Summer in Suffolk: Outdoor Adventures for Couples in 2025
By Carl Scott
There’s something magical about a Suffolk summer. The pace slows down, the days stretch out, and the countryside comes alive with colour, wildlife and adventure. Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine from the deck of one of our Barges for rent, or sipping a glass of something chilled outside one of our Barns for rent, there’s no shortage of ways for couples to make memories here. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures that combine a little romance with a lot of fresh air, Suffolk’s got you covered.
- Paddleboarding at Alton Water
For couples who like a splash of fun with their adventures, paddleboarding at Alton Water is a must. This beautiful reservoir just outside Ipswich is calm, spacious, and perfect for beginners. Whether you stand, kneel or end up giggling in the water, it’s a brilliant way to do something new together. Equipment hire is available on-site, and there’s even a dog-friendly café for post-paddle treats. - Strolling Through Helmingham Hall Gardens
If you prefer a more leisurely pace, Helmingham Hall’s gardens are a picture of summer romance. The moated Tudor house is surrounded by formal gardens, wildflower meadows and ancient oaks, the perfect setting for hand-in-hand wandering and spontaneous picnics. Check the events calendar, too, as their summer garden fairs and evening openings add a little extra magic. - Cycling the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB
Bring your bikes (or hire them locally) and explore the scenic Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The trails around Snape, Orford and Aldeburgh are especially lovely, winding through woodland, heathland and coast. It’s an ideal way to cover more ground together, with plenty of spots to stop for coffee or fish and chips with a view.
- Sunset Picnics on Shingle Street
Looking for a truly peaceful escape? Shingle Street offers windswept beauty, shingle banks, and uninterrupted sea views. It’s never too busy, so bring a picnic, a blanket, and watch the sky turn pink as the sun dips over the North Sea. The atmosphere here is unhurried, raw and utterly romantic. - Canoeing on the River Stour
Another one for water lovers, hiring a canoe at Dedham or Sudbury allows you to glide gently down the River Stour which weaves through some of Suffolk’s most picturesque countryside. It’s all very “Wind in the Willows” with its dragonflies and the occasional heron keeping you company. Paddle at your own pace and take in the beauty of Constable Country from a new angle.
Whether you’ve spent the day paddling, peddling, or picnicking, there’s nothing better than heading back to your private retreat. Light the firepit, pour a glass of wine, and swap stories as the stars come out overhead. At Woodfarm Barns and Barges, we’ve made sure every little detail is ready for you, all you need to do is show up and make the most of it.
To get started, simply take a look at the current availability of our Barns and Barges for rent.
