Living in or visiting Sudbury, Suffolk?

You might be surprised by just how much there is to keep the whole family busy, whatever the weather and whatever the age. From soft play and parks to train adventures and escape rooms, here are some of our favourite things to do in and around Sudbury with kids.

• Kingfisher Leisure Centre and Little Kingfishers Soft Play – A proper family classic. The leisure pool has a shallow beach area, for the toddlers and a seating around for those who’s kids are older enough to enjoy a bit of parent free swim time, while the Little Kingfishers soft play area means the younger ones can burn off energy while you enjoy a coffee in the cafe. A great wet weather option all year round.
• The Valley Walk – Starting at Waitrose and heading through the water meadows along the old railway line, this is one of Sudbury's greatest free assets. Look out for herons, kingfishers, and whatever else nature throws your way. End the walk with a well-earned drink at the Mill Hotel for lovely views over the river.
• Gainsborough's House – Sudbury's most famous landmark is also a brilliant family day out. During the school holidays, they run drop-in art activities for children covering everything from printmaking to sculpture. Keep an eye on their website for what's coming up. It's one of the finest galleries in Suffolk, and it really is on our doorstep.
• Belle Vue Park – Free, fun, and a firm favourite. The park has swings and slides for kids of all ages, plus plenty of grass to let them run wild. On a warm day, an ice cream is usually on the cards too.
• Mandy's Jewellery and Gifts – Perfect for a rainy afternoon. Pop in to Mandy's on Station Road and have a go at making your own bracelet. No need to book, just turn up. It's a lovely, calm activity for kids who like to get creative, and you might even end up making something for yourself.
• Little Oaks Play Cafe – A lovely new addition to Sudbury, Little Oaks on Gaol Lane is a calm, thoughtfully designed play space for little ones (newborn to age five), complete with role-play stations, wooden toys, and a cosy baby corner. Parents get a proper coffee and a chance to breathe. Everyone wins.
• Rainbow Fun Soft Play – Another great soft play option in town for the smaller ones, ideal for when you just need somewhere safe and fun to let the kids loose.
• The East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel and Wakes Colne – Jump on the train from Sudbury and hop off at Chappel and Wakes Colne Station. Cross the bridge and you are into one of the region's hidden gems. The museum has steam trains, vintage carriages, and a model railway. Thomas the Tank Engine fans will love the special Thomas Days. Real ale fans will love the beer festivals. Check the website before you go so you can pick your perfect day.
• A Day Trip to Lavenham – Catch the bus from Sudbury Bus Station and get off opposite the Swan Hotel. Lavenham is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in England, and it looks exactly like a Harry Potter film set (well, De Vere House was used as inspiration for Harry Potter’s parents house, so it kind of is). Let the kids run off some steam on the railway walk, explore the crooked streets and old houses, and stop in at Pickles and Lillies for beautiful wooden toys and gorgeous children's clothes. Finish with an ice cream from The Parlour. A brilliant day out.
• The Quay Theatre – Sudbury's much-loved theatre regularly puts on brilliant children's shows during the school holidays and half term. Sign up to their newsletter and keep an eye on the website so you don't miss out. It's a fantastic local venue and well worth supporting.
• Great Cornard Country Park – Just outside Sudbury, this lovely country park is set in the very landscape that inspired Thomas Gainsborough's paintings. A great spot for a family walk, a picnic, and a bit of fresh air without going far.
• EO Escape Rooms – For older kids and teenagers, EO is an absolute treat. This award-winning, family-run escape room business in Sudbury has built a brilliant reputation for creative, handmade games that work for mixed ages. Book ahead, though, as they fill up fast.
• The Talbot Trail – A self-guided walking trail around Sudbury following 14 bronze sculptures, each telling a different story from the town's history. Pick up a map from the tourist information centre in Gaol Lane or download it online. It's a fun way to explore the town and learn a little history at the same time.

Sudbury really does punch above its weight when it comes to family-friendly things to do. Whether you've got toddlers, teenagers, or both, there is always something on. Got a favourite we've missed? Let us know in the comments.