Lowestoft has a reputation for being a somewhat quiet, easy-going coastal town, but don't be put off if you're after a family holiday that will entertain your brood from start until finish. If the luscious sea air, gorgeous beaches and peaceful atmosphere don't relax you, we've got a selection of activities that most certainly will. Whether you're holidaying with young children or teens, there’s something for everyone in Lowestoft - you just have to know where to look!
1. If you're after a great place to stay that won't break the bank, try booking a break at one of the well-loved Richardson's Holiday Parks. Based in the nearby villages of Scratby and Hembsy, these offer families the chance to unwind in safe, hospitable and entertaining surroundings. There's plenty for the kids to do - as well as running a hugely-popular Kids' Club, between them, the parks boast swimming pools, arcades, indoor play areas and a diner. These holiday parks are renowned for their friendly staff, great value for money and fantastic atmosphere, so they come highly recommended if you’ve got a family that loves to make the most of the holidays!
2. The East Anglia Transport Museum in Lowestoft is a crowd-pleaser for all ages, especially those with an interest in history. The museum is designed to show the development of mechanical transport over the best part of a century - no mean feat! The museum isn't open all year round, and occasionally has limited opening times, so we recommend checking their website before you set off.
3. For all animal lovers, Africa Alive just south of Lowestoft is the perfect place to get closer to nature. If you're after big cats, giraffes, zebras and rhinos, you won't go wrong here. There's so much to do that it's best if you dedicate a whole day to exploring the park - top attractions include 'Africa by Night' and 'Incredible Insects'. Ticket prices and opening times vary throughout the year, so check the Africa Alive website before you leave.
4. The Ellough Park Raceway in nearby Beccles is the ideal haunt for petrolheads. This purpose-built outdoor flood-lit kart circuit in Suffolk offers adult and junior karting at very competitive prices - they even offer karting packages, such as Mini Grand Prix and Ice Man Challenge. You can even host a birthday party here, so if you've got a teenager who's up for celebrating their big day in style, this is the place to come. Prices vary for each activity, so make sure you call the raceway on 01502 717718 before you leave.
5. If you do decide to push the pedal to the metal, cool off after your karting experiences at Beccles Lido. This serene outdoor swimming pool is brilliant fun for all the family, and kids are especially welcome. It's probably best to save this kind of excursion for sunny days, but if you're made of sterner stuff, we guarantee you'll still have a great time. The pool is heated, and open seven days a week from May until nearly September. The Lido is open until 8pm on Thursdays, so if you're after a late dip, pop on down.
6. Never underestimate the beauty of a walk along the Oulton Broads whilst you're in Lowestoft, you'd be mad to miss this opportunity. The Ivy House Hotel is positioned on 20 acres of ground, beside the banks of Oulton Broad, Lowestoft. Based in this popular location of Oulton Broad, The Ivy House Hotel offers you the chance to unwind in pleasant, hospitable and unique surroundings. Eve's bar is open to the public for a drink or a meal and the outlook on to unspoiled scenery is peaceful and thoroughly relaxing. There are plenty of walks, wildlife, peace and solitude. This hotel prides itself for their friendly staff, great food and fantastic atmosphere, so it comes highly recommended. If you're after a great place to stay that it situated in an idyllic location The Ivy House Hotel would be the perfect place to stay, with it's beautiful rooms all re-designed for absolute luxury.
7. If you take our advice and visit Oulton Broad you will not want to miss The Gift Shop, cramed full of gifts and souveniers of your holiday or get ahead with some present shopping. The Gift Shop is open seven days a week and offers collectables, treasures and gifts to suit everyone. A visit to this charming shop is a must, you will not be dissapointed.
8. After a day out in Oulton Broad you will be looking for somewhere to eat. Just up the road is the village of Oulton, situated in the village is The Blue Boar, this is the place to eat, drink and relax. This popular gastro restaurant can offer snacks, light meals or a sumptuous main course selection.
9. Now, this isn't necessarily a good idea if Grandma and Grandad are holidaying with you, but if you’re a gang of fearless thrillseekers, an afternoon at Pleasurewood Hills will ensure you're hoarse by the end of the day. This Lowestoft-based theme park has a mixture of rides, from the terrifying Wipeout to the more sedate Timber Falls. Family tickets are availble for this excellent theme park and it's most definitely worth a visit.
10. If art is your thing, how about a visit to Ferini Art Gallery in Pakefield, Lowestoft. With it's ever changing art and craft displays, there is something for everyone. Owner Michaela Barber is always on hand to talk you through the pieces or leave you to browse at you leisure.
11. As far as post-dinner perambulations go, nothing beats a stroll down Lowestoft's lovely Claremont Pier. You can even try your hand (or feet) at some roller skating whilst you're there, so if you're in the mood to get your skates on, you're in the right place. You can also hire out the rink to celebrate your birthday. If Bingo is more to your liking Beacon Bingo is situated just 5 minutes walk from Lowestoft's seafront, eyes down for an entertaining night out.
12. Finally, if you're looking for a day out that offers everything, take your family off to Fritton Lake for the day. This marvellously-picturesque beauty spot offers a wide variety of family attractions and entertainments, set in acres of mature woodland along the banks of Fritton Lake. Try your hand at pony trekking, enjoy a boat trip, or get back to nature on one of the Welly Walks. It's rather popular during the summer months!
Don't forget to check out our Lowestoft Events pages for listings of all sorts of things happening in and around Lowestoft.
