11 stunning walks in Suffolk with a view

Suffolk is blessed with a wonderful coastline, dotted with beautiful beaches and stunning estuaries begging to be explored. Inland, there are walking trails zig-zagging across the county: long-distance routes, buggy-friendly paths and muddy woodland trails.

We’ve brought together a selection of long and short walks in Suffolk where you can experience unbeatable views while stretching your legs and feeling the benefit of the fresh air filling your lungs.

1. The Sailor's Path

Part of the 50-mile Suffolk Coast Path, the Sailor's Path takes in some beautiful scenery along the River Alde. Beginning at Snape Maltings where you can enjoy a browse of the galleries and shops before you set out, this Suffolk walk is signposted the whole way to its conclusion in Aldeburgh.

Highlights along the way include the views of the stunning Alde-Ore Estuary and the wildlife-rich Snape Marshes and Snape Warren Nature Reserve. Once in Aldeburgh, you can recoup your energy with a tasty portion of fish and chips – a popular treat on walks along the Suffolk coastal path.

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2. Constable Country

If you’re searching for the best walks in Suffolk with a view, look no further than this trail through the awe-inspiring landscape of the Stour Valley and Dedham Vale which inspired many of John Constable’s famous paintings.

Starting at Manningtree Railway Station, it takes in landmarks such as Flatford Mill, Willy Lott’s House and the site of The Hay Wain painting, so there’s plenty to admire en route. It also passes through the village of Dedham, where Constable attended school. It’s not hard to see how the panoramic views found their way into the artist’s work – perhaps you will be inspired to pick up a paintbrush too!

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3. Dunwich Heath and Beach

This is one of the most beautiful circular walks in Suffolk to enjoy in the summer when the heathland is draped with a rich blanket of purple and yellow flowers. A peaceful route where the only disturbance is likely to be the trill of a warbler or even a nightjar, it begins in front of the Coastguard’s Cottages and tearoom.

The colours of the heath are a feast for the eyes, and one of the other many impressive views appears as you head down the slope towards Docwra’s Ditch. Just before the beginning of the ditch is Nightjar Corner where you can take a moment to watch the wildlife, including dragonflies and lizards if you’re lucky. The final beautiful view awaits at the viewing room above the tearooms where your walk began – enjoy, then treat yourself to refreshments downstairs!

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4. Two Rivers Walk, Shotley Point

The Two Rivers Walk takes in both the Stour and Orwell Estuaries, where the mudflats provide a habitat for wading birds. Autumn is a great time to visit, as thousands of birds flock here to feed and roost. Another highlight is the wonderful views of Harwich Haven and the busy Port of Felixstowe.

Starting in Shotley Gate outside the Bristol Arms (which incidentally has spectacular views!), this circular walk in Suffolk skirts around Shotley Marina, through the marshes and back along the inland part of the peninsula, past St Mary’s Church, through fields and woodland back to your starting point alongside the Stour Estuary.

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5. Aldeburgh and Thorpeness

When it comes to Suffolk coastal walks with breathtaking views, this has to be one of the top choices. It begins in Aldeburgh and hugs the coast, passing the iconic House in the Clouds, an old water tower whose tank was disguised to look like a fairy-tale cottage.

Enjoy the views towards Thorpeness as you walk alongside the shingle beach, which is carpeted by pretty flowering valerian in the summer months. Upon reaching Thorpeness, the route turns inland, passing the ponds of The Meare and following an old railway line back to Aldeburgh and the promise of a cuppa.

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6. Brandon Country Park

If you’re looking for accessible or buggy walks in Suffolk, there are a whole host of suitable trails at Brandon Country Park. A café, picnic area and play area with a wheelchair swing help you make a day of it, and there are so many beautiful sights to appreciate within the park.

Home to some of the best West Suffolk walks, the arboretum also features a plethora of stunning trees, including copper beech, false acacia and monkey puzzle trees. Many of the paths are firm and perfect for wheelchair users and pushchairs. Take in a walled garden, a ‘haunted’ mausoleum and scenic views of the lake, and you can even join a park run on Saturday mornings if you’re feeling energetic!

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7. Ickworth Park

A route devised by the National Trust in Suffolk, this is one of the most pleasant and secluded forest walks in Suffolk. Meandering through the beautiful scenery of the Ickworth Estate, you’ll be treated to a host of magnificent views of enchanting woodland glades, and the magnificent Italianate Rotunda at its heart.

The walk starts at the Porter’s Lodge visitor centre and passes through leafy woodland where you can sit awhile in the Fawn Summerhouse, admiring the views across the Linnet Valley. The path joins the River Linnet trail where you may spot wildlife such as buzzards and kestrels if you keep an eye out.

Through fields and past ponds in Horsepool Wood, the trail continues into Twist Wood and Dairy Wood with their ancient trees – look out for deer here! Weaving onwards along a combination of tracks, field paths and woodland, passing many fascinating buildings and points of interest along the way, the walk ends at the West Wing where you can stop for refreshments before taking a look around the gardens at your leisure.

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8. Framlingham Town Trail

A pleasant walk taking in the attractive historic buildings of Framlingham. There are plenty of eateries dotted throughout the village, making it one of our favourite East Suffolk walks with pubs en route!

Following the pavement markers, the trail takes in interesting sites including the pump which was once the town’s main water source; Queen’s Head Alley which is steeped in history; The Ducking Pond used for witch trials; the pretty timber-frame buildings of Double Street; and a number of almshouses to name but a few of the places you’ll see. When it comes to stunning views, the highlight has to be from the walls of Framlingham Castle (entry fees apply) which overlooks the glorious Suffolk landscape.

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9. Orford Heritage and Pub Trail

As the name suggests, this is another of the great pub walks in Suffolk. Following a picturesque section of the River Alde, the Orford Heritage and Pub Trail heads inland, branching out into the Sudbourne Estate before heading back into Orford.

You could choose to start your hike with a hearty meal at The Jolly Sailor, or wait until the end to reward your efforts! The trail has not only made it onto our list of the best walks in Suffolk because of the pleasant views along the river, but also due to the panoramas from Orford Castle (entry fees apply) which you can stop at close to the end of the route.  

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10. Felixstowe Ferry

There are several accessible walks in Suffolk on the coast, and the Felixstowe Ferry walk is one of the best for coastal views. Making your way from the car park along the pavement, you will come to The Dip where you can join the seafront promenade to wander all the way along to the first Martello Tower, an old Napoleonic sea defence. The wide-open views across the golf course and the mouth of the River Deben are glorious!

From the first Martello Tower to Felixstowe Ferry, the path becomes slightly uneven and gravelly, so may be difficult for wheelchair users.

For another easy walk in Felixstowe, take a stroll along the promenade by Felixstowe Pier – there are ice cream kiosks, souvenir shops and the Ocean Boulevard fun park on the seafront, not to mention the attractions on the pier itself! This is also a good choice if you’re looking for Suffolk walks for buggies.

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11. Rendlesham Forest

We couldn’t miss out this great family favourite! Rendlesham Forest has plenty for children to enjoy, with a fantastic adventure play area, some of the best Suffolk woodland walks, and the added mystery attached to the UFO sighting in December 1980 for which it is famous!

The trails cover a range of landscapes, including forest, heathland and wetland, and with an easy access walk too, there’s something for everyone.

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Stay in Suffolk

Cosy boltholes for two, beautiful family homes, idyllic houses for group getaways and quirky cottages for a memorable break – we have an array of wonderful self-catering accommodation in Suffolk.

Be inspired by our collection of Suffolk holiday cottages and look forward to walks, things to do and stunning views aplenty!

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