Scenic Suffolk: castles, coastline + COUNTRYSIDE
Suffolk is a charming county in eastern England, renowned for its picturesque coastal towns, rolling countryside, and rich historical heritage. With its unspoiled beaches, quaint villages, and vibrant local culture, it offers a welcoming retreat for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’ re exploring the windswept shores of Aldeburgh and Southwold or wandering through the lush fields and ancient woodlands inland, Suffolk provides a perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable family memories
Orford village
Just over the Essex border into Suffolk lies the quaint village of Orford. It has everything you could want from a charming countryside village from chocolate box cottages to estuary walks…and there’s even a castle!
During the warmer months you can catch a ferry to Orford Ness which is run by the @nationaltrust .
From April - October the ferry runs every 20 minutes on Saturdays. During the summer months they run Tuesdays - Saturdays (check opening times before travelling )
The village itself is filled with picture perfect cottages, independent cafes and shops. The Famous pink bakery Pump Street Bakery is in the main square along with their sister company Pump Street Chocolate.
Orford Castle is a unique tower in the heart of the village. Great to explore with kids it will give you amazing views of Orford Ness from the top. Run by English Heritage, there is no need to book but you can save 15% by booking in advanced.
Tip, take a baby carrier if you have kids in buggy’s as there are lots of stairs!
Orford is nestled along Suffolks Heritage Coastline and is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s not only a great day out from London but is a short distance from the famous seaside towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold.
Framlingham Castle
Who doesn’t love a castle? My kids certainly do! I love listening to their imagination as they ask about dragons and princess who live in the castle.
Run by English Heritage, Framlingham Castle is on the edge of the pretty market town of Framlingham just 25 minutes inland of Aldeburgh on the Suffolk coast.
Smaller than some of the more famous @englishheritage sites, it’s perfect for a morning or afternoon jaunt. There is a cafe onsite with toilets and a little gift shop. Our highlight was the wall walk along the top of the castle. With views over countryside and Framlingham Mare, it’s as pretty as a picture.
Summer loved listening to the kids audio tour which is free with your ticket. The audio starts by scanning you lanyard long the infomercial points dotted around the grounds.
We paired this trip with a visit to Orford Village which made for a lovely day.
Adults £11.30
Kids £6.80
Under 5s FREE
There is no need to pre book but you will get 15% off if you do!
We also visited Leiston Abbey which is around 20 minutes north of Orford. The abbey ruins are run by English Heritage and they are free to enter - this is a great picnic stop!
Aldeburgh + Southwold
Morning in Aldeburgh
Aldeburgh Beach & Scallop Sculpture
Start with a stroll along Aldeburgh’s shingle beach.
Walk north to see the famous Scallop Sculpture by Maggi Hambling – kids will love climbing on it!
Crabbing at the River Alde
Bring a bucket and some bait (bacon works well) to try crabbing near The White Hart pub or at Slaughden Quay.
Aldeburgh Moot Hall & Museum
Small but fascinating local museum, great for a quick stop to learn about the town’s history.
Ice Cream or Fish & Chips
Aldeburgh Fish & Chip Shop is legendary – an early lunch might help avoid queues!
Alternatively, stop for ice cream at Ives Ice Cream Parlour.
Afternoon in Southwold (20-minute drive)
Southwold Pier
Classic seaside fun! The pier has quirky arcade games, an automaton gallery, and a water clock that makes kids laugh.
Southwold Boating Lake
Rent a rowing boat or play at the nearby model yacht pond.
Under the Pier Show
Eccentric and interactive arcade games designed by Tim Hunkin – kids will be fascinated!
Southwold Beach & Lighthouse
Relax on the sandy beach or explore the lighthouse (check opening times for tours).
Crabbing at Walberswick (Optional detour)
Just across the River Blyth, Walberswick is famous for crabbing. You can take the foot ferry (summer only) or drive.
Adnams Brewery Playground & Café
If parents fancy a coffee (or local beer), the Adnams café has a relaxed vibe, and there’s a small playground nearby.
The southwold flower company
Another great afternoon out is The Southwold Flower Company where you can pick your own flowers. Its a great gift idea for Mum if you are heading that way for a staycation or lucky enough to live close by.
£35 Zinc Vase
£18.50 Pickle Jar
£7.00 Jam Jar (perfect for children!)
After you’ve picked your flowers the team will wrap them for you to transport and provide scissors for you to use.
Find more information here
Felixstowe
A day out in Felixstowe with the kids promises a perfect mix of seaside fun, adventure, and relaxation. Start the morning with a stroll along Felixstowe Beach, where kids can enjoy paddling in the sea, collecting shells, or building sandcastles.
A visit to Felixstowe Pier is a must, offering classic arcade games and a café for a quick snack. For some outdoor excitement, head to Martello Park, a fantastic play area with climbing frames, slides, and plenty of green space for a picnic.
In the afternoon, take a trip to Landguard Fort, where little explorers can learn about the town’s history while wandering through its tunnels and battlements. A walk along Felixstowe Ferry provides a scenic end to the day, with the chance to watch fishing boats, grab fresh seafood, or take a short boat trip.
End your day at Beach Street, a collection of shipping containers now used for independent shops, restaurants and food stalls. The weekends offer live music, markets and events.
