13 things that make Suffolk great

The Beaches

We are home to many beautiful beaches some sandy and some stony but all great for different things.

To name a couple there is Aldeburgh which has a stony beach, a peaceful picturesque town and delicious fish and chips.

Walberswick has a great beach both sandy and stony, it also has many spots perfect for crabbing and vintage shops to check out.

Morning sunlight falls upon the colourful houses on the beach. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

The Countryside

You don’t have to drive far to find a peaceful countryside to explore.

There are so many wide open spaces perfect for dog walking and picnics.

One great example is The Stour Valley Path, it is a 60 mile route which follows the valley sides of the River Stour.

Taken on a lovely walk at Lackford lakes. Picture: STEPHEN SQUIRRELL (Image: Archant)

Nature Reserves

There are plenty of tranquil spots to see wildlife close up all year round.

Minsmere, in Saxmundham, is an excellent spot to see a huge variety of birds as well as other garden wildlife.

Lackford Lakes, in Bury St Edmunds, is a wildlife oasis it has a landscape of lakes, reeds, meadows and woodland with dragonflies, otters and kingfishers making appearances.

The Island Mere at Minsmere from the top of Whin Hill. Picture: PAUL GEATER (Image: Archant)

Suffolk Day

Not many places can say they have a whole day dedicated to where they live.

Every year we celebrate what makes our region great by hosting a variety of events all over Suffolk.

The celebration of our county will take place on Thursday, June 21, this year.

Suffolk Day celebrations at the Museum of East Anglian Life. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Newmarket Races

We are also lucky enough to have the home of racing in our region.

There are 39 fantastic race days taking place in 2018 as well as themed days and live music events.

The Newmarket Nights event has the likes of Paloma Faith, James Blunt, Craig David, George Ezra and Plan B coming this year.

Newmarket races Picture: SIMON COOPER/PA WIRE (Image: PA Wire)

Ed Sheeran

We are home to the international superstar Ed Sheeran.

The 27-year-old grew up in Framlingham and often talks proudly about being from Suffolk.

His hit song The Castle on the Hill is about his childhood in Framlingham.

Ed Sheeran watches on during the championship match between Ipswich Town and Aston Villa at Portman Road on Saturday 21st April 2018 - Picture: STEVEN GARDINER (Image: Steven Gardiner)

Framlingham Castle

There is so much history in Suffolk, Framlingham Castle is the perfect example of this.

It was in this castle that Mary Tudor was proclaimed Queen of England.

You can have a great day out exploring the castle and learning more of Framlingham’s stories.

Framlingham Castle Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Location

Suffolk is in a great location for all your needs.

You don’t have to drive far to find a beach, countryside or a buzzing town centre.

On top of this we can also get to London in just over an hour by train.

Services on the Great Eastern Main Line are back to normal today following a week of disruption (stock image). Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Events

There is always plenty to do across the region from live music, theatre productions and sporting events.

To name a few venues The Regent, The New Wolsey, The Apex, Theatre Royal, always have exciting shows for all the family to enjoy.

We have also had big names like Elton John, Olly Murs, P!nk, R.E.M, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Kylie Minogue perform at our Suffolk venues.

Elton John performing at Portman Road Football ground Picture: SEANA HUGHES

Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds

We are home to an award winning 14 acre park which looks lovely all year round and has so much history in its grounds.

The Abbey Gardens is the heart of Bury St Edmunds and the perfect spot for watching the world go by or peacefully reading a book.

The Abbey Gardens was created in 1831 but was originally a botanic garden, there is so much history and culture at this park with plaques to educate you during your visit.

Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds. The ruins of the old Cathedral. Picture: GREGG BROWN (Image: Archant)

Watching the sunset in the summer at Ramsholt Arms

Suffolk has magnificent sunsets all year round but they are particularly breathtaking during the warm summer months.

A favourite spot for many to watch the sun set is the Ramsholt Arms in Woodbridge.

You can sit inside or outside with a view of the River Deben, enjoy a drink and some food, and even bring your dog.

House in the Clouds at Thorpeness

Suffolk also has many unique buildings and homes, the house in the clouds at Thopreness is one.

This intriguing feature was built in 1923 to receive water pumped from Thorpeness Windmill.

Thorpeness is another picturesque location with plenty to do from sailing a boat on the lake, enjoying a round of golf, and checking out the glorious countryside.

The House in the Clouds at Thorpeness, Statues at Snape and Tree on Benacre Beach. Picture: VAL BOND/CITIZENSIDE (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

Sailing on Oulton Broad

Whether you are an experienced sailor or it is brand new to you, everyone enjoys their time at Oulton Broad.

The radiant calming views of the water and surrounding areas will leave you feeling relaxed.

There are various events and lessons taking place at the Oulton Broad Water Sports for you to enjoy.