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.

Summer of Play

Join us for a jam-packed Summer of Play between 23 July and 31 August 2025. 

Try out archery or axe-throwing, craft your own helmet and challenge friends and family to a hobby horse race. With free activities indoors and outside, there’s so much for all ages to do at Sutton Hoo this summer. 

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

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. 

Plan your visit

Plan ahead to get the most out of your day with our handy Summer of Play map. You can also pick one up when you arrive!

Food and drink

Re-fuel at Keeper's Café, located next to the play arena. From 19 July, it will be open from 11am-4pm, seven days a week, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches, ice cream and vanilla soft serve.

We'll also be firing up the BBQ from 12pm-3pm each day (weather permitting), offering a selection of burgers, hot dogs and vegetarian baps.

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.
• During the summer holidays, Keeper's Café, next to Tranmer House, will also be open and 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.

Theatre in the Forest | various dates | tickets from £14
Spooky ghosts, poisonous treachery, and heartbreaking love all feature in Red Rose Chain's production of Hamlet - all staged in the great outdoors!

Sutton Hoo 1400 | 9-10th August | free*
Join living history groups Wulfheodenas, Thegns of Mercia, Moro Music and friends from across the world for a weekend of immersive activities that capture the scents and sounds of Anglo-Saxon England.

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.