Things to see & do SOUTHWOLD in

Southwold Lighthouse

Wherever you are in the town, chances are you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of this prominent landmark. Standing 37m above sea level, this welcoming sight for sailors and vessels came into operation back in 1890. Although now electrified and unmanned, the lighthouse is still an important guide for the many ships that navigate the east coast daily.

Informative tours of this grade II listed building are run year-round by the Southwold Millenium Foundation and involve a trip up the 113-step spiral staircase to enjoy the expansive views from the top. Tickets can be purchased on the day, directly from the Visitor Centre.

Coastal Voyager

It’s true Southwold is a relaxing, peaceful place to be – but you don’t have to venture far to find more adrenaline-fuelled activities. Thrill seekers will get their fix aboard the Coastal Voyager, a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that boasts high speeds and 400hp. Blow the cobwebs away on an exhilarating 30 minute tour of Solebay – be sure to keep your eyes peeled for harbour

Fun Filled Fishing For All

If you’re looking for a fun filled family day, then a few hours in the fresh air learning about the local area and learning to fish may be a great choice. The excitement of catching your first fish is something you’ll never forget and whether you are young or old it is something to tell your friends about! At The Fisherman and Friends in Southwold there are four options to choose from; beachcasting and surf fishing at Southwold, bass fishing at the River Blyth, sea fishing on Southwold Pier, and last but not least coarse fishing at a local lake. Lessons last between three to four hours and are aimed at providing a fun educational experience. Sessions which prove to be most popular with youngsters and families are at the lake and Pier, but anglers of all abilities will find them just as rewarding. Contact The Fisherman and Friends on 01502 722085 or 07717 758935 for details and quote F&F/Community.

porpoises, a variety of sea birds, seals and even the occasional dolphin.

If you prefer a more sedate pace of travel, there are a number of other trips to choose from including a cruise of the river Blythe and a visit to the seals and wind farm at Scroby Sands. www.coastalvoyager.co.uk

Southwold Pier

A day out in Southwold wouldn’t be complete without a trip to this iconic pier, and in fact you could easily spend an entire day solely taking in all 623 feet of fun, entertainment and food on offer here. Stroll to the end for beautiful views across the North Sea and back towards the town, being sure to read some of the infamous plaques and their messages of love, humour and commemoration along the way.

Shoppers will find plenty to browse in the pier’s shops, which are bursting with everything from beach essentials and the work of local artists, to handcrafted gifts and boutique accessories for your home and wardrobe. When hunger strikes, rumbling tummies will be spoilt for choice – whether it’s traditional fish and chips, a special occasion dinner, light lunch or a generous wedge of cake that you fancy, everyone can be catered for in the pier’s three fabulous eateries. If traditional seaside fun is what you’re after, the pier is packed with attractions from end to end. From the amusement arcade and the 80s retro room to the water clock and wacky walk of mirrors, there’s plenty to keep the whole family happy. A visit to the eccentric world of inventor Tim Hunkin’s Under the Pier Show is a must to experience the craziest machines on the coast.

www.southwoldpier.co.uk

Southwold Museum

Head to this unique cottage museum to learn all about the local and natural history of this charming corner of Suffolk. Although housed in a tiny building, the museum is home to an astonishing collection of paintings, models, photos and other artefacts. Find out how Southwold went from Viking occupation, to a busy fishing community to the prosperous seaside resort of today. Entry is free but donations towards the running costs are appreciated.

www.southwoldmuseum.org

Adnams Tours

Southwold is famously the home of Adnams – a beer and spirit producer whose popular products are recognisable across the country. Take a brewery tour at the site where it all began to learn more about how the magic is made. Led by experienced tour guides, you will find out what makes their brews so special before getting the chance to taste some of their creations.

If beer and ale don’t tickle your fancy, how about a distillery tour? This is followed by a tutored tasting of a number of Adnams signature spirits including vodka, gin and whisky.

www.adnams.co.uk

Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum

Full of fascinating artefacts and photographs, this is the perfect place to learn about Southwold’s maritime history. The museum’s namesake was the town’s lifeboat for 25 years between 1893-1918, during which time she was launched 41 times and saves 47 lives.

Please check opening times on the website before visiting. There is no charge for entry but as the museum relies on donations to survive, please consider making a contribution towards this fantastic charitable organisation.

www.alfredcorry.co.uk

Old Hall Southwold

Old Hall Southwold is an award-winning attraction with a fabulous new café providing a day of outdoor play and adventure for the whole family. There’s so much to do! In the summer holidays there are two maize mazes and a pedal go-kart track as well as the large play park* that includes three jumping pillows, a super fast double zip line for older kids, different play frames, two giant sand pits, cradle nest swing, pedal tractors and new for this year we have our water play activity, the Downpour Derby for some splashtastic fun, so kids can play to their heart’s content while you relax with a delicious coffee!

2019 saw the addition of the stunning licensed café on site, providing locally-sourced, freshlyprepared, quality food with magnificent marsh views through floor to ceiling glass.

There are two dog friendly walking trails alongside the river Blyth, meeting up with footpaths to both Southwold and also the SWT Hen Reedbeds with an abundance of wildlife to be seen along the way.

We also have events throughout the year with pumpkin picking a firm favourite and new evening events too, an outdoor pizza kitchen was new as of summer 2021 and with the addition of Southwold Cycle Hire having their base now with us at Old Hall Southwold, there’s lots going on for all ages, a summer of fun for everyone!

*The play park is also open separately to the summer maze event at weekends during April–July, see website for details.

www.southwoldmaizemaze.co.uk