What springs to mind when you think of The National Trust? For many of us, it is synonymous with stately homes, with well-manicured lawns and stunning gardens. And here in the East, we have some wonderful examples; from Ickworth Estate’s Italianate Palace to the Jacobean Mansion and acres of woodland at Blickling. But in Norfolk and Suffolk, we also have some more unexpected National Trust sites – which will provide fantastic days out for visitors of all ages.
NORFOLK
Blakeney National Nature Reserve
At the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Blakeney boasts wide open spaces, and uninterrupted views of the beautiful North Norfolk coastline. Internationally renowned as an important habitat for local and migratory wildlife, and perhaps its greatest delight is the UK’s largest colony of grey seals, with an estimated 4,500 pups born every year.
Elizabethan House Museum
Part of a long terrace along Great Yarmouth’s historic South Quay, this 16th-century merchants’ house has been restored to reflect the lives of families who lived and worked there from Tudor to Victorian times. Previously home to some of the town’s most influential citizens, it is rumoured that the death of Charles I was plotted in the Conspiracy Room.
Horsey Windpump
One of the youngest, and largest, windpumps on the Norfolk Broads, Horsey Windpump is the third or fourth to stand on the site – with the earliest dating back to the 1730s. Built over a century ago, the current windpump has survived floods, extreme gales and a lightning strike. Climb to the top to enjoy spectacular views across the Norfolk Broads, explore the wildlife garden – where you might see a rare swallowtail butterfly – and the orchard with eight varieties of local apples.
Find out more about the National Trust in Norfolk
SUFFOLK
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds has a vibrant year-round programme of drama, comedy, music, and family shows, including their own acclaimed theatre productions. But it also has real historic significance – being the only surviving Regency playhouse in the country. Take an authentic 19th century theatre visit, whilst simultaneously enjoying a night of contemporary performance.
Sutton Hoo
This hauntingly beautiful estate is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time, a ship containing an Anglo-Saxon royal burial chamber. Not only did this find uncover an extraordinary wealth of gold and treasure, it also revoluntionised our understanding of early England. Explore the atmospheric 7th-century burial ground, discover the treasures unearthed and learn more about the extraordinary archaeological work that has taken place at Sutton Hoo. In the summer months, the forest on site is transformed into a venue for open-air theatre.
Lavenham Guildhall
Lavenham in Suffolk is home to over 320 buildings of historic significance; at the heart of the village is the Guildhall – one of the most spectacular timber framed buildings of medieval England at the heart of village life. Lavenham forged its name on the back of the prosperous cloth trade, centuries later the village now boasts independent shops and galleries. Spend a day exploring the Guildhall and the enchanting village.
