Family days out at Sutton Hoo

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 at Sutton Hoo, home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.

Things to see and do

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 do some crafts or colouring in.

Sutton Hoo also has a play area for those looking for space to let off a bit of energy.

Autumn adventures at Sutton Hoo

Escape into autumn at Sutton Hoo, where you can crunch through leaves and squelch through puddles as you explore the 255-acre estate. Immerse yourself in the colours of autumn with our spotter activity, available from Visitor Welcome, and get crafty in the Old Stables activity centre where you can make a bat or an animal mask during October half-term. 

Book tickets for Tales by Torchlight, taking place on select evenings during October half-term, and join our Anglo-Saxon storytellers on a journey through time. Hear East Anglian folk tales packed full of mysterious happenings, strange creatures and plenty of magic and experience the Sutton Hoo landscape after dark.

On Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November, we'll be celebrating the heroic horses of Sutton Hoo, from Frank Pretty's horse, Polly, who survived the First World War, to the warrior's horse that was buried at the Royal Burial Ground in Mound 17. Over the weekend, you can make your own model horse, write a heroic horse haiku or, if the weather is nice, race to the finish line on an Anglo-Saxon-inspired hobby horse!

If your children or grandchildren love a bit of messy art, then why not join us on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November and create some print-based artworks inspired by the natural treasures of Sutton Hoo? Try your hand at leaf printing or painting in a messy, hands-on workshop that's free with site admission.

Good to know

• Toilets and baby changing facilities are available in Tranmer House and the café.
• 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.

Anglo-Saxon costume making | various dates | free*
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.

Gruesome Graves | various dates | free*
Travel back in time with our tour guide and discover the gruesome secrets of Sutton Hoo's Royal Burial Ground on this fun tour. 

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.