by lauren | Sep 18, 2015 |

Top 10 Things to Do in North Suffolk and the Norfolk Borders

North Suffolk and the Norfolk Boarders offer much for the passing visitor. The surrounding countryside and coast create a perfect mix of relaxation and enjoyment. If you're planning a visit, read on for our Top 10 Things to Do in North Suffolk.

1) Take them to the Museum

Situated on the coast at Lowestoft, the East Anglia Transport Museum is one of the only places in Britain where visitors can view and ride three forms of public transport, dating back to the earlier part of the 20th century. The various displays and demonstrations bring the exhibits to life; look out for the street scenes, the bus fleet and the exhibition halls. Younger ones will love taking a ride on the 2ft gauge East Suffolk Light Railway. A great day of memories awaits.

Adults £8, Children £6. If a UK Tax Payer, GiftAid your entrance fee and receive a season ticket in exchange!

2) Take them to Africa...

...Well maybe not that far! Situated in Kessingland, just a short drive from Lowestoft, Africa Alive is a 100 acre animal adventure. Work your way around the park as you experience a little bit of Africa in Suffolk. Divided into different zones, you can expect to see the Plains of Africa, the Kingdom of the Lion and even meet some Lemurs! There are restaurants and snack shacks throughout the site, as well as designated picnic areas. Children will love getting their face painted as one of their favourite furry friends.

Open 9.30 am daily, excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Prices start from Adults £11.75, Children£8.10

3) Take them to a Theme Park

Starting its life as a small, American-themed family attraction, Pleasurewood Hills has since grown and developed into the theme park that we know and love today. Take a ride on the sky-lift as you dangle your feet above the lake: don't look down! There are rides for all ages here, including two amusement centres, ideal for those who would rather have two feet on the ground. As well as rides, be sure to go along to the Sea Lion and Parrot Show, where the entertainers will be sure to give you a memorable experience.

Tickets start from £16.50 Adults, £14.50 Children. Pre-booking is available via the website or by calling 01502 586000.

4) Take them to watch a play

The Seagull Theatre, Oulton Broad is a 'not for profit' organisation offering a wide range of shows, classes and workshops - perfect for any budding actors. The show variety caters for all, including a selection of fairy tales for children performed throughout the summer. Particularly popular are the open mic nights and gigs from local bands, a fantastic way to enjoy the local talent.

Box Office open Monday to Friday between 11am – 3pm, 01502 589726. Tickets can also be booked via the website.

5) Take them to a stately home

Open from Easter to September, Somerleyton Hall is well known for being one of the best Tudor-Jacobean mansions in Britain. The lovingly decorated rooms and professionally landscaped gardens are all open to the public. Take a walk around the halls and remember time gone by. Tours are operated throughout the day, an invaluable opportunity to make the most of your time here. Of course, the 12 acres of gardens and the famous maze are also a delight to explore; a trip to the Kitchen Garden Restaurant or Tea Room is a must.

Prices start from £6.45 Adults, £4.45 Children. A group booking discount is available for parties of more than 20.

6) Take them for a paddle

The ideal way to get up close and personal with the wildlife of the Waveney as you Canoe on the river. Outney Meadow Canoe Hire operates from the local Caravan Park. Take your binoculars, often spotted are swans, kingfishers, butterflies, dragonflies and much more; see what you discover. Children with accompanying Adult are welcome to enjoy this treat too, a truly relaxing experience.

Prices for a Canadian canoe start at £22 for a half day paddling.

7) Take them to the Aquarium

See what life is like underwater as you visit Sea Life Aquarium, Great Yarmouth. Work your way through the tunnels, spotting sharks, crocodiles, jellyfish and more. With plenty of meet the animal stations, have fun meeting and greeting for yourselves! Children will love Nemo's cave, where real life clown fish can be seen. You may even be able to help the trainers target-feed the sharks!

Open daily from 10am. Prices start from £10.90 if booked via the website.

8) Take them on a Steam Train

Smell the smoke in the air as you step back in time at Bressingham Steam. With a vast range of working engines, take a ride on four different routes, taking in the stunning scenery, woodland and 20 acres of famously landscaped gardens at the centre. No trip would be complete without a ride on the steam Gallopers! It's recommended that you need at least four hours to totally enjoy the site, why not visit for the whole day?

Admission: £12.72 Adults, £11.44 Children. For opening times, please call 01379 686900.

9) Take them on a Hot Air Balloon

A once in a lifetime opportunity is awaiting with Wizard Balloons. Soar high in the sky as you drift along the North Suffolk countryside, taking in all that the stunning Waveney Valley has to offer. Expect stunning, unspoilt views. The knowledgeable pilots will make sure you don't miss any points of interest and are happy to answer any questions. For a fantastic way to see this area of Suffolk from above, be sure to book your space.

For flying quotes, please call 01359 233622.

10) Take them for a dip

Open from May through to September, Beccles Lido is a traditional outdoor heated swimming pool, open to all. The large pool even has a springboard, slide and inflatable aquarun, perfect for entertaining during the school holidays. For toddlers and little ones there are smaller paddling pools, ideal for keeping an eye on them. Fully qualified lifeguards are on hand in case of accidents, so you can rest assured that your children will be in safe hands. Changing cubicles and lockers available as well as a pool bar.

Open 7 days a week. To check opening times, be sure to call 01502 713297.

Feel intrigued by North Suffolk? Book your getaway here today.