Seas Seastheday day

Explore the sun, sand and surf of the Suffolk heritage coast by foot or on two wheels. Across the next few pages, we list our favourite beaches, walks and cycle routes for you to enjoy!

Southwold Beach

Of course, we couldn’t list the best beaches in the area without mentioning Southwold. The brightly coloured beach huts and Victorian Pier provide plenty of opportunities for Kodak moments, and there is ample space for paddling, building sandcastles and tucking into picnics on the sand or in the dunes. Nearby parking, shops, cafes, and pubs make this a convenient spot to spend a summer’s day with the whole family – including the pooch, as the harbour end of the beach is dog friendly all year round.

Best Beaches

Walberswick Beach

Just across the River Blyth from Southwold, you’ll find this idyllic coastal village and its picture postcard beach. Take the Southwold ferry (a traditional rowing boat) across from the harbour to arrive in style during the summer months, or cross the Bailey Bridge and walk along the riverbank on foot. The long sand and shingle beach is backed by grassy dunes and surrounded by marsh and heathland, making it a fantastic base for walks. Be sure to bring your bucket and net too, as this is the self-appointed capital of crabbing. Who will catch the biggest?

Covehithe Beach

Sitting on a secluded and beautifully quiet stretch of the Suffolk coast, Covehithe beach is a hidden gem set at the end of a lane which runs across farmland and through sand dunes before stopping abruptly at the cliff edge. Starting just across from the dramatic ruins of St Andrews Church (which is also well worth a visit), this walk will take around 15 minutes and is on narrow, uneven paths so unfortunately isn’t accessible for wheelchair users or those less mobile. Down on the sandy beach are the blanched, sculpture-like trunks of trees that once lined the cliff top, making this a picturesque spot for a stroll. Imagecredit:DavidCalvert/Shutterstock.com

Aldeburgh Beach

Pakefield Beach

Sat atop a cliff with panoramic views out to the North Sea, Pakefield is a quaint maritime suburb near Lowestoft. Fuel up at the Jolly Sailor’s pub at the cliff edge before strolling down to the pebble and sand beach. Strewn with fishing boats and patches of Marram grass and backed by a beach hut-lined promenade, this is a wide, unspoilt beach perfect for dog walks, horse riding or flying a kite on a windy day. Look out for seals bobbing about in the waves, and when you’ve had your fill of sea air, head back up the cliff where you’ll find a tearoom for a welcome slice of cake.

This popular sand and shingle beach is lined with fisherman’s huts and offers plenty of attractions. Stretching from the Martello tower overlooking the yacht harbour, to Maggie Hambling’s controversial Scallop sculpture, you’ll also find a 400-year-old Moot Hall, a converted windmill, a Norman church and an art gallery along the beachfront. Aldeburgh itself is a pretty seaside town renowned for its links to composer Benjamin Britten, however many visitors come in search of a different cultural delight – the fish and chips, which have been dubbed the best on the east coast. Grab yourself a portion and settle on the sea wall to see if they live up to the hype.

Beaches, walks cycle routes