5 minute read
Aldeburgh
THORPENESS
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This fairytale inspired holiday village was dreamt up in the early 1900s and thanks to careful conservation it still holds its magical charm today, with many mock Tudor houses and unexpected surprises to be found around The Meare.
Don’t miss: Finding Neverland on the Peter Pan themed boating lake, boat rentals available from spring through to the end of summer. Teeing off on the challenging 18 hole championship course followed by afternoon tea at The Meare Tearoom. Modern British cuisine at The Dolphin Inn. An almighty fry-up at The Kitchen@Thorpeness. Searching out vintage and antique treasures at The Emporium. Catching the windmill turning - public access is very limited but if you catch it open it’s a special sight. Perfect beach for: Spotting some amber or seaglass. Did you know: The House in the Clouds is a former water tower built in 1923. The house was added at the top of the tower to make it blend in with other properties in the village.
The Meare Shop & Tearoom, Thorpeness
thorpenesstearoom.com
Teas, Cream Teas, Toasties, Quiches, Ice Cream, Gifts, Duck Food (Quack!) Plus, wonderful views of Thorpeness Meare
THE FOUR FOOT FERRIES OF SUFFOLK
Where the rivers Orwell, Deben, Alde and Blyth beautifully (though maybe a bit inconveniently for walkers and cyclists taking the coastal paths) interrupt the coastline at Harwich, Bawdsey, Butley and Walberswick, there are local foot ferries on hand to transport you across the water.
For generations, ferry men and women have carried passengers, some by paddle power alone, in small rowing boats across the rivers. These crossings are well worth experiencing at least once during a stay in Suffolk.
ALDEBURGH
A bustling seaside town with a great independent high street, located at the edge of the shingle beach, which is dotted with colourful boats and fish huts selling freshly caught seafood.
Don’t miss: Touring The Red House, where composer Benjamin Britten lived and worked for the last two decades of his life. A tour of Fisher’s Gin Distillery. A film at Aldeburgh Cinema, the historic building has been screening films since 1919. Moot Hall, one of the best-preserved Tudor public buildings in Britain, home to the small Aldeburgh Museum. Artwork from an ever-changing collection of weekly residential artists in The Lookout on the beach. Renting an E-bike from EezyBike and exploring the coast. Spending the night in the Martello Tower, a fort built to defend against Napoleon in the early 1800s. Pottering in the great range of independent shops. Salt and vinegar sprinkled over hot fish and chips then eaten on the sea wall. Exotic Indian cuisine combined with Suffolk produce at Sea Spice at The White Lion Hotel. Mouthwatering pastries from Two Magpies Bakery. Dinner with a sea view at The Wentworth Hotel or The Brudenell. Perfect beach for: Watching the local fishermen bringing in their catch while you skim stones over the waves.
Based in the seaside town of Aldeburgh, Fishers is the closest Gin Distillery to the sea in the UK and has quickly become one of Suffolk’s most magnetic attractions. Home to the UK’s first-ever London Dry Smoked Gin, the Distillery is open for pre-booked tours and tastings throughout the year. Learn about the unique locally foraged wild herbs and coastal botanicals that go into Fishers Gin, make your own botanical tea, and enjoy a tutored tasting and cocktails in the stunning Coastal Room overlooking the North Sea. Fishers offer a range of tours, from Seasonal Tours and Tastings to Lunch or Supper Tours, championing the finest local food producers.
Please call Fishers Gin or visit their website for more details.
FISHERS GIN DISTILLERY
Fishers Gin Distillery, Crag Path, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BT T. 01728 454201 / www.fishersgin.com
THE RED HOUSE
The Red House was home to Benjamin Britten (1913-1976), one of the greatest composers of the twentieth century. He shared this home with Peter Pears, his inspiration and life partner for nearly two decades. Lovingly preserved, the house holds an extensive collection of art, books and artifacts to view, alongside the beautiful surrounding gardens with The Red Hut Garden café. Throughout the year enjoy seasonal exhibitions, family-friendly events and stories from The Archive.
The Red House, Golf Lane, Aldeburgh IP15 5PZ T. 01728 687110 / www.brittenpearsarts.org
THE MILL INN
Eat with us, drink with us, stay with us. The Mill Inn is a traditional seafront inn opposite the famous Moot Hall in Aldeburgh. Having weathered many a storm over the last 200 years, it offers a warm welcome to visitors, with roaring log fires in the winter, fabulous Adnams ales and wines, and great homecooked comfort food. Famous for its in-house American smoking oven, the king ribs and smoked beef brisket are a must the next time you take a trip to Aldeburgh. The Mill Inn welcomes dogs and children and holds regular live music and food evenings. Also available for private hire for group gatherings. Not to be missed, our new Boutique B&B sea-view rooms. A warm welcome awaits you.
Mill Inn, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ T. 01728 452563 / www.millinnaldeburgh.co.uk
RILEY & RILEY FINE JEWELLERY
Situated in a fabulous central location in the beautiful coastal town of Aldeburgh, is the gem that is Riley & Riley. Headed up by gemmologist and jeweller Mark Riley, this totally independent jewellers is an enticing mix of the traditional and the eclectic. With a workshop on site, Mark makes some stunning pieces, including the famous and unique ‘Aldeburgh Pebbles®’ and the mink coloured diamond ring (pictured). Big range of wedding rings, gem rings, amber and silver, plus antique and period pieces.
122-124 High Street, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5AB T. 01728 452431 / www.rileyandriley.co.uk
WAG & BONE
Wag & Bone, the little Dog Boutique, is an Aladdin’s Cave for your canine companion! Filled with beautiful collars, leads, harnesses, coats, toys and healthy treats, all from carefully chosen brands, and other essentials. A warm and personal service awaits, with someone on hand for some friendly advice if required. Don’t forget to bring the dog as you’ll be encouraged to try things for size and even road (or pavement!) test for comfort, style and practicality... and of course every dog gets a treat!
