VISIT
SOUTHWOLD
Southwold is a seaside town full of charm and character. Its pier, recently renovated, becomes the key feature of this part of the coastline, with restaurants and boutique stores galore, its a relaxing place to while away an afternoon. The amber museum and lifeboat museum are worth a visit for a spot of local history. Be sure to catch the clock on the pier as the hour strikes so you can see its amusing display.
WHAT TO DO
To get the most out of your visit to Southwold, we’ve selected some of the most popular things to do whilst you’re there.
PLAY IN THE SAND
Enjoy the beautifully sandy beach
Southwold beach stretches from the pier all the way to the harbour, lined with colourful beach huts. A beautifully sandy stretch makes it perfect for families to set up camp for the day and let the kids roam free in the sand. A small area of the beach is patrolled by lifeguards in summer, so be sure to look for the flags if you fancy a swim in the North sea.
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Browse its independent boutiques
Home to Adnams brewery, Southwold high street houses the Adnams store with a large collection of Suffolk made wines, spirits and ales. There are also a plethora of cafes, pubs, art galleries and independent boutiques offering up clothing, shoes, gifts and its famous amber shop – plenty to keep keen shoppers occupied for a few hours.
VISIT THE HARBOUR
Fresh fish and the lifeboat museum
Take a brisk walk south from the main town, either over the golf course beside the marshes or across the dunes to find Southwold harbour. Home of The Harbour Inn and The Lifeboat Museum you can purchase some fresh seafood or hndmade furniture from its rustic outlets, or catch the historic ferry across to Walberswick.
DINING OUT
There are pubs, restaurants, cafes, snack bars and takeaways everywhere you turn in Southwold, so you will have no trouble finding somewhere to eat.
Sole Bay Fish Company
Harbour Inn Southwold
The Sail Loft
The Red Lion
The Lord Nelson
Coasters
The Swan
The Crown
The Black Olive Deli
Adnams Southwold Store and Cafe
Cafe 51
Sole Bay Inn
Don’t miss
Southwold and the surrounding area has much to offer when it comes to annual events that should be a ‘must-do’ in your yearly calendar.
THE SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL
May – June
Choose from historic trails, farming/food trails, coastal walks and more. Each trail has an entry fee and a good range of difficulties are available from short walks to four-day challenge walks. For more information please visit their website: www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk
SOUTHWOLD ARTS FESTIVAL
Late June
Showcasing talent in and around the iconic seaside town the programme features music, theatre, poetry, visual arts, family events, talks, discussions, literature and more. The street fair, lined with stalls features annual fancy dress, themed window displays and live music.
LATITUDE FESTIVAL
July
One of England’s favourite summer festivals, Latitude is a fabulous, multi-arts festival that take place annually at the nearby Henham Park estate. Featuring huge international acts, comedians and fireworks. www.latitudefestival.com
THE GRAND HENHAM STEAM RALLY
September
Each September nearby Henham Park Estate becomes the home of a gigantic steam rally. With entertainment, food stalls and a fantastic display of engines and vehicles from times gone by, this is a great family event. For more information see the website: www.henhamsteamrally.com
GREAT NIGHTS OUT
SOUTHWOLD SUMMER THEATRE
July – September
Hosted at St Edmunds Hall in Southwold the theatre is one of the most popular events held in Southwold in the summer season. Both evening and matinee performances will take place at the hall.
Southwold Christmas Lights Switch On
November
If you’re in the mood for the festivities why not come along and watch Santa turn on the lights in this seaside town.
