Adventure Awaits - A Weekend in Southwold

Let Little Hotdog Watson inspire you with this quaint little coastal town! The amazing Southwold has so much offer including, walks by the pier, amazing fish and chips, and a chance to encounter the local wildlife. 

So what to do first?

The Pier 

If you are visiting Southwold, the pier is a must! Its filled with vibrant amusement arcades, cafes, restaurants, gift shops and the infamous water clock that puts on a show twice an hour!! Did we hear award winning fish and chips too?!

Other than all the fun and entertainment, its also filled with loads of history. It was originally built in 1900 as a landing stage for the steamships, it was 270 yards long and t-shaped, but unfortunately due to storm the t-shaped was washed away in 1934. Three years later a concert hall & amusement arcades were added to the shore end to help attract more visitors as the steamships were no longer visiting. 

During the second World War the pier section was removed due to reduce the risk of it being used in an invasion, and it was then damaged by a mine. After the war, £30,000 was spent rebuilding the pier. It was then damaged again by a storm in both 1955 and 1979, in the outcome it’s length was reduced to 20 yards.  After several smaller projects, a major refurbishment started in 1999, three years later it was back to 208 yards long with a new t-shaped end, allowing visits by the Ps Waverley, Britain’s only steam passenger ship still operating.

RSPB Minsmere 

Only a short drive from Southwold will lead you to RSPB Minsmere. Make sure to bring you camera, binoculars and be ready to explore. The reserve has several miles of footpaths that will take you through the a variety of landscapes including coastal and wetland. Alive with nature throughout the whole year, with dragonflies in summer to ducks in winter, whatever time of the year you will certainly be sure to see something! Keep your eyes peeled for the ever popular and graceful avocet. The Wild Zone and Wild Wood Adventure is perfect for families, providing a fun way of learning about the Suffolk wildlife. 

The Lighthouse

Standing in the middle of the town is Southwold Lighthouse, an impressive landmark that the town has to offer. Eagle-eyed children may recognise the building from a popular TV show ‘Grandpa in my Pocket.’ You can tour the lighthouse, costing £4 for adults and £3 for children, allowing behind the scenes access and learnings about the workings of the important coastal tool.

Crabbing 

Why don't you try your luck as you dangle your string into the sea below. All you need is a bucker, a weighted piece of string and some bacon!! Watch your little ones from the dunes, or from the wooden footbridge from behind, such a simple and cheap family activity that will definitely bring barrels of laughter and memories that will last a life time!

Just a little tip, you may want to wear shoes, crabs like pinching little toes!!!

If this wasn’t enough reasons to visit Southwold, can we tempt you with a beautiful place to enjoy, a quick coffee, a tasty lunch, a special dinner or a relaxing week away? The Brand New The Swan Southwold, gives you all this creating an Adnams experience you won’t forget.