When you want to catch the light of a new winter’s day before anyone else, East Suffolk is the place to do it. Because it’s here, in the UK’s most easterly point, that the sun rises first turning everything golden – silently and without fanfare.
Which is an appropriate metaphor for this unsung part of Suffolk, in truth. The region has plenty to boast about: a stunning heritage coastline dotted with Martello towers; epoch-spanning military history; the most important Anglo-Saxon buried treasure ever found. Not to mention two designated Dark Sky Sites, Ed Sheeran’s actual Castle on the Hill and a beguiling collection of myths and stories, including a fascinating UFO trail.
Yet, to many people, East Suffolk slips quietly under the radar (much like its famous UFO). The upside to this is there is no over tourism here, especially in the winter months, so you can weekend amongst the area’s traditional seaside towns and Tudor-brick villages peacefully and quietly. All the more reason to ‘find time for’ East Suffolk, don’t you think?
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Winter Weekend Breaks in East Suffolk
A WEEKEND IN ALDEBURGH, EAST SUFFOLK
For a cultured and unhurried beach break
Pic credit: Penny Bun
There’s one thing you can’t escape from in the former Tudor port of Aldeburgh: the beach. This huge sweep of shingle and sand, is probably the most famous of all Suffolk’s beaches. It backs right up to the town itself, is fringed by a string of pastel-colour villas and comes dotted with fresh seafood huts. Unsurprisingly, Aldeburgh’s second most famous attraction is its delicious fish and chips – served by some of the best chippies in the land. The town also boasts a thriving art scene and one very famous past resident: composer Benjamin Britten.
Best for: Unhurried visitors who want good art, good seafood, and big open skies.
Do this: On North beach you’ll find a four-metre high ‘Scallop’ designed by celebrated Suffolk-born Maggi Hambling. Take a slow beach walk to see it and you won’t be disappointed. Made entirely of steel by Aldeburgh craftsmen, the sculpture is a striking sight, inscribed with the words “I hear those voices that will not be drowned”, taken from Britten’s famous opera Grimes.
Don’t miss: East Suffolk’s creative hub, Snape Maltings. Snape Maltings sits on the bank of the River Alde, surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just six miles from Aldeburgh. This creative campus – made up of a collection of Victorian industrial buildings – includes one of the world’s finest acoustic concert halls, performance venues, shops, galleries, and a restaurant. It was established by Benjamin Britten who set out to create a place for international performances, education, and community engagement.
Tuck in: To the best fish and chips in Britain, probably. Located a short walk from Aldeburgh Beach, Aldeburgh Fish & Chips is a traditional family-run shop that’s been serving some of the UK’s finest chips since 1967. Their secret? Chips made from locally-sourced spuds and fried the traditional way: in beef dripping.
Stay here: The Brudenell Hotel with panoramic views of the sea. One of East Suffolk’s most enticing seaside boltholes, The Brudenell Hotel is so close to the shore you can hear the waves breaking on the beach if you leave the windows open. Expect nautically stylish rooms – crisp white decor with ocean-colour accents; impeccable service, friendly staff and 24/7 views of the changing lights and moods of the North Sea.
Winter Weekend Breaks in East Suffolk
A WEEKEND IN SOUTHWOLD, EAST SUFFOLK
For a quintessentially British seaside staycation
Southwold is a beautiful little town, unspoilt by shopping centres or fast food outlets, that’s been long favoured by London’s ‘it’ crowd, as well as artists and writers (George Orwell lived here). Part of Southwold’s appeal as a short break destination is its easy-to-explore size, its wonderful Victorian architecture and the way the town evokes an authentic sandwiches and sandcastles seaside feel. There are, of course, plenty of 21st-century pleasures for you in the form of cool pubs, quaint streets with dreamy shops and a range of top-class restaurants (should you crave an upmarket bite).
Best for: Nostalgia seekers who love traditional piers and postcard-pretty beach huts.
Do this: Walk the historic Pier and play some zany seaside games. Southwold Pier was refurbished in 2005 and offers a range shops, eating places and amusements, including modern computer games and traditional two-penny pushers. The pier is open every day and free to enter. We love the zany Under the Pier Show, created by local eccentric, Tim Hunkin. Here you’ll find all kinds of wild and wonderful interactive machines. Be sure not to miss the half-hour pee show at Hunkin’s Water Clock. It’ll make you chuckle.
Don’t miss: A tour of Southwold’s working lighthouse. Southwold’s lighthouse is, unsurprisingly, hard to miss. It stands at 31 metres tall by Southwold Harbour and is still in operation today, guiding vessels along the East Coast as it has done since 1887. This Grade II listed building is a much-loved local landmark, so a tour is a must when you’re weekending here. The tour is run by local brewery Adnams and gives you a fascinating insight into its history. Make sure you climb to the top for some unmissable views; you can always pop to Adnams Distillery for a gin reward afterwards.
Tuck in: Sutherland House Hotel and Restaurant is located on Southwold High Street and is a true historic gem. The house dates from 1450 and many of the original features are still visible, including the pargetted ceilings (circa 1660), original foot-wide elm floorboards (circa 1450) and a medieval window. Go here for the heritage, stay for the incredible food: Sutherland House also boasts 2 AA rosettes.
Stay here: Michelin Key holder, The Swan Hotel. This stylish and contemporary hotel sits proudly on Southwold marketplace and has been welcoming guests for over 350 years. It’s anchored to Adnams Brewery and Distillery and boasts Georgian architecture, splendid colourful rooms and world-class food. It is also one of only two hotels in East Anglia to receive a prestigious Michelin Key.
Winter Weekend Breaks in East Suffolk
A WEEKEND IN WOODBRIDGE, EAST SUFFOLK
For a happy reset away from the modern world
Many people hold a soft spot for Woodbridge. Recently, it topped Rightmove’s list of “the happiest places to live in the UK”; of course East Suffolk locals have long been aware that it’s a special place. Set on the River Deben, this jolly riverside market town is full of yesteryear charm: winding lanes, old cosy pubs, a three-storey tide mill (still in working order), book shops and tea rooms. Go here for peaceful wandering around the town and along the river, safe in the knowledge that there is no mainline into or out of London… so, it’s not as busy as you might expect.
Best for: Quiet, contemplative wanderings along riverside paths and winding lanes.
Do this: Walk beside the River Deben, ending at the Tide Mill Living Museum. The Tide Mill has stood on the bank of the River Deben for over 850 years. It is one of the country’s first and last working tide mills – and fully worth a visit. Perhaps follow the river wall for a walk along the River Deben first, spotting wading birds as you go. Then head for the museum – it’s an excellent place to learn about the local history and see the mill machinery up close.
Don’t miss: The greatest archaeological discoveries of all time, Sutton Hoo.The awe-inspiring Anglo-Saxon burial site of Sutton Hoo is only a 10-minute drive out of Woodbridge. But that’s not the reason to go. This burial mound, with an Anglo-Saxon ship interred inside, represents the most impressive medieval grave to be discovered in Europe. Owned by the National Trust, the 255-acre site boasts an award-winning exhibition with a full-size reconstruction of the ship’s burial chamber. Inside you can also discover the history of the burial and the treasured possessions found with the ship, learn about the archaeological work that took place and visit the High Hall exhibition to see replica and original objects.
Tuck in: The Unruly Pig, just outside of Woodbridge in Bromeswell, must have one hell of a trophy cabinet. Not only is this traditional pub Michelin Guide-listed, it was named top on Estrella Damm’s gastropub list and has a host of other culinary awards to its name as well. Expect cosy log burners, original oak beams, sloping ceilings, Wi-Fi and an eclectic mixture of pop and local art. Head here after a visit to Sutton Hoo for a Sunday Roast that is definitely royal standard.
Stay here: In a luxury converted Martello tower. The 360-degree views from the top of Found Tower are jaw-dropping, whatever time of day it is. This converted 19th-Century Martello tower sits on the shores of the Deben Peninsula, standing guard just in case Napoleonic forces emerge from the mists of time. After a stylish renovation, it now offers a luxury self-catering retreat for up to 6 guests – but, as you might expect, a stay here doesn’t come cheap.
Winter Weekend Breaks in East Suffolk
A WEEKEND IN FRAMLINGHAM, EAST SUFFOLK
For a historic trip back in time
Kings and queens have been coming to Framlingham ever since the Norman invasion. In fact, it was in the town’s impressive Norman castle, a few centuries after it was built, that Mary Tudor gathered tens of thousands of troops and declared herself queen. Today, the castle is the centrepiece of this vibrant market town, standing on a hill above the half-timbered, Regency and Georgian facades of the cottages and town houses. Fortunately, the bloody sieges that would’ve once characterised Framlingham have now been replaced by friendly locals, wildlife watching and summer concerts. So, you can leave your suit of armour at home.
Best for: Stories of knights and princesses and delightful historical walks.
Do this: Follow the fascinating town trail taking in Framlington’s most interesting sights, including the Ducking Pond where a large number of witch trials took place in the 17th Century. Make sure you also visit Saint Michael’s church where you can see the tomb of Henry Fitzroy – the illegitimate son of Henry VIII.
Don’t miss: The real-life ‘Castle on the Hill’ – Framlingham Castle – made famous by Ed Sheeran (the singer grew up in the town). Framlingham Castle was built by the Bigod family in the 12th century and has had quite a history. Walk around the castle’s interior curtain which still exists, taking in the fabulous views of the 34-acre Mere wetlands, then visit the interactive exhibition to discover more about the castle’s history.
Tuck in: Credited in the Michelin Guide, Watson and Walpole sits in the heart of town and is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. You’ll get thoughtful, friendly service and some of the most delicious, authentic Italian food in East Anglia. For a more casual bite, head around the back of Watson and Walpole to Beviamo, a cool, informal space serving pizza by the slice from the wood-fired oven.
Stay here: the historic Crown Hotel. Dating from 1553, this coaching inn served weary travellers making the journey between Ipswich and Norwich. Inside you’ll find hearty food, a warm welcome, exposed beams and a comfy bed in rooms with original character. Find it at the top of market hill.
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