29th June 2026 |
Activities, Guides, School Holidays, Southwold
Southwold in Summer: A First-Timer's Guide
Southwold sits on the east of England in a part of Suffolk known as the ‘sunrise coast’. A picture-postcard town, Southwold enjoys big open skies, award winning beaches and a gentle pace of life.
If it’s your first time in this seaside town, and you’re wanting to make the most of your summer stay, this guide is for you. We’ve gathered a list of the things you should see, do and experience whilst you’re here. And the best bit? They’re all in easy reach of your holiday cottage!
*Explore*
+ Walk the Southwold Circular
A great way to get a sense of place when you first arrive, this popular walking route will help you explore your surroundings. Most start at Southwold Pier, taking in the beach huts, historic Gun Hill, the picturesque harbour and then finishing the loop around the edge of Southwold Common returning to the hustle and bustle of town. You can find more wonderful local walks on our Suffolk Journal page here.
+ Browse the shops and galleries
The centre of town is home to a wealth of independent shops and galleries, bursting with wonderful finds. From local art and crafts, boutique clothing and handmade gifts, to books, homewares, antique treasures and jewellery, there’s truly something for everyone.
+ Spend a day on the beach
Buckets and spades, sandy toes and sun sparkling off the sea, there’s nothing like a day at the beach. Southwold has again been awarded a Blue Flag and Seaside Award in 2026. There’s lots of different spots along the beach to enjoy, and you can even hire a Beach Hut with us during your stay for the ultimate day out. Don’t forget to look out for the RNLI Lifeguards if you’re heading in for a swim and stay between the flags for peace of mind.
The Anglo-Saxon name for Southwold derives from Sudwolda, meaning “south forest”
*Discover*
+ Stroll along the Pier
Southwold’s iconic Pier was originally built in 1900 as a landing stage for steamships bringing visitors to the town from London. Now it’s home to a traditional amusement arcade, a café, and a souvenir shop and it makes for a wonderful stroll out to sea. It also features the Under the Pier Show – a room full of quirky machines designed by engineer and inventor Tim Hunkin.
+ Visit the Museum
Curious about the history of the town? Southwold’s unique cottage museum is nestled behind the high street and is dedicated to the local and natural history of this fascinating corner of Suffolk. You can learn about the development of the town’s architecture, its artistic life, the rise (and fall) of its railway, and find out more about the famous land-locked lighthouse. Look at treasures and photographs of bygone eras and come away full of awe for this special town.
+ Take a Brewery Tour
Adnams have been brewing beer in Southwold since 1827, although its origins date back even further. Served in their 5 pubs and hotels, as well as those in surrounding villages, Adnams is a household name in Suffolk. Want to find out more? You can take a tour of the brewery or the gin distillery lead by expert guides and ending with that all-important tasting.
+ Visit the Lighthouse
Popping out over the Southwold skyline, the lighthouse is an iconic part of the town. The team at Adnams also offer tours of this beautiful building built in 1870 and still in operation today. With 113 stairs and views way out to sea, it’s not for the faint of heart, but definitely worth the effort.
+ Other fun experiences
*Eat Out*
If you’re looking for places to eat out in Southwold during your stay, you’re in for a treat. The town is full of wonderful cafes, pubs, restaurants and beachside kiosks serving up delicious food and drink. Suffolk is home to a wealth of independent producers specialising in everything from artisan cheese, sea salt, English wines, smoked fish, and honey.
Many of the cafes and pubs source local ingredients for their menus meaning you can experience a true, seasonal taste of Suffolk. There really is something for everyone in Southwold when it comes to earing out, and all within walking distance of your holiday cottage.
*Stock Up*
Whether you’re cooking up a storm in your holiday cottage kitchen or packing the ultimate beach picnic, Southwold has some great spots to stock up. The Coop in the Market Place is open 7 days a week 6am-10pm for the essentials. If you’re after something a bit more special Black Olive Deli do a great range of fresh pies, cheeses and salads, while Little Gems is full of fresh fruit, veg and pantry staples. For handcrafted bread and pastries give Penny Bun Bakehouse a try, or pop into Harriet’s for sweet treats. And finally, for handy bits and bobs you might have forgotten, or for that all important bucket and spade, you can find Mumfords in the centre of the High Street.
An extensive fire in 1659 destroyed hundreds of buildings in Southwold. As a result, the town was rebuilt with many open “greens” designed to act as firebreaks. These still remain today.
*Other things to know*
+ Where can I park in Southwold?
While some of our holiday cottages come with private parking, space can be at a premium in the very heart of town or on the smaller side streets. Not to worry though, there’s a mix of free and paid long stay car parks as well as street parking dotted around, plus blue badge spaces and motorbike bays. Visit Southwold has a handy guide with everything you need to know. They also have a page detailing all the EV charging locations around town.
+ Heading to the beach?
The tides can affect how much of the beach is showing at different times of the day, so worth noting before you pop your towel down. It’s a good idea to check the tides via a website like BBC Weather for up to date and accurate information.
+ Going further afield?
If you’re looking for a sustainable transport option, you can catch the bus to some of the surrounding towns and villages from outside Lavender & Jude (previously The Kings Head) on the High Street. Check ahead for return times, changes during school holidays, and online timetables here.
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.
