Southwold, in Suffolk, boasts a sandy beach, operational lighthouse, and award-winning pier – but it’s the budget-friendly fish and chips that has made it a must-visit location
Tucked away on the Suffolk coast, the idyllic seaside town of Southwold has been revealed as a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every British staycation bucket list. This charming town, with a population of just over 1,000, boasts an array of beautiful pastel-hued seaside buildings and offers the most affordable fish and chips in the UK, according to Capital on Tap.
Southwold has also been crowned the best seaside town in the UK, with the Camping and Caravanning Club praising it as a “great destination year-round, whether you plan to visit during the summer for an ice cream or in the winter for blustery walks and cosy pub lunches.”
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The town’s attractions include a sandy beach, a working lighthouse, and an award-winning pier. A visit to the Adnams Brewery, located next to the lighthouse, is a must during any stay. After enjoying a drink at the brewery, visitors can indulge in the town’s budget-friendly fish and chips, reports the Express.
According to Capital on Tap, a meal of fish and chips in Southwold costs just 1.06% of the average weekly salary, making it the most cost-effective location for this quintessential British dish.
A typical serving costs £8.35, which is £6 less than at Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire. The publication enthused that “this seaside town proves that quality doesn’t always come at a premium.
Impressively, despite the lower cost, Southwold’s fish and chips boast a rating of 4.5 out of 5, indicating that customers are consistently pleased with their dining experience.
“For those seeking affordability without sacrificing taste or satisfaction, Southwold stands out as a top choice.”
Tourism chiefs at The Suffolk Coast recommend the brewery tours offered throughout the year, noting “there is no shortage of pubs and restaurants at which to sample the variety of Adnams beers on offer”.
Southwold shines with its twin beaches – Southwold Pier Beach towards the north and the more rugged Southwold Denes Beach down south.
The former presents the epitome of a British beach holiday spot, whereas the latter provides an untamed blend of sand and shingle.
More than just sands and waters, Southwold Pier Beach draws visitors with its ice cream stalls, vibrant beach huts along the prom, and has even clinched both Blue Flag status and a Seaside Award for 2024. For reassurance during peak season, lifeguards keep watch from May through September.
To satisfy cravings by the sea, there’s Southwold Pier, Southwold Boating Lake and Tearooms, and Suzie’s Beach Cafe among the ample selection of eateries. Venturing into the town centre reveals a charm-packed mix of cafes and shops.
For little adventurers, there’s an array of activities beyond the beach, such as a maize maze complete with ride-on tractors, sandpits and even the thrill of a zip wire – far more than your average farmyard maze!
A 20-minute lighthouse tour provides a glimpse into its role in guiding ships into Southwold Harbour and includes the charming Edwardian pier, which houses quaint shops, eateries, and traditional amusements including the old-fashioned two penny pushers.