Within the Ickworth estate, there are a multitude of activities for families. Further afield, the surrounding area offers a wide range of attractions - a selection of which can be found below.
All in house guests have a complimentary pass to enjoy the Ickworth National Trust. Stroll in one of England's finest Italianate gardens and explore the intriguing Stumpery. See how one man's passion led to the creation of this remarkable house and its renowned collection of treasures. Through the Ickworth Lives project, learn about the servants and workers who kept this country estate running and share their memories.
National Trust IckworthTel: 01284 735270
The romance, majesty and excitement of ballooning are an unforgettable experience to be enjoyed by the whole family. Launch point just 5 minutes away. Each flight lasts approximately 1 hour and take place shortly after dawn and two hours before sunset. Price from £99 per person.
Wizard BalloonsTel: 01284 700557
At Ickworth we have a large selection of bikes to suit all the family, from adult bikes to children’s bikes, stabilisers and baby seats. Helmets are supplied. £5.00 for an adult bike or £3.00 for a child’s bike. Book at reception.
Tel: 01284 735350
Feel the need for speed? Try outdoor karting at Red Lodge. Located 25 minutes away, open daily with karts to suit ages from 7 years and up. Choose from a range of courses – sprint racing, grand prix and team endurance. 700m and 1200m tracks available. Height restrictions apply. Price from £39 for 30 laps
Red Lodge KartingTel: 01638 552316
Just 15 minutes away, enjoy an 18 hole, 72 par Genevieve championship course. The parkland course will prove to be a both challenging and stimulating course for the professional and amateurs amongst you. Prices from £14.00 per round
Bury St Edmunds Golf ClubTel: 01284 755979
Just 10 minutes away find the local riding stables, open daily. Choose from a private or group lesson. Prices from £13.00 per person.
Barrow Hall StablesTel: 01284 811995
Home to almost 1000 animals from around the world. Open throughout the year, located just 30 minutes away. Feeding talks, birds of prey displays, safari road train and the giraffe experience. Located 50 minutes away.
Banham ZooTel: 01953 887771
Jimmy’s Farm, as seen on TV is a working farm and open to visitors 7 days a week. There’s a nature trail, woodland walk, farm shop and adventure play area. Located on the outskirts of Ipswich, just 45 minutes away.
Jimmys FarmTel: 01473 604206
Steeped in history this imperial war museum will transport you back to the first and second world war. From the flying museum, maritime museum to the American air museum and the Battle of Britain.
Open all year round except Christmas. Located 45 minutes away. Prices £16.00 per adult. Children free of charge (up to 15 years)
Tel: 01223 835000
We have a contact list of qualified swimming instructors. Please call reception for these details. All lessons need to be booked directly with the instructors. All abilities catered for - from non swimmers to experienced
swimmers wanting to brush up. Booking in advance required. Children must be able to float.
Tel: 01284 735350
We have a contact list of qualified tennis coaches. Please call reception for these details. All lessons need to be booked directly with the instructors. All abilities catered for - from beginners to pros. Available to children and adults of all ages. Booking in advance required.
Tel: 01284 735350
Situated in a secluded area of scenic countryside just 10 minutes away, enjoy one of Suffolk’s premier Trout fisheries. Open all year round. Tuition available. Contact Ian McGregor for full details. Prices from £12.00 for 1⁄2 day.
Larkwood FisheryTel: 01284 728612
Fantastic family fun on the giant obstacle course built up in the trees using ladders, bridges and tunnels as well as the country’s best zip lines, including the longest at 426m. Minimum age of 10 years. The course takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Prices from £25.00 per person.
Go ApeTel: 0845 6439215