Before I start the next post, I feel it is only right that I add a small paragraph just to say that at the time of writing, by the very knowledgeable, Alison Withers, the UK was not on “lock-down” due to COVID-19. However, I thought that as people are getting in to the habit of walking or cycling and enjoying the fresh air, then this was still worthy of sharing, so new found love of the outdoors can continue, once travel and social distancing measures are lifted.

Some Less well-known Suffolk places for fresh air and exercise

While spring may be the time when we embark on clutter-clearing, redecoration and gardening, there are times when we just need to relax and clear away the mental cobwebs.

A bracing outdoor walk or cycle ride may be the answer and there are some less well-known places in Suffolk that are perfect if you want to be away from the crowds.

Forests

Thetford must be the best-known and mre popular of the county’s forests, but there are other gems.

Try Cavendish Heath, Tuddebham. This is a peaceful sanctuary to stroll around, taking in healthland, woodland and stunning views across the Lark Valley. It has lots of walking trails including the Wetland Trails
alongside the River Lark.

Groton Wood in Hadleigh (near Lavenham) is an ancient woodland with some fascinating fungi species.

Bradfield Woods near Bury St Edmunds is another lovely woodland reserve that attracts badgers and a variety of songbirds such as garden warbler and blackcap.
Tunstall Forest consists of coniferous plantations, broadleaved belts and heathland areas which link up with both Tunstall and Blaxhall common.
These areas are great for ground nesting birds such as the nightjar and Woodlark.
It is open 24/7, parking is free and is part of the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is accessible off the B1069 Tunstall to Snape Road.

Lovely woodland in Suffolk

Rendlesham Forest, near Woodbridge, also offers plenty of opportunities for both walking and biking. It has 3 walking trails, 2 cycling trails, orienteering trails and much more.

Bird Watching

The RSPB nature reserve at Minsmere, near Westleton, is perhaps the most famous and popular haunt for bird watching.

However, there is a less well-known gem near Bury St Edmunds. This is the Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Lakeford Lakes. Located next to the River Lark, Lackford Lakes is a wonderful habitat for insects, varied wildlife and wildflowers, and the reserve includes reed beds, meadows and streams.
Among the birds spotted there have been teal and buzzards, goosander and sparrowhawks. In the summer months, seasonal visitors include swallows, sand martin, Little Egret and Kingfisher.