Things to do in the area

A pretty coastal town with a lovely beach, a lighthouse, charming multicoloured beach huts and a wonderful old-fashioned feel, Southwold is a must to visit. It boasts a fantastic pier featuring traditional amusements like Punch and Judy, and Victorian end-of-the-pier shows. Southwold is also home to Adnams Brewery and has many fine pubs and restaurants, as well as a working lighthouse and unique shops, galleries and cafes. A popular retreat for artists and writers over the years, Southwold is now home to an annual Literature Festival each November.

Activities can include, sports with golf and tennis clubs, in addition to football, rugby and tennis as well as less formal activities like walking, kite flying on the beach or the common, fishing, river trips, crabbing and the theatre. Cycle hire is available

A few minutes drive takes you to the new Hen Reedbeds reserve where Marsh Harrier, Bittern and Bearded Tit may be found. This new reserve is also excellent for plants and insects. The nature reserves of Dunwich, with Dartford Warbler is only a few minutes drive and the RSPB reserve at Minsmere offers some of the finest birding in the country.

The town centre has an excellent selection of food outlets and shops selling quality clothes, antiques, crafts, gifts and much more plus the galleries, restaurants and tearooms.

The annual Great Amber Hunt attracts many youngsters each year who comb the beach for 12 pieces of marked amber which are placed between the pier and River Blyth harbour wall. Neighbouring town of Walberswick hosts the annual crabbing championships.