Art Lovers
We’re not short of art and culture in East Anglia, known for the picturesque landscapes that have inspired many great British painters.
History Buffs
Colchester Castle Museum (28-minute drive)
The largest Norman Keep in Europe, Colchester Castle is a must-see attraction for all history lovers! Discover archaeological collections covering 2,500 years of history, including the most important Roman finds in Britain. There’s lots to get involved with too, including new interactive displays and exciting experiences, from building a Norman archway to steering a chariot around Colchester’s recently uncovered Roman Circus!
Suffolk’s Wool Towns (15-20-minute drive)
Take a trip to any of the Suffolk Wool Towns and travel back in time. Built when the wool trade was at its peak, the five towns of Sudbury, Lavenham, Long Melford, Clare and Hadleigh encapsulate an England of the past, with their market squares, timber-framed houses and grand churches. They are well worth the visit, being some of the best-preserved historic towns and prettiest villages in Suffolk.
Kentwell Hall, Long Melford (24-minute drive)
Step back through almost 1,000 years of history and enjoy a great day out for all the family at Kentwell Hall. Visit the Tudor manor house, surrounded by a beautiful moat where you might spot some fish to feed, or wander through the tranquil walled gardens and surrounding parkland. Kentwell Hall runs exciting events and re-enactments throughout the year, so you can really immerse yourself in Tudor life! Great fun for adults and children alike.
Hedingham Castle (29-minute drive)
A heritage treasure that is well worth the visit. Built 900 years ago, the striking motte-and-bailey castle, including Norman Keep and beautiful grounds, is one of the most iconic buildings in Essex. Immerse yourself in history as you enjoy walks around the estate, solve puzzles against the clock in the Castle Escape Rooms, or create your own adventure by taking a picnic to enjoy surrounded by the spectacular gardens, woodland and lake.
Ickworth House, Bury St Edmunds (43-minute drive)
The perfect place for history lovers of all ages. Ickworth House is surrounded by impressive gardens and miles of parkland, which you can explore through many walking trails. There are activities to keep everyone entertained, including archery, cycling, and a play area. Go on a quest to the magical Stumpery within the Italianate Garden to find the sleeping dragon, or grab an explorer bag, packed with items such as binoculars, bug pots and ID sheets.
Hollytrees Museum, Colchester (29-minute drive)
Hollytrees Museum is a hidden gem situated within the grounds of Castle Park in Colchester. Be transported back in time with displays of vintage toys and games and discover what family life was really like for the rich and the poor. The museum is also home to the famous and much loved Hollytrees Dolls House and Bernard Mason’s collection of clocks made in Colchester.
Layer Marney Tower, Colchester (34-minute drive)
Situated within stunning grounds near Colchester, Layer Marney Tower is England’s tallest Tudor Gatehouse, enjoying beautiful views of the River Blackwater and beyond. There’s plenty to do as you soak in the history of the 80-foot tower. Explore the Gatehouse and Church, view the fascinating collections on display, take a scenic stroll through the gardens and grounds, and visit the animals on the small farm. There is also a play area to keep little ones entertained.
Natural History Museum, Colchester (29-minute drive)
There’s so much to discover at the Natural History Museum in Colchester, packed with interactive displays and exhibitions about local wildlife habitats, biodiversity and climate change. Housed in the former All Saints Church, this family-friendly museum allows you to get up close to nature as you learn about the local natural environment from the Ice Age right up to present day.
Ipswich Museum (32-minute drive)
Travel back in time with a trip to Ipswich Museum, a fantastic destination for all history lovers. Here you can meet the famous woolly mammoth and other animals from around the world in the Victorian Natural History Gallery, or step back 70 million years in the Geology Gallery. Take in the rich history of The Ipswich Story to see how the area has changed since the Stone Age.
Hylands Estate, Chelmsford (55-minute drive)
Hylands Estate is the perfect place to visit and explore for all the family. Set within 574 acres of historic parkland, the prestigious park boasts a beautifully renovated Neo-Classical house, as well as a café, second-hand bookshop and resident studios for artists and designers open for browsing. Absorb the history of the estate by taking a stroll through the Victorian Gardens and ancient woodlands, stopping by the award-winning children’s Adventure Playground.
Flatford, Suffolk (16-minute drive)
Set within the stunning Dedham Vale, discover the area made famous by John Constable’s landscape masterpieces. Enjoy a picnic alongside the peaceful River Stour, or visit the riverside tea room for a delicious treat. Visit the John Constable Museum or ‘Walk in the Footsteps of Constable’ on the popular 4–7-mile walk, passing renowned sights such as Flatford Mill, Willy Lott’s House and the site of The Hay Wain painting.
