A Journey Through the Senses in Bury St Edmunds & Beyond

…some unique art. Visit the Hunter Gallery which showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional works, with a focus on local artists from Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex. The nearby Clarendon Fine Art Gallery presents a more curated, modern collection, featuring original paintings, limited edition prints, and sculptures from both established and emerging artists. Meanwhile, Chelmer Fine Art offers an eclectic mix of contemporary styles, from landscapes to figurative and wildlife art, making it a great spot to discover both renowned and up-and-coming artists.

For another captivating visual experience, the Bury St Edmunds Photographic Society Exhibition at The Apex showcases an impressive collection of work from talented local photographers. Covering a wide range of subjects, from stunning landscapes and wildlife to abstract compositions and street photography, each image tells a story while visitors immerse themselves in the world through the lens of a camera.

For a dose of the visual beauty of nature, take a trip to Fullers Mill Garden. Nestled along the serene banks of the River Lark in West Stow, this enchanting seven-acre garden seamlessly blends dappled woodland areas with meticulously curated collections of rare and unusual shrubs, perennials, lilies, and marginal plants. Open from April, the garden will be in the midst of spring, with a colourful feast for the eyes.

…diverse and energising sounds that will tempt you to move, move you to tears and make you think. On Friday 14th March head to The Apex for a dose of 80s Mania as you step back into the electrifying sounds of the 1980s. This dynamic tribute concert features a live band and dancers recreating over 35 chart-topping hits from iconic artists like Duran Duran, Madonna, and Culture Club. Relive the era's energetic beats and memorable melodies in a performance that promises to get you dancing.

Immerse yourself in the rhythmic and evocative performance of Dr John Cooper Clarke on Thursday 13 March as the 'Godfather of Punk Poetry’ brings Dr John Cooper Clarke: In Celebration of World Poetry Day to The Apex. His distinctive delivery combines sharp wit with poignant social commentary.

Get ready to feel sound waves reverberate through you as you join Bury St Edmunds' own symphony orchestra on Saturday, 21st June for the Suffolk Sinfonia Spring Concert. Under the baton of conductor Matt Andrews, the Suffolk Sinfonia will present a programme featuring Holst’s A Somerset Rhapsody and Lars-Erik Larsson’s Symphony No.3 in C minor.

Enjoy the buzzing sound of honky tonk with A Country Night in Nashville! On Thursday 17th July you’ll be transported to the home of country music with hits from Johnny Cash to Alan Jackson, Willie Nelson to Kacey Musgraves. Sing along to hits including Burning ring of fire, 9-5 and The Gambler. You’ll head home with the sounds of country echoing in your ears and pounding in your heart.

…the delicious flavours of fresh seasonal ingredients and dishes to tingle your taste buds at the Michelin starred restaurant Pea Porridge, with their fusion of Moorish-inspired flavours and locally sourced ingredients. Begin with the Persian aubergine "kashk bademjan," a velvety blend of roasted aubergine infused with tangy whey. The muntjac and merguez skewer pairs tender game meat with spicy lamb sausage; a robust and savory experience.For mains, savor the cauliflower shawarma, where roasted cauliflower is seasoned with aromatic spices, accompanied by crispy chickpea falafel, spinach and rezana pastilla—a flaky pastry—and tabbouleh. Or, opt for the braised Earl Stonham wagyu beef short rib, featuring melt-in-your-mouth beef atop creamy soft polenta, with earthy girolles mushrooms, aromatic autumn truffle, and a touch of sweet quince. Finally, indulge in the "Burnt" Basque cheesecake, a creamy and slightly caramelized dessert served with poached peach slices, fragrant rose petals, and crispy kataifi pastry.

Head to 1921 Angel Hill, where seasonal ingredients come together in unexpected ways for an unforgettable dining experience. Start with the venison tartare, paired with a beer-battered oyster, beetroot, and truffle for a rich blend of flavours and textures. Or try the Scottish lobster tortellini, which combines crispy chicken wing, fennel, and a hint of vanilla for an exciting balance of savoury and sweet. For the main event, the miso-glazed Aylesbury duck breast packs a punch of flavour, accompanied by morels, celeriac, and white beans, or enjoy the aged Suffolk sirloin with smoked fillet, salsify, and parmesan. And don’t miss the indulgent desserts, like the dark chocolate, orange, and sesame pairing or the zesty rhubarb and custard.

…the unusual aromas of hops as you take a fascinating tour of the brewing journey at the Greene King Brewery. On this immersive tour, you’ll get an up-close look at the brewing process and, of course, experience the distinctive scent of freshly brewed beer. Even before you step inside you will notice the fresh, earthy notes of hops—whether floral, citrusy, or piney—that emanate from the iconic building.

Guided by experts, you’ll hear the stories behind their most well-loved beers; the perfect way to discover the craft behind every pint, and with the chance to sample Greene King's famous ales, your taste buds will be just as satisfied as your sense of smell.

At ICE Cook School in Bury St Edmunds, you can partake in a diverse range of classes, and fill the air with delicious aromas as you learn all the tricks of the trade. There are a range of classes on offer from bread-making to Indian cooking. Imagine the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen while you master the art of creating perfect loaves. In these full-day cooking classes, the sizzle of seasonal ingredients fills the air, and you’ll be surrounded by tantalising scents that hint at the delicious dishes to come. For anyone who wants to explore global cuisines, ICE offers classes that transport you to distant lands through their distinctive fragrances—be it the spicy warmth of Thai curries or the herby notes of Italian classics.

...on every clue and leave no stone unturned as you step into a world of mystery and adrenaline at The Evidence Room. In this immersive escape room experience, the excitement builds as you investigate all the evidence- from old files and keys to intricate locks and hidden compartments. Whether you’re carefully turning a combination on a safe, feeling for hidden objects in the dark, or pressing buttons that trigger unexpected surprises, everything you do brings you one step closer to escaping!

At West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, you’re invited to get hands-on with history as you explore the reconstructed Anglo Saxon Village. A great way for families to delve into the past in an engaging way, you can place your hands on the rough stone walls of the huts, feel the grainy texture of the wattle-and-daub construction, and run your fingers along ancient wooden tools and implements. The site encourages an interactive connection with the past, and you can even try your hand at activities like archery or take a walk through the Beowulf and Grendel Trail where you’ll feel the presence of nature, history and legend all around.

Weavers House Spa at The Swan in Lavenham welcomes you for a touch of luxury with a comforting spa retreat. Perfectly designed for wellbeing and relaxation you can take your pick from stimulating and stress reducing full body massage, reflexology or for something that goes from top to toe- the Temple Spa Drift Away treatment, which combines dreamy essential oils and deep, flowing massage to fully relax your muscles and your senses.

Enjoy a stay at Bedford Lodge Hotel and combine it with a calming and rejuvenating experience at their well-equipped spa. While away the time in this luxurious retreat featuring a hydrotherapy pool with five water experiences, an outdoor rooftop hot tub, and a thermal area with a steam room, sauna, and hammam. Book a cleansing mud treatment in the Rasul, relax in the decadent relaxation room, or enjoy treatments in one of the ten spacious rooms, including a couples' suite. The spa also provides a beauty room for manicures and pedicures.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life at The Health Hub Spa at All Saints Resort, a true sanctuary of tranquility. With stunning interiors, seven peaceful treatment rooms, and a dedicated relaxation space, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Immerse yourself in the unforgettable Temple Spa experience, designed to bring balance and harmony. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, an expectant mother, with a group, or some solitary relaxation, The Health Hub Spa at All Saints Hotel is sure to please!