Best Benches for a Socially Distanced Catch Up

Sit upon a bench on Southwold's Gun Hill and, thanks to it's elevated position, you are treated to views of the Edwardian Pier to your left and the beach as it stretches towards Walberswick to your right. 

On Gun Hill's small green you will also find 6 cannons, installed to commemorate the Battle of Sole Bay in 1672. In previous centuries the cannons were fired regularly, but in 1842, to celebrate the birthday of the Prince of Wales, soldier James Martin had his head blown off after he looked down the muzzle to investigate the delay in explosion! 

Situated on the banks of the River Waveney, the historic town of Beccles boasts a number of benches to sit upon for a chat. But head to the Quay and feel a sense of calm wash over you, as you watch the boats bob and swans glide on the water.

The cafe here serves a range of hot and cold snacks and drinks, so after a walk along the river path, find a bench and warm up with a hot chocolate.

Just a stone's throw from the glorious beach at Lowestoft, Kensington Gardens sit atop of the upper promenade. The traditional Victorian seafront gardens can be explored by enchanting pathways and bridges which take you round the boating lake and bowling green; where you will also find a cafe serving hot drinks and snacks.

There's a number of benches to choose from; opt for a view of the boating lake, watch the ducks on the pond, or spot squirrels burying their nuts - so find your spot and chat away!

There are benches dotted all along the Quay in the riverside town of Woodbridge; from the historic Tide Mill, which has stood on the banks of the river for over 800 years ,out along the River Deben, where you can watch the sail boats bob on the water. 

If you want to extend your catch up, enjoy a walk along the river wall and keep an eye out for Suffolk's rare birdlife and the occasional seal!

With views of the promenade and out to sea, Felixstowe Seafront Gardens comprises eight interconnected Grade II listed gardens are home to a number of benches, making it an ideal location for a socially distanced catch up. Sit amongst the the beautifully landscaped lawns and sumptuously planted borders and take in the fresh air, which is reputed to have the health giving qualities of the Felixstowe Spa water. 

Dotted along Aldeburgh's shingle beach, the charming Victorian shelters are great for keeping out of the blazing sun in the summer and perfect for hiding out of the way of bracing winds in the winter. Each shelter boasts uninterrupted views of the sea. If you look to the left you can also see Maggi Hambling's iconic Scallop and the magical village of Thorpeness in the distance