• Children walking at Framlingham Castle
  • Couple walking at Walberswick
  • River Deben at Woodbridge

6 of the best Spring Walks

Enjoy a spring walk on The Suffolk Coast and with each step, comes a sense of renewal and tranquility, as the coastal scenery bursts into life with the promise of warmer days ahead. Whether strolling along the winding trails of nature reserves or simply taking in the panoramic views from quaint coastal villages, spring walks on the Suffolk coast offer a delightful escape into the beauty of the natural world.


Woodbridge and the River Deben Walk

Woodbridge and River Deben

3.5km 

Starting at Woodbridge train station, you will head south-west along the river wall, passing the boats bobbing on the river, sailing clubs enjoying the spring weather and the stunning scenery of the Deben estuary. A designated National Landscape, the estuary is internationally protected for its bird life and habitats, which include Saltmarsh, mudflat, grazing marsh and woodland. 

Be sure to pay a visit to the Deben Cafe Bar on HMS Vale for delicious snacks, drinks and light lunches and after your walk, finish up in The Crown for a pint of your favourite local ale and dinner.

Click here to download the route 

Felixstowe Ferry

Felixstowe Ferry (c) Gill Moon Photography

Accessible route - 2.8km

This coastal stroll traces along the seafront from Old Felixstowe, meandering past vibrant beach huts and storied Martello Towers toward Felixstowe Ferry. Along the way, you'll be treated to magnificent vistas of the sea and the picturesque River Deben, with the grand Bawdsey Manor standing proudly in the distance.

Absorb the soothing sights and sounds of the sea, while numerous kiosks, cafes, and pubs dotting the route offer ample opportunities to relax and savour a delightful day out.

Click here to download the route 

Walberswick Wander 

Walberswick in spring

5km

Starting on the picture-postcard Walberswick village green head onto Leverett's Lane and follow the bridleway onto a footpath across Walberswick common. From here you will head down Palmer's Lane towards the river with Southwold up ahead. From here you can follow the former the route of the former Southwold Light Railway, stopping on the Bailey Bridge to take in the calming scenes of the River Blyth and sea and hen reed beds.

Cross over the Bailey Bridge keeping the river on your right, passing the boats, fishermen's sheds, fish & chip shops and seafood eateries, where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood and a glass of Adnams. 

Hop on board the foot ferry on your return journey, following Ferry Road back into the village.

Click here to download the route 

Carlton Marshes

Carlton Marshes (c) Lowestoft Story

The expansive nature reserve at Carlton Marshes comes alive during the spring; with grazing marshes, fens, peat pools, short fen meadows, tall fen areas known as "tall litter fen," dykes, pools, and scrub. These habitats have evolved over centuries of traditional management practices and provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. 

One of the best places in East Anglia to spot grasshopper warblers, the walking routes on offer take you past the reed and sedge beds lining the river wall, all of which provide excellent nesting habitats for reed and sedge warblers, bearded tits, Cetti’s warblers, and marsh harriers, then in spring, the grazing marshes host wintering wildfowl and breeding waders.

The 4 trails, include two which are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. After your walk, you can enjoy delicious hot drinks, snacks, cakes and ice creams from the cafe whilst children play on the impressive play area.

Click here to download the route: 

Framlingham Mere, Castle and College

Framlingham Mere and castle (c) Emily Fae Photography

1.9km

Framlingham Castle is a magnificent 12th century fortress with a long and colourful past. It acts as the backdrop to Framlingham Mere Nature Reserve, boasting one of the best inland views in Suffolk. This trail starts in the Market Place, which is home to a weekly market selling local produce and crafts, surrounded by charming independent cafes, restaurants and shops. The circular walk takes you around Framlingham Mere, which in spring will be teaming with wildlife and emerging flowers. 

Take time to soak up the views of Framlingham Castle and College, and if it's dry, grab some delicious food and drinks from one of the many cafes and market stalls and enjoy a picnic en route.

Click here for the route: https://walks.gojauntly.com/walks/framlingham-mere-castle-college-11105341392768012780

Landguard Peninsula & Fort

Landguard Nature Reserve

3.6km

A beautiful beach side walk around the breathtaking landscape of Landguard Nature Reserve in Felixstowe taking in the industrial backdrop, local wildlife and windswept beach.

Explore the dunes and pathways to the top of the mounds, stopping to take in the views of the Big Ships coming into Felixstowe Port. 

Make your way through the Nature Reserve, looking out for Suffolk's rare wildlife before heading to Landguard Fort. Here you can enjoy a tour or wander around the fascinating site which is an English Heritage landmark. From here you continue along the beach, past many historical relics towards the Old Pier and back along the beach towards the reserve.

Click here for the route: https://walks.gojauntly.com/walks/landguard-peninsula-fort-17806033013529252332



Things to see and do

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. 

Read more >
Dog friendly Cycle friendly

Discover Landguard

Discover Landguard

The Landguard Peninsula is located at the southerly most point of the town of Felixstowe. 

Read more >
Dog friendly Cycle friendly

National Trust Sutton Hoo

National Trust Sutton Hoo

Woodbridge

This hauntingly beautiful 255 acre estate, with far-reaching views over the River Deben is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.

Read more >
Dog friendly Wheelchair Accessible

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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National Trust Orford Ness

National Trust Orford Ness

Wild, remote and exposed, Orford Ness contains the ruined remnants of a disturbing past. Ranked among the most important shingle features in the world, rare and fragile wildlife thrives where weapons, including atomic bombs, were once tested and perfected.

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National Trust Dunwich Heath

National Trust Dunwich Heath

Dunwich Heath and Beach is a precious landscape on the Suffolk coast where you can experience a true sense of being at one with nature. 

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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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Free wifi Wheelchair Accessible EV charging