There are few stretches of coastline as unspoilt as this part of the Suffolk Coast. This tour explores dramatic castles, picturesque riverside and coastal towns, heaths and marshes, and the lost city of Dunwich.
On this tour - as with our other tours - we detail the recommended route mileages but longer or shorter alternatives are available.
Day 1: Arrival in Needham Market
After arriving at Needham Market you will be able to explore the area and spend your first night in this small market town.
Day 2: Needham Market to Framlingham, (Rec 26: Min 25: Max 41 miles.)
Takes you to Debenham, a restored post mill at Saxtead Green and on to Framlingham for your overnight stop and a chance to explore the superb 12th century castle, the one-time home of Mary Tudor.
Day 3: Framlingham to Aldeburgh, (Rec 31: Min 19: Max 35 miles.)
You will pass two vineyards where you can enjoy a little tasting before reaching the coast at Dunwich. Dunwich was once an important port, as the little museum there will show you (well worth a visit), but now most of the town lies submerged beneath the encroaching sea. Travelling down the coast you will reach Thorpeness, a complete holiday village created in 1910, and then finally to the elegant seaside town of Aldeburgh.
Day 4: Aldeburgh to Woodbridge, (Rec 37: Min 16: Max 43 miles.)
Going inland to gain river crossings you can visit the Maltings at Snape, home of the Aldeburgh Festival, climb to the top of dramatic Orford Castle, reach the tip of Orford Ness at quiet and beautiful Shingle Street, visit Sutton Hoo the site of the rich Anglo-Saxon ship burial and cycle down into the market town of Woodbridge for the night.
Day 5: Woodbridge to Needham Market, (Rec 17: Min 17: Max 21 miles.)
Provides an opportunity to explore Woodbridge and its tide mill before returning to Needham Market, possibly stopping at the beautiful Helmingham Hall Gardens on the way.
Freedom Holiday 