A Walberswick Walk

The winter season has firmly settled in so what better time than to take advantage of the quieter atmosphere and head out exploring Southwold and the surrounding area. Just across from the Harbour is the village of Walberswick, a former fishing village which is popular with tourists, artists and bird watchers. Famed recently for its crabbing competitions, Walberswick captures the hearts of many visitors and it’s here where we think a winter walk would be perfect – so wrap up in your best thermals, pop some walking boots on and give it a try for yourself!

Starting Point: The Bell Inn Distance: 2.5 miles Advice: Be prepared for muddy pathways and bumps in the heathland.

1. From The Bell Inn, take the track opposite between the rows of the terraced cottages and follow round to the right to steps over the sea wall. Cross the footbridge to your right and follow the path over the shingle area to the sand dunes.
2. Turn right onto the beach and head south (you may see areas fenced off).
3. Approximately 500m beyond the black beach huts, turn right, dropping down from the shingle bank to a pathway called ‘Suffolk Coast Path’. Cross the footbridge over the Dunwich River.
4. After the bridge, turn left following the Suffolk Coast Path signposts and then fork left at the junction, again following the Suffolk Coast Path signposts. You will reach a boardwalk alongside the river. Shortly after crossing a small wooden bridge turn right onto the footpath through the reeds heading towards the seat on the low hill.
5. Behind the seat turn right and follow the path which bends left and out of the Reserve, heading towards the Church. Turn left on the unmade road between the houses then cross the tarmac lane into a byway towards the churchyard.
6. Turn right and follow this road (please take care as the pavements are rather narrow) back into Walberswick, passing The Anchor Inn on your right. The road bends left and you will pass the village Green and eventually reach the Ferry Car Park where you will reach The Bell Inn where we’re sure you’ll need a much needed beverage (be it an Adnams Ale or warm cup of coffee!).

To head back to Southwold unfortunately the easy ferry ride will be closed during the winter period, so you'll need to head towards the Bailey bridge and cross over to Southwold Harbour.

(Walk information supplied by the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Pub Walks, partnered by Adnams).