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20/04/2025
Make your musical getaway a full-on summer adventure with these 11 inspiring day trips!
Planning a visit to Thaxted Festival this summer? With our glorious concerts set against the stunning backdrop of Thaxted’s medieval church, you’re already in for a treat. But why not extend your stay and explore beautiful East Anglia while you’re here?
From historic houses and picture-perfect villages to coastal escapes and family-friendly favourites, there’s no shortage of things to see and do nearby. Here are 11 perfect day trips - all within easy reach of Thaxted - to help you build the ultimate summer itinerary around the music.
Only 6 miles from Thaxted
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A must-visit if you’re already attending the Festival. Discover the medieval market town’s historic buildings, excellent independent shops, Bridge End Garden and the Fry Art Gallery – a private Gallery tour is available as part of our Festival Extra events!
Just 15 minutes from Thaxted
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A Jacobean mansion with Capability Brown gardens, a working Victorian kitchen, and kids' play area. Step into the lives of both aristocrats and servants in this grand English Heritage property. Also check out nearby Audley End Miniature Railway, the venue for our 2025 Family Event!
40 minutes by car
Steeped in academic splendour, Cambridge offers punting on the River Cam, world-class museums (like the Fitzwilliam), and iconic college architecture. Great for culture-lovers and casual wanderers alike.
1 hour’s drive
This peaceful landscape inspired painter John Constable and remains one of the most picturesque corners of East Anglia. Enjoy riverside walks, quaint villages, and tearooms aplenty.
35 minutes from Thaxted
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A hidden gem filled with sculptures, wild planting, and architectural charm, designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd. Perfect for a tranquil morning before an evening concert.
1 hour away
A beautifully preserved medieval wool town with half-timbered buildings, artisan shops and cosy pubs. Harry Potter fans will spot the real-life backdrop of Godric’s Hollow!
50 minutes’ drive
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A National Trust favourite with a working farm, landscaped gardens, grand mansion and family-friendly trails. Lovely for a relaxed outdoor adventure.
Just over 90 minutes' drive - but worth it for a full day out
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A haven for music-lovers (home of Benjamin Britten), foodies, and sea-air seekers. Enjoy fresh seafood, shingle beaches and the hauntingly beautiful Snape Maltings concert hall and arts complex.
25 minutes away
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One of the best surviving examples of a medieval royal hunting forest, managed by the National Trust. Great for walking, birdwatching, and letting kids explore.
1 hour’s drive
Dominating the skyline for miles, this magnificent Norman cathedral is often called the “Ship of the Fens”. Combine with lunch by the riverside or a stroll around the charming town.
30 minutes from Thaxted
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History takes flight at IWM Duxford, the largest aviation museum in Europe. Walk through enormous hangars filled with iconic aircraft from both World Wars, the Cold War and beyond - including Spitfires, Concorde, and even a B-52. Explore dynamic exhibitions, climb aboard historic planes, and hear powerful personal stories of the people behind the machines. A hit with families, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone with an interest in modern history (keep an eye out for flying displays during summer weekends!)
With so many options within easy driving distance of Thaxted, it’s simple to turn your concert trip into a long weekend escape. Whether you're here for a single performance or several, there's plenty of beauty, history, and fun nearby to complement your musical experience.
So why not stay a little longer, explore a little further, and make Thaxted Festival part of your perfect East Anglia summer?