Marshland Meander: Dunwich to Walberswick

In light of the Dunwich Heath wildfire earlier this summer, we have created a new walking map that incorporates the sea views, marshes and coastal forest to the north of our pub. This 7 mile route takes approximately two and a half hours and is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of wading birds or marsh harriers.

Looking for more ways to spend a day by the Suffolk coast? Take a look at our Ways to Explore and Support the Area blog post and A Guide to Exploring Suffolk from The Westleton Crown.

Take a look at the full walking map and download here.

Areas of Interest

DINGLE MARSH

Dingle Marshes is a peaceful stretch of wetland on the Suffolk coast, sitting between Dunwich and Walberswick. Managed by Suffolk Wildlife Trust, the reserve is made up of reedbeds, freshwater pools, grazing marsh and coastal shingle, creating an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for marsh harriers overhead and wading birds around the pools, while the reedbeds provide shelter for species including bearded tits and bitterns. The landscape here is constantly shaped by the sea, making it a particularly wild and distinctive part of the Suffolk coast.

DUNWICH 

Once a thriving port and the capital of East Anglia, today Dunwich is a sleepy coastal village with a few houses, a church, museum and our pub. During the 16th Century, Dunwich was destroyed by a series of storms and floods that swept most of the town into the sea. It is worth visiting the museum to discover more of the local history, from smugglers and shipping routes to a pivotal role in the D-Day landings.

DUNWICH FOREST

Managed by Forestry England, Dunwich Forest consists of over 2000 acres of mixed woodland and lowland heath running adjacent to Dingle Marshes. Dartmoor ponies graze on the northern sections and it's a habitat for local butterflies and birdlife.

It's also good to note that horse riding is welcome in the forest, and husky training takes places before 10.30am and after 4pm, so if you're heading out on foot, keep your eyes and ears open.

WALBERSWICK

Famous for its crabbing, Walberswick is a quiet coastal village just across the River Blyth from Southwold. There are a hanful of shops including deli and cafe for a pit-stop on the Marshland Meander, plus cottages galore to feast your eyes over.

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To see where else to explore when visiting The Ship, head to our Local Area page.

To take a look at our walking maps, click here.

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