As a haven for wildlife, The Suffolk Coast is home to the Suffolk & Essex Coast and Heaths National Landscape encompassing National Trust Dunwich Heath and RSPB Minsmere.
At Dunwich Heath, pack a picnic and explore a number of footpaths which lead you through a myriad of habitats, spotting birds and animals along the way. During the summer months there are a range of free activities for younger people to get involved in; including pond dipping and bug hunting with the visitor experience team.
RSPB Minsmere is a great place to bring the family to enjoy nature on The Suffolk coast. Depending on how far you want to walk, there’s a choice of easy walks through beautiful woodland, wetland and coastal scenery. The wildlife changes throughout the year but includes an amazing variety of birds, insects and flowers and other wildlife, plus Guides are on hand to help you spot bittern, otter, avocet and red deer. Families can hire an Explorer backpack to investigate minibeasts, build a den together, or play in the Wild Zone’s sand martin tunnels and bittern nest.
From tiny meadows to rolling heaths, Suffolk Wildlife Trust nature reserves extend all the way along the Suffolk Coast from Trimley Marshes at Felixstowe to Lound Lakes north of Lowestoft and are some of Suffolk's most inspiring wild places. Families can enjoy exploring the 1000 acre nature reserve at Carlton Marses; located at the southern gateway to the Broads, or start at Snape Maltings and head out to Snape Marshes with beautiful veteran oaks, dry heathland edge and reed-filled marshes. Here you can find adder, common lizard, grass snake and slow worm plus barn owl, hobby and marsh harrier.
You are welcome to explore the reserves anytime free of charge or join one of the many year-round events!
For more 'days out' ideas, check out the attractions below and our What's On Guide!