23rd July 2026 |
Guides, Southwold
A Day in a Southwold Beach Hut: What to Bring, What to Expect, and Why It's Worth It
Lucky Stone, Peggs Away, Run Ashore. These are just some of the wonderful names given to the traditional beach huts lining Southwold’s seafront.
Painted in beautiful colours and stretching from North Beach beyond the pier, down to the start of the Dunes, Southwold’s beach huts are an iconic part of the town. We care for a collection of around 30 beach huts, let on behalf of passionate hut owners. By hiring a beach hut, you can experience the magic of a traditional day by the seaside in one of Southwold’s most famous locations.
What’s the story behind Southwold’s Beach Huts?
During the 18th and 19th centuries, as seaside holidays were taking off, sea swimming was increasing in popularity. Men and women would have to bathe in separate areas and, to maintain dignity, bathing machines were used. These were wooden horse drawn huts that were wheeled to the edge of the breaking waves. Bathers entered fully dressed from one end, high up on the beach. They then changed in private inside and emerged down steps into the sea the other side, swimming out of view from the public.
As etiquette relaxed and the machines were no longer needed, the wooden structures were given a permanent place on the promenade. They provided somewhere to change, rest and make refreshments during a day at the beach.
As time went by, the popularity of beach huts soared and today they are much loved by generations of owners.
Why hire a beach hut?
There’s something magical about spending a day by the sea in a beach hut. Facing due east, they catch the first rays of sun in the morning as it rises over the North Sea. If you’re heading down for a day at the beach, a hut is a great place to store your picnic, toys and towels. Many of the huts are metres away from the sand. Families can keep an eye on children as they zip back and forth. Between building sandcastles on the beach and sitting in the hut for an ice cream break, they’re always in view.
All huts have their own chairs, tables and basic equipment like a gas stove and mugs. You can set up inside or outside the hut to watch the world go by. You can tuck into your lunch or make a cup of tea and chat to passers-by. If the weather turns, they’re a great shelter from the elements. Watching the moody seas and skies in autumn is every bit as wonderful as high summer.
Your hut also provides a place to get changed and dried off after a day at the beach. Perhaps enjoy a glass of wine from the local beach café or pier as the day winds down.
What should I expect in my beach hut?
When you hire a hut you can see the amenities listed in each description. All huts have a gas stove, basic kitchenware such as a glasses, mugs and cutlery, plus chairs and a small table. You can also find a washing up bowl and cleaning equipment so you can wash anything that was used at the end of your stay.
As extras, some hut owners also provide windbreaks, sun loungers and beach toys. Beach huts don’t have running water but you can find the water points dotted along the promenade. The nearest location will be noted in each beach hut description.
Toilets can be found along the sea front and again, these are noted in the information you receive when hiring out a beach hut.
What do I need to bring with me?
It’s completely up to you how much you bring along with you. If you want to swim, don’t forget to pack your own beach towels as these aren’t included in your holiday cottage. You may want to pack a picnic in a cool box, or bring games to play or a book to read.
Many beach huts will provide a large container or bottle for collecting water from the tap points along the promenade. We do recommend that you also bring one with you just in case. You’ll need to bring tea bags, sugar, milk etc with you for that all important cuppa.
Of course, the town is brimming with wonderful places to eat and drink! So you may want to sample the delights of the town instead and let someone else do the washing up!
How do I hire a beach hut?
You can browse all our Beach Huts here. Beach huts can be hired all year round, apart from the collection on North Beach due to the tides and their winter re-location! They are also available for part-week or day hire during off peak periods. Some can become available last minute so, to find out more, it’s always best to call the team directly on 01502 723292.
Don’t forget to make a note of your beach hut location when booking. The tides and time of year will affect how much of the beach is showing during your stay. It’s a good idea to check the tides via a website like BBC Weather for up to date and accurate information.
If it’s your first time in Southwold, do check out our First Timer’s Guide for making the most of summer in this wonderful town.
Your holiday cottage in Southwold
Durrants Holiday Cottages are dotted throughout Southwold and the surrounding area, giving you lots of choice on where you’d like to be based during your stay.
Need advice? Get in touch with our friendly, local team who can help.
