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Eight things to add to your Sudbury bucket list for 2023




Sudbury is a historic town known for its arts and theatre scene made famous by Thomas Gainsborough.

Whether you are visiting the museum dedicated to its most famous export or taking in its beautiful nature, there is plenty to see and do in the town.

Here are some of the things you should add to your Sudbury bucket list for 2023.

Gainsborough's House recently reopened after a multi-million pound refurbishment. Picture: Mark Westley
Gainsborough's House recently reopened after a multi-million pound refurbishment. Picture: Mark Westley

Gainsborough’s House

After its recent transformation, there is no better time to visit Gainsborough’s House.

The international art museum has finally opened its doors after a huge £10 million refurbishment.

Celebrating the life of one of Britain’s most famous painters, as well as other local artists, there is plenty to admire at Gainsborough's House.

As well as fabulous paintings, Gainsborough's House architecture is equally as impressive. Picture: Mark Westley
As well as fabulous paintings, Gainsborough's House architecture is equally as impressive. Picture: Mark Westley

While the art that adorns the walls are the focal point, the recent transformation has also led to some fabulous architecture, which deserves its own recognition.

Quay Theatre

From comedy to music, there are plenty of events taking place at the Quay Theatre.

Nestled in a tranquil corner of the town next to the River Stour, the small theatre holds plenty of history.

There is a wide array of events taking place at The Quay Theatre this year. Picture: Mark Westley
There is a wide array of events taking place at The Quay Theatre this year. Picture: Mark Westley

And while it may not be the biggest, it does attract some big names to perform.

Comedian Tom Davis, who has also starred in the likes of Bad Education and Paddington, is due to bring his stand up tour to the town in May, while a range of tribute acts are also scheduled to appear at the Quay Theatre this year.

Paddle boarding experiences can be booked from The Henny Swan. Picture: Google Maps
Paddle boarding experiences can be booked from The Henny Swan. Picture: Google Maps

Paddle boarding at The Henny Swan

If you are looking for a funny and quirky activity, why not try paddle boarding down the River Stour?

During the summer, boats, canoes and paddle boards can be hired from The Henny Swan in Henny, just outside of Sudbury.

A wide range of experiences are available to book, with prices starting from £16.50.

AFC Sudbury have a big second half of the season ahead of them. Picture: Mecha Morton
AFC Sudbury have a big second half of the season ahead of them. Picture: Mecha Morton

Take in a match at AFC Sudbury

The table-topping Yellows have won all 10 games at home so far this season, and are in good form heading into the second half of the season.

Rick Andrews’ side have been attracting impressive crowds, but will need plenty of support in their push for the Isthmian League North Division title.

AFC Sudbury are next at home on Saturday, January 21, when they face Wroxham.

The tranquil water meadows is a must in the summer months
The tranquil water meadows is a must in the summer months

The Water Meadows

Looking out from The Mill Hotel presents a picturesque view of Sudbury and The Water Meadows.

Whether it is the gorgeous spring sunshine or the cold winter months, the Meadows always looks picture-perfect.

If you fancy, you can pop into The Mill Hotel for a drink and quench your thirst, or you can put on your walking boots and navigate your way around the footpaths.

Heritage Centre

If you want to learn more about Sudbury and its history, you should visit the Heritage Centre.

Another of the town's museum, the Heritage Centre, in Gaol Lane, leads you through the ages and how the town has developed over time.

Whether you are interested in knowing more about how the town dealt with both World War One and World War Two, or how simply how Sudbury looked in a time gone by, the museum is well worth a visit.

Talbot Trail

Did you know that there are a number of small statues set out for people to find around the town centre?

Depicting various figures and points of interests, a total of 14 statues form part of the Talbot Trail.

It could be a great way to teach your kids about the town's history, or to get active on a dull and rainy weekend.

If cricket is your thing, you can take in a game at Sudbury Cricket Club. Picture: Mark Westley
If cricket is your thing, you can take in a game at Sudbury Cricket Club. Picture: Mark Westley

Sudbury Cricket Club

Even if you are not a cricket fan, Friars Street cricket ground is the perfect place to bask in the warm sunshine.

The Talbots boast a healthy adult and youth set-up, and host a range of activities outside of the cricket pitch during the summer months.

However, if you want to catch a game of cricket that is played at a high standard, then there is always a game to watch at Sudbury Cricket Club.

The first team play in the East Anglian Premier League, while their second team play in the Two Counties Championship third division.

Games are usually hosted at Friars Street every week, so there will be numerous opportunities in the summer to pay a visit.