There's so much to see and do on The Suffolk Coast, especially in Summer! Whether you're enjoying a staycation or looking for days out ideas; from crabbing and canoeing to landscape drawing and sunset cruises - check out our 61 things to do on The Suffolk Coast this summer!
1. Go crabbing at Walberswick. With just a simple line or some string, bait and a bucket, you can try your luck at landing some crabs and then gently releasing them back into the water.
2. Visit Tim Hunkin's Under the Pier Show on Southwold Pier. These madcap automatons have been curiously designed by the genius that is Tim Hunkin. Bring a handful of change and have a chuckle as you experience the life of a fly in VR, prepare for your future with a zimmer frame experience or take a holiday from the comfort of an armchair!
3. Go horse riding along Pakefield Beach with Pakefield Riding School. Book an hour, or even 2 hour long hack along the glorious expanse of sandy beach at Pakefield. The riding school has a selection of experienced and friendly horses and staff who can guide adults and children, whatever their level.
4. Take a dip at Beccles Lido, a wonderful open air pool with great facilities. There are general swim sessions, as well as inflatables, and swim and fun sessions which utilise the springboard and slide.
5. Visit 'The Castle on the Hill' in Framlingham and join in with their ‘Summer of fun’ with loads of activities for the whole family to get stuck into. From soft play and mini golf to archery and den building, there’s all sorts of fun to be had all through the school holidays.
6. Cycle, scoot, skateboard, run, skip or walk along Halesworth's Millennium Green - the largest in England!
7. Visit the UK's most easterly point, Ness Point in Lowestoft.
8. Climb the bell tower at Beccles for views of the Waveney Valley
9. Feed a lion at Africa Alive Zoological Reserve. Look out for special events throughout the summer including Africa By Night; Explore the zoo after hours with exclusive access to incredible animals after dark, plus enjoy wild entertainment and indulge in delicious food from a variety of food trucks.
10. Take a ride on a trolleybus at East Anglia Transport Museum, you can also enjoy riding preserved vintage trams, trolleybuses, and a narrow-gauge railway. The museum also features exhibition halls, period street scenes, and a "Tar, Sweat and Steam" building showcasing the history of road building.
11. Visit the magnificent Suffolk Punch Horse and learn all about this rare and dignified breed. The trust is offering half price entry on Saturdays throughout the Summer holidays and there are also experience days available to purchase for anyone who wants a more hands-on experience in activities such as braiding, grooming or harnessing.
12. Soak up the sun and watch the world go by at Felixstowe Seafront Gardens. The eight Grade II listed gardens are of significant historic interest and give the town its title, “The Garden Resort of East Anglia”. Wander along the walkways and take in the blooms of Summer… roses, fuchsias, lavender and water lilies.
13. Spend a day on the farm at Easton Farm Park, a great destination for a family day out where children can learn, play and connect with animals. For adults looking for something a little bit different, Easton Farm Park offers ‘Goat Yoga’ sessions on selected weekends throughout the summer.
14. Walk the historic scores in Lowestoft's High Street and find out more about their significance by reading the information plaques at the top of each one.
15. Cross the river on board Walberswick Ferry. This traditional family run rowing boat service will transport you across the River Blyth from Southwold to Walberswick. The wooden rowing boats are based on the Suffolk punt design and carry up to 12 passengers at a time.
16. Speed out to sea with Jet Adventures for unforgettable boat trips and RIB rides from Lowestoft’s South Pier, where you can see seals at Scroby Sands, tour Lowestoft Harbour, and enjoy sightseeing trips along Suffolk’s sunrise coast.
17. Tee off at Thorpeness' iconic, award-winning golf course which was designed by none other than James Braid back in 1922.
18. Stay on board the UK's only floating glamping pod at Hippersons. The pod is called, ‘Wild Cat Island’ named after the schooner used by Captain Flint to take the young sailors on their first voyage in the Sparrows and Amazons series. You can unleash your inner adventurer as you feel the gentle bob of the river and even try your hand at canoeing or kayaking.
19. Spot birdlife on the River Alde with Suffolk River Trips, and enjoy the commentary as you go along. Trips depart from Snape Maltings Quay, Orford Town Quay and Woodbridge Town Steps.
20. Eat freshly caught oysters from Pinneys of Orford, where you can enjoy fresh, locally caught seafood in their relaxed and informal restaurant, or order a luxury hamper from their website.
21. Walk the River Wall in Woodbridge and take in the beautiful views.
22. Kick your feet up and dance the night away at FolkEast Festival. This year’s vibrant celebration of folk music takes place across five stages and three pubs, in keeping with its famously intimate atmosphere. Headliners include the acclaimed Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening, alongside genre-defying ensemble Penguin Café and the high-energy fusion sounds of Sheelanagig.
23. Discover the burial site of Saxon Kings at National Trust Sutton Hoo. Also, from 19th May to 13th June, Time Team will be returning to Sutton Hoo for another excavation in Garden Field, following geophysical surveys that took place in 2021 and 2022 and an excavation in 2024. The excavation activity can be viewed through the fencing, plus you can discover more about the archaeology of Sutton Hoo at the engagement stand where you can handle real archaeological finds from other sites.
24. Enjoy a tour and tasting at Suffolk's famous brewery, Adnams and don’t forget to visit the shop to stock up on your favourites.
25. Enjoy afternoon tea on board Sailing Barge Victor, a majestic and traditionally rigged 19th century sailing vessel, and journey down the beautiful and historic River Orwell and under the Orwell Bridge.
26. Listen to live music and tuck into street food at East Point Pavilion. Throughout the summer there are a range of free and ticketed events and workshops, from macrame and sea glass crafting, to vintage markets, folk music sessions and theatre.
27. Catch a concert at Summer at Snape. This summer, Snape Maltings offers a vibrant programme of over 50 events from 26 July to 31 August, encompassing classical, jazz, folk, and world music, alongside storytelling, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include performances by the London Symphony Orchestra under Antonio Pappano, the BBC Big Band's tribute to Gershwin, Sona Jobarteh's kora music, and folk legends Altan.
28. Get lost in the Maize Maze at Old Hall, Southwold. Go wild in a giant puzzle of pathways within 8 acres of maize! There are 2 maze challenges; the main maze which is a real brain teaser for all ages and the mini maze which provides a shorter, fun experience for younger children.
29. Buy fresh local produce at one of The Suffolk Coast's Farmers Markets, because food tastes better when you’ve handpicked it!
30. Visit Maggi Hambling's scallop on Aldeburgh beach. While you are there, search through the pebbles for a ‘hag’ or ‘witch’ stone, thought by some to have magical properties.
31. Go boating on the Meare in Thorpeness, a whimsical experience inspired by the story of Peter Pan, look out for the references to the JM Barrie story, such as Wendy’s house and the pirates’ lair.
32. Visit the birthplace of the RADAR at Bawdsey, explore the exhibits and try the WW2 radar simulation experience.
33. Celebrate the Summer Solstice at the UK's only beach festival; First Light Festival on 21 & 22 June. 2025 musical highlights include UK Afro-jazz ensemble Nubiyan Twist, disco collective Horse Meat Disco, and electronic artist Girls of the Internet. Poet and novelist Jackie Kay will appear in conversation and perform readings, while poet Brian Bilston is set to perform as part of the late-night Sundown Events programme. And set your alarm for 3.30am to join in with sunrise yoga, seal-calling and even a dawn sea dip!
34. Enjoy Sunday brunch alfresco at Fire & Feast or book onto one of their chef’s table events this summer, such as ‘Savouring Suffolk’- a unique supper that brings together the best local ingredients with an opportunity to hear from their creators.
35. Cycle the UFO trail at Rendlesham Forest and uncover the other-worldly secrets of what really happened in December 1980...
36. Watch a bird ringing demonstration at RSPB Minsmere nature reserve. Watch as specially trained ringers from the Waveney Bird Club weigh, measure and ring birds under licence, and discover what important scientific information this gives us.
37. Hop on the ferry and travel from Bawdsey to Old Felixstowe
38. Play on the 2p machines at Mannings Amusements; an historic family entertainment venue that has been delighting visitors since its establishment by Sir Billy Butlin in 1933.
39. Cruise the River Waveney on with Waveney River Tours and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way.
40. Book a tour and tasting at Fishers Gin; the UK's closest distillery to the sea and enjoy a tutored tasting and opportunity to purchase your favourite to take home.
41. Meet a polar bear at Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park and come face to face with over 100 different species and breeds, from mammals and reptiles, to birds, bugs and fish.
42. Take a riverside stroll and watch the sunset at The Butt and Oyster with a wonderful panoramic view of the River Orwell.
43. Hire a beach hut on Lowestoft's golden, sandy beach. This summer, day, weekend and weekly hires have 50% off!
44. Stock up on raw milk and rounds of Baron Bigod at the vending machine at Fen Farm Dairy. This innovative farm is focussed on making exceptional artisan products such as their pioneering butter and yoghurt, as well as their award winning cheese.
45. Listen to famous authors by the sea at Felixstowe Book Festival; This year’s highlights include: Tracy Chevalier discussing her latest novel, The Glassmaker, in conversation with festival patron Esther Freud. Barbara Erskine will present The Story Spinner, and Paul French will delve into Her Lotus Year, exploring 1920s China and the life of Wallis Simpson.
46. Pick up a gift at Beach Street craft and makers market. There’s a huge range and variety of craft, art, makers, artisan and gift stalls at the beach street market, taking place on every bank holiday Monday throughout the Summer.
47. See the power boats racing at Oulton Broad and soak up the adrenaline fuelled atmosphere.
48. Go off the beaten track with Minsmere Safari. Observe Suffolk’s special wildlife, habitats and hidden history from the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle and explore some of the most remote parts of Minsmere as your guide takes you on an exclusive VIP tour.
49. Visit one of England's best preserved coastal defences at Landguard Fort and on Wednesday 27th August you can enjoy an open air production of Romeo and Juliet in this most unusual of locations.
50. Watch the big ships dock at Felixstowe from the comfort of the Viewpoint Cafe at Landguard Point.
51. Have a picnic amongst the remains of Bigod's Castle in Bungay. Don’t forget your Baron Bigod cheese and crackers from Fen farm Dairy!
52. Explore The Red House; home to composer and conductor Benjamin Britten. These intimate private views of The Red House take place on Wednesdays through the summer and are limited to only eight people per tour. You will be guided through Britten and Pears’ house, studio and library; plus pay a visit to the Archive where you will get a chance to see the gems of the collection
53. View the magnificent steam engines at the Long Shop Museum, which is located in the original Richard Garrett and Sons Town Works. Discover the incredible story of assembly line production and steam powered machinery.
54. Enjoy a smooth start to the day at The Breakfast Club at Snape Maltings. Start your Sunday morning with the soulful tunes of Snape Maltings' resident live jazz band. Savour a laid-back ambiance while indulging in the new Breakfast Club Menu, complemented by a delightful selection of cocktails and mocktails.
55. Enjoy a day by the shore at one of Suffolk's award-winning beaches.
56. Explore The Suffolk Coast on foot with our Walking Guide
57. Relax and unwind with a spa day at Seckford Hall. Why not try their Dip and Dine deal offering a relaxing evening spa experience that includes a three course meal.
58. Learn how to photograph Suffolk's rare wildlife with award winning Wildlife Photographer David Hermon at Bawdsey Hall. This unique Dawn to Dusk experience, lasting 12 hours, and taking place in one of their purpose built hides, ensures you will capture some unique photos.
59. Cycle the Wolf Way and enjoy the breathtaking sights whilst on a cycling adventure around Suffolk. Winding across bridleways, quiet lanes and byways you’ll ride past many of Suffolk’s hidden gems.
60. Enjoy a family game of miniature golf at Jiggers at Thorpeness Golf Course
61. Spot seals at Harwich with Seal Watching Trips. Enjoy the Hamford Water Nature Reserve, which has a community of over 250 seals, and observe the lives of these beguiling creatures.
62. Discover the legend of the Bungay Black Dog at the Black Shuck Festival from 1-3 August 2025. This unique festival celebrates folklore, imagination, and storytelling in its many forms, based on the strange and terrible wunder that is the Black Dog of Bungay. The Festival is held annually over the first weekend in August, commemorating the Black Shuck visitation in Bungay in August 1577.