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World Book Day® at Sutton Hoo

Visit Sutton Hoo from 14 February - 15 March for a packed programme of activities in celebration of World Book Day®. From arts and crafts to an outdoor trail, there's something for all ages to enjoy.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

We're working in collaboration with the charity World Book Day® to help more children discover the life-long, life-changing habit of reading for fun. To celebrate, there is a packed programme of activities at Sutton Hoo. All activities are free with site admission.

Explore the magic of nature on a new outdoor trail, A Story of the Seasons, and discover how the changing seasons impacts the nature and wildlife of Sutton Hoo. This trail is based on the book of the same name written by Anna Wilson and illustrated by Carolina Rabei, published by Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust and is available in our shop.

Wet weather isn’t a problem; there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.

In the High Hall exhibition immerse yourself in the world of Beowulf and re-enact the epic poem on our small world play table with miniature characters from the story. Relax in our cosy reading corner before adding one of your own fascinating facts to our Tree of Knowledge.

In Tranmer House you can make your own team of archaeologists inspired by the Sutton Hoo story and have fun in the with a small world play archaeological excavation. See inside one of Robert Pretty's beloved childhood books in a special temporary display and then curl up with a book in our cosy reading corner. At weekends the Old Stables Activity Centre quiet play space will be open where you can make your own bookmark, design a book cover or relax with some story books.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Suitable for all ages.

Meeting point

When you arrive head to Visitor Welcome for your admission and the team will point you in the right direction for the activities taking place that day.

Accessibility

Tranmer House and the High Hall exhibition are wheelchair accessible. The majority of the Story of the Seasons trail takes place on our accessible paths. Personal mobility vehicles and all-terrain wheelchairs are available to borrow from Visitor Welcome. It is advisable to pre-book these by calling 01394 389714 or emailing SuttonHooWelcome@nationaltrust.org.uk

Upcoming events

National Lottery Open Week, 7 - 14 March 2026 

To say thank you to the Lottery players who have made so much of our conservation work possible, we’re taking part in the National Lottery Open Week. Just present your lottery ticket or scratch card to explore Sutton Hoo for free.

Event summary

on
11 Mar to 14 Mar 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00+ 3 other dates or times

Anglo-Saxon costume making 

Meet our historic costume volunteers as they demonstrate the craft skills of the Anglo-Saxons and how they created clothing and accessories using natural materials.

Event summary

on
11 Mar to 25 Mar 2026
at 10:30 to 15:00+ 2 other dates or times

The Dig: A Story Unearthed 

The Dig: A Story Unearthed is a new temporary exhibition sharing the stories of the real people that inspired the hit Netflix film, The Dig, and feature some of the original props and costumes from the film.

Event summary

on
11 Mar 2026 to 24 Jan 2027
at 10:30 to 15:30+ 274 other dates or times

Little Hoo-ligans Parent and Toddler Group 

Bring your little ones along to Sutton Hoo's outdoor toddler group - Little Hoo-ligans

Event summary

on
12 Mar to 10 Dec 2026
at 10:30 to 12:00+ 9 other dates or times