How to see dragons and dinosaurs in West Suffolk this summer

29 Apr 2025

Families can get up close to dragons and dinosaurs this summer as mythical and prehistoric beasts stomp their way into West Suffolk.

Fresh from its slumber, a brand-new unnamed dragon will be stretching its wings at Dragon Fest at West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village this June. It’s the 10th year of the family friendly event which gives children an insight into Anglo-Saxon beliefs and stories, as well as exploring how dragons have become a theme embedded in cultures from around the world.

And there will be dinosaurs galore in the Prehistoric Beasts: Land, Sea and Sky exhibition which opens at Moyse’s Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds town centre this Saturday (3 May).

Both Dragon Fest and Prehistoric Beasts have been organised by West Suffolk Council which manages the two venues.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure said: “We are delighted to be bringing these two spectacular events to West Suffolk for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“Like many other cultures, the Anglo-Saxons believed in the existence of dragons. Dragon Fest is a wonderful day out for families and a great way to give young children a fun insight into the lives of the Anglo-Saxons. 

“This year there’s also a chance to meet our new dragon and help us discover its name. We will also have pet dragons Brym and Snarl Junior with their handlers, alongside a chance to try archery, axe throwing and much more.

“And we’re very much looking forward to opening our Prehistoric Beasts exhibition this weekend. Whether it’s the T-Rex skull with its massive teeth, the triceratops with its horns or the skeletons of a younger T-Rex and velociraptor, these prehistoric beasts continue to fascinate people of all ages.”

Prehistoric Beasts: Land, Sea and Sky opens on 3 May and is on until 5 October. Advanced booking is recommended. Details can be found on the Moyse's Hall Museum website. 

Dragon Fest takes place on Saturday 21 June and Sunday 22 June. For more details including advanced booking discounts visit the West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village website. 

Families can access both Moyse’s Hall and the Anglo-Saxon Village throughout the year through a heritage ticket – details can be found on the West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village website.  

Both events are delivered as part of the council's strategic priority for Thriving Communities which includes cultural and educational activities.

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