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Discover Foodie County
The Heart of Suffolk is home to the UK’s first Food Museum, thriving market towns, gorgeous artisan bakeries, local farm shops, old-fashioned sweet shops and not forgetting award-winning restaurants. Visitors can discover some of the most incredible, beautifully presented dishes. Take your taste buds on a journey of their own. It’s a foodie dream come true.
We’ve gathered some of our favourite destinations for you to make a foodie day out well worth the visit. Whether it’s comforting nostalgia you’re after or something new and sensational, it’s here!
Foodie Destinations
Any true foodie would jump at the opportunity to spend a day out that revolves around food. Two top destinations that tick every box are Suffolk Food Hall and Jimmy’s Farm. Jam-packed with fun for all the family, plus of course great food.
Suffolk Food Hall
Situated in Wherstead just south of Ipswich in the Shotley Peninsula. Suffolk Food Hall not only has a huge range of local and artisan food and drink but there is also lots to see and do. There is an onsite butchery, cheesemonger and fish counter. You’ll find delicious cakes, chocolates, and ice cream (including dog-friendly options!). To enjoy more of the county’s foodie treats, you can book a table at the Cook House Restaurant (open Wednesday to Sunday).
As well as there being plenty to eat, Suffolk Food Hall is surrounded by beautiful walking paths with stunning views over the River Orwell. It’s perfect for a day out with the family. Maybe you’ll discover even more greenery to bring home from the garden centre! Remember to let the kids have fun and go wild on the giant jumping pillow outside the paddock.
Suffolk Food Hall | A fun, foodie day out for the family
Jimmy’s Farm
The famous Jimmy’s Farm is a popular Suffolk destination for good reason! Not only a working farm and butchery, but it is also home to a Wildlife Park, restaurant, vegetable and flower gardens, farm shop and clothing, gift and craft shops. Sustainable farming and quality food production are at the heart of Jimmy’s Farm which is why this is the perfect foodie day out. Differing from anything else, experience really good food and drink while enjoying the unique experience. Whether it’s a coffee and cake in the park, a pint at the woodland pub or lunch at the Barn, you won’t be disappointed.
Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park, Ipswich, Suffolk
Michelin plate restaurant
When Chef Patron Sam was asked ‘why should diners visit The Brewers?’ His response was ‘It’s a destination. The food I’m doing now is nothing like you can get anywhere else nearby.’
The Brewers was re-opened in October 2018 out of love and determination to provide the most enjoyable eating and drinking experience possible. Saved by the people for the people, this pub in the beautiful town of Rattlesden was recognised and awarded a Michelin plate for their exquisite dishes as well as best newcomer in 2020 Eat Suffolk Food and Drink Awards.
Shops and Restaurants
In need of some food shop inspiration? Eager to support local independent businesses? Or perhaps fine dining is more to your taste? Whatever your foodie needs are, there’s plenty here for you to indulge in.
Shop the freshest ingredients and tastiest treats, where the smell of freshly baked bread lures you in, and perfectly displayed shop fronts sell locally produced jams, pickles and many more goodies.
Where weekly markets bring in some of the finest local producers, it’s well worth a visit just to see what goodies you can find. With as rich a history as the food for sale, a visit to Stowmarket, Sudbury, Hadleigh, Eye and other towns will have you falling in love. Don’t believe us? Take a trip into the Heart of Suffolk to see for yourself.
You can find out more on our market towns from our page about Shopping in the Heart of Suffolk Shopping in the Heart of Suffolk
Restaurants
Discover a range of fine dining and award-winning restaurants right here in the Heart of Suffolk. There’s an excellent range of options that are second to none. With mouth-watering menus and incredible service, enjoy locally sourced and seasonal food made with finesse.
Of course, there are many scattered hidden gems and even more to discover! Foodie map – The Foodie County – Google My Maps