Listening to podcasts about the Suffolk Coast is a wonderful way to explore the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture from anywhere. Whether delving into tales of medieval shipwrecks, learning about the diverse wildlife, or discovering the charm of coastal towns like Aldeburgh and Southwold, these audio journeys bring the area to life.
Podcasts featuring historians, conservationists, and storytellers offer fascinating insights into Suffolk’s maritime heritage, folklore, and evolving coastline. They also provide travel tips, hidden gems, and personal anecdotes that make your visit to Suffolk's shores even more engaging.
Aldeburgh - Podcast: Open Country - Benjamin Britten's Aldeburgh

Aldeburgh is a wonderful and historic town full of nautical charm, cultural and art. Well known for its shingle beach lined with colourful beach huts, this instagrammable town has plenty for visitors to see and do.
Stroll along the High Street to explore independent shops, art galleries and some excellent charity shops too. Have lunch in one of the many seafood restaurants or try the famed fish and chips- often with a huge queue trailing out the door.
Whilst you wander, pop your headphones on and listen to a podcast about Benjamin Britten, one of Britain’s greatest composers, who made the town his home. In the podcast, Lucy Walker from the Britten-Pears Foundation, describes how Britten became rooted in Suffolk and how he chose to write music specifically for the people and places in Aldeburgh.
Indeed, his well-known operas Billy Budd and Peter Grimes are about people who made their living from the sea, and the podcast also features stories from fishermen in Aldeburgh about the ways in which the fishing industry has changed since Britten’s day. You can even visit The Red House where Britten lived, they often have exhibitions and offer lots of insight into Britten and his life and work.
Finish your day in Aldeburgh by following in Britten’s footsteps; he often walked along the shingle covered beach to think and compose in his head, this open stretch of beach is now home to ‘The Scallop’ a sculpture by Maggi Hambling, dedicated to Britten, the podcast features Maggi, discussing how the Scallop was inspired by Britten and his achievements.
Listen at Open Country: Benjamin Britten's Aldeburgh (2018) - 25 minutes
Bawdsey - Podcast: Under The Radar - Women in the WAFF

Bawdsey, nestled on The Suffolk Coast where the River Deben meets the sea, is a haven of nature and wildlife, as well as a location of significant historical importance. Its unspoiled landscapes are perfect for leisurely walks, with stunning views of marshes, woodlands, and the estuary.
A visit to Bawdsey is simply not complete without exploring Bawdsey Radar; the site where radar technology was developed during World War II, which of course played a pivotal role in Britain's defences. The museum highlights the contributions of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAFs), who worked tirelessly in radar operations, showcasing their vital role in wartime history.
While you look around, listen to the podcast ‘Under the Radar- Women in the WAAF’ which details the essential contributions made by women to Britain’s radar defences. In the 18 months before the battle of Britain began, hundreds of WAAF’s were meticulously trained, often at the radar School in Bawdsey, in order to operate and manage the systems of Chain Home and the later radars.
Listen at Under the Radar - Women in the WAFF (2021) 17 minutes
Dunwich - Podcast: Ghoul Guide with Rachel Fairburn - Dunwich - Screams on the beach and strange noises in the woods. What is going on?

Dunwich is a Suffolk village steeped in mystery as well as history and is a much loved destination for walkers, explorers and folks interested in its unusual past. Once a thriving medieval port, much of Dunwich has been claimed by the sea, leaving the village only a fraction of its original size. It is believed that most of medieval Dunwich, including its churches, lies beneath the waves, with historians estimating that up to two square miles of land were lost. On stormy nights, locals speak of hearing the tolling of submerged church bells—a ghostly reminder of what once was.
This podcast by spooky comedian Rachel Fairburn investigates the ghostly stories connected with the fascinating village, and after hearing several spine-tingling tales Rachel attempts to stay the night in Dunwich. You could listen to this podcast as you look around Dunwich Museum, which recounts the town's dramatic past and its gradual erosion. Or if you’re feeling brave you could listen while strolling around the haunting ruins of Greyfriars Friary at dusk.
Listen at Ghoul Guide with Rachel Fairburn - Dunwich - Screams on the beach and strange noises in the woods. What is going on? (2022) 35 minutes
Framlingham - Podcast: A tale of two castles: The Bigods, royal rebellions and Framlingham and Orford Castles
Framlingham Castle, a striking fortress nestled in the Suffolk countryside, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Its towering walls and stunning views over the surrounding countryside transport visitors back in time, allowing them to imagine medieval life amid the atmospheric castle grounds. Walk along the 13th-century curtain wall whilst listening to ‘A tale of two castles’; a scintillating podcast detailing the stories of three generations of the powerful Bigod family.
Explore the castle grounds, and enjoy interactive exhibits that bring its rich history to life. The podcast features Dr Jeremy Ashbee- head historic properties curator at English heritage who will guide you through the real-life Game of Thrones story of the Bigods, two castles, five successive kings, rebellion and restitution.
Listen at A tale of two castles: The Bigods, royal rebellions and Framlingham and Orford Castles (2021) 50 minutes
Orford Ness - Podcast: Orford Ness - A Post Apocalyptic Walk

Orford Ness is a wild and windswept shingle spit on the Suffolk coast. It’s a haven for nature lovers, walkers and anyone with an interest in military history... Now managed by the National Trust, this mysterious landscape was once a covert site used by the Ministry of Defence for top-secret military testing.
From the 1920s to the Cold War era, Orford Ness played a pivotal role in pioneering radar technology and conducting weapon trials, shrouding it in intrigue. Today, visitors can explore its eerie, decaying structures and learn about its unique history through fascinating exhibits in the radar receiver building.
As you wander the stark marshes and shingle and take in the desolate lab buildings, listen to Slow Radio’s post apocalyptic walk soundtrack; created by composer Iain Chambers who was allowed to venture into the buildings not accessible to the public and make recordings of the abundant wildlife which now rules the roost in the bomb ballistics buildings. Tune into seagulls, bees and skylarks as well as baby jackdaws duetting with the crunch of footsteps on gravel, eerie metal stairwells transformed into harps and giant wind chimes making pentatonic melodies. Truly, an otherworldly aural experience.
(Please note that Orford Ness is open for specific dates from April - October).
Listen at Orford Ness - A Post Apocalyptic Walk (2019) 30 minutes
Ipswich - Podcast: Ipswich History Podcast' Cardinal Wolsey

Sometimes overlooked, Ipswich brims with history, offering visitors a glimpse into England’s rich past. One of the country’s oldest towns, Ipswich’s cobbled streets and Tudor-era buildings tell many stories of centuries gone by.
At the heart of Ipswich’s historical tapestry stands Cardinal Thomas Wolsey; a towering figure of the 16th century who rose from humble beginnings in the town to become Henry VIII’s chief advisor. His legacy is immortalised in the striking statue in front of St. Peter’s Church, a reminder of Ipswich’s significance during his era.
Ipswich History Podcast offers a fantastic deep dive into the Ipswich Wolsey would have known as a child and with the expertise of author Phil Roberts, explains how Wolsey managed to rise to such power and have such great achievements. Tune in and reflect on Wolsey’s enduring impact whilst you wander and explore the town’s medieval lanes, vibrant waterfront, and cultural landmarks.
Listen at Ipswich History Podcast - Cardinal Woolsey (2023) 1 hour
Lowestoft - Podcast: Lighthouse Explorers - The importance of local museums | Lowestoft Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Lowestoft, the most easterly town in the UK, entices visitors with its heritage and vast golden sands. Once a thriving fishing port and centre of the herring industry, the town’s maritime history is woven tightly into its identity.
On a clear day you can take a walk along Lowestoft’s picturesque seafront, taking in the colourful beach huts, and pause at the East Point Pavilion for a local beer or a great coffee. From there, head northwards, taking in the sea views before reaching Sparrows Nest Gardens. This lovely park, with the iconic Lowestoft Lighthouse nearby, is home to The Lowestoft Maritime Museum, where the fascinating exhibits bring the town’s seafaring heritage vividly to life.
As you take it all in, listen to ‘Lighthouse Explorers’ Podcast, which details the host’s visit to Lowestoft Lighthouse and Maritime museum and explores why local museums are so very important.
Listen at Lighthouse Explorers - The Importance of Local Museums, 5 minutes
Pakefield - Podcast: In Our Time - History: Doggerland

Pakefield is a walker’s delight, offering windswept walks and far reaching views along the coast. But Pakefield also holds deep archaeological significance, being one of the earliest known sites of human activity in Britain, with evidence dating back over 700,000 years. This discovery links the area to Doggerland, the now-submerged land bridge that once connected Britain to mainland Europe.
Walking through Pakefield is not just a scenic experience—it’s a journey through history, nature and the passing of time. Melvyn Bragg’s landmark podcast ‘In Our Time’ features an episode focused on Doggerland which you could listen in to as you immerse yourself in the coastline itself.
The episode discusses the people, plants and animals which once lived on the land which is now under the North Sea and talks about what scientists are learning from the dives and the seismic surveys undertaken. After you have worked up an appetite with walking, stop off at Tea by the sea Cafe or the Jolly Sailors for a hearty meal or a drink with a view. The nearby Ferini Art Gallery showcases local artists and unique exhibitions and is well worth stopping by to round off your day.
Listen at In Our Time: History - Doggerland (2019) 54 minutes
Southwold - Podcast: The Things that Make Us - Tim Hunkin

Southwold is renowned for its timeless seaside charm and quirky character. Many have visited and fallen in love with Southwold’s Pier in particular. It's a structure with a fascinating history; originally built in 1900, the pier was designed as a landing stage for steamships ferrying passengers between London and the coastal town. Over the years, it has endured storms, repairs, and transformations, evolving into the beautiful attraction it is today. One of the biggest draws of the pier, is that it is home to a collection of quirky automatons and interactive machines created by the brilliant Tim Hunkin, the celebrated inventor, artist, and engineer.
Visitors can explore the Under the Pier Show, a unique arcade filled with eccentric, humorous machines and highlights include the Bathscape, which simulates a deep-sea adventure, and a rather surprising photobooth! Another must-see is the Water Clock, a whimsical fountain/clock with a naughty addition at 15 minute intervals.
As you wander about why not listen to ‘The Things that Make Us’ Podcast, and find out what makes Tim Hunkin tick. Tim selects five objects that have shaped his life and inspired his creations, you can always listen while you pause for refreshments at the pier coffee shop.
Listen at The Things that Make Us: Tim Hunkin (2016) 26 minutes
Sutton Hoo - Podcast: Dan Snow’s History Hit - Sutton Hoo

Sutton Hoo is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the UK, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s Anglo Saxon history. It’s a must-visit destination, especially for those who enjoyed the Netflix film The Dig which tells the story of the Edith Pretty who first instigated the excavation.
The site, famous for its Anglo-Saxon burial mounds, is where the extraordinary 7th century ship burial of a king was uncovered, along with other priceless treasures. The visitor centre and exhibition display these remarkable artefacts, including the iconic helmet.
As you wander the site, listen to Dan Snow’s fantastic podcast History Hit, and the episode where he details the history of the excavation, who might have been buried at the heart of it and what that tells us about Early Medieval England. He is joined by Sue Brunning, an archeologist specialising in Early Medieval material culture at the British Museum where many of the Sutton Hoo artefacts are housed.
Listen at Dan Snow's History Hit (2021) 35 minutes