48 Hours on the Suffolk Coast

There’s something timeless about the Suffolk coast. Big skies, quiet beaches, and winding lanes lead you from one village to the next – each with its own story. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and make space for good food, brisk walks, and the comfort of a pub that feels like home.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a midweek break, the Suffolk coast offers the perfect mix of exploration and relaxation. Here’s how to spend 48 hours discovering some of its best-loved spots.

Afternoon

Begin in Aldeburgh, a seaside town steeped in culture. Walk along the high street lined with independent shops and galleries, or head to the shingle beach where The Scallop – a four-metre-high steel sculpture by Suffolk artist Maggi Hambling – stands as a tribute to composer Benjamin Britten, who lived in the area. With sea air in your lungs and salt on your lips, it’s the perfect start to a coastal getaway.

Evening

A short drive north brings you to Dunwich, often referred to as Britain’s lost city. Once a bustling harbour, much of it was claimed by the sea, leaving behind a small coastal village surrounded by nature reserves and a wide, pebbled beach.

Just steps from the shore, you’ll find The Ship – a pub that captures the spirit of the Suffolk coast. Settle in for the evening with a pint and a plate of something seasonal, including seaside favourites and flavours inspired by the landscape around you. Stay the night and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.  

Morning

Ease into the day with a hearty breakfast or something lighter, paired with a warming cup of coffee. Set off for a morning stroll down to the beach and follow the path towards Dunwich Heath, cared for by the National Trust. The route traces the coastline before climbing into a landscape of heather and gorse, where the colours shift with the seasons. It’s a peaceful start to the day and the perfect way to take in the beauty of Suffolk’s coast.

Afternoon

Take a short drive along the coast to Walberswick, a pretty village where crabbing is a time-honoured tradition. Between April and October, you can take the foot ferry across the River Blyth to neighbouring Southwold, where pastel beach huts line the promenade. Browse the independent shops, visit Adnams Brewery for a tour, or climb the lighthouse for panoramic views over the sea.

Evening

End your getaway in Westleton, a peaceful village surrounded by heathland. The Westleton Crown offers a warm welcome and a menu built around local, seasonal ingredients. Take a short stroll through the village before dinner or unwind with a drink in the bar. When you’re ready to call it a night, your room awaits – calm and comfortable.

Morning

Wake up to a breakfast filled with choice – from freshly baked pastries and lighter bites to a full East Anglian breakfast or smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. Take your binoculars and spend the morning birdwatching at RSPB Minsmere, one of the UK’s most celebrated nature reserves, home to marsh harriers, bitterns and avocets. Or set out on a final coastal walk for one last visit to Dunwich, just three miles away, where sea views and quiet paths bring your Suffolk stay to a close.

From Aldeburgh’s cultural roots to Dunwich’s wild coast and Southwold’s seaside charm, there’s a story waiting at every stop – and a Chestnut pub ready to welcome you in. To find out more about stays on the Suffolk coast, head to The Ship or The Westleton Crown.