• Southwold Holidays

Southwold Holidays

One of Suffolk's most popular seaside towns, as the crowds leave at the end of the summer, Southwold becomes the ideal retreat for a relaxing autumn/winter getaway. 

With its award-winning blue-flag beach, beach-hut lined promenade, Victorian Pier and bustling town centre there's plenty to see and do. And at the end of a day exploring, head to a cosy cottage, an Edwardian House, a luxury apartment or a boutique hotel to recharge your batteries...


Where to Stay

WTS - The Swan Hotel - Bar with Fire WTS - The Crown Southwold - Bedroom WTS - Acanthus Holidays - Grey holiday home

You're spoilt for choice when it comes to places to stay in Southwold!

With a wide selection of apartments, cottages, hotels and B&Bs within walking distance of Southwold's Victorian promenade and Pier and the bustling town centre where you can enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants and a steaming cup of coffee and slice of cake in a cosy cafe; the perfect way to warm up after a walk along the sea shore.

If you want to put your feet up and relax in luxurious surroundings, then The Swan Hotel is for you. Welcoming guests to the town for over 350 years, the hotel is re-opening in October 2017 after an exciting transformation. This fresh look and colour palate creates a relaxed and cosy atmosphere, which is combined with intimate service, top-class food and drink and the best local lifestyle experiences. 

Situated on the High Street, The Crown Hotel is a small but bustling hotel, just a short stroll from the town's cafes, restaurants, shops and delis and the award-winning beach. The rooms are full of character and you can enjoy Lowestoft Kippers or a Full English made with locally produced meats, eggs and bread.

If you would prefer a little piece of Southwold to call your own for a week, you might like to choose from one of the many self-catering cottages, houses and apartments throughout the town and surrounding villages. There's also a wide variety of accommodation agencies with a place to stay to suit all size groups and budgets; weekend breaks and week-long holidays.

Things to Do

TTDA - Adnams Brewery Southwold Pier Dunwich Beach - Emily Fae

Shopping

Whether it's food and drink, homewares, designer bags and shoes or clothes you desire, Southwold offers it all. Home to luxury boutiques such as Collen & Clare, and top brands including Joules, Fat Face, Crew Clothing and Jack Wills, you can treat yourself to new wardrobe in Southwold this autumn. 

Or for a special gift or souvenir, pop into The Amber Shop and Museum where you can also discover the origins of amber; it's history and uses through the years.

Food and Drink

Famous for being the home of the Adnams Brewery (for a fun afternoon why not book on to one of their brewery and distillery tours!)their flagship store is situated just off the main high street and also houses a cafe, serving delicious lunches, teas, coffees, cakes and pastries. In the shop, you can stock up on their famous ales and spirits plus kitchenware and deli items. 

You won't go hungry in Southwold that's for sure, pop in to Two Magpies Bakery and buy a honey cottage loaf, fresh pizza slices, giant meringues and mouth-watering cakes and tarts, and after a walk along the beach, stop in the famous The Boardwalk Restaurant on the Pier and warm up with a locally caught fish and chips and a mug of hot chocolate.

Walking and Cycling

Southwold is ideally situated for exploring The Suffolk Coast both on foot and on two wheels. Hire bicycles from Southwold Cycle Hire and visit the nearby coastal village of Walberswick, where you can enjoy a hearty meal at The Anchor before travelling on to Dunwich for a pint in The Ship.

There are plenty of walks on offer in and around Southwold. Set off from the town centre, down the High Street and across the common to the Harbour, stopping for a hot chocolate or pint of Adnams Ghost Ship at The Harbour Inn. From there you can follow the river and head back along the beach, or take the ferry across to Walberswick.

If a bit of rain doesn't bother you, or you are treated to a crisp winter's day, pop on your walking boots and head off on foot for a walk around National Trust Dunwich Heath, or join one of the guided walks at RSPB Minsmere, both of which are just a short drive away from Southwold. 

For downloadable walks and maps, check out The Suffolk Coast's Walking Guide.

Beaches

Southwold is the perfect base from which to explore The Suffolk Coast; just a short drive away you will find the coastal of Kessingland; a quiet beach which if you walk southwards, leads on to Benacre National Nature Reserve; home to some of the UKs rarest birds.

A few miles north of Southwold you will find the seaside town of Lowestoft; with an award-winning sandy beach, it's perfect for letting the little ones run around, and, from October to April, the dog too!

Market Towns

Head inland and you will find the historic market towns of Beccles, Bungay and Halesworth. Situated in the Waveney Valley, the towns all host a range of independent shops, cafes, galleries, boutiques and restaurants; the perfect places to explore when the weather is less than desirable. 

Click here for more 'Things to Do' in and around Southwold inspiration.

What's On

Marina Theatre - nightime exterior shot Aldeburgh Music and Snape Maltings Concert Hall - bpo performing - Rob Marrison TTDA - The Cut - Auditorium

As autumn gets into full swing and winter approaches, there's a wide range of events, indoor and out, to entertain the whole family.

Book tickets for a musical at The Marina Theatre in Lowestoft, watch a play at The Cut in Halesworth or stock up on Suffolk's fine fayre at one of the many farmers markets.

Check out our 'What's On' section for full event listings near Southwold and across The Suffolk Coast.




Things to see and do

International Boatbuilding Training College (IBTC) 

International Boatbuilding Training College (IBTC)

IBTC in Lowestoft offers a variety of boatbuilding/maintenance and woodworking courses suitable for those looking for a career in the maritime industry as well as individuals wanting to develop existing or new interests and skills.


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Halesworth and the Blyth Valley

Halesworth and the Blyth Valley

The Blyth Valley runs 17 miles inland from the coast at Southwold to Laxfield via Halesworth and Huntingfield and is a superb destination for walking, cycling & wildlife-watching as well as being known for its welcoming pubs and local produce!

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Snape Maltings

Snape Maltings

Snape

Snape Maltings sits on the bank of the River Alde, surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just five miles from Aldeburgh.

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Adnams Tours and Experiences

Adnams Tours and Experiences

Fancy doing something a little bit different? Take a tour of the Adnams Sole Bay Brewery and Copper House Distillery in the heart of Southwold where Adnams have been brewing since 1872. If Gin is your favourite tipple the 'Make your own Gin Southwold' experience is a must!

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Wheelchair Accessible

Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape

Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape

The Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape is a stunning landscape packed full with wildlife and exciting places to explore and discover. 

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Dog friendly

Africa Alive Zoological Reserve

Africa Alive Zoological Reserve

Kessingland

Make your day out an adventure with a visit to Africa Alive Zoological Reserve.

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Free wifi Wheelchair Accessible

The Cut - Halesworth

The Cut - Halesworth

Halesworth

The Cut Arts Centre offers Halesworth and the surrounding countryside an extensive range of arts, music, theatre, dance, comedy, cinema, workshops and art exhibitions. 

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Free wifi

Suffolk Wildlife Trust 

Suffolk Wildlife Trust

Felixstowe

From tiny meadows to rolling heaths, the nature reserves extend all the way along the Suffolk Coast from Trimley Marshes at Felixstowe to Lound Lakes north of Lowestoft and are some of Suffolk's most inspiring wild places. 

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East Suffolk Markets

East Suffolk Markets

The Suffolk Coast is blessed with a huge selection of local food and drink producers, selling jams, honey, Suffolk-cured ham, strawberries, asparagus, breads, cheeses and ales... you name it, we make it!

So wherever you are, whatever the day, you know where to go for a taste of The Suffolk Coast.

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Southwold Pier

Southwold Pier

Southwold

Southwold is a popular destination for the many visitors to the East Coast and its most prominent attraction, the pier, hosts a wide range of things to see and do.

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Southwold Cycle Hire

Southwold Cycle Hire

Southwold

Pick up bikes from the beachside hut in Southwold or get cycles delivered to you!

Unlike a larger town, there aren’t any major roads in Southwold, meaning it’s a far safer environment for anyone on two wheels. Plus it only takes a few minutes pedalling in any direction before you are taking in scenic views, whether it’s a breathtaking coastal panorama or Suffolk’s rural landscape.

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Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve

RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve

Westleton

Discover nature together on the beautiful Suffolk coast. Wander among the wetlands and woods, potter along the beach, and pause to watch some amazing wildlife. 

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Suffolk Museums

Suffolk Museums



There are more than 60 museums in Suffolk. Each one is unique, and they are all packed with fascinating stories and objects. If you want to know more about the past and how it has affected the present, just come and take a closer look.

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WHERE TO EAT

Southwold Pier - The Boardwalk, Beach Cafe and Clockhouse

Southwold Pier - The Boardwalk, Beach Cafe and Clockhouse

Southwold

Southwold Pier has a fabulous choice of restaurants and cafes to fill the gap from breakfast, through to morning coffee and pastries, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner!

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The Crown Hotel Southwold

The Crown Hotel Southwold

Southwold

Built in 1740, this attractive Georgian building takes pride of place on Southwold’s High Street. As soon as you walk in, The Crown has a warmth and an immediate familiarity, you just know many a happy guest has been welcomed here before. 

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The Ship at Dunwich

The Ship at Dunwich

Dunwich

There's plenty to enjoy on The Ship's menu, the food ethos is simple; good food, locally sourced, skilfully cooked and thoughtfully served. 

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Free wifi Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

The Swan Hotel

The Swan Hotel

Guests and non-residents can enjoy world-class food and award winning beer, wine and spirits, with Rory Whelan as Head Chef serving dishes championing local produce, with coastal charm. 

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The Westleton Crown

The Westleton Crown

Dunwich

The Westleton Crown believe that the very best tasting food is locally and responsibly grown. Head Chef, Kieren Drinkwater and his team pride themselves on their imaginative and varied menus. 

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Free wifi Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

The Sail Loft Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

The Sail Loft Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

The Sail Loft is all about simple, good food and the welcome of a great neighbourhood restaurant offering tasty food and drink worth travelling for. That means local, seasonal ingredients, an emphasis on taste and a relaxed, hearty menu!

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Free wifi Dog friendly

Cream Tea Island at Southwold Boating Lake and Tearoom

Cream Tea Island at Southwold Boating Lake and Tearoom

Southwold

Inside, the tearoom can seat 40 people comfortably, with far more seating available outside. Families and friends can also hire the venue for birthday parties, anniversaries, mother and toddler groups, small wedding parties, wakes and coach parties.

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Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

The Harbour Inn

The Harbour Inn

Right on the water’s edge, The Harbour Inn in Southwold is a proper old Fisherman’s pub - warm, workmen-like and wonderfully buzzy, with nautical charm in abundance. 

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Dog friendly


WHERE TO STAY

The Swan Hotel

The Swan Hotel

Southwold

This stylish and contemporary hotel sits proudly on Southwold marketplace and has been welcoming guests for over 350 years. 

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Free wifi Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

Best of Suffolk

Best of Suffolk

Aldeburgh

Best of Suffolk like to do things differently. Their hand-picked selection of over 300 stylish, self-catering places to stay in Suffolk offer guests well-appointed properties in prime locations. 

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Wardley Hill Campsite 

Wardley Hill Campsite

Bungay

Wardley Hill Campsite is an eco campsite offering unregimented and relaxed car free camping for tents and vans. Luxurious Bell Tents and  Shepherds Huts are on offer for those of you who don't want to pack your own tent pegs. 

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Dog friendly

Original Cottages 

Original Cottages

Original Cottages are the UK’s leading independent, family-owned holiday lettings company. They bring together over 30 truly local agencies into the Original Cottages family with over 5,600 properties all around the UK. They have a perfect UK holiday for all of their holidaymakers and are passionate about helping you find that holiday.

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Durrants Holiday Cottages

Durrants Holiday Cottages

Durrants Holiday Cottages has been offering self-catering holiday accommodation since 1905 and is at the heart of the town in Southwold. 

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The Bell Inn

The Bell Inn

Situated on the village green of beautiful Walberswick and just a stones throw from the rolling sand dunes, stands The Bell Inn. This elegant, 600 year old pub is a home from home, steeped in history, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, big blue skies and fresh sea air!

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The Sail Loft

The Sail Loft

The Sail Loft is back and looking forward to welcoming old friends and new faces once again, so you can enjoy the delights of the relaxed café-bar restaurant. 

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Wood Farm Dairy and Stables

Wood Farm Dairy and Stables

Wood Farm Dairy and Stables are beautifully restored properties, offering luxurious accommodation in the gorgeous Suffolk countryside. The Stables is a three bedroom home offering accommodation for up to 8 people, while the Dairy is a self contained one bedroom property offering a cosy stay for up to two people.

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Free wifi Dog friendly

Lodge Farm Cottages

Lodge Farm Cottages

Lowestoft

Two beautifully converted self catering barns - The Granary and The Dairy offer luxurious, spacious and well equipped accommodation on an arable farm between Southwold and Lowestoft on the Suffolk Coast

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High Lodge Leisure

High Lodge Leisure

Saxmundham

High Lodge's self-catering lodges boast an excellent location close to the renowned coastal hotspots of Southwold, Aldeburgh and RSPB Minsmere.

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Free wifi

Suffolk Coastal Cottages

Suffolk Coastal Cottages

Southwold

Self-catering cottages with a personal touch, owned and managed by Trish Gower, offering delightful self-catering cottages in attractive unspoilt villages at or close to The Suffolk Coast. 

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Free wifi Dog friendly

Belle Grove 

Belle Grove

Halesworth

Located in Halesworth, Belle Grove is an extra special place for a well-deserved break, birthday celebration, anniversary, romantic week-end or family get–together. 

"This place really is magical!"

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Wheatacre Hall Barns

Wheatacre Hall Barns

Beccles

Wheatacre Hall Barns are a collection of eight barns, sympathetically converted into modern luxury accommodation.

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Dog friendly EV charging

The Westleton Crown

The Westleton Crown

Westleton

The Crown takes pride of place on the edge of a quintessential Suffolk village green.
Perfectly placed for a pint, a weekend break, or supper with family and friends; our landscaped terraces provide abundant al fresco eating and drinking spots. 


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Suffolk Secrets

Suffolk Secrets

Southwold

Suffolk Secrets is proud to offer the best choice of self-catering holiday cottages on The Suffolk Coast.

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Dog friendly

School Farm Cottages

School Farm Cottages

Halesworth

School Farm is the ideal location for getting out and about in the countryside. Perfect for visiting the many pretty villages, market towns and lovely beaches in this beautiful part of Suffolk

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The Anchor

The Anchor

Walberswick

Plenty of alfresco seating on the 3 beautiful terraces in the summer and a roaring log fire for the winter!

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Free wifi Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

The Crown Hotel Southwold

The Crown Hotel Southwold

Southwold

An exciting and intimate combination of small hotel, bar, pub and restaurant, The Crown is always buzzing with a lively informality.

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