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Suffolk Coastal Walks Guide

Best Coastal Paths, Local Tips & Scenic Routes

Welcome to the ultimate guide to Suffolk's coastal walks! From the dramatic cliffs of Covehithe to the wild shingle of Orford Ness, Suffolk's coast is a paradise for walkers. Whether you want a gentle family stroll, a wildlife adventure, or a challenging day hike, you'll find it here.

Why walk the Suffolk coast? The region is famous for its big skies, rare wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere. Many routes are dog-friendly and several offer accessible paths, parking, and great local food. Use this guide to compare routes, plan your visit, and discover hidden gems.

  • Family-friendly: Short, easy walks with facilities and points of interest.
  • Dog-friendly: Most routes allow dogs, with some seasonal restrictions.
  • Wildlife & views: Nature reserves, birdwatching, and panoramic sea views.
  • Facilities: Cafés, pubs, toilets, and parking at most main start/end points.

Tip: Always check tide times and local signage for the latest info. For live updates, see Suffolk on Board.

Felixstowe to Trimley Marshes

2-3 hours• Easy

Scenic coastal walk with views over the River Orwell and rich birdlife.

Highlights:

  • River views
  • Bird watching
  • Maritime history

Facilities:

  • Parking at both ends
  • Cafés in Felixstowe
  • Bird hides

Southwold to Walberswick

1.5-2 hours• Easy

Beautiful coastal walk between two charming seaside towns.

Highlights:

  • Beach views
  • Dunes
  • River crossing

Facilities:

  • Pubs
  • Parking
  • Public toilets

Dunwich Heath to RSPB Minsmere

3-4 hours• Moderate

Heathland and coastal walk with abundant wildlife.

Highlights:

  • Heathland flora
  • Bird watching
  • Beach views

Facilities:

  • National Trust café
  • Visitor center
  • Parking

Orford to Aldeburgh

4-5 hours• Moderate

Varied walk along shingle beaches and through coastal marshes.

Highlights:

  • Orford Castle
  • Havergate Island views
  • Aldeburgh beach

Facilities:

  • Pubs in Orford and Aldeburgh
  • Limited facilities en route

Covehithe Circular

2-2.5 hours• Easy

Circular walk featuring one of Suffolk's most secluded beaches.

Highlights:

  • Covehithe Beach
  • St Andrew's Church ruins
  • Coastal erosion views

Facilities:

  • Limited parking
  • No public toilets

Lowestoft to Kessingland

3-4 hours• Moderate

Coastal walk from Suffolk's most easterly point to Kessingland Beach.

Highlights:

  • Ness Point
  • Pakefield Cliffs
  • Benacre National Nature Reserve

Facilities:

  • Cafés in Lowestoft
  • Beach kiosks (seasonal)
  • Bus return option

Snape Maltings to Aldeburgh

2.5-3 hours• Easy to Moderate

Picturesque walk along the River Alde from Snape to the coast at Aldeburgh.

Highlights:

  • Snape Maltings concert hall
  • River Alde views
  • Iken Church
  • Aldeburgh beach

Facilities:

  • Parking at Snape Maltings
  • Cafés and shops at both ends
  • Public toilets

Thorpeness to Sizewell

1.5-2 hours• Easy

Coastal walk from the quirky village of Thorpeness to Sizewell beach.

Highlights:

  • Thorpeness Meare
  • House in the Clouds
  • Sizewell nuclear power station

Facilities:

  • Parking in Thorpeness
  • Pub in Sizewell
  • Beach cafés

Dunwich Forest Trail

1-1.5 hours• Easy

Circular walk through Dunwich Forest, combining woodland and heathland.

Highlights:

  • Mixed woodland
  • Heathland views
  • Wildlife spotting

Facilities:

  • Parking at Dunwich Beach
  • Nearby café and pub in Dunwich village

Shotley Peninsula Circuit

5-6 hours• Moderate to Challenging

Circular walk around the Shotley Peninsula with views of the Orwell and Stour estuaries.

Highlights:

  • Estuary views
  • Shotley Marina
  • Pin Mill hamlet

Facilities:

  • Pubs en route
  • Parking at Shotley Gate
  • Ferries to Harwich and Felixstowe

Walberswick to Dunwich Heath

2-2.5 hours• Moderate

Coastal walk through varied landscapes including marshes, beach, and heathland.

Highlights:

  • Walberswick Nature Reserve
  • Dunes
  • Dunwich Heath

Facilities:

  • Parking in Walberswick
  • Café at Dunwich Heath
  • Pubs in Walberswick

Orford Ness National Nature Reserve Trail

2-4 hours• Easy to Moderate

Unique walk on the Orford Ness shingle spit, exploring its military history and natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Lighthouse
  • AWRE site
  • Shingle beaches
  • Wildlife

Facilities:

  • National Trust visitor center
  • Seasonal boat transfer
  • Limited refreshments

Essential Walking Information for Suffolk Coast

Navigation

The Suffolk Coast Path is marked with distinctive yellow waymarkers. However, some sections may have unclear signage. We recommend carrying an OS map (Explorer 197, 212, 213, 231) and downloading the Suffolk Coast Path app for offline navigation.

Best Time to Walk

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and less crowded paths. Summer provides the best weather but can be busy. Winter walks can be atmospheric but require careful planning. Always check tide times for beach sections.

Safety

Carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and check weather forecasts. Some sections can be remote with limited facilities. Be aware of coastal erosion and stay away from cliff edges. In summer, protect against sun exposure.

Planning Your Walk

  • Check public transport options - many sections are accessible by bus or train. The Coastlink bus service is particularly useful.
  • Book accommodation in advance during peak season, especially in popular towns like Southwold and Aldeburgh.
  • Consider splitting longer sections into manageable chunks. The full path typically takes 3-4 days to complete.
  • Pack essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, waterproofs, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Download the Suffolk Coast Path app for offline navigation and local information.
  • Be respectful of the environment and follow the Countryside Code.

Related Guides

Enhance your coastal walking experience by exploring our other Suffolk coastal guides:

  • Suffolk Beach Guide
  • Suffolk's Charming Seaside Towns
  • Wildlife Spotting on Suffolk's Coast