West Stow and Sutton Hoo
 

Hi, we are planning a trip to England in late May and I was considering a trip to the Anglo-Saxon village West Stow outside of Bury St. Edmunds, as well as a visit to the Sutton Hoo exhibit in Woodbridge. I've never been to England before. Will we need a car to get to these places? Or can we use public transportation?

We visited both these sites last year. I have no idea if you can do them using public transportation, although I am sure a car would make both easier. Both sites are somewhat of a destination.

The new Sutton Hoo museum and site were very well done. They have most of the collection, and the exhibit is very interesting. The film is not worth the time. Seeing the site is good, try to take a guided tour.

I would not go out of my way to see West Stow, unless you have a serious interest in reconstructed villages or Iron Age sites (and then there are probably better sites in the UK). If you are nearby or have the passion it is worth an hour or two. The buildings are somewhat sleepy, not the most engaging site, the museum is small but ok.

The two sites are about 40 miles apart - you could use public transport but it would be a LOT more convenient if you have a car. Plus there are many other interesting places in the general area -- Cambridge, Norwich, Colchester, Lavenham, etc.

You could easily spend a week in Suffolk/Norfolk/Cambridgeshire. But 3 or 4 days for sure.

Hi
I agree with Sprin - West Stow is 'interesting' but a long way from a 'must see'. Also it is in a somewhat isolated position off the main road Bury St Edmunds and Mildenhall and certainly not on any bus route. There is no train line anywhere near. Sutton Hoo is in a different league and very interesting. Depending on where you were staying (Woodbridge?) it might be worth paying for a taxi, but this isn't cheap.
Basically you need to hire a car! But even with a car I am still not sure that I would suggest West Stow. I was born and raised in Bury St Edmunds - let me know if you want advice about the area, or if you were just going because of the Iron Age village.

Thanks, all, for the very helpful information. I think we've decided to get a car for a day to see these two exhibits.