Where to see wildlife in Suffolk

By

Thanks to Suffolk’s varied landscape, a huge range of wild animals call the county home, including rare birds, mysterious marine animals and even snakes!

However, you don’t have to go aimlessly traipsing around in the depths of Suffolk to spot these creatures – there are dedicated nature reserves all around the county, managed by specialist charities that maintain natural habitats so that our wildlife can thrive.

If you’re staying in Suffolk to spot a skylark or an adder (we weren’t joking about the snakes!), there’s no better location to rest your head than our historic, dog-friendly holiday barges. These ‘cottages on water’ can be found in stunning river settings in the quintessential village of Snape Maltings and bustling Woodbridge. Both of these locations are close by to nature reserves, and you can even spot a range of birds and other wildlife from the windows of the barges! Take a look at each barge – Twee Gebroeders and Onderneming.

Here’s a selection of some of our favourite nature reserves and wildlife experiences in Suffolk:

RSPB Minsmere

A coastal nature reserve that’s perfect for family days out, Minsmere is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. This means that you’re likely to spot a huge array of birds, from avocets to bitterns.

Dunwich Heath

Now, if you really want to see an adder, Dunwich Heath is the perfect spot. These non-aggressive snakes feast on small birds and lizards, so there’s plenty for them to choose from at this beachside paradise. Plus, it’s dog-friendly.

Alde-Ore Estuary

A 2,534 hectare biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest, Alde-Ore Estuary stretches along the Suffolk coast between Aldeburgh and Bawdsey. We recommend going on a walk along the Iken Cliffs footpath for uninhibited views of the Alde Mudflats and its undisturbed wildlife reserve, or taking a trip down the river with Iken Canoe. Keep an eye out for otters!

Orford Ness

The habitats here range from vegetated shingle to brackish lagoons, and reed marshes to mud flats – a haven for coastal wildlife. You’re just as likely to see hares darting across the landscape as you are oystercatchers and migratory waders feeding on shrimp from the lagoons.

Owl Sanctuary

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is a registered charity which cares for injured owls and other birds of prey at its facility in Stonham Aspal (which happens to be right near our luxury, dog-friendly cottages (on dry land) at Woodfarm Barns). There are flying demonstrations throughout summer, and you can also visit the Meerkat Kastle to feed the meerkats!

Easton Farm Park

For a classic, family-friendly farm experience, Easton Farm Park is a must-do. See and feed lambs, baby goats, piglets and more, and say hello to the county’s famous Suffolk Punch horses. Here, you’ll also find a cafe, large play area, shop and lots of other wildlife experiences for children of all ages.

Jimmy’s Farm

The recently introduced wildlife park at local food hotspot Jimmy’s Farm features a wide range of animals for children to learn about and engage with, including reptiles, farmyard animals and more exotic mammals such as coatis, capybaras and tapirs. You can really embrace the spirit of a farmstay here.

Lavenham Falconry

Based in the village of Monks Eleigh, Lavenham Falconry offers avian experiences like no other. From a one-hour session with super intelligent and mischievous ravens, to a full day with mighty hawks, owls and falcons, there is plenty on offer for those who want up-close encounters with birds.

Staying in Suffolk

We would love to welcome you to our Onderneming and Twee Gebroeders barges, where you can find plenty more information on Suffolk’s wildlife, as well as the best places to eat, shop and walk your dog(s) during your stay with us. We count ourselves extremely lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the country, and we can’t wait to share the magic with you!

Reasons to Stay at Woodfarm, Suffolk

We happen to think what we have on offer is pretty bloomin' good. However, we thought you might like a bunch of reasons to stay, other than we think you should!

dog paw print
Dogs stay FREE

Genuine, welcoming Dog-Friendly ethos, making you all feel at home, and they won’t cost you a penny.

dog biscuit
Free Doggy treats

Dog bowls, treats, showers, towels and more. Your furry family are safe, secure & happy in our fully enclosed gardens.

thumbs up
Over 1,000 5 star reviews

Peace of mind from our 1,200 + Five Star Tripadvisor, Facebook & Google Reviews. Over 30% of our guests come back!

beach huts
Brilliant beaches

We know that guests want the best location and surroundings. Suffolk has an incredible Heritage Coast, all in easy reach of us.

fence
Dog exercise meadow

Pawesome, fully-enclosed two acre Pooch Paddock at the Barns for your Dogs to go bonkers and make new friends in. Happy hounds!

trophy
Multi-awards

Rest assured choosing Woodfarm: Visit England Gold Awards for all our properties, as well as their ROSE Award for Service Excellence.

hot tubs
Private Hot Tubs

Private Hot tubs with seven of our eight Barns and Cottages. The ultimate in relaxation and reconnection: just because you're worth it.

boots
Stunning Countryside

Unwind and connect with nature in our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, plural. Suffolk Coast & Heaths, and Dedham Vale.

river walks
River Walks

Stunning river walks directly from your gangplank on either Barge! Wildlife and breathtaking scenery in abundance.

Fetch the latest news!

How Do You Use the Hot Tub Cover at Woodfarm Barns?

As part of our You Ask, We Answer series, we’ve created a simple, step-by-step video guide to show you exactly how to use the hot tub at Woodfarm Barns. We know a lot of guests …

Sweet Sixteen Wishlist Competition!

WIN a PREMIUM STAY with our Sweet 16 Wishlist Competition!

Woodfarm Barns hits Sweet 16 at the beginning of May! Celebrate our 16th Birthday by telling us what you’d do on your Premium Suffolk Stay. Your Perfect Premium Prize: A four night break at Woodfarm …

Booking a break can be a big decision

A Short Break or a Holiday can be a big decision. And we get it!

We Understand That Booking a Short Break or a Holiday These Days Is Sometimes a Big Decision We get that. I’ve recently written several articles and created a number of videos on this topic, and …

Join our newsletter for £50 OFF your first break!

Please provide a valid email address.
* indicates required