18th August 2026 |
Activities, Guides, Suffolk Events
Discover Suffolk's Rich History with Heritage Open Days
Suffolk is a county of deep rural heritage. Its fascinating history is on show for all to see if you know what to look out for. From Norman castles and an Anglo-Saxon burial site to medieval market towns, and museums brimming with stories and treasures from the coast’s maritime history.
Each year, the UK celebrates its history and culture with a month of special events. Heritage Open Days in Suffolk are a diverse range of tours, walks and exhibitions giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore the county’s past, all for free!
We’re shining a spotlight on just a few of the events available, within easy reach of your holiday cottage. Dive into the past during your stay and see what fascinating stories you’ll discover on the Suffolk Coast!
— Southwold Railway
Did you know Southwold used to have a railway station? Join the team from Southwold Railway Trust and discover the story behind its rise (and fall). See the replica track and steam locomotive, visit the shop and learn about the interesting role it played in the town.
— Southwold Arts Centre Exhibition
Join Southwold Arts Centre for an archival dive into its history. Explore the history of the building and the Southwold Summer Theatre through archive posters and photographs. Look back in time with a free talk on the history of the Arts Centre on Saturday 19th September.
— Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum
Built in 1893, the Alfred Corry Lifeboat was the last sailing lifeboat operational on the East Coast. The museum houses the restored boat alongside historical photos, archival films and memorabilia showing the fishing community who lived and worked in Southwold in the late 1800’s.
— Free Heritage Bus Service
Ride on a fully restored heritage bus! Operating from their base at East Anglia’s Transport Museum and linking a number of Heritage Open Day events around the Lowestoft area.
— Halesworth and the Witch Trials of 1645
Head to a talk hosted by local historians, examining why there were mass witchcraft trials in Suffolk during the Civil War and what happened to those involved.
— Coastal Fortress: Martello Tower Open Days
Last open to the public in 2019 and cared for by the Landmark Trust, Martello Tower is the largest and most northerly of the chain of towers built by the Board of Ordnance against invasion by Napoleon. Take a peek inside this restored landmark!
— Lowestoft Heritage Skills Market
Working people’s lives will be celebrated with interactive demonstrations from local traders specialising in heritage crafts. Expect a festival atmosphere with music and demonstrations.
— Echoes of the Maltings – A 19th-Century Industrial Adventure
Long before it became a world-renowned home for music, Snape Maltings was a bustling inland port. In the 1880s, entrepreneur Newson Garrett transformed this quiet spot on the River Alde into the largest malting operation in Suffolk. Discover more with an exhibition, trail and activities.
— Beccles Blyburgate: A Walking Tour
This tour explores the history of Blyburgate, one of the town’s most ancient thoroughfares. Many of its former residents will be described and how they contributed to the life of the people of Beccles.
For more information and to search all Heritage Open Days, visit the website.
Your holiday cottage in Southwold
Durrants Holiday Cottages are dotted throughout Southwold and the surrounding area, giving you lots of choice on where you’d like to be based during your stay.
Need advice? Get in touch with our friendly, local team who can help.
