Organised by the pioneering music, heritage and art charity, Britten Pears Arts, the inclusive festival (formerly known as the Snape Proms) includes a wide programme of concerts, workshops, exhibitions and fringe events.

The community centre is available for private and community hire  and hosts a range of activities from lunch clubs to art groups and more. The large hall (capacity – 120 people / 70 seated at tables) also has an enclosed garden area suitable for outdoor activities an functions. Facilities include a well-equipped catering-standard kitchen, WiFi and PA system

Formed in 1914, Aldeburgh United Charities has the aim of aim of supporting various charitable causes within the local community. It is particularly known for annual fundraising events, which are often highlights in the town’s social calendar. The charity plays a vital role in improving the lives of many individuals and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

The civic society for Aldeburgh, aiming to care for and nurture the character of the seaside town and its surroundings on the East Coast of Suffolk. Through regular meetings and a calendar of social events, members and like-minded individuals with an interest in the town come together to encourage the preservation, development and improvement of public amenities and features of historic interest .

Aldeburgh Library is one of Suffolk’s 45 Community Libraries and is open daily. It offers free WiFi, plus access to computers, photocopying and laminating, as well as regular library services and a home library service. Skills development courses are run here for all to enjoy through the Aldeburgh Libraries Foundation.

A charity dedicated to providing, preserving, maintaining and upgrading the flood defences on the river walls, always taking into account the conservation and protection of the natural environment, flora, fauna, features of historic interest and the landscape and beauty of the Alde and Ore.

The new Alde & Ore Community Partnership, formed to help deliver an Estuary Plan for the Alde and Ore area with every parish bordering the two rivers having a seat on the Partnership.

A membership organisation for the protection and preservation of the valley of the River Alde, an essential part of the Suffolk coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It also ensures the upkeep of public footpaths and sponsors the Butley Ferry, an historic row-boat ferry across Butley River in operation during the summer months courtesy of volunteer oarsmen.

Now a private residence, Aldeburgh’s impressive, Victorian former water tower is located adjacent to Aldeburgh Community Hospital. It only viewed from Park Road or Priors’ Hill Road, but is clearly visible on a walk through Newson Garrett’s ‘New Town’ (accessible through Park Gates next to Aldeburgh Library, or along from the green spaces and play places of King’s Field.

Please respect the privacy of the property owners at all times – thank you. 

Organised by the pioneering music, heritage and art charity, Britten Pears Arts, the festival includes a wide programme of concerts, workshops, exhibitions and events. It is topped off by the vibrant one-day Aldeburgh Festival Extra event Aldeburgh town.

One of England’s top birdwatching spot and a great place for a gentle stroll or time out in abundantly nature-rich coast-side landscapes, just a short distance north of Aldeburgh. Home to everything from avocet to otter and booming bittern and Silver-studded Blue butterflies to Great Green Bush crickets, the range of habitats here include woods, reeds, lagoons, grass- and heathlands and vegetated shingle coast.

Snape Marshes, Snape Warren and the reedbeds and mudflats flanking the Sailors’ Path on its final furlong before Snape Maltings, rank amongst Suffolk’s most inspirational riverside scenery. Experience Sir Benjamin Britten’s ‘Curlew River’, painted in his musical masterpieces and pictured in John Piper’s stained glass window in Aldeburgh Church.

A true cultural hub and centre of learning on the Alde River. Today the complex is home to concerts, events, independent shops, cafés, galleries, walks, boat trips, private homes, self-catering accommodation and the annual Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival. Above all, this the home of the world-renowned Britten Pears Arts organisation and Snape Maltings concert hall.

Thorpeness’ famous House in the Clouds is not open to the public (although you can rent it!), but its location opposite Thorpeness windmill allows clear viewing from the footpath. Now a privately owned, self-catering property for 10, it was originally built as watertower and disguised to fit in with the idyllic village surroundings! Its water tank has been converted into the property’s main reception space and games room!

Originally located in the nearby village of Aldringham, Thorpeness Postmill has been recently renovated. It is in private hands, but has open days to welcome visitors to learn of its rich history and how and why it came to be located next to the famous ‘House in the Clouds’, sitting above Thorpeness Meare.

Enjoy time out on the water at a boating lake like no other. Amidst the wide range of dinghies, kayaks, large family rowing boats, canoes, punts and sailing boats for hire, there are many original boats from the Meare’s earliest days back in 1913. Home to Thorpeness Regatta (August), and its after-party featuring decorated boats and fireworks. 

Located just to the north of the Moot Hall, the Aldeburgh ‘pétanque’ or ‘boules’ piste attracts regular club games and tournaments, and is available for impromptu games of this relaxed and inclusive sport.

Set in a pleasantly secluded location, just a short walk from King’s Field, Aldeburgh Bowls Club has 4 standard hard tennis courts, open to non-members on a pay-as-you-go basis. Season tickets are available to members along with club and coaching sessions.

Set in a pleasantly secluded location, adjacent to the Bowls Club, just a short walk from King’s Field, Aldeburgh Tennis Club has 4 standard hard tennis courts, open to non-members on a pay-as-you-go basis. Season tickets are available to members along with club and coaching sessions.

Founded in 1884, Aldeburgh Golf Club comprises 2 courses with amazing Alde River views: the Championship Course (England’s second-oldest maritime heathland course) and the 9 hole River Course. A club where women have always had equal membership and playing rights with the men, it is proud to host the Ladies Open – ‘The Aldeburgh Spoon’. Both courses are open to visitors, subject to terms, conditions and green fees. Handicap certificate required for Championship Course.   

Founded in 1897 and located at Slaughden on the River Alde, Aldeburgh Yacht Club supports all aspects of sailing and watersports. Members can benefit from a wide range of activities including ferrying to boats, a calendar of races and have access to boat storage. The Club welcomes visiting yachts. Visitor moorings are provided by the Harbour Master.  

Slaughden Sailing Club is volunteer-led and offers its members training and support across a wide range of activities including canoe, kayak, windsurfing, dinghy racing and cruising under sail or motor.  It is located at the south end of Aldeburgh on the River Alde’s Slaughden Creek by Martello Tower CC.

The Cuthbert Harrison Memorial Garden – locally known as Dial House Garden – is one of Aldeburgh’s secret hideaways. A quieter and often wonderfully colourful place to sit, it is tucked away on a tiny side street, just metres away from Moot Hall Green.

Aldeburgh is home to both a north and south ‘lookout’ – brick-built watchtowers  constructed in the mid-19th century for fishing pilotage groups. Today, the North Lookout (1840) adjacent to the RNLI Lifeboat Station serves as an RNLI store, whilst South Lookout (c.1830) is now ‘ a catalyst for art ideas’, a facility for emerging artist residencies and is open to the public (most Saturdays) as a gallery of their work.

Historic venue and valued community hub, the Aldeburgh Cinema Trust hosts the famous annual Aldeburgh Documentary Festival which attracts thousands for a weekend of inspiring films and thought-provoking discussion.

Established in 2016, Poetry in Aldeburgh aims to promote and support poetry to benefit the local community and the east of England. It provides a welcoming and accessible environment for readings, performances, writing workshops and other activities such as talks and exhibitions.

Enjoy Summer Theatre by the Sea from Aldeburgh Classic Theatre for compelling and entertaining performances of classic favourites. It’s the perfect addition to any Suffolk Coast holiday stay and a real calendar event to look forward to for those who live in the East Suffolk area.

The Aldeburgh Literary Festival is a totally independent arts festival which has been organised by the team at the Aldeburgh Bookshop for over 25 years. It has been hailed as ‘arguably the most important, high quality and diverse celebration of the spoken word’.  

Celebrating the very best in Suffolk food and drink for two decades, the weekend Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival is the ultimate highlight in the foodie calendar for locals and visitors alike. Its programme of fringe events, offer the opportunity to engage directly with local producers on their patch through walks and more.

Aldeburgh’s family-friendly colourful annual carnival is traditional seaside fun at its finest that raises money for local charities. Expect decorated shops, sporting fun, a lively carnival with floats, an evening lantern parade and fireworks.

Thorpeness Regatta is a community tradition, continued through family stewardship. It was first held in 1913 and is renowned for its family focus, dragon boat races, and after-party featuring decorated boats and fireworks.

Brilliant for birdwatching and experiencing the hauntingly fragile and ever-changing world of the River Alde. Transformed by a tidal surge in 2013 from fresh water grazing marsh to salt marsh, Hazlewood Marshes are home to salt-blasted skeleton trees, marsh samphire, wading birds, a truly remote hide and history in spadefuls. Ideal for visiting from the Sailors’ Path between Aldeburgh to Snape.

Originally the site of a Tudor port, RSPB North Warren Aldeburgh is an oasis of calm right on the town’s doorstep. Located just across Thorpe Road from Aldeburgh’s famous ‘Scallop’, its watery marshlands make it a firm flightpath favourite with migrating geese, but varied habitats also attract warblers, yellowhammers and marsh harriers. There are a number of viewing platforms.

Set in 5 acres of gardens on the outskirts of Aldeburgh, The Red House (BrittenPears Arts) is a museum, garden and performance venue which holds and honours the collections, archive and galleries of 20th century composer Sir Benjamin Britten, and his partner, the famous classical tenor, Peter Pears. A super place to visit (or stay) for anyone with an interest in Aldeburgh, the Arts or who loves gardens!        

Lowestoft-born composer, Benjamin Britten (1913-1976), was in tune with Aldeburgh’s past, present and future. He put the town on the world map with his music festival and concert hall and from ‘Curlew River’ to ‘Peter Grimes’, drew inspiration from its coast, countryside and long-lost sons. Find out more and take a look at the Britten Connections Map/ Walk.

Aldeburgh’s famous pup called ‘Snooks’ lives alongside the yacht pond on Aldeburgh seafront. He comes with a lovely tale (and tail!) and loves putting a smile on folks’ faces, being regularly yarn-bombed since Christmas 2017. But who did he belong to? What hats does he wear? And is it true that he has a twin ?

Son of Leiston agricultural engineering giant, Richard Garrett, Newson Garrett (1812-1893), returned from London with this family in 1840 to seek health, more wealth and happiness near the coast in Suffolk. An entrepreneur and shrewd businessman he bought first bought a brickworks, then set about making his money and his mark. The rest is Aldeburgh history. 

Life partner of Sir Benjamin Britten.  Take a look at the Britten Connections Map/ Walk.

The local poet whose words are immortalised on ‘Scallop’, Aldeburgh’s public artwork on the beach and tribute to Sir Benjamin Britten.

Take a look at the Britten Connections Map/ Walk.

Member of Aldeburgh’s famous Garrett family (Millicent Garrett-Fawcett).

Aldeburgh’s Roman Catholic church looks out to sea from The Terrace at the top of the town steps. Despite its crenelated porch, flint façade and truncated round tower, it is not as old as it may first appear, dating from around 1925 and displaying an Arts & Crafts movement influence. Aldeburgh’s Catholic parish extends to include All Saints, Leiston.

Aldeburgh parish church with its 14th century tower, mighty south porch and impressive, welcoming interior is well worth a visit. Inside, its memorials include a stunning stained glass window tribute to Sir Benjamin Britten by renowned artist, John Piper. It is part of the Alde Sandlings Benefice.

Young and old alike love Aldeburgh’s model yacht pond on Moot Green. Even without a boat to float, it’s a calm spot for ice-cream, coffee or drifting off a while…  The shallow pond is a converted military water tank and is a year-round favourite for mini waterborn adventures. You’ll find it ‘guarded’ by ‘Snooks’, a bronze statue of a local doctor’s dog.

A memorial to the composer, Sir Benjamin Britten, ‘Scallop’ is a massive must-see sculpture in steel by the local contemporary artist, Maggi Hambling. An awesome public art work on the shingle, Scallop bears the haunting words penned by the 18th century poet, George Crabbe, and later reimagined by Britten in his opera ‘Peter Grimes’.

Must-see Aldeburgh Museum reveals the inside Aldeburgh’s iconic 16th century Moot Hall and so much more! Enjoy two floors of family-friendly interactive displays and artefacts sharing the rich history and fascinating stories of town and surrounding area.

Suffolk’s very own, free mobile app for walking, cycling and more is a useful tool for walkers and cyclists enjoying the East Suffolk coast and beyond. This handy digital solution gives free access to high-quality Ordnance Survey mapping and a growing library of tried and tested trails including some in East Suffolk.

Free to download digital walking trails in Aldeburgh have been devised through a partnership between East Suffolk Council and walking app company ‘Go Jauntly’.

Created to promote walking, wayfinding and connection with nature, this free, community-based mobile app must be installed on your mobile phone or device before you can download the walks.

The vision behind the Edwardian holiday village of Thorpeness, its ‘Merrie England’ in microcosm architecture, the water tower disguised as a House in the Clouds, its magical Meare and so much more.

Also known as the Yox & Blyth Valley Walk, this station-to-station walk weaves from the Yoxford home of impressive Cockfield Hall and Lawrence Edwards’ mighty Yox Man sculpture via the crinkle-crankle walls and standalone church tower of Bramfield.

Also known as the Yox & Blyth Valley Walk, this station-to-station walk weaves from the Yoxford home of impressive Cockfield Hall and Lawrence Edwards’ mighty Yox Man sculpture via the crinkle-crankle walls and standalone church tower of Bramfield.
 

DIRECTIONS ROUTE UPDATES VILLAGES INO

Founded in 1851, the RNLI Aldeburgh Lifeboat Station has been supporting maritime safety and the community for well over a century. Visitors are welcome to see inside the boathouse through the windows of the external viewing gallery. Tours for groups may be possible by appointment.

Also known as the Yox & Blyth Valley Walk, this station-to-station walk weaves from the Yoxford home of impressive Cockfield Hall and Lawrence Edwards’ mighty Yox Man sculpture via the crinkle-crankle walls and standalone church tower of Bramfield to Halesworth’s Millennium Green.

  From Darsham Station

9 Miles / 14.5 Kms

DOWNLOAD INFO & IMAGES VILLAGES INFO

Also known as the Yox & Blyth Valley Walk, this station-to-station walk weaves from the Yoxford home of impressive Cockfield Hall and Lawrence Edwards’ mighty Yox Man sculpture via the crinkle-crankle walls and standalone church tower of Bramfield to Halesworth’s Millennium Green.

From Darsham Station

9 Miles / 14.5 Kms

DIRECTIONSROUTE UPDATESVILLAGES INO

Since art dealer, Caroline Wiseman, founded the Lookout as catalyst for art ideas in 2010, many famous Royal Academicians and emerging artists been inspired by the Suffolk Coast whilst using this extraordinary, iconic tower as their studio. Their paintings, sculptures or installations for sale are exhibited in the Lookout (usually Saturdays). All welcome.

Suffolk Hideaways offer an ever-growing and varied selection of cottages in the Aldeburgh area and throughout the county. Choose from little places, perfect for a romantic weekends for two, to larger properties, just right for family holidays by the coast. Warm welcome and comfort are the keys to these holiday cottages.

Founded in 1982, Thompson’s Gallery is renowned for Modern British and Scottish art, especially works inspired by the Scottish Colourists. Today, the gallery also showcases contemporary South African artists alongside established British and Scottish names and has both a sister gallery in London and consultancy studio in Harpenden.

Overlooking Aldeburgh’s iconic shingle beach, Fishers Gin Distillery has fast become one of the town’s most magnetic experience. A shop as well as an attraction, it offers bookable tours and tastings (over 18s only) all year round. A must for both gin and Suffolk Coast lovers alike, visit to discover the home and story of Fishers lovingly-crafted seaside gins.

The Aldeburgh Library Foundation is a charity which supports Aldeburgh library by running a wide range of income-generating community education courses from art to Zumba. Course information is provided via the Aldeburgh Arts website.

National holiday cottages letting agency with over 14o properties in and around Aldeburgh the area, from romantic retreats for two to spacious family homes or larger cottages ideal for group getaways. Selection of pet-friendly places to stay available and properties conveniently located within walking distance of Aldeburgh beach.

Offering an array of musical and dramatic performances, both amateur and professional, historic Jubilee Hall also serves the community as a film-theatre, dance-hall, badminton court and,in the past, a roller-skating rink! Available for hire for either private or public events. 

Once a chemist, bookshop and general store, DP’s is a much-loved Aldeburgh landmark. Now restored by Eliza Stephens, it features an Art Deco bar with live music and hosts the popular Thai Street Cafe in its courtyard seasonally.

A family-owned independent garage and car dealer offering a professional, yet friendly and flexible, service to meet all your motoring needs.

Aldeburgh hardware and electrical shop and wholesalers with a strong reputation in electrical appliance repair and mobile pat testing.

A forward-thinking, independent estate and letting agent with a proactive approach to every client, listing and search. Services include selling, buying, letting or renting properties through dedication, local knowledge and market expertise.

Specialist in luxury yacht sales, brokerage, and charter services, offering a variety of new and pre-owned yachts. Demon Yachts provide expert advice and tailored services for sailing enthusiasts and prospective yacht owners in Suffolk and the East Anglia region.

The Aldeburgh branch of Suffolk Building Society offers a range of financial services, including savings accounts, mortgages, and insurance. It provides personalised customer service to meet local community needs.

A boutique hair and beauty salon offering a calm, professional experience with a focus on personalised service. Run by a skilled team, it provides online booking for most treatments, with consultations required for colour appointments.

One Five Seven Antiques & Interiors is an antiques shop offering a selection of vintage and decorative items in a traditional setting.

Crew Clothing’s Aldeburgh store offers British coastal-inspired casualwear for men and women.

Aldeburgh Market is a multifaceted establishment on the High Street, combining a fishmonger, deli, and restaurant. It offers fresh seafood, local produce, and seasonal dishes.

A small bistro on Aldeburgh’s High Street, serving brunch, afternoon tea, and supper. Known for its luxury hot chocolate and freshly baked cakes, it offers a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating.

Sister to the original Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop, The Golden Galleon serves award-winning fish and chips. Above it, The Upper Deck offers a quieter, more intimate setting to enjoy the same beloved dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Suffolk is a stylish boutique hotel in Aldeburgh, offering comfortable accommodation with a contemporary design. Located near the seafront, it features a seafood-focused restaurant and bar, attracting both visitors and locals for its relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

An award winning, contemporary bed and breakfast and holiday rental, set in five acres of tranquil garden and woodland near Aldeburgh on the Suffolk coast.

Church Farm Holiday Park in Aldeburgh offers touring pitches and holiday homes near the beach, set within 27 acres of parkland adjacent to the RSPB North Warren Nature Reserve.

Agency for letting luxury holiday cottages, including properties in Aldeburgh and on the Suffolk Coast.

Providing volunteer-run transport services to people in Aldeburgh, Leiston, Saxmundham, Framlingham, Woodbridge and surrounding villages when access to public transport is unavailable. Vehicles are wheelchair accessible. Enabling people who may need a little more assistance to remain independent and get out and about. Also minibus hire to local community groups to support their activities.

Aldeburgh’s independent small animal veterinary practice, owned and run by Brian Faulkner FRCVS and Jess Bartman MRCVS.

Imagining, producing and selling beauty, skincare and well-being products since 1976. L’Occitane en Provence use traceable, sustainably sourced ingredients, cultivated with utmost respect to natural ecosystems, passionately protecting 1,000+ varieties of plant species.

Located at the RNLI Aldeburgh lifeboat station adjacent to the viewing area, the lifeboat shop offers a range of lifesaving souvenirs, cards and gifts. Tours of the lifeboat station organised on request for groups (2+).

A venue for contemporary, applied and visual arts, Aldeburgh Gallery is a light and airy space with a large display window and a pleasant, inviting atmosphere.

Montessori nursery for children aged 2 to 4 years, matching school term opening. A close caring community with links to all local primary schools, operated on Montessori ethos, married with early years foundation stage: following the child and tailored to their needs and development, to support independence and readiness for primary school.

Local group of the Ramblers, covering the area of Suffolk Coastal between the Deben and the Blyth. Also organisers of regular guided walks around the East Suffolk area.

Company specialising in computer networking, data cabling, WiFi and fibre optic services to both private and commercial customers, with experience in working in environments from nuclear power stations, wind farms, industrial sites to offices and private homes.

Prominent law firm with offices throughout East Anglia. Specialist legal services in property, private client matters, landlord-tenant issues, corporate law, debt recovery and litigation. Practical approach, jargon-free advice and professional, tailored legal support.

Experienced physiotherapist treating musculoskeletal conditions in a welcoming clinic environment. Manual therapy, acupuncture, personalised exercise programmes, including Pilates. Close engagement with patient healthcare teams for coordinated care towards recovery and return to everyday activities.

Private GP practice, providing accessible, confidential healthcare services. Appointments available without long waits for personalised medical care, health checks and treatments. Suitable for individuals seeking flexible, professional support outside NHS services.

Totally independent jewellers, home to the famous, unique ‘Aldeburgh Pebbles®’. Interesting gem and wedding rings; new and pre-owned gold, silver, gem jewellery; amber and rainbow moonstone collections; watches. Jewellery and watch repairs undertaken.

A long-established art gallery offering a warm and friendly welcome to all visitors. The gallery features a diverse selection of paintings and original prints by leading contemporary artists, alongside a curated collection of beautifully crafted ceramics.

Smoking fresh fish and shellfish directly on Aldeburgh beach, open 364 days a year. Ready-to-eat hot smoked and cold smoked (to cook) fishes, plus homemade tarts and patés. Proud suppliers to local pubs, hotels, restaurants as well as direct to the general public.

Offering a wide range of kitchen and homeware products from everyday kitchen utensils to homewares and gifts. With over 2,500 products in stock, hopefully you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for – if not, the expert team will try and source it for you!

Famous, independent bookshop trading for over 75 years. Wide selection of books for all tastes, stationery, greetings cards, art materials. Former winner of the British Book Awards ‘UK Independent Bookshop of the Year‘. Organisers of the Aldeburgh Literary Festival.

The little dog boutique, run by people passionate about dogs, is where everyone gets a treat! Ranges include leads, collars, harnesses; coats, bow-ties and bandanas; beds, blankets, grooming, plus toys, treats, foods (incl. raw) and gifts. Free fitting service on dog harnesses.