There is something truly captivating about the summer holidays. The days are longer, the air feels lighter, and for a few short weeks, the ordinary world feels just a little bit more extraordinary.
To celebrate our magical upcoming Summer Show, we’re adding a slice of magic to your Summer itinerary! If you are looking for the best things to do in Bury St Edmunds to add a touch of enchantment to your break with the children, look no further. Whether you want to lose yourself in a bewitching new book, find a scent that smells like childhood, or treat the family to a memorable afternoon, we have bottled up the magic right here. When it comes to planning unforgettable days out with kids in Suffolk, arc Bury St Edmunds has your Summer plans sorted.
Here is our ultimate guide to the most magical shopping in Suffolk and spectacular seasonal activities:
Magical pages for all ages
There is no better portal to another world than a brilliant book from Waterstones. If you are scratching your head over what to do in Bury St Edmunds on a quiet afternoon, browsing their packed shelves is the perfect escape:
For the little dreamers
Give your child the magic you experienced when you were their age with Enid Blyton’s classic, The Magic Faraway Tree: The Enchanted Wood. Described by readers as ‘magical and nostalgic,’ it is a wonderful choice for parents hunting for literary things to do in Bury St Edmunds with young readers. Let the spellbinding Enchanted Wood, filled with fairies and elves, create a whole new world of imagination.
Why not pick up a mysterious book for you?
If you are looking for an epic fantasy escape, pick up Ship of Magic (The Liveship Traders Book 1) by Robin Hobb. Readers agree that these books are ‘just wonderful, a completely different concept where Hobb’s imagination knows no bounds.’
While you are browsing, don’t miss the adorable Punky Pins collection by the till, especially the charming Black Cat pin, perfect for adding a touch of mystical flair to any denim jacket or backpack.
Whimsical scents & sparkling charms
Who says magic is just for kids? You can upgrade your everyday days out in Bury St Edmunds with a little bit of retail therapy that evokes pure childhood wonder:
Have you heard? The Perfume Shop has the ultra-fun, sweet-inspired fragrances by Viktor&Rolf in stock now! If you love the aroma of cinema treats and sweet shops, check out Caramel Crunch (which smells incredibly like warm popcorn!), Berry Jelly, and the nostalgic Cola Fizz. They are unbelievably realistic and will have you gasping at every spritz. They are so much fun for Summer days out.
From nostalgic scents to timeless Disney characters that are perfect for all generations. Keep your favourite stories close with the stunning Disney collection at Pandora. We love the Disney Sorcerer Apprentice Mickey Charm and the iconic Disney Mickey Mouse Sorcerer’s Hat Charm. Don’t miss the new Moana and Toy Story charms too. They are selling fast, so you’ll need to be quick to secure your favourites!
Tricks up their sleeves
If your kids are inspired to become master illusionists themselves, pop into Starlings. They have a fantastic, secret selection of pocket-money magic tricks, classic card decks, and illusion kits perfect for beginners looking to master their first sleight-of-hand before school starts again!
Something sweet for grown-ups
Why not round your day off with a Raspberry Candy fizz at Everyman? Each one is topped with a cloud of Candy Floss floating above your sparkling fizz. Super sweet and truly Instagrammable.
Don’t miss our showstopping event! arc Presents ‘The Greatest Summer Show’!
Once you’ve gathered your magical supplies, it’s time to experience the real thing live! If you are compiling a list of the top things to do in Bury St Edmunds during the Summer, make sure this is at the very top.
We are bringing one of the most exciting free events in Suffolk straight to Charter Square. The circus is coming to town for three whole days of incredible, interactive entertainment from Tuesday 18th to Thursday 20th August. Here is what we have in store:
Tuesday 18th August: (11am, 12:30pm, 2pm & 3pm): Test your hand at our Circus Skills Workshops. Plus, get into the spirit with free face painting and complimentary candy floss!
Wednesday 19th August: Prepare to be amazed by mind-bending Magic Shows (12pm & 2pm), marvel at our mesmerising Giant Bubble Show (11am, 12:45pm & 2:30pm), and test your strength against our touring Strong Man!
Thursday 20th August: (11am, 12:30pm, 2pm & 3pm): Master your circus talents with another day of workshops, face painting, and jaw-dropping performances from our Aerial Hoop Artists and colourful Stilt Walkers as they bring Charter Square to life.
There is no need to book, simply turn up, soak in the atmosphere, and let the Greatest Summer Show begin!
Visit us at arc Bury St Edmunds today to grab your magical essentials and enjoy the ultimate Summer experience right here in Suffolk.
We’ll see you at the circus gates this August!
