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Summer of Play at Sutton Hoo

Enjoy a Summer of Play at Sutton Hoo. With activities indoors and outdoors there's something to entertain all ages, bring the whole family to enjoy a jam-packed summer of fun!

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Get ready for a jam-packed Summer of Play at Sutton Hoo.

Head to our play arena, located near Tranmer House where you'll find a whole host of play activities from free play through to Anglo-Saxon warrior training. Practise your sword and shield techniques and race on the Anglo-Saxon hobby horses.

On select dates there will be special events taking place in the play arena including archery, axe throwing, arts and crafts, Anglo-Saxon living history, wargaming and storytelling. All these events are free with site admission. Keep an eye on our 'What's On' page for special event dates.

Keepers Cafe, situated within the play area next to the early years play zone will be open serving a range of food and drink.

If it's a rainy day there are plenty of play activities indoors. Visit Tranmer House and dress up as an archaeologist, make an Anglo-Saxon inspired LEGO or DUPLO creation and settle down in the Discovery Room with a range of craft activities.

In the High Hall exhibition get dressed up as an Anglo-Saxon, design your own cloisonne patterns and get hands-on with how the Anglo-Saxons made textiles.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

The play arena, Tranmer House and High Hall exhibition are wheelchair accessible. There are some noisy activities within the play arena. Our quiet space in the Stables will be available for the duration of the school holidays. For full access information, please see our AccessAble guidance document: https://www.accessable.co.uk/national-trust/sutton-hoo-national-trust

Meeting point

After seeing the Visitor Welcome team for your admission, head across the courtyard towards Tranmer House to reach the play arena.

Suitability for children

Suitable for all ages

What to bring and wear

Some activities are outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the weather.

Upcoming events

Anglo-Saxon costume demonstration 

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
17 Jun to 31 Oct 2026
at 10:30 to 15:00+ 39 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
17 Jun 2026 to 24 Jan 2027
at 10:30 to 16:30+ 176 other dates or times

Sketching for the Terrified 

Join us at Sutton Hoo for an art workshop with a difference: this is for those who fear that they can’t draw, but who’ve always wanted to have a go!

Event summary

on
20 Jun 2026 to 6 Feb 2027
at 10:15 to 12:00+ 2 other dates or times

Summer Solstice Forest Bathe at Sutton Hoo 

Relax and connect with nature through a guided, meditative walk through the woodland.

Event summary

on
21 Jun 2026
at 07:00 to 09:00