Pin Mill Walks
Published: Monday 5th May 2014
Written by: Suffolk Secrets Team
Located on the Shotley peninsula, Pin Mill has been the subject of many artists’ paintings over the years and is also famous for being the setting of many adventures penned in Arthur Ransome’s “We Didn't Mean To Go To Sea". Arthur Ransome may be better known for his classic "Swallows and Amazons”.
This short Pin Mill walk takes in the beautiful riverside scenery, woodland and heath.
Short walk (2 miles approx)
- Starting point: Butt and Oyster Pub. This famous Suffolk pub offers delicious local seafood and amazing views from its restaurant and main bar.
- Head east from Pin Mill, walking along the foreshore in front of the Butt and Oyster.
- Continue walking along the pathway until it turns to the right and away from the river. The path now joins the Stour and Orwell walk
- Turn left at the T junction and continue walking parallel to the River Orwell until the pathway slopes down towards Clamp House, Butterman’s Bay. Butterman’s Bay is the starting point for the annual Thames Barge Match and was historically a drop off point for square-riggers that used to offload Australian grain on to the waiting Thames sailing barges. Look out for Woodpeckers, Great Tits and Blue Tits in this area. You may even spot Goldcrest here as they are attracted to the deciduous trees.
- For some wonderful views of the Orwell Park Observatory and river, turn left just before Clamp House until you reach a small sandy beach. The Observatory at Nacton is equipped with several astronomical telescopes including one which dates back to 1874.
- Walk back to Clamp House and walk straight through the woodland area.
- After passing through a kissing gate, keep on the track with the wood to your right. At the end of the woodland, turn right.
- Keep on the path through the gorse and continue to the “open access” heathland area. Look out for Linnets here – a protected species. They are attracted to this heathland area as they feed on the seeds and insects common in this type of habitat.
- Keep on the pathway and follow it as it bears to the right. Continue straight on into the woods.
- Turn left at the T junction of paths – heading through the woodland.
- Leave the woodland area at a kissing gate and follow the path down to the road via some steep steps.
- Turn right, leading you back to the Butt and Oyster Pub.
Self-Catering Cottages in Pin Mill / Shotley Peninsula area
- Valley Cottage in Pin Mill is a beautifully presented, pet friendly, holiday cottage that sleeps 6.
- Elm Cottage in Chelmondiston is conveniently located for discovering many beautiful walks that start at the picturesque riverside hamlet of Pin Mill. This cosy pet-friendly cottage sleeps 6 people and is less than a mile away from Pin Mill.
- Lodge Farm in Freston offers accommodation for parties of 2, 4, 6 or 12 people, all set within a peaceful rural location close to the Suffolk Food Hall.
- Lake Farm Barn in Holbrook is a stunning barn conversion offering a high standard of self-catering accommodation for up to 6. This stunning Suffolk holiday cottage offers wonderful views across a small lake within the extensive 16 acre grounds.
If you require further information on searching for a Suffolk holiday cottage in the Pin Mill area please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team on tel: 01502 722717.