Nicknamed Chelsea-on-Sea, this beautiful town is the perfect place to visit for those looking for independent shops and cafes set against a beautiful beach and stunning seaside landmarks.
Southwold in Suffolk is famed for being one of the UK’s poshest villages with its town council blocking numerous attempts from chains such as Costa and Waterstones from opening, with the latter eventually allowed to open as long as it kept the same name as its previous occupier Southwold Books.
As a result, the town is almost completely made up of independent businesses from charming cafes to quirky shops such as the Amber Shop which focuses on amber jewellery with an accompanying museum.
The town’s landmarks include its imposing lighthouse, which was built in 1890 and features a rotating 150-watt lamp with a range of 24 nautical miles.
Visitors can even take a tour of the lighthouse provided by the local Adnams Brewery.
Southwold Pier is a hive of classic seaside fun with model yacht regattas regularly held on its boating pond from the Victorian era to the present day.
At the end of the pier is a collection of quirky coin-operated arcade machines, built by artist and engineer Tim Hunkin. With paddle steamers often mooring up nearby.
Visitors can even get an insight into the town’s history at Southwold Museum with a range of exhibits on its local and natural history.
And the town has a rich past, with George Orwell spending time in Southwold during his teens and then again in his 30s, writing some of his books there.
As with most seaside towns, one of Southwold’s biggest attractions is its beach, which features golden sands overlooked by pretty colourful beach huts.
Those wishing to sample the town for themselves can book a double room in the town’s Amber House for about £85 per night.
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