Family activities at Sutton Hoo

Published:: 25 September 2023

Visitors walking on the Royal Burial Ground in autumn at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk — Visitors exploring the estate walks around Sutton Hoo | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Tales of kings, mysterious mounds and buried treasure guarantee a full day out for the whole family at Sutton Hoo.

Borrow a free activity pack and explore life as an Anglo-Saxon. Climb to the top of the viewing tower, try out a sword and shield for size and dress up like a warrior – or a king.

Find out what it’s like to be an archaeologist on the eve of a discovery as you explore Tranmer House, the home of Edith Pretty. Build your own models using LEGO® bricks in the Discovery Room, explore the cinema room with images from the world-famous dig and then hop, skip, run and swing your way across the adventure play area.

A young toddler-aged boy is walking around in the High Hall exhibition space wearing the soft, child-friendly version of the Sutton Hoo helmet — A young visitor getting up close to the Sutton Hoo helmet in High Hall | © © National Trust Images/James Beck

Things to do outdoors

Grab a trail map and head out on one of our walking routes. Depending on which way you go, you can meander through woodland, past the Royal Burial Ground or down into the valley to take in views over the River Deben. Climb a tree, build a den and pause for a moment in nature - but don't forget to keep an eye out for the wading birds and creepy crawlies that call the Hoo home.

Feeling peckish?

King’s River Café will be serving cold drinks, sandwiches, hot meals, homemade scones and cakes and will be open daily until the end of October and then for weekends only.

Plan your visit

There are toilets and baby-changing facilities available in the shop/café building and in Tranmer House.

The courtyard, paths to Tranmer House and the route to the Royal Burial Ground are all pushchair and buggy-friendly.

Sutton Hoo will be fully open until the end of October.

Girl taking pictures on a phone at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Family Friendly Events

Riddlequest | various dates | adults £15, children £6
Solve real early medieval riddles in this immersive escape game as you try to return an object, formerly belonging to King Rædelwul, to its rightful place – but be warned, you only have an hour! This game can be played by all ages but is most suitable for those aged 10 and up.

Photography workshops | various dates | £20
Explore Sutton Hoo through the lens of your camera as professional photographer Phil Morley shares his top tips across two workshops focusing on either landscape or close-up photography. Suitable for all abilities and interests. Sessions can be booked individually or together.

*This event is free but normal admission fees apply.