August 7, 2025

Summer Holiday Activities in Bury St Edmunds

Summer in Bury St Edmunds is packed with exciting activities for all ages, making it the perfect place to enjoy your holiday. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or just relaxing in beautiful surroundings, there’s something for everyone to discover.

Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival

Join this free, two-day event over the August bank holiday weekend, 24th and 25th August, from 10 am to 5 pm. Expect special appearances by celebrity chef Ching He Huang, plus over 30 farmers’ market stalls offering delicious local produce. Families can enjoy mini golf, a helter-skelter, a hook-a-penguin game, a children’s roundabout, and face painting at arc shopping centre.

Mini Art Competition

Get creative this summer at Cookie Barista! Throughout the holidays, children can enter the mini art competition for a chance to win a free bubble tea or cookie. A fun and tasty way to inspire young artists.

Weekly Markets

Bury St Edmunds offers two fantastic markets that are a must-visit during the summer holidays. The Provisions Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm in the historic Cornhill and Buttermarket area, dates back to a charter granted in 1202. With around 50 stalls midweek and more than 80 on Saturdays, you’ll find everything from fresh, locally sourced fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish, to artisan crafts, vintage clothing, plants, and world cuisine. This long-standing tradition gives Bury one of the most vibrant and colourful markets in East Anglia.

On the second Sunday of every month, the Farmers’ Market takes place in Abbey Gardens (on The Traverse) from 10 am to 3 pm. With its mix of locally made bread, honey, pies, cakes, charcuterie, vegan and gluten-free options, and fresh produce, it’s a delightful draw for food lovers and local shoppers alike.

Abbey Gardens

Take a leisurely walk through Abbey Gardens, spot the birds, and enjoy refreshments at the café. It’s a peaceful green space right in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, ideal for a relaxing summer day.

Beer and Cider Festival

From 19th to 25th August, the Cathedral hosts the popular Beer and Cider Festival. Sample a wide range of local brews and ciders, perfect for those wanting to taste the best of Suffolk’s drinks. Games Café Try your hand at shuffleboard and other fun games at the Games Café a great spot for families and friends to unwind.

Shopping at the arc

Explore a variety of shops in the arc shopping centre, perfect for some retail therapy this summer. Find everything from fashion to gifts and more. Visit the arc shopping centre for more details.

Cathedral Tower Tour

Take a fascinating 85-minute guided tour of St Edmundsbury Cathedral’s tower, offering stunning views and insights into the town’s history. Tours accommodate up to four visitors and are perfect for history buffs. Book your spot for the tour now.

Moyse's Hall Museum

Step back in time with exhibitions like “Prehistoric Beasts” and “Land, Sea and Sky,” running until October. Sessions start at 10 am or 12 pm. Children under 5 attend free; tickets for 5+ are £3.

Bad Weather Plans

If the weather turns, visit The Evidence Room for immersive experiences, catch a film at Abbeygate Cinema or Everyman Cinema, or see a performance at the Theatre Royal, the perfect indoor options for a rainy day.

Food and Drink Walking Tour

Discover the best of Bury St Edmunds’ foodie scene on a 2.5-hour walking tour starting from Angel Hill. Choose from two different routes and hear fascinating stories about the town’s culinary history. Taste local produce, meet food and drink businesses, and explore landmarks every Thursday from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. Tickets are £25 per person; book online in advance.

Summer Organ Festival

End your summer with the enchanting Summer Organ Festival on 7th September from 5 pm to 6 pm. A beautiful musical experience held at the Cathedral.

This summer, Bury St Edmunds offers a fantastic mix of events and activities, whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s always something exciting to enjoy in this charming Suffolk town.