Get Away from it All in Bury St Edmunds and Beyond

Take some time out for yourself, book some ‘me’ time to recharge your batteries and de-stress. Whether you are looking for places to relax and unwind or some retail therapy, these things to do and places to go in Bury St Edmunds and Beyond are the perfect way to get away from it all.

Most will agree that spas are the perfect way to relax, unwind and relieve stress. There are many fantastic spas situated in Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding areas so a day of pampering is never far away!

Make a day of it and book a spa day at The Ickworth Hotel; a hotel tucked away in a National Trust estate situated in the Suffolk countryside. The spa features a pool and a range of treatment rooms and for an extra special treat, why not also book afternoon tea or a meal in the restaurant.

Weavers’ House Spa is a luxurious and intimate spa at The Swan Lavenham Hotel & Spa. With first-class amenities to keep you serene and stress-free during your hotel stay or in-between treatments.

The Health Hub at All Saints Hotel is a wonderfully relaxing setting to enjoy some time away from the outside world. It has seven stunning treatment rooms along with a Spa lounge serving Afternoon Tea or a light lunch and an exclusive relaxation room . A tranquil haven.

What better way to blow away the cobwebs than a walk or a ride out on your bicycle! Did you know that Bury St Edmunds has 1730 walking routes? Although we cannot feature all 1730 routes here are a few we think you will enjoy.

A woodland walk or ‘Forest Bathing’, as the Japanese call it, can boost your health and wellbeing and there are plenty of woodland walks in Bury st Edmunds and the surrounding areas for you to choose from including Ickworth Park, Hardwick Heath, Nowton Park and West Stow Country Park.

If you prefer to add a little culture to your walk then it’s worth paying Abbey Gardens a visit; boasting a herb garden, sensory garden, rose garden, aviary and other facilities including a children's’ play area, wildlife feeding area, and the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund, there's plenty for the whole family to see and do.

And of course, whilst there, be sure to read about Bury St Edmund's fascinating history!

Shopping is known as a great stress reliever, and you're spoilt for choice when it comes to shops and markets in Bury St Edmunds and the nearby villages.

The bustling Bury St Edmunds Market takes place every week on a Wednesday and Saturday, with over 80 stalls selling a range of local produce including fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, bread and fish. You will also find clothes, pottery, vintage homewares and fashion, plants and crafts.

If Antiques and splendid architecture are more your thing, Long Melford Village is the place for you. There are a variety of places to buy quality goods such as clothes, books, food and of course Antiques.

If your favourite way to relax and unwind is to enjoy arts and culture then you most certainly have plenty of places to choose from in Bury St Edmunds. Dating back to the C12th you can while away the hours at Moyse's Hall Museum; Learn about the local history, view the notorious Red Barn Murder collections (although not particularly relaxing!) and peruse the wonderful artefacts on show, a favourite with many is the clock collection - one of the best in the country!

Head to Angel Hill and you will find many of Bury St Edmund's historic attractions including The Athenaeum, ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund, St Edmundsbury Cathedral and The Angel Hotel.

The Athenaeum is a beautiful Grade I listed building built in the late 18th Century. Although it wasn't named The Athenaeum until 1854 the building has had a very varied history. Once a great dance hall which played host to society balls, it's now a stunning location for weddings and events.

And after you've climbed the tower at St Edmundsbury Cathedral and soaked up the stunning view across the Suffolk countryside you can enjoy a stay at The Angel Hotel. The historic boutique hotel is where Dickens stayed while giving readings in the nearby The Athenaeum, and is featured in his novel The Pickwick Papers. At the end of a day of pampering and shopping, enjoy a cocktail in the hotel's bar.