Once a haunt of smugglers, The Ship at Dunwich, nestled in between Southwold, Aldeburgh and RSPB Minsmere in Suffolk, isn't just a beautiful place to eat, drink, relax and get away from it all - it's also part of a great story.
"More than anywhere, Dunwich embodies the elusive beauty of the Suffolk coast." Vincent Crump, Sunday Times.
Now a quiet, idyllic village, surrounded by nature reserves, heathland and beach, only the romantic ruins of The Suffolk Coast’s Dunwich monastery remain to hint at the fate of this once thriving medieval port claimed by the waves during a terrible storm. It's said you can still hear the peal of the church bells beneath the waves.
What's Nearby
With a stay at The Ship at Dunwich you are ideally situated to investigate both the north and south coastlines and countryside of The Suffolk Coast.
The surrounding area is a haven for walkers, with a wide selection of walks incorporating beach, farm-tracks, heathland and woodland paths nearby. If you want to make a weekend of it, then why not treat yourself to an Inn to Inn stay! Book two nights at The Ship and head off on a circular walk to The Westleton Crown; where you can stop off for a free lunch, before heading back to Dunwich. The short break includes dinner in the restaurant and your dog can come too, free of charge!
The RSPB's flagship reserve Minsmere is also right on the doorstep; home to some of the UKs rarest wildlife, birdlife and plant life, there is a wide range of events held throughout the year; from guided walks and bird watching to den building and star gazing.
What better way to see the beautiful coastline of Suffolk than by boat; for a high octane trip then climb aboard the Coastal Voyager at Southwold; blow away the cobwebs on The Blast; a 400 horsepower thrill ride, or for a more genteel experience, book a trip on the River Blyth Cruise.
After a day of exploring, catch a concert at Aldeburgh Music at Snape Maltings. Just a short drive away, a trip to the world-famous concert hall is a must when visiting The Suffolk Coast.
Stay
The Ship at Dunwich is literally a stones-throw from the beach - what better way to end the day after a coastal walk and a sumptuous home-cooked dinner than with a great night's sleep, being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the sea?
With sixteen comfortable rooms - all with free wi-fi, televisions, The White Company toiletries and ensuite facilities, some with marsh and sea views, all bedrooms feature traditional furniture, iron bedsteads and fully sprung mattresses with feather pillows and duvets.
The Ship is also a favourite with those who have canine family members, thanks to their dog-friendly accommodation.
Dine
Serving an extensive range of wines, beers and real ales including some from local breweries, The Ship's restaurant offers a wide range of dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.
Choose from Lowestoft smoked mackerel and horseradish pate with beetroot relish, Blythburgh rustic pork, pistachio and apricot terrine, classic fish and chips, homemade venison and Binham blue cheese burger, Blythburgh free range baked ham, rich chocolate and beetroot cake, and Colin's sticky toffee pudding with custard.
"I've got three words to say about old smugglers' haunt The Ship at Dunwich. Sticky. Toffee. Pudding. Miss it and live a life of regret. Also try the Blythburgh pork and black-pudding Scotch egg.” Condé Nast Traveller
And the choice doesn’t stop there – enjoy your meal and the welcoming atmosphere in the bar, the conservatory, the lovely garden (which includes a 300 year old fig tree!) or the dining room with its scrubbed pine tables and sisal matting.
Dogs are welcome too, and will be provided with a bowl of water and treats.