Get up and get out to experience the Heart of Suffolk through a variety of activities that call your name.
Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do, or perhaps a first-time visitor venturing through the wool towns, whatever you’re reason for visiting, we’re glad you are! There are certainly no shortages of activities and experiences. From wine tasting in the Shotley Peninsula to crazy golf in Stonham Barns or a secret escape in the Mid Suffolk countryside… There’s plenty to see and do to make your visit worthwhile.
Retreat East – Hemingstone
In need of some time out to unwind, relax and reset? The 5-star surroundings of Retreat East could be just the place for you.
Escape and feel the stress disappear with a luxury spa day in one of Suffolk’s finest wellness retreats, surrounded by nothing but natural beauty. Treat yourself to one of their incredibly relaxing treatments plus private use of the exquisite spa facilities before indulging in a delicious 2-course lunch. The perfect spa day does exist!
Retreat East – Treatment – Spa Days
Heart of Suffolk Distillery: Gin Tasting – Bacton
G&T anyone? Heart of Suffolk Distillery launched in 2018 have created some of the most refreshing Gins in the county. Start off with a welcome drink of Betty’s Gin and tonic followed by a tasting of the Rosie’s Gin and Ivy’s Gin. You’ll be given an insightful talk on the history of distillery as well as the distillation process. Of course you can also learn how to make the perfect Betty’s gin and tonic. So if you fancy a little tasting session, head on over to the distillery in Finbows Yard, Bacton for an afternoon of Gin infused delight.
Events – Heart of Suffolk Distillery
Golf Centre – Stonham Barns
The UK’s first Golf Park featuring 8 different golfing activities makes golf fun and accessible to everyone! Go crazy at the Smugglers Bay Adventure Golf. There’s a pirate themed putting course with holes that feature a treasure filled cave. You’ll also enjoy the waterfall, smugglers jail, and a shark damaged shipwreck. It’s fantastic fun for all ages!
For general golf fanatics you can enjoy a day out on the scenic 9-hole golf course. If you want to mix things up a bit, try a game of Footgolf. This combines the elegance and precision of golf with the passion and energy of football. And for those rainy days try a round or two of Indoor Golf. The luxury bays come with advanced high-definition 3D golf course simulators.
https://www.stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk/
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon – Brome
Up, up, and away! Rise with the sun and enjoy stunning aerial views as the morning rays hit the neat Suffolk patchwork countryside. Greet the day in the most peaceful way as you smoothly lift off the ground. Float above the incredibly beautiful landscapes and empty your mind of life’s stresses. After your flight you’ll gently prepare for landing before ending the amazing experience with packing down the balloon, a bubbly champagne toast and a commemorative flight certificate. It truly is an incredible experience!
Hot air balloon ride at sunrise – Experience Days
Wine Tasting in Shotley
Test your palate on a charming day out in the Suffolk countryside tasting some of the finest local wines. Professional WSET trained guides will take you on a tour of the Vineyard through the vines where you can take in some of Suffolk’s finest countryside views.
You’ll experience an afternoon of top-quality tutored tasting of Shotley Vineyard’s Bacchus and Pinot Noir. Fine wines that will send your taste buds on a journey of their own. You could also stay for a bite to eat and enjoy a grazing box or sophisticated afternoon tea supplied by Jass Catering.
https://shotleyvineyard.co.uk/collections/tasting-tours/products/shotley-vineyard-tours-coming-soon
Gin tasting – Stoke by Nayland
Try something different with a day out Gin tasting, surrounded by nothing but beautiful Suffolk countryside. Take a look behind the scenes of Suffolk Distillery situated within the bountiful fruit orchards. A tour & tasting experience will take you on a journey through the distilling process from how the ingredients are extracted through to tasting the range of spirits. Gain a newfound appreciation of the distiller’s craft in extracting flavours and aromas that intrigue the palette and titillate the taste buds to provide a truly pleasurable experience. Perhaps even make your own gin, choosing your own selection of fine ingredients and a personalised label. It’s the perfect day out for all Gin lovers!
https://www.suffolkdistillery.co.uk/suffolk-distillery-experiences/
Rowing/paddle boarding – Stour Valley
Explore the beautiful landscapes along the River Stour that inspired none other than the famous Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable themselves. Take a canoe, kayak or paddle board and discover the best of Suffolk’s countryside views. If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle along the river in and amongst tranquil settings or more of a sporty and adventurous afternoon, Stour Valley Adventure Centre will have you covered. It’s the perfect activity for couples, families, friends or even for those wanting a little time to themselves. Enjoy a day out on the river
Whatever you decided to do with your time in the Heart of Suffolk, just be sure to have fun! It’s all about creating great new memories and we’re sure you’ll have a brilliant time. Whether it’s getting merry tasting local gins, letting off some steam in the luxurious spa retreats, or on a canoe adventure along the river stour, we want you to make your stay one to remember