5 of the best attractions within an hour of Ipswich

But for those looking to venture out on a solo or group trip, here's 5 of the best attractions within an hour of Ipswich. 

Colchester Zoo 

Colchester Zoo, which has over 150 species of animals including some of the rarest on the planet, is one of the five must visit attractions. 

This zoo also has many upcoming events for all the family including the trail of terror and then the shriek week for the children. 

Another event available for all the family is The Santa Experience, which includes the white wonderland and meeting Santa where you receive a gift. 

Where: Maldon Road, Stanway, Heckfordbridge, Colchester, CO3 0SL

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm, Saturday & Sunday 9.30am-5pm.  

Colchester Zoo (Image: Newsquest)

Abbey Gardens 

Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds is the perfect spot for peace and quiet whilst watching the world go by plus it is free to visit. 

According to VisitEngland the Abbey Gardens and ruins is the top 20 most visited attractions in England. 

Approximately 20,000 plants are bedded out in the spring for the summer display, plus 12,000 plants and 20,000 bulbs in the autumn for the spring display.

It has many facilities including Abbey Gardens Shop, the Grounds café, tennis courts and crazy golf. The crazy golf is available from April to October and charges £1.50 per person, per game. Plus a £1 deposit. 

Where: IP33 1XL, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, England, United Kingdom 

Abbey Gardens (Image: Newsquest)

Southwold beach 

Southwold beach has a 800 foot long pier and with a refurbishment is now home to a pavilion, restaurant and amusements. 

Also the quality of the beach has been rediscovered over the years by the blue flag awards which demonstrate that the beach is not only clean but provides an excellent array of amenities. 

The beach is backed by a promenade which runs along the front of the town. This means it is only a quick walk to the town centre and a short promenade to the harbour area, which means you can visit these attractions shortly after your beach visit. 

Where: 18, North Parade, Southwold IP18 6LT

Southwold Beach (Image: Denise Bradley)

Sutton Hoo 

Sutton Hoo has a Anglo-Saxon royal burial ground which is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time and with a 17-metre high viewing tower. 

Also, the High Hall exhibition which explores the world of the Anglo-Saxons, featuring replica and original objects discovered at Sutton Hoo. 

This is an attraction good for all the family as children can dress up as a warrior or a king and build their own model using LEGO bricks. 

Where: Tranmer House, Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge IP12 3DJ

Newmarket Racecourse

At the Newmarket Racecourse you can also visit the Champions Gallery Restaurant, located at the heart of the historic Rowley Mile.

In the gallery you can still see the race but also enjoy a bottle of champagne with friends or family and something to eat. 

They are also now doing Christmas parties which includes an arrival drink, three course meal and live entertainment. 

Newmarket Racecourse (Image: Newsquest)

The Race Pass means people aged 18 to 24 is The Jockey' Club's exclusive way to allow you to enjoy horseracing for half price. 

Every year, The Jockey Club hosts 340+ racedays that are part of this amazing offer, including many of the sport’s crown jewel events such as The Cheltenham Festival, The Randox Grand National, The Betfred Guineas Festival and The Betfred Derby Festival. 

Where: Rowley Mile Racecourse, Cambridge Road, Newmarket CB8 0TF