Feeling peckish?

- 22 peckishFeeling ?

After you’ve seen the sights and worked up an appetite building sandcastles, it’s time to experience another of Southwold’s renowned attractions – the food and drink. Here is a selection of the best places to go...

In town

THE BLACK OLIVE DELICATESSEN

Forgotten your picnic? No problem, The Black Olive has everything you could need for a decadent lunch to take to the dunes with you. A scrumptious selection of fresh salads, pastries, pies, sausage rolls and cheeses with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. 80A-80B High Street, IP18 6

SUTHERLAND HOUSE

If you’re after somewhere for date night, Sutherland House provides adult-only fine dining from Tuesdays to Saturdays. The menu is predominantly seafood and plant-based, with food miles printed alongside each dish so you can see how local the ingredients are. Advanced booking and getting suited and booted is highly recommended. 56 High Street, IP18 6DN

THE LITTLE FISH & CHIP SHOP

NINEDELI

Opened in 2020 ninedeli serves fabulous locally roasted coffee, freshly made sandwiches and delicious home-baked cakes. The emphasis here is very much on the quality of produce and service which is why ninedeli has quickly become established as a firm favourite in town. 9 Pinkeys Lane, IP18 6EW

HARRIS & JAMES

If you’re after a quick bite while out and about shopping but still want a taste of the seaside, head to the Little Fish & Chip Shop. Part of the Sole Bay Fish Co, this cheerful blue building offers fresh fish and chips to take away. Traditionally cooked in beef dripping, the batter is crispy and utterly delicious, but sadly not vegetarian-friendly. 2 East Street, IP18 6EH >>

If, like us, you feel a day on the coast isn’t complete without an ice cream, Harris & James is the place to go. This tiny shop’s ice cream, gelato, authentic churros and other desserts are well worth queuing for. Generous portions and a wide selection of flavours means you’ll be back to try them all. 11 East Street, IP18 6EH

By the beach

THE SAIL LOFT

This café-bar and restaurant is an easy escape from Southwold’s cosmopolitan high street, situated right next to the beach. Promising a warm welcome and hearty food, head here for a relaxed lunch, dinner, brunch or just for drinks. There is a seasonal, artisan menu of comfort food using local ingredients, and a great selection of specialist coffees, craft ales, wines and spirits. 53 Ferry Road, IP18 6HQ

LORD NELSON

This nautically decorated seafront pub is a firm local favourite and is the perfect place for a pint after a long walk on the beach. As an Adnams pub, of course it serves Adnams beer, as well as gorgeous dishes packed with locally-sourced ingredients – be sure to try their renowned fish and chips. 42 East Street, IP18 6EJ

Countryside cuisine

THE PITSTOP

Is there more of an indulgent treat than a cooked breakfast? Rumour has it The Pitstop serves up the best all-day breakfasts and brunches in town – what better way to set yourself up for a day of exploring. Tucked away on Southwold Common, this secluded spot is a hidden gem with plenty of space and wonderful facilities for little ones including toys and climbing frames. York Road, IP18 6AN

OLD HALL CAFÉ

This welcoming café provides locally sourced, homecooked food and stunning surroundings to match. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the café’s glass wall means you have uninterrupted views across the marshes to the river Blyth. Use this as a starting point before or after a stroll, or while visiting the infamous Maize Maze. Halesworth Road, Reydon, IP18 6SG

At the harbour

MRS T’S FISH & CHIPS

If you find yourself at the harbour, grabbing some fish and chips from Mrs T’s to eat by the water is an absolute must. Widely lauded as the best fish and chips in the area, the fish is freshly caught and cooked to order. With plenty of outdoor seating you can relax and watch the comings and goings of the harbour while you wait. (Please note: cash only). Blackshore, IP18 6TA HARBOUR CAFÉ

Sat on one of the best people-watching spots in Southwold, the Harbour Café serves tasty home cooked food, teas and coffees. Enjoy the views over the river and marshes, or have a nosey at next door’s harbour workshop if that’s what floats your boat. With vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, everyone is catered for. Blackshore, IP18 6TA