If you’re planning a trip to East Anglia, Suffolk should be the first place on your list. Besides being greeted by a county with stunning natural beauty, thought-provoking history and heaps of culture, you’ll also find plenty of gambling hotspots in this idyllic part of the UK.
The gambling laws in the UK are some of the most relaxed in the world. Almost every form of gambling is legal, from gaming in land-based venues like casinos and betting shops to placing bets online.
These laws will allow you to enjoy gambling on the county’s biggest draw – horse racing – in the flesh or remotely. In order to gamble, players must be 18 and, if visiting a land-based gambling establishment, must produce a valid form of ID if requested to.
Almost every form is covered, with casino games like poker and blackjack, to online betting on horse racing and football, all available. Though it’s perhaps not the first name that springs to mind when you think of gambling in the UK, Suffolk boasts several opportunities for those visiting who fancy a flutter.
Here’s your unmissable guide to the best places to gamble during your stay in this beautiful part of the world.
Did you know? The Nutshell pub in Bury St Edmunds is officially the smallest pub in the UK at just 15 foot by 7 foot.
Where are the best casinos in Suffolk?
Suffolk doesn’t boast a land-based casino like other counties across the UK, but you’ll find a quality establishment just across the border where you can enjoy traditional casino games.
If you’re looking for the real excitement of a casino, you can’t go wrong at Grosvenor Casino Great Yarmouth – a modern chain with casino tables of all varieties, plus slot games. Established in 1970, Grosvenor has around 55 casinos in major cities across the UK. In Great Yarmouth, you’ll find roulette, blackjack and poker tables – plus around 200 slot machines where players can be immersed in the best new releases.
Located on Marine Parade, in the elegant Shadingfield Lodge, the casino has a plush interior to match its impressive surroundings. Having said that, the gaming environment is relaxed indoors.
Before trying your luck in the Grosvenor, it would be prudent to get to grips with the various casino games online. You can practice your skills prior to visiting. Today you’ll find a whole host of games are available to play over the web, where you can join other gamblers in having a flutter in the online equivalents of casino classics. With high-quality graphics, an authentic casino environment is available at your fingertips when you play online roulette at an exceptional gambling operator. We definitely recommend you do this before taking to the wheel at the Grosvenor – it could make all the difference to your chances of success.
Did you know? Charles Dickens’ novel The Pickwick Papers was inspired by the author’s visits to Bury St Edmunds on holiday. Visitors can even sleep in the same room as Dickens once did at the Angel Hotel.
Where’s the best place to bet on horse racing in Suffolk?
The British monarchy has left an indelible mark on all aspects of British culture. Nowhere is this more evident than in Suffolk. Over 350 years ago, King Charles II travelled to a small town in Suffolk called Newmarket.
Once there, the King commanded that a horse racing course should be established there in his name. In 1666 the King’s three-mile, the six-furlong round course was first run.
As the first modern racecourse of its kind, it attracted interest locally and nationally. As a result, the reputation of the Newmarket racing course has grown considerably through the centuries.
After the success of the first meeting at Newmarket, King Charles II signed a decree commanding that the race be ran ‘forever’. Newmarket has thus far kept to this agreement, continuing to stage events, even through both World Wars.
Newmarket is home of the Guineas & July festival. For anyone with even a slight interest in horse racing, this world-famous sporting venue is a must-visit when visiting Suffolk. Aside from the main events, there are regular meets held at Newmarket.
Did you know? Suffolk isn’t just home to one of the most famous horse racing venues in the world. It is also home to JK Rowling’s literary wizard Harry Potter. The Boy Who Lived was born in Godric’s Hollow, inspired by the village of Lavenham.
Where’s the best place for poker in Suffolk?
In-keeping with Suffolk’s middle England vibe, the poker scene in the county has a distinctly ‘small-time’ feel to it. While there are casinos that offer various poker nights and tournaments, the best card games can be found in cosy, traditional pubs.
The Ipswich Pub Poker League has been operating for several years and attracts plenty of skilled players throughout the year. Prize money has been known to rise as high as £10,000. If you were expecting low stakes, you’d be wrong, there’s plenty of chances to scoop the pot.
If the Ipswich Poker League isn’t your cup of tea, then you can try out the Nuts Poker League, which has a similar business model. This tournament does tend to attract a higher level of player. If you’re a poker novice this may not be the best place to start out. However, if you’re a seasoned player, looking for some competition, check it out.
Did you know? Eric Arthur Blair, also known as George Orwell took his literary surname from the River Orwell in Suffolk.
Where can I bet on sports in Suffolk?
Just like the rest of the UK, the streets of Suffolk’s towns have plenty of sports betting shops. In most of these venues you can bet on horse racing, football, rugby and several other sports.
If you’re looking to combine sports betting with live action, head to Portman Road to cheer on Ipswich Town FC. You can enjoy betting in-stadium while cheering on the Tractor Boys as they do battle on the field. Kiosks are located before you enter the seating areas of the stadium and offer betting on the game and several other fixtures played that day.
Did you know? Ness Point in Lowestoft is the farthest East you can go in the UK and boasts stunning sunset views.
Summary
Suffolk is an enchanting county that is waiting to be discovered by gambling enthusiasts both domestic and internationally. There are is plenty to do in Suffolk – that’s what makes it a county that caters for those of all tastes and interests, including gambling.
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