Landmarks
Southwold lighthouse is the definitive landmark. Its elegant white profile is visible from miles around. Commissioned in 1890 it stands in the middle of the town and is today a Grade II listed building. This 102-foot symbol of Southwold has a spiral staircase of 113 steps, and was built to replace two previous lighthouses that succumbed to coastal erosion. Just ten years after the completion of the lighthouse, Southwold Pier was built. This impressive lengthy structure was designed to accommodate the Belle steamers that carried tourists along the coast, and after being seriously damaged in the 1940s and 1950s was carefully restored in 2001. Today it is once again a popular attraction in the town.
Southwold is filled with historic buildings and landmarks. The Adnams Brewery is a good example. Founded in 1872, the brewery was rebuilt in the heart of the town in 1890, where it remains. Today it is a successful energy efficient and award-winning business, earning the Brewery of the Year Award from the Good Pub Guide in 2011.
Southwold Harbour is another memorable feature of the town. It extends almost one mile upstream from the river's mouth and teems with small fishing boats, yachts and pleasure craft. Here you will also find the Southwold Sailing Club and the quay area known locally as ‘Blackshore'.
The Beach
From Southwold hotels, you can wander the wide expanses of the beach and feel a mixture of sand and shingle underfoot. Views both up and down the coast are expansive and impressive. The beach is famously lined with much photographed, charmingly painted beach huts that are much prized by their owners.
Restaurants and Cafés
Southwold has its fair share of Michelin Guide recommended fine dining spots, welcoming pubs and excellent cafés. The 4 Star Swan hotel in the heart of town is widely acknowledged for its superb food and interesting wine list, with two AA Rosettes to prove it. On the beautiful High Street you can try the 17th-century Georgian-fronted coaching inn, the Crown, with its relaxed, welcoming ambiance, seasonal ingredients and contemporary British menu. Right on the edge of the sea, there is Suzie's Beach Café, which is bursting with real Southwold character. Start your morning with a delicious bacon butty and cappuccino or wander in off the beach for a reviving panini, a wonderful home-made cake or an ice-cream in the sun.
