Woodbridge Area Tourist Guide
Woodbridge and the surrounding area has been a popular tourist area for many years, thanks to its wonderful mix charming towns, and villages and stunning landscapes. Here's the low down of some of the highlights.
Woodbridge
Woodbridge is a beautiful, historic town with the iconic Tide Mill on the Quayside and peaceful views across the harbour; gaze as the sun rises out to sea in the mornings. With shops, cafes, pubs and places of entertainment such as the Riverside Cinema, there is always something to do to occupy yourselves with and to enjoy, whatever the British weather delivers. Walks around the harbour and into the countryside are also popular due to the outstanding beauty of the town’s surroundings.The Tide Mill itself is a prominent landmark in the area, as one of the first Tide Mills in the country but also one of the last ones to be used. It operated for over 800 years and is now a ‘living museum’ as it is still an authentic working craft mill. Its elegant white walls dominate the quay and remind the town of its rich history.On a rainy day, the local Riverside Cinema on the quayside is definitely a great place to take the kids and relax for a few hours. There is also an adjoining Michelin listed restaurant, so you can even stay there for a spot of dinner straight after you’ve seen the latest blockbuster! Quite handily, there’s also a train station in the town, so if you fancy a car free day, you could sit back and explore the locality from a different perspective.There are both independent and well known shops in Woodbridge, perfect for your essentials and for those who like to treat yourselves on holiday. From books to clothes to artisan baked goods you’ll find something truly special to take back from your stay in Suffolk. On the subject of food, the Woodbridge farmers’ market is definitely something to investigate if you are in town. Local producers come together twice a month to produce a spread of sumptuous local food and drink, benefitting the local communities and local environment.
Orford
Take the time to explore the small town of Orford, it has much to offer! It has a rich history as a port and fishing village and is also home to a medieval castle that, by all accounts, offers an incredible view from the battlements across the town, ness and sea. This charming little town is also home to a Grade I listed church, St Bartholomew’s, which is often host to classical concerts and recitals which when floodlit at night is a breath taking scene.A walk along Orford Ness around the lighthouse is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. This area has an unlikely history, as an island for top secret experiments by the British military for most of the twentieth century. It was intensely bombed, leaving the area somewhat desolate, however it is now a National Nature Reserve with a vast amount of shingle, a fantastic place for the avid walker, with excellent views out to sea.Don’t fret! After all of this exploring and trekking, there are fantastic places to eat in Orford! A selection of pubs and the famous Pump Street Bakery ensure that you will not go hungry. The Bakery itself also has a café where they serve their delicious baked goods, so you could even stop off to create your own picnic before you head out to the Ness. The Jolly Sailor is a fantastic traditional pub in the town, with log burning fires, sailing memorabilia, and a unique charm to it. You can enjoy a local Adnams ale on the patio outside; overlooking the orchard in the garden and the marshes over towards the Ness, or if you fancy, a seasonal meal, with all locally sourced ingredients.
Waldringfield
Explore the parish of Waldringfield on the banks of the River Deben. This village includes a stretch of the tidal river estuary which is home to many species of plant, bird and mammal; a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. Ramblers, sailors and birdwatchers all adore this village, the peaceful rural setting is perfect if you want to escape the bustle of the towns. Waldringfield is absolutely perfect for a long walk by the river, with marked trails making it easy and enjoyable to follow.
Shottisham, Bawdsey & Shingle Street
At the mouth of the River Deben lies Shingle Street, an unassuming hamlet, with a fascinating history. Shottisham and Bawdsey are both charming little villages between Shingle Street and Woodbridge and these three places are excellent for afternoons out walking. Bawdsey Quay is fantastic for crabbing and the café there sells amazing crab sandwiches! Very picturesque in the local Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we have a selection of properties here.
