Aldeburgh, Suffolk: A Travel Guide
If you fancy a few days at the seaside in an unspoilt part of the country, then look no further than Aldeburgh as this East Anglian resort is hard to beat. Read on to discover lots of lovely things to see and do and of where to stay.
Getting there: Aldeburgh is a seaside resort in Suffolk, south east England situated between the county town of Ipswich and Norwich, just across the border in Norfolk. The town has good road links being just off the A12 and if arriving by train, the nearest station is Saxmundham 7 miles away.
The town centre: Aldeburgh boasts a picture perfect promenade linked by Victorian pastel coloured buildings. On the road behind the seafront there’s a good collection of shops ranging from small independents to high street favourites including Crew Clothing and Seasalt.
Martello Tower: walk eastwards a short distance to view the Martello Tower, recorded as being the largest in the country as it’s made up of four towers joined together. Nearly one million bricks were used in its construction to house its four heavy guns. The tower stands on the edge of the Orford Ness peninsula between the River Alde and the sea.
Scallop Sculpture: part way along the beach in the opposite direction is a large scallop sculpture which was created by sculptor Maggi Hambling as a tribute to the British composer Benjamin Britten who at one time was a resident in the town.
Aldeburgh Museum: located in the Moot Hall, a superb 16th century timber-framed building. Its galleries relay the town’s rich and varied history.
Thorpeness: this picturesque village is located two miles along the coast. Enjoy breathing in the fresh sea air by walking there along the beach. Mock Tudor houses surround its boating lake where there are two cosy cafes to choose from for a drink and slice of cake before heading back to Aldeburgh.
The House in the Clouds was once an old water tower that used to supply Thorpeness with water. The tank was disguised to resemble a cottage and in the 1970’s it was removed to create more living space.
From afar it really does look as if it’s floating in the clouds. Across the lane from the House in the Clouds stands a windmill that used to grind corn in nearby Aldringham. In 1923 the mill was transferred to Thorpeness to pump water into the tower.
Snape Maltings: located six miles from Aldeburgh on the banks of the River Alde, the heritage site of the former Victoria Malthouse buildings have been converted into art studios, craft shops and cafes. It’s a lovely place to look around and for a walk along the estuary as its marshes are home to an abundance of wildlife.
Leiston Abbey: situated just a ten minute drive from Aldeburgh is the 14th century remains of Leiston Abbey, one of Suffolk’s most impressive monastic ruins. It is now owned by English Heritage with free entrance.
Southwold: another charming seaside resort located a 30 minute drive up the coast. With streets filled with interesting shops, a historic pier and some colourful beach huts, it makes for a pleasant trip out.
Where to stay:
The Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh
The hotel sits on the seafront looking out to sea with the best views in town. It’s so close to the shore that you can hear the relaxing sounds of the waves crashing onto the beach from many of its guest rooms.
The newly refurbished rooms have a sophisticated, seaside vibe and with suites having sofa beds, they are ideal for families with young children. Meals are served in the hotel’s Seafood and Grill restaurant which continues the seaside feel with its light blue upholstered seats and deeper blue painted walls. Large windows look out to sea with a popular outside terrace for warm sunny days. The Brudenell Hotel
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During our stay we were guests of Visit Suffolk and the Brudenell Hotel and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.
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