New bus service from Woodbridge to Sutton Hoo to start

The Sutton Hoo Hopper hopes to connect Woodbridge, Melton to the home of the buried ship making trips to the famous landmark more accessible to tourists and local residents.

The shuttle service will start at Woodbridge train station and stop off at Woodbridge Turban centre before stopping at Melton train station on its way to Sutton Hoo.

The Sutton Hoo burial ground is found near Woodbridge (Image: National Trust/Joe Cornish)

This should ease congestion on the roads in the summer but will also allow wheelchair users and those with mobility issues easier chances to get to the site.

Ruth Leach, who represents the area at Suffolk County Council and East Suffolk Council said: “I am incredibly excited to see this pilot journey launched. Visitors will be able to alight at Sutton Hoo without struggling to cycle or walk up the busy hill and instead of a lengthy walk from the bus stop, people who are less mobile will now have transport right to the entrance.

"It will benefit our local town centre economy by attracting visitors arriving by train from further afield, who will be able to access this attraction easily as part of their visit to Woodbridge.

A recreation of the longship found at Sutton Hoo is being built to sail on the River Deben (Image: PA)

"It is going to make enjoyment of this area more accessible to all, and it will not only enhance the link between both sides of the river but it will also improve access to the countryside and surrounding walks.”

The hopper will be operated in partnership with Coastal Accessible Transport Service (CATS), Woodbridge Town Council and Melton Parish Council, Suffolk County Council, and the National Trust.

The service should start from the summer holidays and run through until October, operating Monday to Sunday 9:30am until 5:30pm lining up with train times from London, Ipswich and Lowestoft.