Suffolk is known for its picturesque spots that see thousands of visitors each year, from the Suffolk coast to woodland walks.

But the county also has some best-kept secrets- here are five 'hidden gems' in Suffolk.

1. Henstead Exotic Gardens

Where: Church Road, Henstead, Beccles, NR34 7LD

East Anglian Daily Times: The gardens display a wide variety of exotic plantsThe gardens display a wide variety of exotic plants (Image: Nick Butcher)A relatively new garden, this is two acres of exotic garden plants like bamboo. 

Featuring a Thai pagoda it is like Suffolk's very own jungle. 

It was the winner of Britain's Best Garden by Alan Titchmarsh and was also featured on BBC Gardeners World.

2. Harkstead Beach 

East Anglian Daily Times: You have to walk across fields to find this beachYou have to walk across fields to find this beach (Image: Google)

This beach is certainly hidden as you have to walk through fields to find it. 

All you need to do is follow the public path from Harkstead village through the fields towards the river. 

The beach looks out onto the River Stour.

3. West Stow Country Park

Where: Icklingham Road, West Stow, Bury Saint Edmunds, IP28 6HG

East Anglian Daily Times: Visitors to West Stow can explore Anglo-Saxon historyVisitors to West Stow can explore Anglo-Saxon history (Image: Newsquest)The Country Park surrounds the Anglo Saxon Village of West Stow with 125 acres of countryside trails. 

Wildlife enthusiasts can admire birds from two bird hides and a bird feeding area. 

One trail perfect for families is the Beowulf & Grendel Trail and on this trail you may find some interesting creatures. 

4. Staverton Thicks

Where: B1084, Woodbridge, IP12 3PF

East Anglian Daily Times: Staverton Thicks is part of the main Rendlesham Forest and Staverton Woodland WalkStaverton Thicks is part of the main Rendlesham Forest and Staverton Woodland Walk (Image: Google)

Staverton Thicks is one of the three woodland areas that form medieval Staverton Park. 

Some of the trees here are over 400 years old, which only adds to the magical feeling of the place. 

Hours can be spent here walking through the trees or even using them to play a game of hide and seek.

5. Landguard Nature Reserve

Where: View Point Road, Felixstowe, IP11 3TW

East Anglian Daily Times: Landguard Nature Reserve overlooks the Port of FelixstoweLandguard Nature Reserve overlooks the Port of Felixstowe (Image: Su Anderson)Landguard Nature Reserve covers just over 80 acres on the tip of Suffolk's coastline.

It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its high wildlife conservation value.

You can stroll around to take in views of flora and fauna, as well as the estuary mouth and a busy container port.