The beautiful sandy beach, backed by colourful beach huts, makes the heritage seaside town of Southwold the perfect destination for any traditional beach lovers. The lighthouse, Victorian Pier and cliff-top cannon will keep both the little and big kids entertained for hours whilst the large sandy beach is the perfect spot to while away the day with a deck chair, ice cream and a game of bat and ball.
If you are looking to get a bit more off the beaten track, head across the river Blyth to the delightful coastal village of Walberswick. The unspoilt sand dunes, untamed beach and miles of heath and marshland makes Walberswick a charming retreat at any time of the year. Kids will love crabbing in the harbour whilst nature enthusiasts will be wowed by the abundance of wildlife in the 1,000 acres of marshland, mudflats and meadows that surround the river estuary. It’s an easy three-mile stroll along the Suffolk Coastal Path between Southwold and Walberswick. In the summer months you can cross the River Blyth on a foot passenger ferry. For those who want to stretch their legs further you can carry along the coastal path to the National Trust’s Dunwich Heath and Beach and the Minsmere RSPB Nature Reserve.
Alternatively, the colourful boats dotted along the beach, fisherman’s huts teaming with the catch of the day and the infamous art festivals and art deco cinema makes the pretty seaside town of Aldeburgh the perfect getaway for city dwellers who want a healthy dose of salty sea air whilst not straying too far from a bit of culture and sophistication. Home to Benjamin Britten, any historians or musicians will be fascinated by a trip to the Red House whilst artists will love the four metre high scallop shell on the beach.
If you are looking for a peaceful fishing village with an interesting twist head further south to the pretty village of Orford. Combining seaside charm, wild beauty and historical character there is plenty to keep the keenest of explorers entertained here. Once a bustling port, Orford is now separated from the sea by a vast shingle spit which is made up of waterways, lagoons and marshland, making it perfect for dog walks, river cruises or simply blowing the cobwebs away. Discover some fascinating facts about 20th century military history at the Orford Ness National Nature Reserve, explore the maze of passages at Orford Castle or treat yourself to some freshly caught oysters at Pinney’s of Orford.
Located just a couple of hours from London, it is easy to see why so many people love to holiday in our Suffolk holiday cottages by the sea. The picturesque villages and quirky towns, beautiful beaches and wonderful wildlife, fascinating history and charming coastal pubs all make the stunning Suffolk coast a perfect location for a very happy holiday.