29th April 2025 |
Activities, School Holidays
Top 5 things to do in Suffolk in May Half Term
May Half Term in Suffolk is a wonderful time to squeeze in a cottage holiday.
The weather is warmer, the days are longer and Suffolk is bursting into bloom. It’s a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday routines, and a great opportunity to make the most of Spring.
Here in Suffolk, there’s an abundance of places to discover this May Half Term, whether you’re looking for an action-packed itinerary or a relaxed time on the coast. We’ve recommended our top 5 things to do in Suffolk this May Half Term which we hope you will give a try!
1) Visit Suffolk’s Nature Reserves
Suffolk is home to over fifty nature reserves and on the coast, we are blessed to have many within easy reach of our holiday homes.
RSPB Minsmere is a unique reserve ideal for leisurely strolls to enjoy the fresh air or for a short visit filled with the wonders of nature. There are various walking paths throughout the reserve which lead you through diverse habitats, where you might spot some of the rarest wildlife in the UK. RSPB Minsmere is great for families or groups eager to explore and learn about the environment, with numerous activities and events happening all year round, but do be aware dogs are not allowed on the premises.
RSPB Minsmere is just a thirty-minute drive away from the seaside town of Southwold, and is closely located to the historic seaside village of Dunwich.
Located further north, Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve can be found in the Waveney Valley. This vast reserve is a patchwork of marshland ecosystems that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep an eye out for marsh harriers, water voles, and various species of dragonflies during your visit. The reserve is a fantastic destination to appreciate its natural beauty, for artists to capture the stunning scenery, or for children to explore nature, with a full calendar of events happening all year round.
Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve can be found just outside of the seaside town of Lowestoft, and only a thirty-minute drive from Southwold.
2) Choose Your Favourite Suffolk Beach
Inhale the refreshing sea breeze along the unspoilt Suffolk coast, stroll along golden sands where children busily build sandcastles, sit by the colourful beach huts and observe the gentle waves, dip your toes into the sea and have a picnic at hand. Whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of beaches like Southwold or Lowestoft or the rugged, unspoilt shores at Walberswick and Sizewell, there’s a Suffolk beach for everyone. You can read a more in-depth review of our favourite Suffolk beaches in our handy Beach Guide.
3) Go with the flow on Suffolk’s rivers
There’s no better way to unwind and enjoy the scenery than by taking a river or boat trip through Suffolk’s beautiful waters. If you’re eager to explore the southern part of the county, Suffolk River Trips provide tours from stunning locations including Snape Maltings Quay, Orford Quay, and Woodbridge. Nature lovers will be delighted to see a variety of bird species during the journey, enjoying this serene part of the county. In the northern region, Waveney River Tours offers sightseeing cruises that last between 1.5 to 2 hours. Glide around Oulton Broad, admire the boatyards and boathouses lining the shores of the largest Broad in the National Park, or follow the river to the Norfolk/Suffolk border, enjoying the diverse wildlife along the way.
4) Discover Iconic Attractions
Suffolk boasts a variety of renowned attractions, including medieval castles, grand estates, and historical sites, ensuring entertainment for the entire family regardless of individual interests.
Get to know the heritage of Suffolk’s beautiful coastline and the threat of coastal erosion to the county with an insightful museum visit, walk the length of Southwold’s iconic Pier, time-travel to Sutton Hoo’s Anglo-Saxon archaeological site, climb the 113 steps to the top of Southwold’s Lighthouse and visit the Tide Mill on the banks of the River Deben in Woodbridge to learn all about the fascinating milling process.
Learn more about Suffolk’s popular attractions with our Places of Interest Guide.
5) Book a holiday cottage stay
Whether you’re looking for 7 days of fun before the season beds in, stopping for a short break or simply looking for something to do this May Half Term, be sure to book a Durrants Holiday Cottage break. With holiday cottages ranging from traditional fishermen’s cottages full of charm and character to seaside boltholes and large homes for all the family, you’re sure to find your dream May Half Term break with us.
Our pet-friendly cottages provide the perfect option for anyone wanting to bring their furry friend with them on a May half term cottage break. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to our pet-friendly cottage, with some welcoming more than one canine, so it’s easy to find somewhere special that the whole family can enjoy.
All our available May Half Term cottage can be found below, and if you need to refine the selection just use our handy filter.
