Things to do in and around Suffolk & Essex

Art aficionados should absolutely make the most of the famous scenery that John Constable found so inspirational. Take a drive around the winding country roads or, if you are feeling a bit more adventurous, why not hire a rowing boat and explore from the River Stour? Walk in the footsteps of Constable on a relaxing walk visiting the location of John Constable’s famous paintings.

We are so fortunate to be located in the stunning Dedham Vale Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are lots of countryside, riverside and wildlife walks to enjoy some fresh air and go out and explore the surrounding area. We have some downloadable guides below, but our Reception also have some printed walking maps available upon request.

• Walks to enjoy at the Resort
• Nature in the Stour Valley
• A circular walk to Apple Tree Lodges Lodges
• Leavenheath Circular Walks
• Walking in Leavenheath
• Walking in the footsteps of Constable
• Walking in Lavenham
• Walking in Nayland
• Walking in Bures
• Walking in Dedham
• Walking in Long Melford
• Walking in Stoke by Nayland
• Waking in the Stour Valley

Please ensure that you observe the Countryside Code when you exploring to ensure to help look after our wonderful farmland, plants and wildlife.

We are so fortunate to be situated within stunning landscapes popular with walkers and cyclists.

Check out the wide range of cycle routes taking you across the Dedham Vale Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty below:

• 69 mile Painter’s Trail across seven routes
• Stoke by Nayland
• Bures and Nayland
• Bures and Sudbury
• Clare
• Dedham
• Hartest and Glemsford
• Long Melford

On the River Stour

The River Stour is one of the most peaceful rivers in the county, although it has its share of busy hubs too! Running through the Dedham Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the River Stour is also called Constable’s River, after the famous painter who is known for featuring it in many of his paintings. It is probably the most well-known for tourists looking to take a boat trip in Suffolk, as it is home to some major landmark attractions.

The River Stour Trust

If you’re looking for a more leisurely cruise along this delightful estuary, then the River Stour Trust runs scheduled and chartered trips. There are a number of different boats running throughout the spring/summer/autumn will all operating on the stretch of river between Sudbury, Great Cornard, and Great Henny. The boat, Stour Trusty II is the only powered craft that is allowed to operate lower on the Stour, between Stratford St Mary, Flatford, Dedham, and Brantham, and can accommodate up to eight adults.

Find out more at https://www.riverstourtrust.org/.

Orwell Lady

Join Orwell Lady on the river to enjoy the picturesque River Orwell, with its wildlife and fascinating historical tales. Knowledgeable skippers provide a full commentary, and might even help you to spot a seal or peregrine falcon! Trips leave from Ipswich, you can choose to have a 1hr, 2.5hr or 3.5hr return journey and some include an afternoon tea, Sunday buffet lunch or a disco on board.

Check out our emails for an exclusive discount when you book a stay with us.

Colchester Zoo

Take a trip to one of the UK’s best zoos and animal conservation projects.
Monkey around for hours and take a walk on the wild side, visiting over 180 animal species.
Find out about their conservation projects and take part in zoo experience days.

A 30-minute drive from the Resort

Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL

For opening times, entrance fees and advanced ticket purchases visit  www.colchester-zoo.com/

Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park

A fantastic day out and just a 30-minute drive from the resort, there are over 80 species of animals to meet including camels, meerkats, goats, alpaca, crocodiles, snakes, peafowl, emu, pigs, sheep, cattle and much more.

A 27-minute drive from the Resort

Find out more and purchase tickets online at www.jimmysfarm.com.

Britain’s Oldest Recorded City- Colchester

Famous for earning the accolade of ‘Britain’s oldest recorded city’ thanks to its history as a Roman settlement dating back as far as AD77, Colchester town is an interesting mix of old and new. It boasts a castle – which was erected on the site of a Roman temple, a number of award-winning museums and the sprawling Colchester Zoo.

Spend a day or more in Colchester tracing the outline of the still intact Roman wall, soaking up the atmosphere of a live band in one of the pubs, having a picnic in beautiful Castle Park or meandering around exhibitions of regional, national and international artists in the town’s newest art complex, firstsite.

Colchester was been granted City status to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Colchester City Centre is a 22-minute drive from the Resort.

Long Melford

Take a short car ride to the town of Long Melford, which is reported to have been both a Roman and Anglo-Saxon settlement. It was a thriving Tudor village, with two great halls, and nowadays it attracts visitors from all over the country who come to wonder at the ‘Hall Houses’ lining the main high street and enjoy tasteful boutique shops as well as tea rooms.

A 20-minute drive from the Resort.

Lavenham

Approximately 15 minutes from the hotel is the medieval village of Lavenham – famous as a centre for wool trade during the reign of Henry VIII and once ranked as the fourteenth wealthiest town in England.

A walk through Lavenham is akin to boarding a time machine and travelling centuries back in time. The timber-framed houses lean precariously into the street and standing in the centre of the Market Place you can easily picture a thriving melee complete with horse-drawn carts and sword-swinging knights. A visit to the National Trust Guildhall is a must and the quaint tearooms lining your path provide the perfect pit stops.

Sudbury

A 17-minute drive from the Resort

The ancient market town of Sudbury was famous for having a prosperous weaving and silk industry. Places to visit in Sudbury include the Market Hill, St Peter’s Church, the old town Corn Exchange (now a library) and the shopping on North Street.

Sudbury is also the birthplace of Thomas Gainsborough, one of England’s greatest painters. A statue of the artist sits in front of St Peter’s Church.

Kentwell Hall is a short drive away in nearby Long Melford, where you can explore the Tudor house and gardens and attend historic re-enactments.

Hedingham Castle

A-29-minute drive from the Resort

Hedingham Castle is a 900 year old Norman keep that was constructed by the De Vere family. This landmark is arguably one of the best preserved Norman castles in England and well worth a visit for the history and for a wander through its setting of 160 acres of gardens.

The castle holds many events, including theatrical performances, medieval fayres and historical walks. Just a short 30 minute drive through the countryside, this site is a perfect family day out.

The castle is also home to an immersive escape room with experiences from two to eight players. Check out www.keepescaping.co.uk/ for more information and to book online.

Layer Marney Tower

On the outskirts of Colchester town, approximately 35 minutes by car from SbN, stands the grand house of Layer Marney. This structure was built in the 1520s and incorporates a tower which is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in the country.

Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve, Colchester

Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve is one of Europe’s best wetland sites and is just half an hour North of Stoke by Nayland. It’s a lovely day-trip for couples or families. You’ll see plenty of swans, wild ducks and other water birds. The plethora of bird life is partially due to the fact that it’s located on East coast migration routes. In fact, around 40k birds visit the Reservoir every year. The best species to see here include Wigeon, Teal, Coot, Pochard, Tufted Duck and Black headed Gull. Plus, hundreds of Goldeneye, Shoveler, Pintail and Great Crested Grebe. In the spring there is the unusual sight of Cormorants nesting in tree tops. Surrounding the site is acres of pasture and tree plantations.

Website: https://www.essexwt.org.uk/

Bourne Mill, Colchester

Recently re-opened after the winter break, Bourne Mill was originally built for banquets by the Elizabethans and was then converted into a mill in the 19th century. Set in peaceful surrounds and just a 20 minute drive from Stoke By Nayland Resort, this National Trust site is next to a millpond and a bubbling stream. The mill boasts fine Elizabethan ‘Dutch’ gables and it still has a working waterwheel intact, once used for milling flour. Don’t forget to pack your sketchbook – the Mill is a magnet for artists and historic architect-lovers and nature-buffs alike. There’s also an Easter Egg Hunt taking place at the Mill on Fri 15 Apr 2022.

Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bourne-mill

High Woods Country Park, Colchester

Just a 15-minute drive (or a 40-minute cycle) from Stoke by Nayland Resort, High Woods Country Park is a beautiful location for nature lovers. Woodland, lake, marshland and wildflower meadows, the Country Park is home to intriguing nature walks, and a popular location for hikers and cyclists, too. There are also three different outdoor play areas with adventure play equipment suitable for toddlers to teenagers. Coarse fishing is also available in the lake and a permit is usually required.

Website: https://www.colchester.gov.uk/country-park/

Flatford RSPB Wildlife Garden

A family-friendly wildlife garden set in picturesque of Flatford, near to Flatford Mill the inspiration behind John Constables’ famous landscape masterpiece The Hay Wain. The garden features many carved wooden creatures and is alive with nature. A haven for wildlife, see a wide selection of birds, insects, and butterflies. A conservation project in action with lots of ideas to take home to your own gardens.

Website: www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/flatford-wildlife-garden/

Take to the water with River Stour nature tours

Enjoy the local wildlife and waterfowl from the water on a guided boat trip. Available at Sudbury and the Dedham Vale from Spring until the end of October, it’s a great way to appreciate the view as you leisurely navigate the River Stour.

Website: https://www.riverstourtrust.org/boat-trips/

Another favourite for paddle adventures is Stour Valley Adventure Centre with paddleboard and kayak hire to take the water and enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife.

Website: http://www.stourvalleyadventurecentre.com .

Flatford Mill

The picturesque Dedham Vale landscape has inspired some of the most famous landscapes and artists for hundreds of years. Suffolk celebrates the birthplace of two of the greatest British landscape artists, John Constable.

The National Trust site at Flatford Mill is open to the public with a museum celebrating the life and works of John Constable. Take a stroll around the site and visit the scenes that inspired his most famous paintings The ‘Hay Wain’ and ‘Willie Lott’s House’.

Take a stroll over the bridge through the water meadows to Dedham (35-minutes, 1.5 mile walk)

Download the route here.

Find out more about National Trust Flatford Mill here.

Firstsite Colchester

2021 winner of the Art Fund Museum of the Year Awards, Firstsite hosts a vibrant programme of exhibitions, films and events throughout the year celebrating contemporary art. Accessible to all, Firstsite is a great place to experience art without any art knowledge.

Open all year round with free admission, check out their What’s On calendar to plan your visit at https://firstsite.uk/

Flatford Mill

The picturesque Dedham Vale landscape has inspired some of the most famous landscapes and artists for hundreds of years. Suffolk celebrates the birthplace of two of the greatest British landscape artists, John Constable.

The National Trust site at Flatford Mill is open to the public with a museum celebrating the life and works of John Constable. Take a stroll around the site and visit the scenes that inspired his most famous paintings The ‘Hay Wain’ and ‘Willie Lott’s House’.

Take a stroll over the bridge through the water meadows to Dedham (35-minutes, 1.5 mile walk)

Download the route here.

Find out more about National Trust Flatford Mill here.

Bourne Mill, Colchester

Recently re-opened after the winter break, Bourne Mill was originally built for banquets by the Elizabethans and was then converted into a mill in the 19th century. Set in peaceful surroundings and just a 20-minute drive from Stoke By Nayland Resort, this National Trust site is next to a millpond and a bubbling stream. The mill boasts fine Elizabethan ‘Dutch’ gables and it still has a working waterwheel intact, once used for milling flour. Don’t forget to pack your sketchbook – the Mill is a magnet for artists and historic architect-lovers and nature-buffs alike. There’s also an Easter Egg Hunt taking place at the Mill on Fri 15 Apr 2022.

Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bourne-mill

Hedingham Castle is also home to an immersive escape room with experiences from two to eight players.

Check out www.keepescaping.co.uk/ for more information and to book online.

Treasure Trails

Explore the local area on a self-guided Detective Mystery Trail walking around Colchester.

Find out more at www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/things-to-do-colchester-essex.

Other areas nearby are available: Lavenham, Clare, Hadleigh, Dedham and many more.

Activities for children

Blue Owl Pottery and Painting

Pottery painting studio and coffee shop

A 10-minute drive from the Resort

Address: Nayland Rd, Colchester CO6 4AH

Advance booking is required at www.blue-owl.co.uk/

Leisure World, Colchester

Leisure Pool with flumes, waves, squirter, BMX Pump Track, Bubble Football, Climbing

A 26-minute drive from the Resort

Address: Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1YH

Book now at www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk/

Colchester Zoo

Home to 180 species set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes.

A 30-minute drive from the Resort

Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL

Advance booking is recommended a https://www.colchester-zoo.com/

Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park

A fantastic day out and just a 30-minute drive from the resort, there are over 80 species of animals to meet including camels, meerkats, goats, alpaca, crocodiles, snakes, peafowl, emu, pigs, sheep, cattle and much more.

Find out more and purchase tickets online at www.jimmysfarm.com.

Jungle Adventure Soft Play Adventure Centre

Jungle-themed, multi award-winning family-run soft play adventure centre located in Stanway, Colchester.

A 26-minute drive from the Resort

Address: Peartree Retail Park, Moss Road, Stanway Colchester CO3 0LE

Book now at www.jungleadventure.co.uk/

The Essex Coast

Explore over 350 miles of coastline at family-friendly beaches. Choose from Clacton-on-sea, Walton-on-the-Naze, Frinton-on-Sea and Mersea Island to name a few, around a 45-minute car ride from the Resort.

Water sport activities – check out our guide here https://www.stokebynayland.com/blog/the-best-paddleboarding-and-watersport-locations-in-essex-and-suffolk/

Ariel Adventure Course at Essex Outdoors – Mersea Island

A high-level Adventure Course encompasses a comprehensive set of 11 challenging elements 13m off the ground and is designed to test your agility and your nerve.

A 41-minute drive from the Resort

Address: Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Colchester CO5 8SX

Find out more at www.essexoutdoors.com/activities/aerial-adventure/

Amusements and indoor rides at Clacton Pier

A fun day out for all the family

A 40-minute drive from the Resort

Address: 1 North Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 1QX

Find out more at https://www.clactonpier.co.uk/

Treasure Trails

Explore the local area on a self-guided Detective Mystery Trail walking around Colchester.

Find out more at www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/things-to-do-colchester-essex.

Other areas nearby are available: Lavenham, Clare, Hadleigh, Dedham and many more.

Curve Watersports

Entertainment for all of the family at the Curve Watersports inflatable aqua park at St Osyth.

Find out more at https://curvewatersports.co.uk/

Rowing on the River Stour

Romantic row along the River Stour from Dedham to Flatford Mill.

Duration: 1.5 hours to row to Dedham and back from Flatford.

Contact The Kitchen or The Boathouse in Dedham

Reflective Adventures

Bespoke guided trips by kayak or paddleboard along the River Stour.

Find out more and enquire at www.reflectiveadventures.co.uk/.

Couples Massage at Peake Spa, Stoke by Nayland Resort

Step into the tranquillity of a couple’s treatment room and enjoy a relaxing massage together.

Prior booking is essential by calling 01206 262836.

Step inside Suffolk’s new Gin Distillery, just a ten-minute walk from the Resort. Have a go at crafting your own gin using botanicals in their gin laboratory or take part in a tour and tasting experience. What’s more, hotel guests get a 5% discount when quoting their hotel reference number provided in your pre-arrival email or by calling the Resort after you have booked your stay.

Find out more and book your gin experience at www.suffolkdistillery.co.uk.

Beth Chatto Gardens

From its beginnings as an overgrown wasteland attached to the Chatto fruit farm, the Beth Chatto Gardens has become an inspirational, informal garden and a plant nursery, which houses a number of unusual plants.

Located approximately 30 minutes from Stoke by Nayland Hotel on the outskirts of Colchester, the Gardens are an interesting insight into the development of horticulture. Both Beth and her husband Andrew were involved in the Flower Club movement in the early sixties and they have gained national recognition for their work.

Find out more and plan your visit at www.bethchatto.co.uk/garden-nursery/planning-a-visit.htm.

Mersea Island, Essex

40-minutes drive from Stoke by Nayland

A little gem just off the Essex coast, Mersea is famous for its native oysters and thriving fishing port, winding creeks, nature reserves and excellent sailing. Whether you chose to spend the day soaking up the sun or simply strolling down the beachfront, you’ll find the Mersea Island pastel-coloured beach huts a must-snap horizon during your visit. Be sure to check the tides before you visit!

Frinton-on-Sea Beach, Essex

49-minutes drive from Stoke by Nayland

Frinton-on-Sea is a Blue Flag beach which boasts a super lovely sandy beach. One of the nice things about it is that it’s a wide beach and a quiet location, perfect for all the family. (If you’d like something a bit livelier then you could try neighbouring Clacton or Walton.) Frinton’s sand is ideal for making sandcastles – nice and firm – and also a good running spot. Nearby there’s a great grassy area, the Greensward, a good picnic spot and place to dust off the sand. Its shelving beach is divided up by a series of timber groynes – perfect for taking secluded, safe swims.

Brightlingsea Beach, Essex

41-minutes drive from Stoke by Nayland

Situated between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, Brightlingsea is another really pretty sandy beach with a promenade of pastel-coloured beach huts. Formerly an important fishing and shipbuilding area, Brightlingsea is now a popular spot for yachting.

Holland-on-sea Beach, Essex

37-minutes drive from Stoke by Nayland

Just down the coast you’ll find Holland-on-Sea, a much less developed area and a quieter spot to get away from the crowds. Great for long walks, where there is a chance of spotting a variety of migrant birds. The beach is course, grainy sand and there are two promenades that run alongside the beach. Bicycles are permitted only on the upper promenade.

Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings

Take a trip to the beach with an hour’s drive to the picturesque coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Snape. Aldeburgh boasts some of the best fish & chips in East Anglia as well as thought-provoking art, specifically Maggi Hamblings’ The Scallop, and a wealth of shops and pubs.

The nearby Snape Maltings is a world-renowned concert hall with shops, cafes and art galleries. Book a show during a stay with us!

Southwold Pier and shops

Only an hour and twenty minutes away, the coastal town of Southwold is a fun day for everyone. With a working lighthouse, functional pier, penny slots and beach huts, Southwold is the epitome of a sunny Suffolk beachside getaway.

Take a walk to St Edmund’s Church, hop a foot ferry to Walberswick or book a brewery tour at Adnams Brewery and Distillery.

Walberswick, Suffolk

1 hour and 10-minutes drive from Stoke By Nayland

Walberswick is the kind of place where you catch yourself whistling, as you stroll through the picturesque village and head to the quiet beach. Known as the crabbing capital in the UK, you can take the Row-Boat Crossing from Walberswick to Southwold which is a must-do. There’s something rather romantic about a crossing by rowboat. Stop off at Sole Bay Fish Co over the waters in Southwold for a glass of wine and superior fish, chips, oysters and other seafood delights. Due to the geography of the area, a very short trip across to Southwold would otherwise take 8 miles by car.