Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
This splendid French-style restaurant specialises in delicious fish dishes, although carnivores are not completely overlooked and the menu carries a section rather grimly entitled 'Butcher's Corner'.
Fun Days Out
A visit to the races is perfect for the whole family. Newmarket racecourse is packed with things to do including Newmarket's Summer Saturdays to keep the children fully entertained and concerts showing big name acts. There are also two restaurants onsite serving delicious foods.
Trace the story of racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettori and other modern heroes. Marvel at the head of Persimmon, Royal Derby winner in 1896, and a special display about Victorian jockey Fred Archer, featuring the pistol he used to take his life.
Go Ape at Thetford gives the ultimate in outdoor fun and adventure up amongst the trees. It is located off the beaten track, in the heart of a pine forest that covers 50,000 acres offering ample space and thirty miles of bike and cycle trails, for your use, so don't forget to explore the forest whilst here. There is so much on offer, with a Segway experience, Tarzan Swing, Alpine Zip, Treetop Adventures, there is one to suit both little and bigger adventurers. Safety is paramount and a briefing and run down on the equipment is given before you start your activity, as well as a practise sessions before you head off. They provide all equipment and it is in excellent order and well maintained. The staff are great, so friendly, professional, patient and enthusiastic. There are activities to cater to all age groups making it an ideal family day out, if you take the children here, they will love you. It is well organised and run so your day will go smoothly. Go Ape at Thetford offers a unique experience, complete with fun, laughs and excitement and plenty of challenges and obstacles to overcome but the result is a sense of achievement and satisfaction as well as a memorable experience for all who take part. You will certainly want to return again to maybe try some other activity, highly recommended.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
Bike-Art - 24.8 Miles (39.7 KM)
Set in the heart of Thetford forest, Bike-Art is in the perfect location surrounded by thousand of acres of dedicated cycle paths. With a variety of trails for differing abilities there will be something to suit everyone.
Golf & Sports
No recommended Golf & Sporting Activities found within 30 miles of this property.
Nature Reserves
This nature reserve has a new eco-friendly visitor centre amongst its other attractions, which include a pond room and heated observatory.
You'll find a mile of footpaths taking in a variety of habitats at Nunnery Lakes, the British Trust for Ornithology's only reserve, which lies in the valleys of the rivers Thet and Little Ouse.
Gardens & Woodlands
Located nearby the lovely, historic town of Clare, this stunning park offers a peaceful and tranquil environment in which to relax and unwind. Soak up some of the fascinating local history and admire the 13th century castle with it superb views. Spend some time at the old goods yard which served the old Clare railway, and follow the 'history trail' to unravel the mystery of this gorgeous park.
Visitors are returning time and time again to these fabulous and tranquil gardens. It's the ideal location to leave behind the hustle and bustle of busy lives and just enjoy the views, peace and quiet.
The Brecks is one of the most picturesque areas of Britain, this ancient lowland covers a large area that spreads across Suffolk and Norfolk here in the centre of the East of England. It is the biggest lowland forest in the UK and also considered to be one of the driest parts of Britain, you will frequently find blue skies here. There are miles of tranquil track ways and paths to explore. It is a unique landscape made up of the heath and the unusual varying Breckland lakes known as meres, that combined make the ideal habitat for a large variety of wildlife and plants and it now serves as a conservation area. The Brecks itself is immersed in human history that dates back to the Stone Age, and was home to a selection of structures including a Neolithic flint mine, Christian buildings, landed estates and rabbit warrens all of which had an effect on the history of the local area have their own story to tell. The sheer beauty and vastness of the area is enough to attract millions of visitors a year, they come to savour the peace and tranquillity and to spot the local wildlife. Children love the wide open spaces which they can explore and run around in. Take a picnic and make the most of your time here. Each season brings its own delights and wonderful colours. The Forest in the Brecks is a beautiful, tranquil spot that allows you to connect with nature and enjoy what it offers, a beautiful spot that should not be missed.
Wrest Park - 28.9 Miles (46.2 KM)
Journey through history in these intriguing and beautiful gardens. Planted and landscaped over 150 years, a key inspiration in their design were the magnificent gardens of Versailles. Home to the De Grey family from the 1200s until 1917, the gardens demonstrate a somewhat rare, formal 18th century layout and feature some architectural delights in and amongst. Spot the Bath House and the Chinese Pavilion.
A vibrant garden, mostly created at the end of the 20th century as a series of outdoor rooms divided by hornbeam and yew hedges. Of particular delight are the knot garden and formal herb garden designed by Arabella Lennox-Boyd and the long pergola smothered with roses.
Local Attractions
A labour of love, the restoration of this delightful theatre was largely achieved by the efforts of the members of Nomads (Newmarket Operatic, Musical and Dramatic Society). See website for details of events.
This is a delightful 1.5 mile ride on Lord Braybrooke's private 10 1/4" gauge railway through Estate woodland — a great place for a family day out.
Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and take a ride on an award winning period country railway. A pretty line, relocated station buildings, signal boxes and bridges, all lovingly restored and rebuilt.
Venue Stevenage is a premier entertainment spot in Stevenage. Having recently undergone some major improvements it is now one of the finest clubs around and attracts a vibrant and cordial crowd. This modern venue has a chic and fashionable interior, with secluded seating areas and a stylish outdoor seating area. They have a number of special guests who feature at the club. It is a bustling and colourful venue and has an energetic and friendly vibe. They operate a rigid dress code, have strong security and will challenge those who look underage. If you are looking for a great night out get a few friends together and head to Venue Stevenage, you will have a fun and entertaining night.
Elveden Estate offers a unique gourmet food experience, it has so much on offer with its restaurant, inn and shop, all set around a delightful courtyard. It is ideally located outside of the town, offering you the opportunity to relax in the peaceful and picturesque surroundings, take in the wildlife and savour the fresh air. Elveden Courtyard is home to their restaurant which, is open daily all year round and uses their own home grown seasonal produce in the kitchens, creating a selection of seasonal dishes that are fresh, wholesome and delicious and most importantly reasonably priced, a lovely eatery. Elveden Inn is warm and welcoming, with cosy furnishings, you enjoy also enjoy their high quality traditional fresh dishes here amongst the pleasant surroundings. They run a regular pub quiz as well as a choice of other events during the year. On sale at the farm shop are a range of their products as well as a nice selection of quality and unique gifts and garden items, you will come away with much more than you intended! The staff throughout the estate are lovely, so welcoming, friendly and attentive, they really add to the overall experience and demonstrate what true customer service is. They also run a series of events and activities during the year, that are aimed at families so definitely worth checking to see what is on. They are now operating tours of the estate and the farm they will be about one to two hours in duration and will cover all aspects of the history of the estate, conservation and farming, they can also accommodate tours that cover more specific subjects if required, booking in advance is recommended. Elveden Estate is a truly peaceful place that offers first class dining with superb customer service and a unique and pleasant shopping experience, do not miss if you are in the area.
Gordon Craig Theatre has been a major part of the entertainment in Stevenage since 1975 when it first opened its doors. Today it remains a popular choice and hosts a varied and interesting programme of events, you will get to see opera, dance and orchestral concerts, comedy and live music, variety shows, drama productions and pantomimes, there really is something to appeal to all tastes and preferences. For a pre-theatre dinner you can dine at Pi Bistro, which, is set within the gallery, the restaurant has a varied and interesting menu and the food is delicious, the atmosphere is casual and relaxed and you can enjoy the changing artwork on display, it alters every six weeks. The Coffee House is open daily from 9.00am and offers a welcoming environment to meet and relax with a beverage in a cosy environment. The Foyer Bar is vibrant and bustling and this friendly bar is perfect for catching up at before or after a performance. The theatre is intimate and comfortable with excellent views regardless of where you sit, the acoustics are very good and you will find the staff to be friendly and helpful. If you are looking for a fun and entertaining night that is not expensive then head to the Gordon Craig Theatre, you are assured a fantastic night out.
With 33 names, both high street and local independent retailers, this is a great shopping centre with a fresh and modern look in the traditional market town.
Historical & Heritage Sites
One of the more eccentric of stately homes and topped by a massive rotunda, Ickworth was built for the 4th Earl of Bristol in 1795 to house all his art treasures. Paintings by Titian, Gainsborough and Velazquez are on display. (Dogs on leads allowed)
Take a glimpse into the past at this unique reconstructed Anglo-Saxon village built on the original settlement site, which was occupied from 420?650 AD. Archaeological finds from the site are on display in a specially built Anglo-Saxon Centre.
Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village of 1066 is the only motte and bailey castle in the world that has been faithfully reconstructed on its original site. Stroll through a Norman village, smell the smells and see what life would have been like for the people of the age. A living history museum, which is entirely interactive and fun for all the family.
St Edmundsbury became a cathedral in 1914. However, there has been a structure of worship on the site for over 1000 years. A site of pilgrimage, it was only after the death of Edmund, King of the East Angles in 869 that an abbey was built. This new building contained Edmund's remains and St. James Church was built within the precincts at a later date. This beautiful cathedral which is so steeped in history is well worth a visit.
A superlative moated Tudor manor, Kentwell's restored interior includes a working Tudor kitchen and Hall with minstrels' gallery, while the gardens feature a Tudor Rose pavement maze and a Camera Obscura. Kentwell hosts historical Tudor and 1940s re-creations throughout the year.
For a chance to see an 11th century manor house take some time out to visit Weeting Castle. Packed full of history and used right up until the 18th century this is a memorable experience. Let your imagination wander and take yourself to all those years ago when the castle was in action.
Stevenage Museum unfolds the development of Stevenage from its inception in the Stone Age, through to its evolution into the first new town and through to current day. The museum is located beneath St. Andrew and St. George's church and is clearly sign posted. There is no charge for entry to the museum but for certain events there will be a nominal charge. It is an intimate museum and all exhibits are all found on one level making it accessible for all visitors. Housed in the museum is a large collection of items with more than 18,0000 photographs and 10,000 objects, that are well displayed and have lots of information. You will be amazed by all the history there is for such a new town, it also has interactive attractions to appeal to the children. The exhibits do change frequently. They operate a number of events as well as readings so it is worth checking their website to see what is taking place that might be of interest. The staff are friendly and helpful and will enhance your visit to the museum. If you are in the region and have a few hours to spare go along to the Stevenage Museum you will be surprised by all there is to know about the town, an informative and friendly museum.
Glastonbury Abbey, located in Somerset, is a beautiful attraction with a lot to offer. Enjoy tranquil wooded settings with a stroll across 36 acres of lush parkland complete with ponds, wildlife and an orchard. Learn about the area's history by hearing it from knowledgeable guides in period costumes. Discover 2000 years of history as well as the legend of King Arthur's burial.
Discover the splendour of this superb hall, home to the Dukes of Grafton for more than 300 years. Enjoy the beautiful interior and admire all the fabulous painting. Wander through the peaceful grounds and don't forget to see the church and watermill. Finally, relax in the quaint tea rooms with refreshments and delicious homemade cakes.
To experience a taste of life in the Tudor era; visit this museum. Situated inside an enchanting crooked house you can view many collections, using a audio guide and learn about Thetford and the Brecks. Admire the period garden an have a go at brass rubbing. Also, take some time to visit the brand new shop.
Dad's Army Museum is located in the Old Fire Station, in the centre of the town, the actual station was used in a number of episodes on this popular and classic television show. The guided tours are very good, the guides pitch the tour at just the right level and have lots of anecdotes that add to the tour experience. Owing to the immense popularity of these tours it was decided that a museum be opened back in 2007. Housed here and on display is a range of memorabilia and artefacts relating to the TV show, including scripts, behind the scene photos and props, the exhibits are well laid out, and the museum also covers local history. It also proudly boasts a life size bronze statue of Captain Manwaring, and on occasions the original Jones's butcher van can be found here. Over the years owing to its continuing popularity they have extended the premises, it now is home to the Marigold Tea Rooms, here you can enjoy a beverage and light snack in the warm and cosy surroundings. The museum is open from end of March through to November on a Tuesday and a Saturday, in July, August and September. Appointments outside of these times can be made by prior arrangement. There is no charge to enter the museum but there is a small charge for the guided tour. The museum is operated by volunteers who you will find to be friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and they will happily answer any questions you might have. There is also a shop that sells a nice selection of merchandise including, gifts, clothes, stationery and other exclusive goods pertaining to Dad' Army, items can also be purchased from their web shop. You don't have to be a Dad's Army fan to enjoy this museum, it is very informative and interesting, worth a visit if you are in the area.
