The Town

The delightful seaside town of Southwold can justly claim to be an oasis of calm and charm in an increasingly stressful and volatile world. It lies at the centre of the Suffolk Heritage Coast, an area of outstanding natural beauty that is a paradise for the walker and the nature lover, but which also has plenty to offer to anyone looking for a memorable and fun-packed holiday away from the hustle and bustle of modern living.

Visiting Southwold is like stepping back in time to an age when life was enjoyed at a much gentler pace. Its architecture is a uniquely attractive blend of styles, some with a distinctly Dutch and Flemish influence. Picture-postcard houses are grouped around the famous greens, with something to catch the eye and have you reaching for your camera around every corner.

The town, home to the famous Adnams brewery, is dominated by the 100ft-flint tower of a glorious 15th century church and by the much-photographed working lighthouse. The impressive High Street is lined with interesting, high-class shops and there is a generous scattering of characterful pubs selling a wide range of delicious food and drink. The multi-coloured beach huts on the promenade look down on the award-winning beach and the recently completed Southwold Pier is a much-loved addition to the attractions. A short walk to the south of the town lies the picturesque harbour at the mouth of the River Blyth, a haven for boat lovers and an ideal place to buy freshly landed fish or master the art of crabbing. The pretty village of Walberswick is just across the river.

All this makes Southwold a great place to stay. But the town is also an ideal base for exploring the many other delights of East Anglia. Less than ten miles to the north is the Suffolk Wildlife Park at Kessingland. Beyond that is the Pleasurewood Hills theme park. And the fine city of Norwich and the magnificent Norfolk Broads are also within easy reach. To the south lies the fascinating village of Dunwich, once the capital of East Anglia, and nearby is Minsmere, one of the RSPB’s premier bird reserves. Further down the coast are the charming seaside towns of Aldeburgh, Orford and Woodbridge. A few miles beyond the county town of Ipswich, you can explore Constable Country. And historic Lavenham, the best-preserved medieval town in Britain, is a pleasant car journey away.

All this adds up to a holiday destination that truly is the best of British. People who visit Southwold almost always return for more. Come and join us and find out why they love it so much!