Adnams Brewery in Southwold: Coastal Craftsmanship and Heritage
Discover the rich heritage and coastal craft of Adnams Brewery, where tradition meets innovation in Southwold’s scenic seaside setting.
Adnams Brewery, located in Southwold on the Suffolk coast, is a renowned brewery and distillery producing award-winning beers and spirits with a strong commitment to sustainability. Visitors can enjoy guided tours revealing the grain-to-glass brewing process, sample a variety of craft beverages, and explore the historic coastal town atmosphere. The brewery blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology in a scenic setting.
A brief summary to Adnams Brewery
- Sole Bay Brewery, E Green, Southwold, Southwold, IP18 6JW, GB
- +441502727200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your brewery tour in advance to secure a spot, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Visit the Southwold Store café for locally sourced meals and enjoy the unique ambiance created by repurposed brewing vessels.
- Take time to sample a variety of Adnams beers during the tasting session at the end of the tour.
- Check the brewery’s opening hours as they vary slightly on Sundays and public holidays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Halesworth or Darsham station, approximately 15–25 minutes by taxi or local bus to Southwold. Bus services connect the town center to the brewery area. Expect travel times of 45–70 minutes from nearby larger towns. Bus tickets cost around £3–£6.
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Car
Driving to Adnams Brewery from Ipswich or Norwich takes about 45–60 minutes. Parking is limited near the brewery, so plan to use designated public car parks in Southwold town center and walk 10–15 minutes to the site.
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Taxi
Local taxi services from Southwold town center to the brewery take 5–10 minutes, costing approximately £5–£10. Useful if arriving by train or bus with luggage or in a group.
Adnams Brewery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Adnams Brewery
A Legacy of Brewing Excellence on the Suffolk Coast
Adnams Brewery stands as a beacon of brewing heritage in the charming seaside town of Southwold. Established with a deep respect for traditional methods, Adnams has evolved into a modern brewery and distillery known for its award-winning beers and handcrafted spirits. The brewery’s coastal location influences its character, infusing a fresh maritime spirit into every product. This blend of history and innovation reflects in their grain-to-glass philosophy, ensuring quality and sustainability at every stage.Immersive Tours and Tasting Experiences
Visitors to Adnams can immerse themselves in the brewing process through guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship involved in creating their celebrated beers and spirits. The experience culminates in a tasting session where guests sample a diverse range of brews, including popular variants like Ghost Ship. The tours are praised for being both informative and entertaining, providing insights into brewing science and the company’s sustainable practices.The Southwold Store and Café: A Hub for Enthusiasts
Adjacent to the brewery, the Southwold Store offers an extensive selection of Adnams products alongside hand-selected wines and homeware. The on-site café provides a welcoming space to relax, featuring freshly made sandwiches, hot meals, and baked goods. The store’s interior creatively incorporates old copper brewing vessels as cozy snug areas, enhancing the authentic brewery atmosphere. Friendly staff are always ready to assist with product advice and tasting notes, enriching the visitor experience.Sustainability and Innovation at the Forefront
Adnams is committed to running its operations sustainably, employing evolving technology to minimize environmental impact. Their dedication to eco-friendly practices is woven into the fabric of the brewery, from sourcing ingredients to production methods. This approach not only preserves the coastal environment but also ensures the longevity of their craft for future generations.Southwold’s Coastal Charm and Cultural Context
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Suffolk coast, Adnams Brewery benefits from the town’s tranquil seaside ambiance. Southwold itself is steeped in cultural heritage, with its historic harbor, colorful beach huts, and traditional architecture contributing to the overall visitor appeal. The brewery’s location enhances the sensory experience, where the salty sea air mingles with the aromas of malt and hops.Community Engagement and Visitor Services
Beyond brewing, Adnams plays an active role in the local community, supporting events and maintaining strong ties with Southwold residents. Visitor amenities include accessible tours, a tasting bar with free Wi-Fi, and knowledgeable staff who provide personalized service. The brewery’s opening hours accommodate a range of visitors, making it a versatile destination for both casual tourists and dedicated beer enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SOUTHWOLD OLD DRILL HALL
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian drill hall in Southwold, blending military heritage with vibrant community life.
Framlingham Castle
25.4 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Framlingham Castle, a quintessential English heritage site in the heart of Suffolk.
English Heritage - Orford Castle
27.8 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views of Orford Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of England's picturesque countryside.
War Memorial
31.2 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Britannia Pier
31.5 km
Historic Great Yarmouth pier blending classic seaside amusements, live shows, bars, and panoramic coastal charm for all ages.
Pudding tower
31.5 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
The Broads National Park
32.7 km
Explore the breathtaking waterways and rich wildlife of The Broads National Park, a hidden gem in Norfolk and Suffolk perfect for nature lovers.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
34.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wheatfen Broad, a nature reserve near Norwich, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes ideal for relaxation and exploration.
National Trust - Sutton Hoo
34.7 km
Explore Sutton Hoo, an iconic archaeological site revealing the secrets of the Anglo-Saxon era in stunning natural surroundings.
Eye Castle
36.0 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Discover the Norfolk Broads
38.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in East Anglia.
Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden
39.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden, where lush landscapes meet serene waters in the heart of Norfolk.
Whitlingham Country Park
40.4 km
Explore Whitlingham Country Park: a tranquil retreat with picturesque trails, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities near Norwich.
St. Benet's Abbey
41.5 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of St. Benet's Abbey, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
The Broads Authority
41.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of The Broads Authority, where nature meets adventure in the heart of Norfolk's stunning waterways.
Unmissable attractions to see
Adnams Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Explore Southwold’s historic yet modern brewery with immersive tours, tastings, and sustainable craft brewing at Adnams Visitor Centre.
Southwold Lighthouse
0.1 km
Climb Southwold Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views and rich maritime history in the heart of Suffolk’s charming seaside town.
The Little Fish & Chip Shop
0.1 km
Southwold’s beloved traditional fish and chip takeaway, serving fresh local catch with crisp, golden batter in a charming coastal setting.
Buckenham Galleries
0.1 km
Discover cutting-edge modern art and sculpture in the welcoming, historic setting of Southwold’s Buckenham Galleries.
Southwold Museum
0.1 km
Explore Southwold's rich heritage in this intimate, volunteer-run museum packed with unique local artifacts and stories.
The Amber Shop & Museum
0.1 km
Discover the UK's only dedicated amber museum and shop in charming Southwold, where ancient amber history meets exquisite jewellery craftsmanship.
The Southwold Gallery
0.2 km
A vibrant art gallery on Southwold’s High Street, showcasing over 40 regional artists and a stunning collection of coastal and seascape paintings.
Southwold Arts Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant community arts hub in historic St Edmund's Hall, offering year-round performances, exhibitions, and workshops near Southwold’s beach.
St Edmund's Hall
0.2 km
A welcoming hub for live arts and community events in the heart of Southwold since 1952.
Harris & James Store Southwold
0.2 km
Artisan gelato, bean-to-bar chocolate, fresh coffee, and hand-made pizzas in the heart of charming Southwold.
Coasters
0.2 km
Discover the culinary delights of Coasters in Southwold, a charming English restaurant serving fresh, local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
ninedeli
0.2 km
Discover ninedeli, Southwold’s cozy Modern British café known for fresh sandwiches, excellent coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere tucked away on Pinkney's Lane.
The Lord Nelson
0.2 km
A historic nautical pub in Southwold offering cozy fires, quality Adnams ales, and acclaimed pizzas in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Beaches & Cream Southwold
0.2 km
Classic British ice cream parlor in Southwold offering generous scoops, vegan flavors, and a lively seaside atmosphere for all ages.
The Serena Hall Gallery
0.2 km
Discover bold contemporary art and handmade crafts in a vibrant Southwold gallery founded by local artist Serena Hall.
Essential places to dine
Sole Bay Inn Southwold
0.1 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Southwold serving great food and Adnams beers in a relaxed coastal setting.
The Crown
0.1 km
Historic Georgian inn on Southwold High Street offering cozy rooms, a welcoming bar, and quality dining near the beach.
The Swan Southwold
0.1 km
Historic Georgian charm meets modern coastal luxury at The Swan Southwold, a vibrant hotel with award-winning brews and fine dining by the sea.
Jack's Burgers & Friends
0.1 km
Tasty, freshly cooked burgers and kebabs served in a relaxed, friendly setting in the heart of Southwold’s Market Place.
Squiers of Southwold
0.1 km
A quaint, traditional tearoom on Southwold’s High Street offering simple, hearty fare and a warm community spirit.
Sutherland House
0.2 km
Historic boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant offering gourmet dining and cozy rooms in the heart of charming Southwold.
Dining at Sutherland House
0.2 km
A historic Southwold gem offering refined seafood dining and boutique adult-only accommodation in a beautifully restored 15th-century building.
Doh Pizzeria
0.2 km
Family-run pizzeria on Southwold High Street serving fresh, authentic Anglo-Italian pizzas in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with vegan options.
The Black Dog Deli Pizza Company
0.2 km
Artisanal sourdough pizzas crafted with fresh, local ingredients in the historic Lord Nelson pub, Southwold’s cozy coastal gem.
Loaded Southwold Ltd
0.2 km
A vibrant American-style restaurant and wine bar in Southwold, offering loaded fries, brunch, and a dog-friendly, casual dining experience.
Suzie's Cafe
0.2 km
Charming seaside cafe on Southwold promenade serving classic British fare with stunning beach views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Red Lion
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub on South Green offering local ales, home-cooked food, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Canteen
0.2 km
A vibrant community café in Southwold serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes with specialty coffee and cultural events.
The Blyth
0.5 km
Charming Victorian hotel with award-winning dining, friendly service, and a prime location near Southwold’s seaside attractions.
Beach Bistro
0.5 km
Classic British fish and chips served right at Southwold Pier’s entrance, perfect for a casual seaside meal with views of the beach and pier.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack Wills
0.1 km
Discover timeless British fashion with a youthful twist at Jack Wills Southwold, blending heritage style and coastal charm.
Quba & Co
0.1 km
Discover nautically-inspired, sustainable casual wear at Quba & Co Southwold—where coastal heritage meets contemporary style.
Mountain Warehouse Southwold
0.1 km
Your trusted outdoor gear and clothing store in Southwold, ready to equip every adventure with quality and value.
MEA boutique
0.1 km
Discover MEA Boutique, Southwold’s charming family-run shop offering stylish women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories in a welcoming coastal setting.
Vintage Store
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky vintage finds at WOW Vintage, Southwold’s beloved emporium of retro charm and unique collectibles.
Seasalt Cornwall
0.1 km
Cornish coastal fashion meets Suffolk charm on Southwold's high street.
Chapmans of Southwold
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and Southwold souvenirs at Chapmans, a charming High Street shop blending tradition with local spirit.
Huus
0.1 km
A Southwold homewares shop showcasing Scandinavian-inspired furniture, lighting and accessories in a bright, airy former bank building.
Joules
0.1 km
Contemporary British clothing and lifestyle retailer anchoring Southwold's High Street with style and accessibility.
Collen & Clare
0.1 km
Discover curated designer fashion and accessories in Southwold’s beloved independent boutique with a welcoming seaside charm.
Denny Of Southwold Ltd
0.1 km
Historic tailoring and classic British style meet at Denny Of Southwold Ltd, Southwold’s enduring clothing shop since 1851.
East of Eden
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at East of Eden, Southwold’s welcoming boutique on the historic High Street.
Little Pretty
0.2 km
Quirky gifts and local treasures on Southwold's vibrant high street.
High Tide
0.2 km
Charming Southwold gift shop with unique Jellycat toys and distinctive coastal gifts in a friendly, welcoming setting on East Street.
Lift Store Suffolk
0.2 km
A charming boutique in Southwold offering curated cards, gifts, and homeware with a personal, sustainable touch.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Duchies
0.2 km
Duchies offers exceptional breakfasts and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed café setting on Southwold’s historic High Street.
The William Adams
28.4 km
A vibrant coastal pub honoring Gorleston’s lifesaving hero with great food, real ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Rumbold Arms
30.0 km
A friendly, family-oriented pub in Great Yarmouth known for hearty home-cooked meals, lively community spirit, and a spacious garden with play area.
The Red Herring
30.7 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Alexandra Freehouse
30.7 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marine
30.8 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Blue Oyster
31.0 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
31.0 km
A vibrant rock-themed pub in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and extended late-night hours in the heart of town.
The Landmark
31.1 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Uptown Bar
31.2 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
31.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
31.2 km
A vibrant sports bar in Great Yarmouth offering live games, pool, snooker, and a lively social scene with sea views and great drinks.
Lady Haven
31.2 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Empire
31.3 km
A vibrant Great Yarmouth landmark blending live music, street food, craft beer, and community spirit on the iconic Marine Parade.
The Mariners
31.3 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth pub famed for its rich selection of cask ales, lively atmosphere, and authentic British charm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
