As you explore the town’s vibrant centre, you’ll discover a number of interesting historical landmarks, including the magnificent Moot Hall and an imposing Martello tower, which dates back to the Napoleonic era. The High Street is full of interesting independent shops, restaurants and cafés.
Aldeburgh is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is surrounded by nature reserves, such as North Warren RSPB Reserve, where you might spot hobbies hunting dragonflies on the reed bed, or a nightingale singing in the hedgerows or scrub.
Aldeburgh’s beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its water quality and safe environment. Along the shingle shore, fishing boats are moored above the high tide mark. To the north, you’ll come across two yacht clubs, at the site of the former village of Slaughden. Look out for the Scallop, a stainless steel sculpture, dedicated to the composer Benjamin Britten.
Boats on the pebble beach
Aldeburgh has a number of remarkable historical sites, including Moot Hall, a listed, timber-framed building which has been used for meetings for the last 400 years. Here, you’ll find the excellent Aldeburgh Museum , which tells the town’s story in fascinating detail, from the Roman and Anglo-Saxon settlers to the famous case of the Aldeburgh Witches. Also of interest is the Martello Tower, which is the only surviving building in the fishing village of Slaughden, which was washed away by the North Sea.
“Pastel-coloured villas line the pebble beach, where fishermen sell fresh seafood in the picturesque town of Aldeburgh.”
If you’re in the area in June, don’t miss Aldeburgh Festival, a superb classical music event which was founded by Benjamin Britten and attracts some of the world’s best performers.
If you’re hoping for restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy freshly-caught seafood, you won’t be disappointed. Aldeburgh Market Café is a fish monger, deli, greengrocers and café, where you can order fresh fish and a range of tasty dishes, prepared with the best local ingredients.
Another good option for fresh seafood is The Lighthouse, a light and spacious restaurant with a nice outside seating area. The Mill Inn is an ancient pub with wooden beams and lead windows, where you can enjoy a pint of ale and well cooked, reasonably priced food.