Be truly local in Suffolk

Unspoilt stretches of coastline, toe-tickling tides and the quiet bob of anchored fishing boats lining the harbour – where better to enjoy some quality time away than Suffolk?

With charming countryside villages, as well as miles of beautiful coastline to explore, it’s every peace-seeker’s dream.

A magical place

A magical region with so much diversity - from marshy fenland to watery Broadland - Suffolk’s home to some of the country’s most unique landscapes and natural habitats.

Pretty fishing villages line a number of the coast’s most treasured beaches, while miles of rolling green countryside - and some of the best spots to lay your picnic blanket down - offer lovers of the great outdoors the perfect excuse to get out in the open. Whether it’s a day trip navigating the tranquil waterways of the Suffolk Broads, or an afternoon sampling some of the region's finest ales and beers on the Adnams local brewery tour, there’s so much to see and do.

As the summer slowly slips away and the air begins to cool, the countryside comes alive with colour. Kick your way through the fallen reds and yellows of autumn leaves on quiet, countryside trails or enjoy the fresh sea breeze making its way inland on one of the region’s award-winning beaches. Whatever you do in Suffolk, we know you’ll love it as much as we do.

Places to visit

Sutton Hoo

History in a hill – discover one of the most internationally important archaeological sites ever found, Sutton Hoo. An ancient Anglo-Saxon burial site, there's also an exhibition which holds everything from a 1400-year-old ship to a glistening display of replica treasures to help you better understand the mysteries that lay faceless beneath the earth for centuries.

Framlingham castle

Dubbed ‘the castle on the hill’ this once fearsome fortress from the late 12th Century is still very much intact today. Explore towering stone walls, taste tudor-inspired treats at the cafe and learn about the place Bloody Mary Queen of Scots was proclaimed Queen of England.

And, if you go to the nearby village, you might get lucky and spot Ed Sheeran dipping back into his old hometown for a quick visit.

Southwold

One of Suffolk's most famous spots, Southwold - although small and very traditional - has tons to do. Take your pick from a variety of welcoming, old pubs for lunch and a quick pint, enjoy some freshly-caught seafood while you sit by the pier, or treat yourself to a tour of the famous Adnams Brewery, right in the centre of town. But be sure to book in advance – it’s becoming increasingly popular.

Walberswick

Close by, but lesser-known to tourists than Southwold, uncover a real Suffolk gem. A few miles south lies the picturesque coastal village of Walberswick. With serene, shallow waters, beautiful sand and shingle beaches and pretty wooden holiday huts lining the coast, escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to the very best locations. During Autumn, take a bracing walk along the beach, have a warming cup of cocoa at the cafe and finish with a piping, hot dish at the village’s favourite fish and chip shop, the Sole Bay Fish Co.

The Broads

The one most have heard of but no one should miss – the Suffolk Broads. Wind your way through its watery labyrinth on board a day-hire boat. Then discover unique wildlife, while enjoying a hearty lunch of regional, seasonal food from one of the Broads’ many riverside pubs.

Martello Tower

Just a few hundred metres down the pebbled beach at Aldeburgh, discover the historic Martello Tower. Situated between the River Alde and the North Sea - and stood right at the foot of Orford Ness peninsula - this imposing structure was once used as a vantage point to keep Napoleon at bay. Today, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding Suffolk coastline and was also home to one of Anthony Gormley’s full size, cast-iron sculptures for a year.

Places to eat

If you fancy yourself a bit of a foodie, then you’ll love Suffolk. Food’s really important to the people here, so you won’t have too much trouble finding somewhere decent to hastily stuff a napkin down the front of your shirt and tuck in.

Here’s a couple of our truly local favourites:

The Lord Nelson

A welcome pitstop after a tour of the brewery, you can enjoy another pint of Adnams, this time accompanied by a delicious local meal. Cosy both inside and out, this comfortable pub is a must when visiting Southwold.

East Coast Diner

With a hint of U.S inspiration, this stripped back diner offers everything from chunky cheeseburgers to hot dogs, pizzas and shakes. And with a monumental mixture of cocktails to make your way through too, you could spend all day (and night) in a cool hangout like this one in Woodbridge.

Truly local Suffolk

Suffolk has something for everyone. Whether it’s a week of complete countryside relaxation or a coastal town crawl you’re looking for, our truly local knowledge will help you to uncover the unexpected in Suffolk.