16th September 2026 |
Activities, Guides
Where to Point Your Camera on the Suffolk Coast
Whether you’re new to photography with kit to try out, or you’re a professional looking for fresh inspiration, the Suffolk Coast is a visual feast.
The colder months mean a softer light and ever-changing skies, bringing atmosphere and depth to your photographs. There’s a lot of incredible locations to choose from, but we’ve gathered five of our top recommendations to try on your next trip to the beautiful Suffolk Coast.
Aldeburgh: For quirky architecture and street scenes
Aldeburgh lies within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s easy to spend a full day wandering around the town and there’s plenty to photograph. You could catch the sunrise over the North Sea, where the shingle stretches up towards the town. The beach is strewn with boats and fishing sheds selling the catch of the day.
Behind this, the promenade is lined with quirky period townhouses painted in bright colours. They’re cut through with interesting alleyways and vistas in every direction. The town itself is home to many iconic buildings including the 16th century Moot Hall, alongside historic cottages and Victorian shop fronts lining the high street.
Before you head off, don’t forget to visit the Martello Tower built to fortify the coast from the threat of invasion from Napoleon.
Covehithe: For desolate landscapes and rugged coastline
Sitting North of Southwold up the coast is the quiet village of Covehithe. It’s a remote place popular with walkers and can be a great spot for photography. The village itself is home to St Andrew’s Church, which sits inside the ruins of its earlier medieval form. The old church ruins can feel very atmospheric, with tall empty arches and stone scattered around the site.
There’s a single walking track that leads down to the sea. It’s windswept and at the mercy of the elements so hold on to your equipment on a breezy day. It can be a surreal sight – with crumbling, layered cliffs and a beach covered in old trees that once stood on land.
The thing with Covehithe is it looks even better with dramatic weather. So dress for the elements and enjoy the well-earned results of your photographic efforts!
RSPB Minsmere: For wildlife and big skies
RSPB Minsmere is a rich habitat home to some of the UK’s rarest wildlife. The signposted walks can take you through reedbeds, coastal lagoons and heathland before heading out to sea. Hides and lookouts provide ideal viewpoints out over the pools, and if you’re lucky you can spot Avocets, Bitterns, Bearded Tits and even Otters.
The visitor centre lists recent sightings, or you can just explore the trails and discover as you go.
Don’t forget to take your binoculars and zoom lens to capture wildlife off in the distance!
Dunwich Forest: For autumn colour and sunlight through the trees
Whilst the heathland recovers from the recent fire, why not visit Dunwich Forest instead? Part of the Suffolk Coasts and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Dunwich Forest consists of a mixture of coniferous and broadleaved woodland providing interest all year round.
It’s accessible from Dunwich village and has a number of sign-posted trails meandering through stunning woodland. Think sunlight through the canopy and ferns on the forest floor, before coming out into sunny heathland covered in gorse and heather.
A tranquil day out for any budding photographer.
Walberswick: For weatherboard and boats
Just across the River Blyth from Southwold, Walberswick is choc-full of character. Parking at the riverside you’ll see fishing boats moored along the banks and the iconic black weatherboarded houses, many raised on stilts to avoid high tides. The village itself is full of quirky cottages; doorways framed with roses and hollyhocks in the summer months.
Down by the sea, the dunes and shingle beach are another great spot for taking in golden hour or capturing moody skies. With some excellent cafes and local pubs, there’s ample opportunity to rest and look back through your camera roll too!
–> Your base on the Suffolk Coast
Durrants Holiday Cottages are dotted throughout Southwold and the surrounding area, giving you the perfect base for your photography adventure. Southwold’s High Street is also packed with shops to help you on your way – from clothing stores for last minute rain coats and fresh socks, to a deli and bakeries to supply that essential packed lunch.
Need advice? Get in touch with our friendly, local team who can help.
