Southwold Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Perched on the scenic coast of Suffolk, Southwold is a charming and picturesque town that exudes quintessential English charm. With its stunning sandy beaches, colorful beach huts, and traditional Victorian architecture, this coastal gem offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and seaside allure.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Southwold is its historic lighthouse, which stands tall and proud at the entrance to the harbor. Dating back to 1890, this distinctive white and red striped lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline. Climb to the top and soak in the incredible vistas, or simply marvel at its beauty from below.

For those seeking a leisurely stroll, Southwold's award-winning Pier is a must-visit destination. Take a leisurely walk along the pier, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and indulge in some classic seaside entertainment. From traditional arcade games to mouthwatering fish and chips, the pier is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of a traditional British seaside experience.

No visit to Southwold would be complete without exploring its delightful town center. Wander along the colorful high street, lined with independent boutiques, quaint cafes, and traditional pubs. Browse through local shops selling handmade crafts, sample delicious treats from the local bakery, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market town.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds Southwold. The town is nestled within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning dunes and marshes of Walberswick, go birdwatching along the River Blyth, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the coastal paths, breathing in the fresh sea air.

In the evenings, be sure to catch a show at the renowned Southwold Summer Theatre. Located in a charming converted chapel, this intimate theater showcases a variety of performances, ranging from classic plays to contemporary productions. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene and experience the magic of live theater in this idyllic coastal setting.

Alternative names: Population: 3.7 thous.Elevation: 39 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 52°19'36"N, 1°40'40"E

Location

EnglandUnited Kingdom

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Southwold Top Attractions

Southwold Attractions - What to See and Explore

Southwold offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Southwold Sailors' Reading Room, Southwold lighthouse, Southwold Pier, St Edmund's Church. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum
Southwold Sailors' Reading Room
The Southwold Sailors' Reading Room is a Grade II listed building on the seafront at Southwold, England. It was built in 1864 as a place for fishermen and mariners to read, as an alternative to drinking in pubs, and also to encourage the pursuit of Christian ideals.
Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Southwold lighthouse
Southwold Lighthouse is a lighthouse operated by Trinity House in the centre of Southwold in Suffolk, England. It stands on the North Sea coast, acting as a warning light for shipping passing along the east coast and as a guide for vessels navigating to Southwold harbour.
Piers and boardwalks • Entertainment
Southwold Pier
Southwold Pier is a pier in the coastal town of Southwold in the English county of Suffolk. It is on the northern edge of the town and extends 190 metres into the North Sea.

Church
St Edmund's Church
St Edmund's Church, Southwold is a Grade I listed parish church in the Church of England in Southwold, Suffolk.
Scenic walking areas • Park
Reydon Wood
Reydon Wood is a 16 hectare nature reserve west of Wangford in Suffolk, England. It is managed by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. This conifer wood has many old ash and hornbeam stools.
52°15'27"N • 1°37'15"E
Dunwich Heath
Dunwich Heath is an area of coastal lowland heath just south of the village of Dunwich, in the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB, England. It is adjacent to the RSPB reserve at Minsmere.

Day trips

Southwold – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Southwold, it's worth seeing attractions such as: BeWILDerwood (Norfolk Broads), Pleasurewood Hills (Lowestoft), Norwich Cathedral (Norwich).

28 milesN
Theme park, Playground, Amusement park
BeWILDerwood, Norfolk Broads
Tucked away in the enchanting woodlands of the Norfolk Broads, BeWILDerwood is an amusement park that stands out for its unique approach to family fun. Far from your typical theme park with high-speed rides and flashy technology, BeWILDerwood is a celebration of...
13 milesN
Amusement, Theme park, Amusement park
Pleasurewood Hills, Lowestoft
Pleasurewood Hills is a vibrant theme park nestled in the coastal town of Lowestoft, England, offering a fun-packed day out for families and thrill-seekers alike. Established in the early 1980s, this park has evolved into one of the most beloved attractions in the East...
26 milesNW
11th-century building and visitor centre
Norwich Cathedral, Norwich
Norwich Cathedral stands as an architectural masterpiece and historical beacon in the heart of Norwich, England. Established in 1096, this monumental structure boasts a Norman Romanesque style, with its construction spanning over two centuries.
27 milesSW
Golf
Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club
Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club, nestled on the Suffolk coast of the United Kingdom, is a haven for golf enthusiasts and a gem within the British golfing community. Established in 1880, this venerable institution is one of the oldest golf clubs in England, boasting a rich...
8.1 miNW
Go kart, Sport venue, Sport
Ellough Park Raceway, Beccles and Bungay
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Beccles and Bungay in the United Kingdom, Ellough Park Raceway offers an adrenaline-filled experience for go-kart enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. This premier go-kart track stands out as a premier destination for...

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Best Time To Visit Southwold

Learn when is the best time to travel to Southwold weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in June.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in February and May. Most of it rains in November.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Southwold?

The top attractions to visit in Southwold are:

What is the best time to visit Southwold?

July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in June. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.