the elusive beauty of the Suffolk coast"
Vincent Crumb, Sunday Times
With its quiet beach, wild beauty and natural surroundings, Dunwich is the perfect place to get away from it all, and is surrounded by excellent walks - particularly through Dunwich Heath, the conservation area south of the village that extends back from the cliffs. But it's also an ideal base for exploring more of the Suffolk coast, its history, wildlife and neighbouring towns - all of which have their own distinct character.
Nearby Aldeburgh (18 miles from Southwold) has connections with Benjamin Britten, and every year hosts a music festival that attracts artists of international status, with performances at Snape Maltings. Southwold - the home of Adnams Brewery - gives a flavour of traditional seaside holidays gone by, with its rows of immaculate beach huts, smart shops, lighthouse and pier (complete with anarchic amusements by artist Tim Hunkin), while Walberswick is the place to go for some serious crabbing (they like bacon best).
There's plenty of history too, including the stark remains of Leiston Abbey, the imposing walls of Framlingham Castle and the beautifully preserved keep of Orford Castle. Orford Ness also has its own nature reserve, while the RSPB reserve at Minsmere is a haven for over 300 species of bird, including breeding Bittern, Avocet and Marsh Harrier. Minsmere is the RSPB's European Flagship reserve and is less than 10 minutes drive from The Ship
For more on the mysterious history of Dunwich itself, we recommend a visit to the village's very own, very small museum - though a chat with the locals over a pint is always likely to turn up a new tale or two.
Useful Links -
The National Trust
The English Heritage Website
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
The Visit Suffolk Website
Aldeburgh Productions at Snape Maltings
Southwold pier
Costal Voyager riverboat trips
Snape Maltings shopping experience and cultural centre
Suffolk Wildlife Park
