Southwold on the Suffolk Coast
Traditional Seaside Resort Known for its Pier and Adnams Beer
Feb 10, 2008
Southwold seafront has many lovely period houses. A solid, white painted lighthouse, built in 1890, dominates the town. There are lovely teashops, gift shops, art galleries and antiques dealers in the small but quaint Georgian town centre.
A walk along the beach or the seafront road on the cliffs above the beach is a good way to build up an appetite for a lunch of fish and chips, the traditional British dish served in many of the town’s pubs and restaurants. Photographers will enjoy capturing the colourful beach huts that line the sea front, as well as the picturesque seafront panorama. In the summer season bathers may brave the seawater, which is at its least chilly in late summer.
Southwold Pier
The highlight of any visit to Southwold is a trip to the pier, which is privately owned and immaculately cared for. The pier was awarded the “Pier of the year” award by the National Pier Society in 2002.
The entrance to the pier is a traditional arcade offering the usual range of British seaside amusements. The pier itself is home to a pleasant bar/café, gift shops and the simply wonderful Under the Pier Show a series of quirky amusements such as a “Rent a Dog” and a mock submarine ride.
Eating and Drinking
Southwold is home to the Adnams Brewery, producing an excellent beer which is available in the town’s many pubs and restaurants. For example, the Swan Hotel offers good quality meals based on local ingredients in both the bar and restaurant, accompanied, if you wish, by draught Adnams beer.
Further Information
The Southwold Tourist Office is a good source of information for visitors, including advice on Southwold accommodation. The Swan and The Crown hotels both offer accommodation, or you may prefer to stay in one of the many Bed and Breakfast establishments in the town.
The Suffolk Coast
The Suffolk Coast offers a range of interesting places to visit. Felixtowe in the south is a cheerful traditional seaside resort, Aldeburgh is a more genteel seaside town with a cultured atmosphere thanks to its connections with the composer Benjamin Brittan. Minsmere RSPB Bird Reserve makes an entertaining day out for the whole family.
Access to Southwold
Locate Southwold on Google Maps.
The town is a favourite with people visiting from London as it is only 2 ½ hours by car from the city. The nearest railway station is at Halesworth, about ten miles from Southwold. The Travel Line offers practical information on train and bus services to Southwold.
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