Eye Travel Guide

Explore the charming town of Eye in the East of England with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more.


Introduction to Eye

Located in the Suffolk county of the East of England, Eye is a charming little town that offers a blend of natural beauty, medieval architecture, and modern amenities. Visitors to Eye can immerse themselves in rich history, explore beautiful markets and countryside, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to do in Eye, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Eye

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eye Castle: This impressive 12th-century fortress stands at the heart of the town and offers breathtaking views of the town and countryside.

  • The Museum of East Anglian Life: This museum celebrates the history, culture, and lifestyle of rural East Anglia.

  • The Great House: This beautiful Elizabethan manor house, located in Lavenham, is home to museums and galleries, and offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to learn about the region’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Eye: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thornham Walks: Set amid a beautiful woodland and watermill, these walks offer scenic views, nature trails and a range of outdoor activities.

  • Crowfield Church: This stunning 15th-century church is a must-visit for its impressive architecture and historic significance.

  • Eye Airfield: This former RAF airfield has been redeveloped into a thriving business park and offers visitors the chance to learn about the town’s aviation history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eye

  • The Eye Circular Walk: This 10-mile walk provides breathtaking views of the Suffolk countryside and passes through charming little villages and historic landmarks.

  • The Waveney Valley Walk: This 48-mile walk follows the River Waveney through the Suffolk and Norfolk countryside and offers picturesque views, historical landmarks, and local attractions along the way.

Best Things to Do in Eye: Activities and Tours

  • The Eye Spy Treasure Trail: This unique and fun-filled treasure hunt is perfect for families and involves solving clues and exploring hidden gems of the town.

  • The Eye Sculpture Trail: This trail offers a chance to see some of the town’s most renowned artwork, including the ‘Eye Ball’ sculpture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eye

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town’s historic landmarks, including Eye Castle and the Museum of East Anglian Life.
Day 2 Enjoy some outdoor activities, such as hiking or biking, and explore the beautiful countryside surrounding the town.
Day 3 Take a day trip to the charming town of Lavenham and explore its historic landmarks, including The Great House.
Day 4 Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the charming markets of Eye and sampling some of the town’s local delicacies.
Day 5 Explore the town’s aviation history by visiting Eye Airfield and the nearby Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum.
Day 6 Take part in one of the town’s unique activities, such as the Eye Spy Treasure Trail or the Eye Sculpture Trail.
Day 7 Spend your final day exploring nearby destinations, such as Thorpeness or Southwold, or simply enjoy a leisurely day in the town.

Food and Drink Scene of Eye

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blythburgh Pork: This locally sourced pork is renowned for its quality and taste and is a staple ingredient in many of the town’s restaurants’ menus.

  • Fish and Chips: Be sure to try this quintessentially British dish at one of the many local fish and chip shops.

  • Suffolk Pie: This savory pastry is filled with delicious Blythburgh ham and other locally sourced ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Adnams Southwold Bitter: This locally brewed beer is a must-try for any beer lover and can be found in most of the town’s pubs and bars.

  • Aspall Cyder: This refreshing and crisp cider is produced locally and is a perfect accompaniment to a warm summer’s day.

Where to Stay in Eye: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Oaksmere: This charming hotel is situated in the heart of Eye and offers luxurious accommodation and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The White Horse: This historical 16th-century coaching inn offers a range of cozy rooms and delicious meals at its on-site restaurant.

  • The Bedingfield Arms: This traditional and rustic pub features five charming rooms and is the perfect base to explore the town and its surroundings.

What to Buy in Eye: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Blythburgh Pork: This high-quality pork is a must-buy for any food lover and can be found at local markets and butchers.

  • Artwork: Eye is known for its thriving art scene, and visitors can find a range of unique and beautiful art pieces at local galleries and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Eye

The locals in Eye are proud of their rich history and traditions and are friendly and welcoming to visitors. The town has a thriving arts scene, with many local artists showcasing their work in galleries and markets.

Best Time to Visit Eye

The best time to visit Eye is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm, and many events and festivals take place. The town can get crowded during this time, so visitors are advised to book accommodation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eye

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich history by visiting its museums and historical landmarks

  • Try the local delicacies, such as Blythburgh pork and Suffolk pie

  • Take part in the town’s unique and fun activities, such as the Eye Spy Treasure Trail and the Eye Sculpture Trail.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack comfortable walking shoes to explore the town’s countryside and outdoor activities.

  • Miss out on exploring nearby destinations such as Thorpeness and Southwold.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eye

Eye is a safe town, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any serious safety concerns. However, visitors are advised to take care when exploring outdoor activities and to follow the local safety guidelines.

Health in Eye

There are no specific health concerns in Eye, and visitors can access healthcare facilities at nearby hospitals and clinics if needed.

Getting to Eye: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eye

The nearest airports to Eye are Norwich International Airport and London Stansted Airport, which offer frequent flights from destinations across the UK and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Eye

Eye has a bus station with regular services to nearby towns and cities, including Ipswich and Norwich.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Eye by train to nearby Diss or Stowmarket stations, with regular services from London and other major UK cities.

How to Get Around in Eye

The best way to explore Eye and its surrounding countryside is by foot, bike or car. There are plenty of car rental services available in the town, and bike rental services can also be found at some of the local accommodations.

Where to Go Next from Eye: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thorpeness

Just a short drive from Eye, Thorpeness is a charming coastal village that offers scenic views, golf courses, and outdoor activities.

Southwold

Located on the Suffolk coast, Southwold is a charming seaside town that is famous for its pier, beach huts, and locally brewed beer.

Conclusion

Eye is a hidden gem in the Suffolk countryside, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern amenities. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore the town’s history, taste delicious local delicacies, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. So, plan your next trip to Eye and immerse yourself in one of the most picturesque towns in East England.