Family days out at Sutton Hoo
There's plenty of fun for the whole family at Sutton Hoo, home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.
Why not try out a sword and shield for size and dress up like a warrior – or a king? There's so much to see, do and discover on a day out.
Things to see and do at Sutton Hoo
Climb to the top of the viewing tower, look out over the Royal Burial Ground, and imagine what life was like centuries ago when an important Anglo-Saxon king was laid there to rest.
The High Hall Exhibition and Tranmer House, with its interactive displays, help bring the story of Sutton Hoo to life and offer shelter from both the sun and rain.
Follow a trail and discover more about the mysterious treasure buried deep underground, dress up like an archaeologist on the eve of a discovery and head to the Discovery Room to get creative with some crafting!
Sutton Hoo also has an adventure play area for those looking for space to let off a bit of energy.
Summer of Play
Join us for a jam-packed Summer of Play between 18 July and 2 September 2026.
Train like a warrior in the play arena, try out archery or axe-throwing or put your skills to the test in our penalty shoot-out. With free activities indoors and outside, there really is something for everyone at Sutton Hoo this summer!
What's on this summer
Different ways to play
Not everone likes to play in the same way, which is why we've created activities for everyone. Test your strength and stamina in the play arena, feed your curiosity in our sand tray sessions or even settle down with a book.
Join our Anglo-Saxon storytellers under the storytelling tree, dress up like a warrior - or a king - and play a game of Three Men's Morris or Wyrms versus Boars.
We’ll have a special area dedicated to early years and a quiet space available in the Old Stables for anyone who needs a moment of pause.
What to do when it’s raining...
We know the British summer can be unpredictable, but we don’t want to let a bit of rain spoil your day! Visit Tranmer House while you’re here and discover what it’s really like to be an archaeologist on the eve of a discovery. Dress up like Basil or Peggy in the sitting room, search for Robert Pretty’s cat or visit the Discovery Room or Old Stables for crafts and activities to keep you busy. You can even make your own sword pyramid to take home!
What to do when it’s a bit warmer...
We have lots of shady spots to help keep you cool on a visit to Sutton Hoo. Join our Anglo-Saxon storytellers under the storytelling tree on select days throughout the summer or head to the den-building area, where you’re bound to find a cool spot amongst the trees. The outdoor seating area beside Keeper’s Café is also perfect for when you want to relax with a drink or something to eat.
Dogs can play too!
This year we’ve created an area for dogs to play, too. We’ll have lots of water bowls available, as well as a dog agility activities and plenty of spots for them to cool off in the shade. You can also pop into our gift shop to pick them up a treat or toy, or ‘paws’ for a drink and a treat in our dog-friendly cafe. Find out more about bringing your dog to Sutton Hoo here.
Good to know
- Toilets and baby changing facilities are available in Tranmer House and the café and there is also a Changing Places facility located off the courtyard.
- The courtyard and many of the paths are pushchair and buggy-friendly and there are accessible routes around the site. All-terrain wheelchairs, trampers and sensory bags are available to borrow from Visitor Welcome.
- Dogs on leads are welcome outside and in designated areas of the café and shop.
- King’s River Café serves hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, hot meals, homemade scones and cakes. It is open from 10am-4.30pm.
- There are plenty of shady picnic spots to enjoy your food outside.
- National Trust members and under 5s go free.
Other events coming up
Little Strollers Walking Group | various dates | free
Bring your little ones for a gentle stroll around the landscape along our pram and pushchair friendly pathways.
Little Hoo-ligans Parent and Toddler Group | various dates | free
Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including trails, crafts, games and songs at Little Hoo-ligans, our monthly group for 2 to 4-year-olds and their parents/guardians.
Quiet hour | various dates | free*
Join us for quiet hour on the first Sunday of every month as we turn down the sounds for those who would enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed visit.
Summer of Play | 18 July-2 September | free*
Get ready for a jam-packed Summer of Play at Sutton Hoo! Head to our play arena, located next to Tranmer House, to find a whole host of play activities from free play through to Anglo-Saxon warrior training.
Theatre in the Forest | 22 July-22 August | prices start at £15
Red Rose Chain returns to Sutton Hoo for another unforgettable summer production. Join us on the island of Illyria this summer for Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night - a hilarious romance of mistaken identity!
You might also be interested in
Eating and shopping at Sutton Hoo
Enjoy a bite to eat after you've explored the grounds, or search for your own treasure to bring home from the shop.
The exhibition at Sutton Hoo
Delve into the world of Anglo-Saxons and discover the treasures unearthed and the story of this world-famous site.
Visiting Tranmer House at Sutton Hoo
Discover more about the people behind the archaeological investigations at Sutton Hoo.
The Royal Burial Ground at Sutton Hoo
Explore the atmospheric 7th-century Royal Burial Ground at Sutton Hoo and discover the history and mystery of what lay beneath the earth at this special place.
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