THE SOUTHWOLD AREA

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or a longer stay, Southwold blends natural beauty with cultural charm. Highlights include:

• Southwold Pier – A quirky, family-friendly attraction with retro amusements and sea views.

• Southwold Lighthouse – A striking landmark offering guided tours and photo opportunities.

• Adnams Brewery – Take a tour or enjoy a tasting session at this award-winning local brewery.

• Southwold Boating Lake & Café – A relaxing spot for families with pedal boats and homemade treats.

• Walberswick - Cross the river at Southwold Harbour in the ferry and enjoy the coastal village of Walberswick

Explore more attractions at www.visitsouthwold.org

For small people: 

• Africa Alive Zoological Reserve (Kessingland)
  A large wildlife park featuring African animals like lions, giraffes, and rhinos, plus play areas and educational talks.
   
• Southwold Maize Maze (Reydon)
  Seasonal fun with a giant maze, go-karts, climbing frames, and farm animals—great for younger kids.
   
• East Anglia Transport Museum (Carlton Colville)
  Ride vintage trams, trolleybuses, and narrow-gauge railways—interactive and nostalgic for all ages.
   
• Beccles Lido (Beccles)
  Heated outdoor pool with slides and splash zones, open in summer months.
   

For bigger people: 

• Adnams Brewery Tours (Southwold)
  Learn about local brewing traditions and sample craft beers and spirits.
   
• RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve (near Leiston)
  A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers with scenic walks and hides.
   
• Snape Maltings (Snape)
  A cultural hub with galleries, shops, and concerts in a stunning riverside setting.
  
   
• Hen Reedbeds (near Southwold)
  A peaceful wetland reserve ideal for quiet walks and wildlife spotting.
  

Southwold is home to a vibrant food scene, from fresh seafood to gourmet produce.  We couldn’t begin to list all the options available, but the below offers a mix of fine dining, casual eats, and local seafood—all within walking distance of the beach and town centre:

1. Sutherland House

• Elegant seafood and European cuisine in a Georgian townhouse.  Adults only restaurant.

• Website: sutherlandhouse.co.uk

2. Sole Bay Fish Company

• Fresh catch served harbourside—oysters, prawns, smoked fish platters.

• Website: solebayfishco.co.uk

3. Coasters

• Locally sourced British dishes in a cosy High Street setting.

• Website: coasterssouthwold.co.uk

4. The Swan Hotel – Still Room Restaurant

• Refined seasonal menus in Adnams’ flagship hotel

• Website: theswansouthwold.co.uk

5. Loaded Southwold

• Casual dining with loaded fries, burgers, and Sunday roast Yorkies.

• Website: stayinsuffolk.com guide

6. Two Magpies Bakery

• Artisan breads, pastries, and wood-fired pizzas.

• Website: twomagpiesbakery.co.uk

7. The Sail Loft

• Bar and bistro with sea views and seasonal British fare.

• Website: sailloftsouthwold.uk

8. The Little Fish & Chip Shop

• Classic fish and chips with homemade tartare sauce

• Website: solebayfishco.co.uk/little-fish-chip-shop