Dunwich guide

Known as the lost city of England, this tiny village certainly has a story to tell

In an area as steeped in history as the Suffolk Coast, it takes something special to stand out. Dunwich manages to do just this. Known as the lost city of England, this tiny village certainly has a story to tell.

Dating back to Anglo-Saxon times, Dunwich once stood proud as the capital of the Kingdom of the Eastern Angles, at its mightiest matching 14th century London for size. It was a seat of power for the Anglo-Saxon bishops for centuries, an international port, and the Domesday book of 1086 puts the population at over 3000.

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Things to Do in Dunwich

1. Learn about Dunwich's eerie history.

Dunwich Museum is the perfect history experience for all the family. It tells the amazing story of a city lost to the sea through the narrative of its collection and the knowledge of its welcoming staff. The Dunwich story spans the first millennium to the present day. A detailed model shows you what Dunwich was like at the height of its powers in the 13th Century, and the many exhibits cover Roman, Saxon, Medieval, Elizabethan, Jacobean Georgian and Victorian periods.

2. Walk the dog at Dunwich Heath.

Dunwich is part of the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you love nothing more than a long walk beside the sea, a brisk stroll before lunch, cycling along quiet lanes, sailing iconic estuaries, or spending hours quietly watching some of the UK's rarest wildlife, the beautiful landscape of the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB has it all.

3. Enjoy some of the region's best fish and chips and a pint of local ale.

The Ship at Dunwich offers views across the marshes and sea, whilst you enjoy a delicious meal of local Suffolk produce and ales. It's dog-friendly too so after a long walk with your pooch you can both enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation.

4. Spot some of the UKs rarest wildlife, birds and plants at RSPB Minsmere.

Just a short drive from Dunwich you will find RSPB Minsmere. Here you can spend a day spotting some the UKs rarest birds and wildlife including the Avocet, Bittern, Otter and Red Deer.

There are many events to take part in too; with guided walks, bird box building workshops, 4x4 safaris and stargazing to name but a few.

Useful Information

Public Conveniences and Baby Changing Facilities in Dunwich

Public toilets with disabled access and baby changing facilities are located at the Beach Car Park in Dunwich.

How to Get to Dunwich - Public Transport

By Train:

Darsham is approximately six miles away with train services by Abellio Great Anglia running to Lowestoft and Ipswich and on-going connections to London Liverpool Street and Cambridge.

All train tickets can be purchased via the Abellio Greater Anglia Website or the app.