Discover the unique beauty of Suffolk’s coast with this guide to some of the most extraordinary walks around. From coastal paths to ancient ruins, explore all the stunning areas and hidden gems along the way. These Suffolk coastal walks offer something for everyone!
Thorpeness to the Bird Reserve
This 7.5 kilometer stretch from Thorpeness village takes walkers along some of the most stunning parts of Suffolk’s coast. Along the way, you will pass the Thorpeness Meare, a boating lake built in 1911 with a mix of birdlife, wildflowers, and wetlands. You’ll also take time to explore the Aldringham Walks and enjoy views over the Bird Reserve before heading back towards your starting point.
If you’re looking for an easy but rewarding coastal walk in Suffolk, this route is for you. It should take around two and a half hours to complete, depending on how much you want to explore or stop along the way. The terrain is mostly flat and it’s generally suitable for all levels of fitness – although there may be stretches of paths that could be difficult if it’s particularly wet or muddy. Before set off, be sure to check the local tide timetable as parts of the reserve can become inaccessible at high tide.
Minsmere Circular Walk
This 5 kilometer circular walk takes in some of the most incredible sights along Suffolk’s coast. Starting in Dunwich village, you’ll pass by the ruins of a 12th century Dominican friary and medieval market cross before heading out to East Runton beach. Continue on to majestic RSPB Minsmere reserve for a chance to spot different birdlife and native plants. The walk also passes through the meadows of Dunwich Heath, where more wildlife can be spotted, and ends at the stunning Dunwich Cliffs with views out towards the sea. Along the way, you’ll be able to take in some of the most spectacular scenery that Suffolk has to offer. From colourful wildflowers and rolling meadows, to breathtakingly beautiful vistas of the beach and coastline. Keep a lookout for the variety of wildlife that call this stretch of coast their home, including common visiting birds such as gannets and skylarks. This wonderful walk is an absolute must for anyone who wants to experience all that Suffolk’s coastal beauty has to offer.
Starting and finishing at the Minsmere Nature Reserve car park, this three hour circular walk takes you through the heart of Suffolk’s stunning coastal countryside. Walkers will find themselves weaving between acres of vibrant fields, passing through ancient woodland and heading out across some of the country’s most prized stretches of coastline. Walking at a leisurely pace should be fine, but due to the mixture of terrain your journey may take slightly longer if you choose to stop and take in your surroundings more. No matter how long it takes, this is one coastal journey you won’t want to miss!
This 4 kilometer walk takes you through the picturesque town of Orford and its castle ruins. Follow the River Alde as it winds its way past heathland and coastal wetlands, with wildflowers and wading birds highlighting the route. At the castle, take in beautiful views across Orford Ness before heading back via quaint footbridges over the river or while spotting rare local wildlife.
Orford Castle and River Walk.
The Orford Castle and River Walk offers something for both the historic enthusiast with its expansive castle ruin, as well as nature lovers. There is an abundance of flora and fauna to be seen during the walk ranging from wildflowers and dragonflies to rare birds such as redshank’s, bitterns, marsh harriers and gadwalls. Deer may also wander into view or you might spot a seal in the estuary. As you stroll along the trail, easy access points make it possible to dip your toes into the waters of the River Alde and take a closer look at this marine environment first-hand.
