The Longshed — Attraction in East Suffolk

Visited for the first time as my Daughter had won 2nd place in an art competition so her work was on show at the gallery upstairs. My Husband met a really interesting American gentleman who was one of the volunteers meticulously working on the replica boat and showed him around as well as telling him so many interesting facts about the history plus the laborious but fulfilling task of sourcing the wood for the replica. My Daughter (6) and I got chatting to another volunteet who showed us the replica tools that they used to make the replica and the same techniques such as the handmade wooden pegs that hold the boat together along with how they made and used the metal rivets. So very interesting and hopefully they may get her finished and launched in the next couple of years of so, so my Daughter could be old enough then to be one of the rowers! To help the project, we have donations as well as purchasing some memorabilia from the gift shop. Thoroughly worth a visit, either followed up or after going to Sutton Hoo, where the original boat was found. It is free to enter but they rely on kind donations to carry on their...

We found this by chance but I was so glad we had! We had watched a programme about the building of the replica of the Sutton Hoo burial ship but had no idea we were staying only a few miles away from where it was being built. If you are interested in history and experimental archaeology, then this is definitely for you! Although it's really interesting even if you're not! Volunteers were on hand to share their extensive knowledge of the project and people kept them very busy! It's not a big place, but you can get very close to the ship and there is a viewing gallery upstairs so you can watch the work being done. There's a couple of small gift shops, one of which sells merchandise to help raise money for the project. Free admission but donations are requested. No...

I’ve been following the progress of Sutton Hoo Ships Company since first being made aware of the build from a Time Team documentary a year ago.

The replica Anglo Saxon ship looked impressive on TV, but on entering the Longshed and being up close to it in person… it really does take your breath away and immediately instills a sense of awe and wonder.

Largely staffed by enthusiastic volunteers, the fine craftsmanship in this build is a sight to behold. I was met by Benjamin upon entering and immediately engaged in an easy going conversation regarding this mighty project.

I’ll be back again to see the progress. Such a warm welcome, and thoroughly fascinating.

Dog...