Easter Holiday Things to Do in Suffolk
Whatever you see yourself doing over the Easter break this year, there are lots of good reasons not to go abroad (eg exchange rate, airports - need we say more?!) as you’ll be able to do it all in Suffolk.
There is an endless supply of activities and attractions to keep the whole family happy over the school holidays. Hopefully, the weather will be kind to us and there will be plenty of opportunity to sample the fresh air but, don't worry, whatever the weather you will find lots of fun, laughter and relaxation in Suffolk!
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Suffolk Food Hall, Ipswich
Thursday 1st April at 4pm - don't be late!
Come along and join the Mad Hatter for High Tea, Fun and Games!
Activities, games and prizes, with a hot dish, ice cream sundae and drink, all for £7.95!
Places are limited, so please book early. Get your tickets from Samford Restaurant.
The Mad Hatter says “All children are welcome at my Tea Party, but please bring an adult along too.”
MEET THE REAL EASTER BUNNY – AND WIN SOME CHOCOLATE!
Everyone loves the Easter bunny, but did you know you can meet the real thing at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve this Easter?
From Friday 2 to Sunday 4 April, families can part in the Minsmere Easter bunny hunt. As well as watching wild bunnies, there’s a quiz trail with chocolates at the end. Costs for this event are £2 per child or 50 pence for Wildlife Explorers members. Normal entry fees apply for adults. Booking is advisable to prevent your bunny hopping off. The event runs from 10 am to 3 pm.
Following this event, families can also hop into spring at Minsmere with a programme of craft activities from Monday 5 to Thursday 8 April. After getting mucky making funny mud faces, you can make your own booming bittern or plant a sunflower for the summer. Costs are £5 per person, or £3.50 for Wildlife Explorers members (free for RSPB member adults), and the event runs from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm.
RSPB spokesman Ian Barthorpe said, “This is a great opportunity to see real, wild bunnies, enjoy a fun day in the countryside, and perhaps even spot some unusual wildlife. The bunnies often sit beneath the feeders outside the visitor centre, eating spilt sunflower seeds. Spring is a great time to visit Minsmere. Perhaps you’ll even hear a bittern booming.”
Easter at Kentwell Hall, Long Melford
Kentwell Hall in Long Melford – famous for its unique and totally authentic Tudor and WW11 Re-Creations first opens its doors for the 2010 season with a EasterTudor Re-Creation. For those who have yet to see one of Kentwell's Tudor Re-Creations a visit delivers an amazing 'Tudor' experience with numerous participants from young to old and from all walks of life – peasant to gentry going about their daily lives. Not only are the 'Tudors' dressed appropriately but they eat and speak exactly as they would have 500 years ago.
Visitors will be able to enjoy Tudors in the Kitchen, Brewhouse, Dairy, Foundry, Forge & Pottery and of course in the Great Hall itself. There will be lots going on during the Easter weekend including Tudor music and plays and the cooks will be busy preparing special Easter dishes in the Tudor Kitchen and Bakehouse including Hot Cross Buns and Marzipan creations.
On the Rare Breeds Farm at Kentwell - although we will have officially finished Lambing there will be many young lambs gambolling about together with young Kids (which are no less entertaining), Pigs, Cattle and the ever popular Suffolk Punches and Giant Donkeys. The Gardens will also be awash with thousands of Daffodils and Primroses making a walk through the woods a true pleasure.
OPEN GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 2ND, SATURDAY APRIL 3RD, EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 4TH & BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY APRIL 5TH.
2 Fri 10am – 3pm - Easter challenge in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes - 01502 564250
Find out who has been leaving their eggs around our nature reserve Family event Booking required. Child £2.50/Adult £1.50. Disabled access.
Friday 2nd April - Sunday April 4th at the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Aspel:
Friday - Punch & Judy
Sunday - Easter Egg Hunt
Monday - Punch & Judy and Jenny’s Ark
The Sanctuary also hosts spectacular flying displays daily between April and the end of September, where some of the world's most beautiful birds of prey show off their aerial prowess.
The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is open all year round apart from Christmas day and boxing day, from 10.00am until dusk.
The Suffolk Spring Garden Show - 2nd - 5th April 2010 (Easter Weekend) Suffolk Showground, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 8UH
4 Exciting days of ideas and inspiration for your garden and home.
This Easter visit the show and discover how you can transform your garden into a oasis of calm and tranquility.
With tips, 100's of stands, a delicious food court and a fantastic show arena - this years event is the perfect family day out.
Friday 2nd – Monday 5th April, 10.30am – 5pm
Easter Trail at Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge
A family favourite – find the clues, solve the puzzles and enjoy a yummy chocolate egg.
Normal admission and £2.00
3rd April - 3rd May 2010 - The Alde Valley Spring Festival - please see Suffolk Festivals for full details.
April: Sat 3 - Weekend wildlife walk at RSPB Minsmere
Start at 9.30 am (2.5 - 3 hours)
Join us for a seasonal weekend walk to look for spring migrants, breeding birds and a host of other wildlife highlights that may be present at the time.
Easter Saturday 3rd April - Charity Race Night at Fynn Valley Golf Club & The Valley Restaurant. Please click on the link for more details.
Suffolk Craft Society, Ipswich is open on Saturday 3rd April only. This is THE place to buy quality contemporary craft. Currently showing alongside members' work: Tom Staddon, Furniture maker.
Easter weekend 3-5th April - 'Local Lost Houses' exhibition organised by the Wickham Market Area Archive Centre. Wickham Market village hall from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. There is plenty of free car parking adjacent to the village hall. Free Entry (donations gratefully received).
The first Woodbridge Vintage & Contemporary Market of 2010 takes place on the Market Hill and Shire Hall in Woodbridge on the Easter weekend of Saturday 3rd April from 9.30am to 4pm.
The organisers of the market, Woodbridge-based Deben Events, said that this year they plan to make the markets bigger and better than ever, growing on the success of last year’s events when hundreds visited each of the markets.
Sarah Hill of Deben Events, said, “We’re putting on five markets in Woodbridge this year, and want to make sure that every one of them has a really interesting mix of stalls, ranging from sought-after retro pieces and cool interior ideas, to classic fashion items and locally-made pieces. It’s fascinating hearing from people and small businesses across East Anglia who are producing some really creative things.”
Deben Events say that the markets provide a great platform for smaller businesses, alongside those who might have a shop in another town and want to showcase their products to a new audience. “It’s shopping for the independently-minded,” explains Richard Ginger, fellow market organiser. “Our markets offer a great alternative to the mass-produced pieces found in High Street chains and supermarket. People are keen to find unique objects, examples of real craftsmanship and some fascinating one-off finds that are real talking points in their homes. It’s a million miles from Tesco!”
To give the market even more atmosphere and to create a relaxing environment for visitors, Deben Events is closing the road at the top of the market square, giving the event further pedestrianised space. The market also takes place on the same day as Woodbridge’s popular Free Easter Egg which takes place in Elmhurst Park. “These two free events will make Woodbridge a must-visit destination over the Easter Weekend – there’s something for everyone and the town should be really buzzing,” says Sarah. There will also be free parking at the Suffolk Coastal District Council offices throughout the day.
Visit Woodbridge Antiques Centre at the Woodbridge Vintage & Contemporary market on Saturday 3rd April (details above) and view their exhibition of unique, vintage item such as jewellery, accessories and telephones.
3rd April - Farmers' Market at Jimmy's Farm, Ipswich at 10am - 2pm.
Jimmy's Farm is a wonderful destination for all the family! Children get to meet the pigs, cows and sheep and learn all about farming.
Jimmy's farm is open every day during the Easter Holidays (9.30 - 5pm) and will feature the following activities:
1: Easter Egg Hunt
2: Lamb Feeding
3: Animal Feeding and Petting
4: Den Building
5: Delicious Hot and Cold Food and Drinks Available
6: Farm Shop and Butchery Open
7: For All Season Gift Shop Open
Other attractions at the farm include the Nature Trail and Jimmy's Adventure Playground.
3, 4 & 5 Sat, Sun & Mon between 11am & 3pm
Mystery egg trail in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Follow the trail and make some Easter crafts. Booking Required.
Child £4 All children must be accompanied by an adult. Disabled access.
4 Sun 10am – 5pm
Easter egg hunt in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Solve the clues and claim your very own chocolate egg £1. Disabled access.
4th April - Family Fun Day and Easter Egg Hunt at The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket
Spring into Easter with activities, animals and workshops at the Museum of East Anglian Life on Easter Sunday!
Our activity room will be bustling with an art workshop that is free to all visitors who have paid their entry into the Museum.
• Solve the clues and find the famous rabbits on the Easter Egg Hunt.
• Become the Easter Bunny! Make bunny ears and have your face painted to become the Easter Bunny.
• Design your own Easter Egg
• Make your own mini allotment! Plant some seeds and watch them grow.
• Fete games: stick and hoops, splat the rat, welly throwing and more will be taking place on our top field
Master composter volunteers will be on hand to give all the advice you need to turn everyday waste into the magic ingredient to make your garden bloom. Find out about the mini-beasts that live in your compost bin - and have a go at making one! Visit the compost marquee and see how you can have fun and help make Suffolk the Greenest County".
Archie Gemmel will lead a guided walk and talk through our Award winning River Rattlesden Nature Reserve at 2.00pm.
Come and enjoy the family fun day with us.
The Museum is open every day over Easter - 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun. Normal admission is £6.50 adults, £5.50 concessions, £3.50 children, under 4s free, 2 adult family (up to 3 children) £17.50, 1 adult family (up to 3 children) £11.50.
4th + 5th April - 'Easter with Children in Mind' at Mid Suffolk Light Railway, Stowmarket
Take a family trip here and have fun taking part in the Easter Bunny hunt, quiz, and the steam train. Opening times on both days are 11:00 to 17:00, with the last train running at about 16:20.
Monday 5 to Thursday 8 April - Hop into spring at RSPB Minsmere
10.30 am to 2.30 pm (Allow about two hours to complete)
Go wild at Minsmere this spring. Get mucky in mud by making funny mud faces (you may want to bring a change of clothes for afterwards). Come and make your own booming bittern – you may even hear the boomer himself. Go green and plant your own sunflower. There’ll be a range of other craft activities for all the family too. Cost: £5 per person, Wildlife Explorers £3.50, adult members free. Booking advisable.
Monday 5th, Wednesday 7th, Friday 9th, Monday 12th, Wednesday 14th, Friday 16th April, 12pm and 2pm
Gruesome Graves Tour at Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge
Children are invited to a special tour of the burial mounds – don’t forget to bring an adult. Places are limited to 30 people per tour so please arrive early and book on the day.
Normal admission
For a FULL LIST of events at Sutton Hoo, please click on the link above.
6 Tues 2pm – 4pm
Easter egg hunt in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Family afternoon Booking essential. Child £3.50/adult £1.50. Disabled access.
April: Wed 7 - Birdwatching for beginners at RSPB Minsmere
Start 9.30 am. (2.5 - 3 hours)
Many people have started birdwatching at Minsmere. Join us on this beginners’ walk where you will learn how to use binoculars properly and which field guides are best for you. You can then use this information to enjoy watching birds as we show you some of Minsmere’s wildlife.
7 Wed 10am – 12noon
Sharing nature – Easter chicks in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Family morning. Outdoor experiences and crafts. Age 4 – 8 Booking required. Child £4/adults free. Disabled access.
8 Thurs 10am – 2pm
Young wardens – practical conservation skills in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Age 10 – 15. Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
8 Thurs 10am – 2pm
Activity day in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Age 6 – 10 Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
April 10 - Catch & Cook, Walberswick, in association with Food Safari
More than just a fish cookery course, the freshest fish you ever find will always be the one you catch yourself. Join us for the day, fishing for cod, bass and mackerel. After lunch, we'll head into the kitchen to learn from a chef how to prepare the fish you caught to cook at home and share some simple recipe ideas.
Saturday April 10th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
‘Zeffiretti’ in concert. A wonderful programme of baroque music played in the fabulous setting of The Great Barn. Concert starts 7.30pm. Bar opens 6.30pm Ticket price £10. Free parking. Please see Music Concerts in Suffolk - April for more information, and Wingfield Barn's link above to make a booking.
10 Sat 10.30am – 12.30pm
Naturally art workshop in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
All abilities Age 5 – 10 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
April: Sat 10 and Sun 11 - Havergate’s Hares at RSPB Havergate Island.
Roll up, roll up for nature’s version of Bruno versus Tyson on a remote Suffolk island, as the RSPB invites you to watch boxing hares on their Havergate Island nature reserve over the weekend of Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 April.
The Havergate’s hares weekend is a unique opportunity to get extremely close to one of the UK’s most popular mammals. The event begins with a short boat ride from Orford Quay to Havergate Island, where RSPB guides will take visitors on a tour of the island, searching for many of its special inhabitants, before returning to Orford Quay. The whole event lasts four hours.
RSPB spokesman, Ian Barthorpe, said, “Havergate is a special place. It’s one of the easiest places to watch brown hares, and with luck you’ll see them boxing. Don’t worry though, they’re not fighting. The boxing contests are actually part of courtship, with females fending off the advances of amorous males.
“It’s not just about hares though. There are several observation hides offering views across the lagoons, where you should spot gulls, ducks and wading birds, including the avocet which famously re-colonised the UK on Havergate, and at nearby Minsmere, in 1947. I love simply crunching through the shingle or gazing over the open landscape towards Orford Castle and Orfordness.”
Places are limited on this event, so advance booking and payment are essential. Boats depart Orford Quay at 9.30 am and 10.30 am each day. Tickets cost £15 per person, or £12 for RSPB members, and should be reserved by contacting RSPB Minsmere.
April 10th–25th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
‘Artworks’ - An exhibition and selling show of paintings and sculpture by 20 of the region's finest artists. Free entry
Monday - Saturday - 10am 5pm and Sundays 11am - 4pm. Free parking.
April 11 - Children's Food Safari, Muck & Magic, Wenhaston, in association with Food Safari
This day will give children aged 6-12 the chance to make the connection between the food we eat and the farm it comes from. We'll spend the day at an organic farm near Southwold, and meet the rare-breed sheep, cattle, pigs and free-range chickens. We'll get hands-on making burgers and sausages. We'll also use local vegetables, salad and flour to make some bread to be cooked in a wood-fired oven and share a feast with the parents. For FULL details of EVERY Children's Food Safari happening this year, please click on Food Safari's link above.
13 Tues 10.30am – 12.30pm
The hungry caterpillar in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes - 01502 564250
Activity morning Age 4 – 7 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
13th April Mad Museum Inventors! at The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket
Use the Museum collection for inspiration to invent your own mad farming machine using lots of old junk. Add to the giant grass art on the top field. 10am - 2.30pm.
No need to book. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Normal admission applies & a small extra cost for the activity of £2 per family.
The Museum is open every day over Easter - 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun. Normal admission is £6.50 adults, £5.50 concessions, £3.50 children, under 4s free, 2 adult family (up to 3 children) £17.50, 1 adult family (up to 3 children) £11.50.
13 Tues 10.30am – 2.30pm
Meet the tit family in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Activity day Age 6 – 12 Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
13 Tues 2pm – 4pm
Family afternoon in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Booking required. Child £3.50/adult £1.50. Disabled access.
13 Tues 10.30am – 12.30pm
Underground explorers in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Activity morning Age 4 – 7 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
Wednesday 14th April at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Local Radio's Stewart Orr presents another fascinating film from his specially chosen series from the East Anglian Film Archive. Film starts at 7pm. Bar opens at 6pm. Ticket price £5. Free parking.
14 Wed 11.30am – 2.30pm
Survival in the wood in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes Phone 07774 852312 or email: yoe.project@suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Age 13 – 16 Booking essential. £3 (concessions available)
14 Wed 10am – 12noon
Sharing nature – warty toads and hopping frogs in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Family morning. Outdoor experiences and crafts. Age 4 – 8 Child £4/adults free. Disabled access.
April: Thurs 15 and Mon 19 - Nightingales and warblers at RSPB Minsmere
Start at 7 am (2-2.5 hours)
This is a later start than our dawn chorus walks, but still timed to experience all the variety of spring birdsong at Minsmere, from the bittern’s strange booming call to the nightingale’s glorious notes. The tearoom will be open early after these walks so you can warm up with a hot drink and light breakfast.
April 17 - Seafood in a Day at Pinney's in Orford, in association with Food Safari
Explore the River Ore with our skipper and we'll find lobster, crabs and other seafish. We'll visit Pinney's ancient oysterbeds and smokehouse and enjoy lunch at the family's well-known fish restaurant Butley Orford Oysterage.
Saturday April 17th - 27th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Suffolk Coastal Deckchair Exhibition. A fundraiser for St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich, a host of national and international celebrities have designed and painted deckchairs. Free Entry. Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm. Sunday 11am-4pm
Sunday 18th April at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Life Drawing Class with local artist Rebecca Lyne. All welcome. Please bring own materials and a packed lunch.
10 am - 3.30pm. Fee £25. per session. Free Parking.
Dawn chorus and breakfast at RSPB Minsmere
April: Sun 18. Start at 4.30 am
Dawn chorus can be an unforgettable Minsmere experience, with everything from bitterns to nightingales, Cetti’s warblers to avocets, joining in the chorus as the sun rises. A hearty breakfast in the tearoom rounds off a perfect start to the day. These are our most popular walks, so please book early. Costs are adults £20, RSPB members £15, children £13, or RSPB Wildlife Explorers £11
Enjoy a day out over Easter in the idyllic setting of Pakenham Water Mill. During the spring the millpond is at its clearest, providing stunning reflections of the mill and millers house. The grounds surrounding the mill are an outstanding habitat for wildlife: moorhens amongst the reeds and house martins returning to their nests high under the eaves of the mill. The mill pond even has its own resident swans which last year produced eight cygnets! Set in the beautiful surroundings of the Suffolk countryside with excellent opportunities for taking photographs, sketching and painting, or just sitting and enjoying the view!
Opening Times: Open from Friday 2 April until Sunday 31 October 2010 Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays – 1.30pm to 5.00pm.
Open all over the Easter weekend Friday to Monday.
Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, Ipswich in Ipswich invite you to visit the animals there. They are open at 11am every day and have a café where visitors can have a light lunch or a clotted cream tea and homemade cakes. Throughout the Easter holidays, Baylham will be lambing their second batch of ewes. Visitors can hold a lamb and might even be lucky enough to see one born!
Take a trip to The Chilli Company, Stowmarket and discover all things chilli! Find everything from seeds to ceramics, fiery foods to the finest clothing, gifts and gourmet delights... There is a Farm Shop and a Licensed Coffee shop which are open daily, Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4. The Chilli Nursery re-opens for the year on Good Friday, with hundreds of chilli seedlings available to buy!
Come on a fascinating Guided Tour of The National Stud, Newmarket! Open throughout the Easter holidays, there will be new-born foals to be seen, 5 Group 1 stallions and Amberleigh House, the 2004 Grand National winner.
Tours are daily (including bank holidays and weekends) departing at 11.15am and 2pm. This is a great opportunity to see behind the scenes at the country‘s biggest stud farm. Younger children will also enjoy seeing the resident Shetland ponies.
Groups are welcome at other times by prior arrangement. Personal Private Tours are available by prior arrangement. Tours are 75 minutes and are taken by coach and on foot.
Bressingham Steam and Gardens is certainly a fantastic day out if you’re looking for something to keep smaller family members busy. Children simply love exploring the railway and gardens, and for older visitors there is the only official "Dad's Army" exhibition in existence.
A Visit to Bressingham Steam and Gardens puts a smile on everyone's face!
For thrill-seekers everywhere, Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park is a must. Experience ‘Wipeout’, a ride standing 120 feet tall, travelling at almost 50mph and pulling 5G’s! Of course there are also plenty of more gentle rides to enjoy too. There is a great range of restaurants and shops where visitors can sample an excellent choice of hot & cold food & drinks.
These are just a few ideas for your Easter break in Suffolk. There’s so much to do. Come and see what you can find!
If you would like to add your Easter event in Suffolk please email us with the information at suffolkguides.admin@suffolktouristguide.com
There is an endless supply of activities and attractions to keep the whole family happy over the school holidays. Hopefully, the weather will be kind to us and there will be plenty of opportunity to sample the fresh air but, don't worry, whatever the weather you will find lots of fun, laughter and relaxation in Suffolk!
Easter Holiday Things to Do in Suffolk
Easter Gifts at the Cuckoo Flower, Long Melford
Easter Holiday Things to Do in Suffolk - Events by Date
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Suffolk Food Hall, Ipswich
Thursday 1st April at 4pm - don't be late!
Come along and join the Mad Hatter for High Tea, Fun and Games!
Activities, games and prizes, with a hot dish, ice cream sundae and drink, all for £7.95!
Places are limited, so please book early. Get your tickets from Samford Restaurant.
The Mad Hatter says “All children are welcome at my Tea Party, but please bring an adult along too.”
MEET THE REAL EASTER BUNNY – AND WIN SOME CHOCOLATE!
Everyone loves the Easter bunny, but did you know you can meet the real thing at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve this Easter?
From Friday 2 to Sunday 4 April, families can part in the Minsmere Easter bunny hunt. As well as watching wild bunnies, there’s a quiz trail with chocolates at the end. Costs for this event are £2 per child or 50 pence for Wildlife Explorers members. Normal entry fees apply for adults. Booking is advisable to prevent your bunny hopping off. The event runs from 10 am to 3 pm.
Following this event, families can also hop into spring at Minsmere with a programme of craft activities from Monday 5 to Thursday 8 April. After getting mucky making funny mud faces, you can make your own booming bittern or plant a sunflower for the summer. Costs are £5 per person, or £3.50 for Wildlife Explorers members (free for RSPB member adults), and the event runs from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm.
RSPB spokesman Ian Barthorpe said, “This is a great opportunity to see real, wild bunnies, enjoy a fun day in the countryside, and perhaps even spot some unusual wildlife. The bunnies often sit beneath the feeders outside the visitor centre, eating spilt sunflower seeds. Spring is a great time to visit Minsmere. Perhaps you’ll even hear a bittern booming.”
The Cock Inn, Polstead
Easter at Kentwell Hall, Long Melford
Kentwell Hall in Long Melford – famous for its unique and totally authentic Tudor and WW11 Re-Creations first opens its doors for the 2010 season with a EasterTudor Re-Creation. For those who have yet to see one of Kentwell's Tudor Re-Creations a visit delivers an amazing 'Tudor' experience with numerous participants from young to old and from all walks of life – peasant to gentry going about their daily lives. Not only are the 'Tudors' dressed appropriately but they eat and speak exactly as they would have 500 years ago.
Visitors will be able to enjoy Tudors in the Kitchen, Brewhouse, Dairy, Foundry, Forge & Pottery and of course in the Great Hall itself. There will be lots going on during the Easter weekend including Tudor music and plays and the cooks will be busy preparing special Easter dishes in the Tudor Kitchen and Bakehouse including Hot Cross Buns and Marzipan creations.
On the Rare Breeds Farm at Kentwell - although we will have officially finished Lambing there will be many young lambs gambolling about together with young Kids (which are no less entertaining), Pigs, Cattle and the ever popular Suffolk Punches and Giant Donkeys. The Gardens will also be awash with thousands of Daffodils and Primroses making a walk through the woods a true pleasure.
OPEN GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 2ND, SATURDAY APRIL 3RD, EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 4TH & BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY APRIL 5TH.
2 Fri 10am – 3pm - Easter challenge in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes - 01502 564250
Find out who has been leaving their eggs around our nature reserve Family event Booking required. Child £2.50/Adult £1.50. Disabled access.
Friday 2nd April - Sunday April 4th at the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Aspel:
Friday - Punch & Judy
Sunday - Easter Egg Hunt
Monday - Punch & Judy and Jenny’s Ark
The Sanctuary also hosts spectacular flying displays daily between April and the end of September, where some of the world's most beautiful birds of prey show off their aerial prowess.
The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is open all year round apart from Christmas day and boxing day, from 10.00am until dusk.
4th April - Easter Sunday Lunch at Ufford Hotel, Golf & Spa
Bring the family and celebrate Easter with us this year with a sumptuous 3 course lunch. Please click on the link above for full details.
Bring the family and celebrate Easter with us this year with a sumptuous 3 course lunch. Please click on the link above for full details.
The Suffolk Spring Garden Show - 2nd - 5th April 2010 (Easter Weekend) Suffolk Showground, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 8UH
4 Exciting days of ideas and inspiration for your garden and home.
This Easter visit the show and discover how you can transform your garden into a oasis of calm and tranquility.
With tips, 100's of stands, a delicious food court and a fantastic show arena - this years event is the perfect family day out.
Friday 2nd – Monday 5th April, 10.30am – 5pm
Easter Trail at Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge
A family favourite – find the clues, solve the puzzles and enjoy a yummy chocolate egg.
Normal admission and £2.00
3rd April - 3rd May 2010 - The Alde Valley Spring Festival - please see Suffolk Festivals for full details.
April: Sat 3 - Weekend wildlife walk at RSPB Minsmere
Start at 9.30 am (2.5 - 3 hours)
Join us for a seasonal weekend walk to look for spring migrants, breeding birds and a host of other wildlife highlights that may be present at the time.
Easter Saturday 3rd April - Charity Race Night at Fynn Valley Golf Club & The Valley Restaurant. Please click on the link for more details.
Suffolk Hotels - Special Easter Breaks
There are some fantastic Special Offers on the Hotels Guide for Short Breaks over Easter.
Check out 2 nights B&B and hot cross buns on arrival at The Olde Bull Inn Hotel, Bury St Edmunds!
There are some fantastic Special Offers on the Hotels Guide for Short Breaks over Easter.
Check out 2 nights B&B and hot cross buns on arrival at The Olde Bull Inn Hotel, Bury St Edmunds!
Suffolk Craft Society, Ipswich is open on Saturday 3rd April only. This is THE place to buy quality contemporary craft. Currently showing alongside members' work: Tom Staddon, Furniture maker.
Easter weekend 3-5th April - 'Local Lost Houses' exhibition organised by the Wickham Market Area Archive Centre. Wickham Market village hall from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. There is plenty of free car parking adjacent to the village hall. Free Entry (donations gratefully received).
Easter Short Break with Beach Farm Holiday Park
Easter break 3 to 4 nights Deluxe caravan holiday homes/Country Lodges from £199 and 7 nights from £240. Please click on the link above to make a booking.
Easter break 3 to 4 nights Deluxe caravan holiday homes/Country Lodges from £199 and 7 nights from £240. Please click on the link above to make a booking.
The first Woodbridge Vintage & Contemporary Market of 2010 takes place on the Market Hill and Shire Hall in Woodbridge on the Easter weekend of Saturday 3rd April from 9.30am to 4pm.
The organisers of the market, Woodbridge-based Deben Events, said that this year they plan to make the markets bigger and better than ever, growing on the success of last year’s events when hundreds visited each of the markets.
Sarah Hill of Deben Events, said, “We’re putting on five markets in Woodbridge this year, and want to make sure that every one of them has a really interesting mix of stalls, ranging from sought-after retro pieces and cool interior ideas, to classic fashion items and locally-made pieces. It’s fascinating hearing from people and small businesses across East Anglia who are producing some really creative things.”
Deben Events say that the markets provide a great platform for smaller businesses, alongside those who might have a shop in another town and want to showcase their products to a new audience. “It’s shopping for the independently-minded,” explains Richard Ginger, fellow market organiser. “Our markets offer a great alternative to the mass-produced pieces found in High Street chains and supermarket. People are keen to find unique objects, examples of real craftsmanship and some fascinating one-off finds that are real talking points in their homes. It’s a million miles from Tesco!”
To give the market even more atmosphere and to create a relaxing environment for visitors, Deben Events is closing the road at the top of the market square, giving the event further pedestrianised space. The market also takes place on the same day as Woodbridge’s popular Free Easter Egg which takes place in Elmhurst Park. “These two free events will make Woodbridge a must-visit destination over the Easter Weekend – there’s something for everyone and the town should be really buzzing,” says Sarah. There will also be free parking at the Suffolk Coastal District Council offices throughout the day.
Visit Woodbridge Antiques Centre at the Woodbridge Vintage & Contemporary market on Saturday 3rd April (details above) and view their exhibition of unique, vintage item such as jewellery, accessories and telephones.
Polstead Lodge B&B
3 X NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 2 at the Luxurious Polstead Lodge B&B this EASTER! Please click on the link above to make a booking.
3 X NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 2 at the Luxurious Polstead Lodge B&B this EASTER! Please click on the link above to make a booking.
3rd April - Farmers' Market at Jimmy's Farm, Ipswich at 10am - 2pm.
Jimmy's Farm is a wonderful destination for all the family! Children get to meet the pigs, cows and sheep and learn all about farming.
Jimmy's farm is open every day during the Easter Holidays (9.30 - 5pm) and will feature the following activities:
1: Easter Egg Hunt
2: Lamb Feeding
3: Animal Feeding and Petting
4: Den Building
5: Delicious Hot and Cold Food and Drinks Available
6: Farm Shop and Butchery Open
7: For All Season Gift Shop Open
Other attractions at the farm include the Nature Trail and Jimmy's Adventure Playground.
3, 4 & 5 Sat, Sun & Mon between 11am & 3pm
Mystery egg trail in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Follow the trail and make some Easter crafts. Booking Required.
Child £4 All children must be accompanied by an adult. Disabled access.
Easter Sunday Lunch at Ramada Bury St Edmunds
Come and join us for our Easter Sunday lunch on 4th April, between 12-2pm. Enjoy 2 courses for only £9.95 per person or 3 courses for only £12.50 per person. Please click on the link to make a booking.
Come and join us for our Easter Sunday lunch on 4th April, between 12-2pm. Enjoy 2 courses for only £9.95 per person or 3 courses for only £12.50 per person. Please click on the link to make a booking.
4 Sun 10am – 5pm
Easter egg hunt in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Solve the clues and claim your very own chocolate egg £1. Disabled access.
4th April - Family Fun Day and Easter Egg Hunt at The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket
Spring into Easter with activities, animals and workshops at the Museum of East Anglian Life on Easter Sunday!
Our activity room will be bustling with an art workshop that is free to all visitors who have paid their entry into the Museum.
• Solve the clues and find the famous rabbits on the Easter Egg Hunt.
• Become the Easter Bunny! Make bunny ears and have your face painted to become the Easter Bunny.
• Design your own Easter Egg
• Make your own mini allotment! Plant some seeds and watch them grow.
• Fete games: stick and hoops, splat the rat, welly throwing and more will be taking place on our top field
Master composter volunteers will be on hand to give all the advice you need to turn everyday waste into the magic ingredient to make your garden bloom. Find out about the mini-beasts that live in your compost bin - and have a go at making one! Visit the compost marquee and see how you can have fun and help make Suffolk the Greenest County".
Archie Gemmel will lead a guided walk and talk through our Award winning River Rattlesden Nature Reserve at 2.00pm.
Come and enjoy the family fun day with us.
The Museum is open every day over Easter - 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun. Normal admission is £6.50 adults, £5.50 concessions, £3.50 children, under 4s free, 2 adult family (up to 3 children) £17.50, 1 adult family (up to 3 children) £11.50.
4th + 5th April - 'Easter with Children in Mind' at Mid Suffolk Light Railway, Stowmarket
Take a family trip here and have fun taking part in the Easter Bunny hunt, quiz, and the steam train. Opening times on both days are 11:00 to 17:00, with the last train running at about 16:20.
Southwold Pier
At Southwold Pier you can take a step back in time and enjoy the amusement arcades.
There are wonderful shops to browse around and some really lovely places to enjoy your lunch or dinner such as traditional fish and chips.
At Southwold Pier you can take a step back in time and enjoy the amusement arcades.
There are wonderful shops to browse around and some really lovely places to enjoy your lunch or dinner such as traditional fish and chips.
Monday 5 to Thursday 8 April - Hop into spring at RSPB Minsmere
10.30 am to 2.30 pm (Allow about two hours to complete)
Go wild at Minsmere this spring. Get mucky in mud by making funny mud faces (you may want to bring a change of clothes for afterwards). Come and make your own booming bittern – you may even hear the boomer himself. Go green and plant your own sunflower. There’ll be a range of other craft activities for all the family too. Cost: £5 per person, Wildlife Explorers £3.50, adult members free. Booking advisable.
Monday 5th, Wednesday 7th, Friday 9th, Monday 12th, Wednesday 14th, Friday 16th April, 12pm and 2pm
Gruesome Graves Tour at Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge
Children are invited to a special tour of the burial mounds – don’t forget to bring an adult. Places are limited to 30 people per tour so please arrive early and book on the day.
Normal admission
For a FULL LIST of events at Sutton Hoo, please click on the link above.
6 Tues 2pm – 4pm
Easter egg hunt in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Family afternoon Booking essential. Child £3.50/adult £1.50. Disabled access.
April: Wed 7 - Birdwatching for beginners at RSPB Minsmere
Start 9.30 am. (2.5 - 3 hours)
Many people have started birdwatching at Minsmere. Join us on this beginners’ walk where you will learn how to use binoculars properly and which field guides are best for you. You can then use this information to enjoy watching birds as we show you some of Minsmere’s wildlife.
7 Wed 10am – 12noon
Sharing nature – Easter chicks in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Family morning. Outdoor experiences and crafts. Age 4 – 8 Booking required. Child £4/adults free. Disabled access.
8 Thurs 10am – 2pm
Young wardens – practical conservation skills in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Age 10 – 15. Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
8 Thurs 10am – 2pm
Activity day in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Age 6 – 10 Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
April 10 - Catch & Cook, Walberswick, in association with Food Safari
More than just a fish cookery course, the freshest fish you ever find will always be the one you catch yourself. Join us for the day, fishing for cod, bass and mackerel. After lunch, we'll head into the kitchen to learn from a chef how to prepare the fish you caught to cook at home and share some simple recipe ideas.
Anglia Indoor Karting, Ipswich
EASTER HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR 10AM - 11AM !!!DOUBLE LAPS!!!!
Available on weekdays during School Holidays subject to availability. Please click on the link above for full details.
EASTER HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR 10AM - 11AM !!!DOUBLE LAPS!!!!
Available on weekdays during School Holidays subject to availability. Please click on the link above for full details.
Saturday April 10th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
‘Zeffiretti’ in concert. A wonderful programme of baroque music played in the fabulous setting of The Great Barn. Concert starts 7.30pm. Bar opens 6.30pm Ticket price £10. Free parking. Please see Music Concerts in Suffolk - April for more information, and Wingfield Barn's link above to make a booking.
10 Sat 10.30am – 12.30pm
Naturally art workshop in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
All abilities Age 5 – 10 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
April: Sat 10 and Sun 11 - Havergate’s Hares at RSPB Havergate Island.
Roll up, roll up for nature’s version of Bruno versus Tyson on a remote Suffolk island, as the RSPB invites you to watch boxing hares on their Havergate Island nature reserve over the weekend of Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 April.
The Havergate’s hares weekend is a unique opportunity to get extremely close to one of the UK’s most popular mammals. The event begins with a short boat ride from Orford Quay to Havergate Island, where RSPB guides will take visitors on a tour of the island, searching for many of its special inhabitants, before returning to Orford Quay. The whole event lasts four hours.
RSPB spokesman, Ian Barthorpe, said, “Havergate is a special place. It’s one of the easiest places to watch brown hares, and with luck you’ll see them boxing. Don’t worry though, they’re not fighting. The boxing contests are actually part of courtship, with females fending off the advances of amorous males.
“It’s not just about hares though. There are several observation hides offering views across the lagoons, where you should spot gulls, ducks and wading birds, including the avocet which famously re-colonised the UK on Havergate, and at nearby Minsmere, in 1947. I love simply crunching through the shingle or gazing over the open landscape towards Orford Castle and Orfordness.”
Places are limited on this event, so advance booking and payment are essential. Boats depart Orford Quay at 9.30 am and 10.30 am each day. Tickets cost £15 per person, or £12 for RSPB members, and should be reserved by contacting RSPB Minsmere.
April 10th–25th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
‘Artworks’ - An exhibition and selling show of paintings and sculpture by 20 of the region's finest artists. Free entry
Monday - Saturday - 10am 5pm and Sundays 11am - 4pm. Free parking.
April 11 - Children's Food Safari, Muck & Magic, Wenhaston, in association with Food Safari
This day will give children aged 6-12 the chance to make the connection between the food we eat and the farm it comes from. We'll spend the day at an organic farm near Southwold, and meet the rare-breed sheep, cattle, pigs and free-range chickens. We'll get hands-on making burgers and sausages. We'll also use local vegetables, salad and flour to make some bread to be cooked in a wood-fired oven and share a feast with the parents. For FULL details of EVERY Children's Food Safari happening this year, please click on Food Safari's link above.
13 Tues 10.30am – 12.30pm
The hungry caterpillar in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes - 01502 564250
Activity morning Age 4 – 7 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
13th April Mad Museum Inventors! at The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket
Use the Museum collection for inspiration to invent your own mad farming machine using lots of old junk. Add to the giant grass art on the top field. 10am - 2.30pm.
No need to book. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Normal admission applies & a small extra cost for the activity of £2 per family.
The Museum is open every day over Easter - 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun. Normal admission is £6.50 adults, £5.50 concessions, £3.50 children, under 4s free, 2 adult family (up to 3 children) £17.50, 1 adult family (up to 3 children) £11.50.
13 Tues 10.30am – 2.30pm
Meet the tit family in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Activity day Age 6 – 12 Booking essential. £6. Disabled access.
13 Tues 2pm – 4pm
Family afternoon in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Foxburrow Farm - 01394 380113
Booking required. Child £3.50/adult £1.50. Disabled access.
13 Tues 10.30am – 12.30pm
Underground explorers in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Lackford Lakes - 01284 728706
Activity morning Age 4 – 7 Booking required. £4. Disabled access.
Wednesday 14th April at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Local Radio's Stewart Orr presents another fascinating film from his specially chosen series from the East Anglian Film Archive. Film starts at 7pm. Bar opens at 6pm. Ticket price £5. Free parking.
14 Wed 11.30am – 2.30pm
Survival in the wood in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Carlton Marshes Phone 07774 852312 or email: yoe.project@suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Age 13 – 16 Booking essential. £3 (concessions available)
14 Wed 10am – 12noon
Sharing nature – warty toads and hopping frogs in association with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust
Redgrave & Lopham Fen - 01379 688333
Family morning. Outdoor experiences and crafts. Age 4 – 8 Child £4/adults free. Disabled access.
April: Thurs 15 and Mon 19 - Nightingales and warblers at RSPB Minsmere
Start at 7 am (2-2.5 hours)
This is a later start than our dawn chorus walks, but still timed to experience all the variety of spring birdsong at Minsmere, from the bittern’s strange booming call to the nightingale’s glorious notes. The tearoom will be open early after these walks so you can warm up with a hot drink and light breakfast.
April 17 - Seafood in a Day at Pinney's in Orford, in association with Food Safari
Explore the River Ore with our skipper and we'll find lobster, crabs and other seafish. We'll visit Pinney's ancient oysterbeds and smokehouse and enjoy lunch at the family's well-known fish restaurant Butley Orford Oysterage.
Saturday April 17th - 27th at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Suffolk Coastal Deckchair Exhibition. A fundraiser for St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich, a host of national and international celebrities have designed and painted deckchairs. Free Entry. Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm. Sunday 11am-4pm
Sunday 18th April at Wingfield Barns Arts Centre
Life Drawing Class with local artist Rebecca Lyne. All welcome. Please bring own materials and a packed lunch.
10 am - 3.30pm. Fee £25. per session. Free Parking.
Dawn chorus and breakfast at RSPB Minsmere
April: Sun 18. Start at 4.30 am
Dawn chorus can be an unforgettable Minsmere experience, with everything from bitterns to nightingales, Cetti’s warblers to avocets, joining in the chorus as the sun rises. A hearty breakfast in the tearoom rounds off a perfect start to the day. These are our most popular walks, so please book early. Costs are adults £20, RSPB members £15, children £13, or RSPB Wildlife Explorers £11
Easter Holiday Things to Do in Suffolk - Open throughout the Easter Holidays
Enjoy a day out over Easter in the idyllic setting of Pakenham Water Mill. During the spring the millpond is at its clearest, providing stunning reflections of the mill and millers house. The grounds surrounding the mill are an outstanding habitat for wildlife: moorhens amongst the reeds and house martins returning to their nests high under the eaves of the mill. The mill pond even has its own resident swans which last year produced eight cygnets! Set in the beautiful surroundings of the Suffolk countryside with excellent opportunities for taking photographs, sketching and painting, or just sitting and enjoying the view!
Opening Times: Open from Friday 2 April until Sunday 31 October 2010 Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays – 1.30pm to 5.00pm.
Open all over the Easter weekend Friday to Monday.
Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, Ipswich in Ipswich invite you to visit the animals there. They are open at 11am every day and have a café where visitors can have a light lunch or a clotted cream tea and homemade cakes. Throughout the Easter holidays, Baylham will be lambing their second batch of ewes. Visitors can hold a lamb and might even be lucky enough to see one born!
Take a trip to The Chilli Company, Stowmarket and discover all things chilli! Find everything from seeds to ceramics, fiery foods to the finest clothing, gifts and gourmet delights... There is a Farm Shop and a Licensed Coffee shop which are open daily, Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4. The Chilli Nursery re-opens for the year on Good Friday, with hundreds of chilli seedlings available to buy!
Come on a fascinating Guided Tour of The National Stud, Newmarket! Open throughout the Easter holidays, there will be new-born foals to be seen, 5 Group 1 stallions and Amberleigh House, the 2004 Grand National winner.
Tours are daily (including bank holidays and weekends) departing at 11.15am and 2pm. This is a great opportunity to see behind the scenes at the country‘s biggest stud farm. Younger children will also enjoy seeing the resident Shetland ponies.
Groups are welcome at other times by prior arrangement. Personal Private Tours are available by prior arrangement. Tours are 75 minutes and are taken by coach and on foot.
Bressingham Steam and Gardens is certainly a fantastic day out if you’re looking for something to keep smaller family members busy. Children simply love exploring the railway and gardens, and for older visitors there is the only official "Dad's Army" exhibition in existence.
A Visit to Bressingham Steam and Gardens puts a smile on everyone's face!
For thrill-seekers everywhere, Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park is a must. Experience ‘Wipeout’, a ride standing 120 feet tall, travelling at almost 50mph and pulling 5G’s! Of course there are also plenty of more gentle rides to enjoy too. There is a great range of restaurants and shops where visitors can sample an excellent choice of hot & cold food & drinks.
Easter Holiday Things to Do in Suffolk
These are just a few ideas for your Easter break in Suffolk. There’s so much to do. Come and see what you can find!
If you would like to add your Easter event in Suffolk please email us with the information at suffolkguides.admin@suffolktouristguide.com
