Seven of the best free days out in Suffolk including in Southwold, Bury St Edmunds and Felixstowe

The chancellor's Spring Statement on Wednesday will have left many feeling nervous about paying the bills this year.

Rishi Sunak has come under criticism following the announcement, with the Resolution Foundation, a living standards think tank, warning the lack of support for low-income families in the statement leaves 1.3 million people on the verge of 'absolute poverty'.

So Suffolk News has looked at some of the best places for a day out which cost nothing - to help you save on those pennies.

Here is our list of seven places you can go for the day:

1. Southwold Pier

A popular spot for tourists and locals, Southwold is a great place to go and breathe in some fresh sea air, whoever you choose to go with.

The pier is its main attraction and offers up a chance to take in some panoramic views of the North Sea.

The town is big enough to explore for the day as well, and you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy its unique charm.

2. St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds

St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds is one place not to miss in Suffolk.

But you may not know entry to the historical landmark is free, while donations are welcome.

And in what is the Abbey of St Edmunds' thousand year anniversary, what better time to make the trip.

For those who have a bit of cash to spend, you can even try the cathedral's tower tour.

3. Brandon Country Park

Brandon Country Park is open every day from dawn to dusk and is made up of 30 acres of land.

Found in Thetford Forest, it is in the heart of The Brecks and visitors there will find dark forests, open heathlands, sandy soils and pine trees.

4. Needham Lake

Needham Lake is a popular attraction, centred around a flooded gravel pit, close to Needham Market.

Mid Suffolk Council's website says the 13-acre site, host to wetland areas, meadows and a small woodland, has been consistently ranked among Visit England's top most-visited free attractions in the UK.

5. Felixstowe Sea Front Gardens

The Felixstowe Seafront Gardens lay on cliffs between the town centre and beach and are Grade II listed.

Visitors can walk through the gardens on the 'Heritage Trail' and uncover historical structures and a variety of plants.

The gardens were awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award and Green Heritage accreditation every year from 2016 to 2020.

6. Rendlesham Forest

Rendlesham Forest is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers all kinds of activities including children's play areas, cycle trails and sculptures.

Owned by Forestry England, the site is spread across 1,500-hectares.

There's even a UFO trail and visitors can discover about the famous UFO sighting there in December 1980.

7. Christchurch Park

Christchurch Park was the first public park in Ipswich and opened in 1895.

It extends over 33 hectares of beautiful grounds in the heart of the town.

Facilities at the park include: a children's play area, tennis courts, table tennis table, bowling greens, public toilets and refreshment kiosks.

There are also a range of events on offer each year, including nature walks, arts and crafts activities, trails for children and more.