Dunwich
Dunwich can be reached in about thirty minutes at a steady walk, either along the beach or through Greyfriars Wood where you can see the ruins of Greyfriars Friary. Dunwich was once a thriving sea port and major city until it was consumed by coastal erosion. It is now a tiny village with a museum and pub, The Ship (rather expensive), as well as a popular chip shop and cafe on the beach.
Dunwich Heath National Trust
Dunwich Heath borders Cliff House Park, so one can cross the road and be immediatley on the heath with miles of walks across unspoilt land. The Coastguard Cottages serve drinks and snacks and there is a managed area where events such as pond dipping and guided walks often take place.
Minsmere
RSPB Minsmere is an amazing place. Just a few minutes further south than dunwich heath, it is arguably the best RSPB reserve in the country where a huge variety of birds can be seen, including rare species such as Avocets, Dartford Warblers, Marsh Harriers to name but a few. Binoculars can be hired from the visitor centre and there are numerous hides from which the birds can be observed.
Walberswick
Small, attractive, unspoilt coastal village lying on the River Blyth estuary and home to another of our favourite pubs, the 600-year old Bell Inn. Southwold can be reached by crossing Bailey Bridge or by taking the foot ferry, where you can be rowed across the short distance to the north side of the Blyth for a small fee.
Southwold
Home of Adnams brewery and one of our favourite seaside towns. The Harbour Inn lies on the River Blyth estuary and is the sister pub to the Bell Inn at Walberswick, and another of our favourite pubs. Southwold is an unspoilt victorian seaside town with a pier that is worth visiting.
Aldeburgh
Very picturesque seaside town about 12 miles to the south. Has two family run chip shops which are supposedly amongst the best in the country! Nearby is Snape Maltings which is home to the annual Aldeburgh Music Festival.