Fun Family Days Out
Enjoy a fun-filled staycation with activities to keep the whole family entertained!
Art Lovers
We’re not short of art and culture in East Anglia, known for the picturesque landscapes which have inspired many great British painters. There’s a whole host of art galleries, theatres, exhibitions, craft centres and festivals to visit to really get a taste of our artistic heritage.
Flatford Mill, John Constable Exhibition and Willy Lott’s Cottage (24-minute drive)
Set within the stunning Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, discover the area made famous by John Constable’s landscape masterpieces. Find out more about the rich history of Constable Country by visiting the John Constable Museum or by ‘Walking in the Footsteps of Constable’ on the popular 4–7-mile walk. Be sure to take your sketchbook as you’ll be passing by renowned sights such as Flatford Mill, Willy Lott’s House and the site of The Hay Wain painting.
Gainsborough Museum, Sudbury (15-minute drive)
Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury is the birthplace of famous landscape artist Thomas Gainsborough, showcasing an outstanding collection of his work. As well as the amazing fixed features, a varied programme of temporary exhibitions is also on display throughout the year.
Munnings Museum, Dedham (19-minute drive)
The Munnings Art Museum is the former home of the great sporting painter, Sir Alfred Munnings, now displaying his commercial designs, posters, black and white pictures and early paintings. Be amazed as you stroll around the museum, which showcases exhibitions of his lesser-known artwork, focusing on his early influences and ability to capture the popular La Belle Epoque aesthetic. Complete your trip by visiting the shop and café, serving delicious light bites and refreshments.
Firstsite, Colchester (26-minute drive)
Firstsite is a must-see location for all art enthusiasts! With its striking gold exterior and crescent-shaped structure, designed by architect Rafael Vinoly, Firstsite is a work of art in its own right as well as a visual arts gallery and community hub. You’re guaranteed to be amazed with the wide variety of impressive artworks on display, from established artists to local exhibitions. There’s something for everyone with an in-house cinema, café and shop, as well as a meeting room and other spaces available to hire.
Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich (32-minute drive)
Boasting over 500 years of history, Christchurch Mansion is one of Suffolk’s most treasured buildings. Visit the beautiful Tudor mansion and explore charming period rooms. A highlight for art lovers is the extensive collection of art from Suffolk artists, including the biggest collection of Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable paintings outside of London.
The Minories, Colchester (26-minute drive)
The Minories Galleries is a public contemporary art gallery and creative community space run by Colchester School of Art at Colchester Institute. Being one of Colchester’s most distinctive structures as a listed Georgian building, The Minories houses a variety of imaginative workshops and exhibitions to free your imagination and let your creativity run wild. Within the Galleries, there is also a shop and the popular Tiptree Tea Room if you get peckish!
Mercury Theatre, Colchester (26-minute drive)
The Mercury Theatre is the perfect venue for lovers of stage shows, plays, musicals and pantos, featuring emerging artists, writers, new talent and a creative hub. Their new 530-seat auditorium with accessible seating areas, and smaller studio theatre seating up to 98 people, offer a diverse and exciting programme of productions. Enjoy a pre-show bite to eat or drink in The Cafe Bar before the performance begins.
Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds (37-minute drive)
The stunning Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds is the only surviving Regency playhouse in Britain, home to a wide range of shows and events for all interests. Take a guided tour of the vibrant 200-year-old theatre to take in all its history, from front of house to behind the scenes, or enjoy a night out watching a fabulous show.
DanceEast, Ipswich (30-minute drive)
DanceEast is the home for dance in the East of England. It provides extraordinary dance performances, courses and workshops at Jerwood DanceHouse, the purpose-built dance facility on Ipswich waterfront. Get involved and check out the amazing range of public dance classes for all ages and abilities, including hip hop, zumba, contemporary, tap, musical theatre and ballet barre to name just a few!
The Apex, Bury St Edmunds (41-minute drive)
Situated in the centre of Bury St Edmunds, The Apex is an award-winning venue known for being home to a diverse programme of live music, workshops, exhibitions and events. There’s something for everyone with its extensive and varied schedule, from classical concerts and comedy nights, to Booze & Brushes paint nights and dance performances.
Dedham Art and Craft Centre (18-minute drive)
Housed in a converted church in the heart of Constable Country, Dedham Art & Craft Centre is the perfect place to visit, shop and eat. The Centre is a paradise for creatives, showcasing the work of over 60 artisans across three floors. We recommend visiting to find a unique gift or even a treat for yourself!
