This Grade I listed Tudor mansion houses its own museum and the Wolsey Art Gallery. Its collection includes contemporary and traditional artists, with the largest selection of Constable artwork outside of London. There are rooms preserved as past inhabitants would have known them from the 16th to the 19th century. Christchurch Mansion sits within 70 acres of public park in the centre of Ipswich, Suffolk and is perfect for summer strolls and picnics.
Since its original construction in 1480 to its present condition Helmingham Hall has witnessed and been instrumental in over 500 years of British history. Playing host to numerous Royal guests, secret societies and powerful government figures, its past is almost as colourful as its gardens in summer. Visitors will enjoy walking along the herbaceous borders in the kitchen garden and smelling the roses on the parterre. Walk through the park to the Church of St Mary, known to have stood there since 1258.
With the largest collection of transport devoted to just one town in Britain, for those interested in engineering or motor history a visit to the Ipswich Transport museum is not to be missed.
A house that has seen both Elizabeth I and Beatrix Potter walk through its doors, Melford Hall is undoubtedly one of Suffolk's most celebrated Tudor mansions. Note the changes in architecture and style as you walk through the panelled banqueting hall, through the house to the plush Victorian bedrooms before venturing out onto beautiful landscaped gardens.
Since being built by Henry VIII Landguard Fort has protected the Suffolk coastline for centuries and is famed for repelling the last attempted invasion of Britain by the Dutch in 1667. Visitors can explore all around this icon of military might, from the magazine area and the lamp passages to behind the curved, wall of the battery. Guided group tours are available on request and Ghost tours are organised every (dry) Sunday at 3pm.
Invaluable to the defence of the nation in WWII Bawdsey Radar Station was key to the outcome of the war. Established in 1936 Bawdsey saw the first few years of 'RADAR' technology and its development. In the Suffolk countryside scientists witnessed just how effective RADAR could be in the allies fight to control the skies and ultimately win the war. The Magic Ear exhibition charts the work of the scientists and the foundations they laid for the computer and electronics era we have today.
More cultural experiences in Suffolk
For a bit of toe-tapping entertainment visit Music and Dance in Suffolk.
To view and buy art see our recommended art galleries.
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