Camping in Suffolk

With a diverse history rich in archaeology, unspoilt coastline and plenty of family attractions, camping in Suffolk offers something for all.

Get outside and explore

With such a varied landscape, there are plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors.

• RSPB Minsmere, a nature reserve boasting some of the UK’s rarest wildlife, is a 30-minute drive away from our Kessingland Club Site. The reserve has a wide range of habitats including heathland, reedbeds and lowland heath which means a variety of animals can be seen. Otters, water voles and silver-studded butterflies are just a few to look out for. Bird lovers will be in their element with bearded tits, marsh harriers and nightjars being among some of the special species to look out for.

• Suffolk’s coast is dotted with towns, villages and beautiful blue flag beaches to explore. Aldeburgh, one of Suffolk’s most popular coastal towns is the ideal location for fish and chips on the beach or exploring the town and shops. Dunwich Heath, an AONB, is ideal for a day away from the campsite. Anyone searching for peace and tranquillity will enjoy walking the beautiful trails and exploring the rich and diverse wildlife.

• Thetford Forest and the Brecks have plenty to offer, from scaling the treetops at Go Ape to enjoying a picnic amongst red deer. Being the largest lowland pine forest in the UK, there are miles of pathways and trails to explore. Angles Way is one of the longest way-marked walks at 77 miles.

• RSPB Havergate Island can be reached by boat. See brown hares, wading birds, barn owls and much more on a day trip. Boats leave from Orford Quay which is under an hour’s drive away from our Kessingland Club Site.

• Visit the award-winning Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds, on the site of the former Benedictine Abbey. The ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund, the Sensory Garden and Appleby Rose Garden are all highlights.

• Board the Lowestoft Ferry, the Terrier of Lowestoft which runs each hour to experience a gentle tour of Lake Lothing and take in the views.

• Southwold, a charming seaside town is a 15-minute drive away from our Kessingland Club Site, offers a beautiful pier as well as plenty of shops and eateries to enjoy.

Discover Suffolk’s heritage

Suffolk has a diverse history rich in archaeology, with castles, ancient sites and churches to visit.

• One of the UK’s greatest archaeological sites, Sutton Hoo, reveals the story of the Anglo Saxons that settled down to live their lives in ancient Suffolk. Visit the royal burial ground where two burial mounds remain, the Great Ship Burial and Horseman’s Mound and see the many artefacts that have been excavated from the area.

• Framlingham Castle, where Mary Tudor was proclaimed Queen of England is under an hours drive away from our Polstead Club Site. Walk the castle walls, explore the only remaining building, the workhouse and make use of the café, with its Tudor inspired dishes.

• The birthplace of Tomas Gainsborough, Gainsborough House is now a museum, and gallery which is open to the public. View the exhibitions, get involved in the regular events and learn about the life and works of Gainsborough in the well thought out exhibition.

• Discover the story of how a medieval port disappeared at the Dunwich Museum. Originally a Roman fort, Dunwich was transformed over the centuries, with many churches, hospitals and more buildings built to accommodate the growing population. Learn about Dunwich at the museum and walk the trail to see the Lost City for yourself. Dunwich is a 23-minute drive from out Kessingland Club Site.

• Kentwell Hall, a part Tudor home, has plenty to offer the whole family. Walk the stunning gardens and grounds, explore the lived-in family home with its Tudor architecture and learn about the buildings history over the past 1,000 years. Our Polstead Club Site is a 25-minute drive from Kentwell.

Family days out

From Colchester Zoo and its wide range of animal inhabitants to Sutton Hoo, where little one’s imaginations will come to life, there’s plenty to do as a family in Suffolk.

• Experience a walking safari at Africa Alive which is right on the doorstep of our Kessingland Club Site. There’s a huge mix of animals to see, including lions, cheetah, zebra and giraffe. You’ll easily spend a full day exploring the park and making use of the facilities.

• Oasis Camel Park is home to not only a host of friendly camels, but you’ll also be able to get up close to donkeys, meerkats, pigs, rabbits and more. Oasis Camel Park is around a 30-minute journey by car from Kessingland.

• Sutton Hoo managed by the National Trust is the site of many Anglo-Saxon burial chambers. Learn about the story of Sutton Hoo and see the treasures uncovered by the skilled team. Visit the site, walk in the footsteps of our ancestors and ignite your imagination.

• Adnams Brewery in Southwold offers brewery and distillery tours which would make a great activity for those partial to a tipple. You’ll get a 1.5-hour tour followed by a tasting. Adnams is just a 20-minute drive from our Kessingland Club Site.

• Release your wild side at Colchester Zoo, a 30-minute drive away from our Polstead Club Site. Sun bears, aardvarks, Komodo dragons, elephants and wallabies are just a few of the species to call Colchester Zoo home. As well as looking at and learning about the fascinating animals, the zoo has play areas, interactive exhibits and plenty of areas to get a bite to eat.

• The Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum is a collection of aviation vehicles, memorabilia and vehicles from past eras. Most of the aircraft are outdoors and there are wonderful indoor collections and exhibitions showcasing the history of aviation. This is a 30-minute drive away from our Kessingland Club Site.