Come and Visit Dunwich: Ways to Explore and Support the Area

Dunwich is recovering from Suffolk's largest wildfire, which tore through more than 300 acres of Dunwich Heath at the end of July. While staying away from the affected nature reserve and following official closures is important, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Dunwich and the surrounding area.

For local businesses, the support of visitors matters. The best way to help Dunwich, Westleton and the surrounding community is to continue visiting the places that remain open, enjoying local businesses and discovering everything else the area has to offer. Here's what you can do.

Explore Dunwich village

While parts of the surrounding heath remain affected by the fire, Dunwich village itself still has plenty to see and do. It’s worth spending some time here and supporting the attractions that make the village what it is.

Dunwich Museum

Dunwich Museum tells the fascinating story of medieval Dunwich, much of which was eventually lost to the sea. The museum is open daily from 11.30am–4.30pm and is just down the road from The Ship.

The Lost City Historic Trail

Pick up the trail map from the museum and discover more about the history of the village, including the remains of the medieval town.

For now, stick to the open, signed routes and follow any local guidance around closed areas.

Greyfriars

The atmospheric ruins of the 13th-century Franciscan friary are right on The Ship's doorstep. They're well worth discovering while you're in the village, and the site also has a regular Working Party on the second Saturday morning of every month from 9.30am, giving visitors the chance to get involved in caring for this important piece of local history.

Dunwich Beach

Sometimes the simplest plans are the best. Spend an afternoon on Dunwich Beach, have a paddle, enjoy the sea air or take a walk along the shoreline. Just remember to check any current local advice before setting off and keep away from areas affected by the fire.

Visit the seaside town of Southwold

Just a short drive from Dunwich, Southwold makes a great day out, whether you're looking for a morning by the sea, a family activity or somewhere to explore.

Southwold Pier

Built in 1900, the traditional pier is still a hit with visitors today. Stop by for a game or two on the slot machines, take in the views looking back over the pastel-coloured beach huts and don't miss the rather eccentric end-of-pier clock.

Southwold Maize Maze

A particularly good choice if you've got children with you, the Maize Maze is just outside the town and open daily throughout summer. With ride-on tractors and play equipment alongside the maze, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained for an afternoon.

Southwold Sailors' Reading Room

Often overlooked, this small but interesting museum beside the promenade tells the story of Southwold's maritime history. It also encourages visitors to book in advance to use its snooker table, making it a good place to finish a day by the sea.

Make a day of it nearby

There are plenty of other places within a short drive of Dunwich, so if you're visiting the area, why not make a day of it?

Thorpeness Meare

This wonderfully eccentric, Peter Pan-inspired boating lake is a family favourite. Hire a rowing boat, explore the islands and then wander through the Victorian village to spot the famous House in the Clouds.

Snape Maltings

Around 25 minutes from Dunwich, Snape Maltings offers plenty to fill an afternoon. Catch a performance at the concert hall, browse the shops or spend some time by the River Alde.

Leiston Film Theatre

If the weather turns, make a pit stop at Suffolk's oldest purpose-built cinema. Catch a new release, revisit a classic or see what's on stage before heading back towards the coast.

Yoxford

For a quieter afternoon, head to Yoxford for a wander around the village and a browse through its independent businesses. The Yoxford Antique Centre is worth a look, while the high street has a small deli and pottery studio to discover.

Stop for lunch, dinner or a stay

And, of course, one of the simplest ways to support the area is to spend a little time here.

The Ship is right in the heart of the village, just a short walk from the beach, museum and Greyfriars. Stop by for lunch in the garden after exploring, stay for dinner or make a night of it.

A few minutes inland, The Westleton Crown makes a good base for exploring Dunwich, the Suffolk coast and surrounding countryside. Come for lunch or dinner, stay overnight and spend a little longer discovering the area.

Your time here helps support the local businesses, attractions and people who make this corner of Suffolk special.

Dunwich is still here – come and visit

The heath will take time to recover, but Dunwich and the surrounding area remain open for visitors. So rather than staying away from the region altogether, check the latest local guidance, stick to open routes and come and enjoy the places that are ready to welcome you.

To find out more about the heath and recovery efforts, click here.