River Jetty

The River Jetty at Sudbury is one of those spots that locals know about but visitors often miss - and that's partly the appeal. You're looking at a proper working timber structure jutting out into the River Stour, the kind of place where you can actually feel the weight of the town's medieval wool trade hanging in the air. It's not dramatic or showy. The jetty itself is modest, weathered, functional. But stand at the end on a quiet afternoon and you've got the river, the willows, the gentle current - it's thoroughly Suffolk.

This isn't a destination that demands hours of your time. Twenty minutes to half an hour is realistic for a wander down and a poke about. Families with young kids will appreciate the water access and the chance to spot ducks or the occasional heron, though there's no playground faff. Walkers using the Stour Valley Path will pass straight through, and history types curious about medieval Sudbury's wool connections will get something from understanding what the jetty represented in its day.

It's free, obviously - it's a public right of way - and there are no opening hours nonsense to worry about. The thing to know is that it works best as part of a wider Sudbury wander rather than a standalone reason to drive here. Pair it with the town centre's Tudor buildings and the Gainsborough House Museum for a proper half-day. If you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby - Cranfield Retreat or Lake View Lodges are both within four miles - it makes a lovely evening stroll before dinner.