Snape Maltings: A Historic Arts and Concert Complex in Suffolk
Historic maltings transformed into a world-class concert hall and vibrant arts complex set in Suffolk’s scenic riverside landscape.
Snape Maltings is a renowned arts complex located on the banks of the River Alde near Aldeburgh, Suffolk. Originally built in the 19th century as maltings for brewing barley, it was transformed in the 1960s by composer Benjamin Britten into a world-class concert hall and cultural hub. The site now features an 832-seat Concert Hall, galleries, shops, restaurants, and performance spaces set within beautifully restored Victorian industrial buildings surrounded by scenic estuary landscapes.
A brief summary to Snape Maltings
- Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape Bridge, Snape, IP17 1SP, GB
- +441728688303
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Attend a concert to experience the hall’s acclaimed acoustics and world-class performances.
- Explore the independent shops and galleries scattered throughout the converted maltings buildings.
- Enjoy a meal or coffee at the on-site restaurant or dog-friendly café with views over the estuary.
- Take time to walk around the surrounding nature reserve and admire the sculptures in the parkland.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Ipswich railway station, take a direct bus service to Snape Maltings. The journey typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance as frequency varies by day. Tickets cost approximately £5–£8 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving from central Ipswich to Snape Maltings takes around 30 to 40 minutes via A12 and local roads. Limited parking is available on site with a fee of about £3–£5 GBP for several hours. Note that parking can be busy during festival events.
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Taxi
Taxi rides from Aldeburgh or nearby towns take approximately 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £15–£25 GBP. Advance booking is recommended during busy periods.
Snape Maltings 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 Snape Maltings
From Industrial Roots to Cultural Landmark
Snape Maltings began life in the mid-19th century as a maltings complex, constructed by Victorian entrepreneur Newson Garrett. Its original purpose was to malt barley for the brewing industry, serving breweries in London and beyond. The location was chosen for its proximity to the River Alde, facilitating transport by barge. The maltings thrived for over a century but ceased operation in the 1960s, leaving extensive industrial buildings vacant.Benjamin Britten’s Vision and the Birth of the Concert Hall
In the 1960s, composer Benjamin Britten and tenor Peter Pears sought a larger venue for the Aldeburgh Festival, which they co-founded. They leased the largest maltings building from local businessman George Gooderham and commissioned its conversion into an 810-seat concert hall. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1967, the Snape Maltings Concert Hall was one of the earliest examples of repurposing industrial architecture for the arts. The hall is celebrated for its superb acoustics, achieved under the guidance of acoustician Derek Sugden, and its blend of historic brickwork and modern design.Resilience and Expansion
Two years after opening, the Concert Hall suffered a devastating fire but was rebuilt and reopened in time for the 1970 Aldeburgh Festival, with enhanced acoustics and restored architectural features. Since then, Snape Maltings has grown into a vibrant cultural campus. The addition of the Britten Studio in 2009 expanded performance and rehearsal spaces, supporting year-round artistic development, education, and community engagement.Aesthetic and Natural Setting
Set amidst the reed beds and salt marshes of the Alde Estuary Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Snape Maltings offers stunning views under the expansive Suffolk sky. The site retains much of its Victorian industrial character, with exposed brick and timber beams, while housing independent shops, galleries, and eateries. Sculptures and artworks are integrated into the parkland, enriching the visitor experience.Artistic Excellence and Community Spirit
Snape Maltings is internationally renowned for hosting leading musicians and ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra and Berlin Philharmonic, alongside emerging artists. Its programming balances high-caliber classical music with community events, education, and festivals, embodying Britten’s vision of an arts centre rooted in local culture yet global in reach.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy concerts, exhibitions, and dining in a relaxed yet inspiring environment. The complex includes a dog-friendly café, a restaurant with scenic views, and numerous shops offering art, crafts, and home furnishings. The site is family-friendly and accessible, blending cultural enrichment with the tranquility of its natural surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
English Heritage - Orford Castle
8.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views of Orford Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of England's picturesque countryside.
Framlingham Castle
12.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Framlingham Castle, a quintessential English heritage site in the heart of Suffolk.
National Trust - Sutton Hoo
13.1 km
Explore Sutton Hoo, an iconic archaeological site revealing the secrets of the Anglo-Saxon era in stunning natural surroundings.
SOUTHWOLD OLD DRILL HALL
22.2 km
Historic Edwardian drill hall in Southwold, blending military heritage with vibrant community life.
Eye Castle
29.3 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Visit The Broads
49.3 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Middle Mill Weir
50.6 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Colchester War Memorial
50.7 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Natural History Museum
50.8 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Roman Theatre
50.8 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
50.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of England’s first Augustinian priory, showcasing Norman architecture and Civil War history in the heart of Colchester.
The Broads National Park
50.9 km
Explore the breathtaking waterways and rich wildlife of The Broads National Park, a hidden gem in Norfolk and Suffolk perfect for nature lovers.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
50.9 km
Step inside Great Yarmouth’s quirky Upside Down House for a brief, disorienting, and highly Instagrammable experience that flips your world upside down.
The Dutch Quarter
50.9 km
Explore the enchanting Dutch Quarter in Colchester, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Merrivale Model Village
51.0 km
Step into a whimsical world of miniature wonders, where every corner holds a surprise and the magic of the English countryside comes to life in miniature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saxmundham Museum
5.8 km
Discover Saxmundham’s rich history through fascinating local artifacts and immersive period displays in this charming Suffolk museum.
The Red House, Aldeburgh
6.2 km
Explore the tranquil home and gardens of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears, preserved as a vibrant cultural and historical sanctuary in Aldeburgh.
The Long Shop Museum
7.3 km
Explore Leiston’s industrial heritage and community spirit through the captivating exhibits of the Long Shop Museum.
Thorpeness Windmill
7.9 km
Discover the historic charm and heritage of Thorpeness Windmill, a beautifully preserved 19th-century corn mill and museum in Suffolk.
Leiston Abbey
8.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Leiston Abbey, a medieval Premonstratensian monastery blending history, architecture, and cultural heritage in Suffolk.
Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape
9.9 km
Explore 441 km² of tranquil estuaries, ancient heaths, and forests in Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape, a haven for wildlife and history.
Darsham Marshes
12.1 km
A serene 20-hectare marshland reserve in Suffolk, rich in birdlife and classic wetland habitats within the Minsmere River Valley.
Yoxford Antiques Centre
12.5 km
Explore Suffolk’s largest antiques emporium with over 70 dealers, vintage treasures, garden displays, and a cozy local cafe.
RSPB Minsmere
12.5 km
Explore Suffolk’s stunning coastal reserve with diverse wildlife, accessible trails, and family-friendly nature experiences at RSPB Minsmere.
National Trust - Dunwich Heath and Beach
13.2 km
Discover the rare coastal heath, vibrant wildlife, and tranquil shingle beach of Dunwich Heath, a serene National Trust nature reserve on the Suffolk coast.
Dunwich Museum
15.6 km
Discover the lost medieval port of Dunwich through fascinating artifacts and community stories in this charming coastal museum.
Dunwich Forest
15.6 km
Explore Dunwich Forest’s tranquil mix of rewilded woodland and rare heathland in Suffolk’s stunning coastal landscape.
RSPB Dingle Marshes
15.9 km
Explore Suffolk’s rich coastal mosaic of reedbeds, shingle, and marshes, home to rare birds and plants in a tranquil natural sanctuary.
Dingle Great Hill
18.0 km
Discover the peaceful trails and natural beauty of Dingle Great Hill, a tranquil nature reserve in historic Dunwich, Suffolk.
Suffolk Coast National Nature Reserve
19.0 km
East Anglia's premier coastal wetland sanctuary where rare birds, shingle flora, and tidal marshes converge.
Essential places to dine
The Unruly Pig
11.8 km
Award-winning Suffolk gastropub blending historic charm with innovative British cuisine and local flavors in a vibrant, quirky setting.
Anchor at Walberswick
20.1 km
A warm, Arts & Crafts coastal pub and inn in Walberswick serving fresh local seafood and seasonal dishes with a welcoming village charm.
Sole Bay Fish Company
20.6 km
Rustic harbour-side seafood eatery in Southwold serving fresh fish, classic fish and chips, and indulgent shellfish platters with estuary views.
Le ROC at the Harbour
20.7 km
Charming French bistro on Southwold harbour, serving fresh Mediterranean-influenced dishes with stunning sunset views and warm, dog-friendly hospitality.
The Sail Loft
21.2 km
A vibrant seaside restaurant and hotel offering fresh seafood, rustic charm, and stunning sea views in the heart of Southwold.
Al Fresco Dining
21.5 km
Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals in the charming open-air setting of The Common, Southwold’s beloved al fresco dining spot.
Clubhouse Bar & Catering
21.5 km
Cozy dining on Southwold’s Common with fresh local flavors and warm, attentive service in a charming coastal setting.
Red Lion
21.8 km
Historic 17th-century pub on South Green offering local ales, home-cooked food, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Jack's Burgers & Friends
21.9 km
Tasty, freshly cooked burgers and kebabs served in a relaxed, friendly setting in the heart of Southwold’s Market Place.
Squiers of Southwold
21.9 km
A quaint, traditional tearoom on Southwold’s High Street offering simple, hearty fare and a warm community spirit.
The Swan Southwold
21.9 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.
Doh Pizzeria
21.9 km
Family-run pizzeria on Southwold High Street serving fresh, authentic Anglo-Italian pizzas in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with vegan options.
The Crown
21.9 km
Historic Georgian inn on Southwold High Street offering cozy rooms, a welcoming bar, and quality dining near the beach.
The Black Dog Deli Pizza Company
21.9 km
Artisanal sourdough pizzas crafted with fresh, local ingredients in the historic Lord Nelson pub, Southwold’s cozy coastal gem.
Dining at Sutherland House
21.9 km
A historic Southwold gem offering refined seafood dining and boutique adult-only accommodation in a beautifully restored 15th-century building.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Parish Lantern
20.2 km
Charming gift shop and tea room where village life unfolds over freshly prepared food and curated treasures.
Denny Of Southwold Ltd
21.9 km
Historic tailoring and classic British style meet at Denny Of Southwold Ltd, Southwold’s enduring clothing shop since 1851.
Huus
21.9 km
A Southwold homewares shop showcasing Scandinavian-inspired furniture, lighting and accessories in a bright, airy former bank building.
Chapmans of Southwold
21.9 km
Discover unique gifts and Southwold souvenirs at Chapmans, a charming High Street shop blending tradition with local spirit.
Vintage Store
21.9 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky vintage finds at WOW Vintage, Southwold’s beloved emporium of retro charm and unique collectibles.
Cornucopia
21.9 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures in the cozy Cornucopia shop nestled in the heart of Southwold.
Collen & Clare
21.9 km
Discover curated designer fashion and accessories in Southwold’s beloved independent boutique with a welcoming seaside charm.
Quba & Co
21.9 km
Discover nautically-inspired, sustainable casual wear at Quba & Co Southwold—where coastal heritage meets contemporary style.
East of Eden
21.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at East of Eden, Southwold’s welcoming boutique on the historic High Street.
Jack Wills
21.9 km
Discover timeless British fashion with a youthful twist at Jack Wills Southwold, blending heritage style and coastal charm.
Seasalt Cornwall
21.9 km
Cornish coastal fashion meets Suffolk charm on Southwold's high street.
High Tide
21.9 km
Charming Southwold gift shop with unique Jellycat toys and distinctive coastal gifts in a friendly, welcoming setting on East Street.
MEA boutique
21.9 km
Discover MEA Boutique, Southwold’s charming family-run shop offering stylish women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories in a welcoming coastal setting.
Mountain Warehouse Southwold
21.9 km
Your trusted outdoor gear and clothing store in Southwold, ready to equip every adventure with quality and value.
Joules
21.9 km
Contemporary British clothing and lifestyle retailer anchoring Southwold's High Street with style and accessibility.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Duchies
21.9 km
Duchies offers exceptional breakfasts and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed café setting on Southwold’s historic High Street.
The William Adams
48.9 km
A vibrant coastal pub honoring Gorleston’s lifesaving hero with great food, real ales, and a welcoming community vibe.
Coldham Hall
50.1 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
The Rumbold Arms
50.5 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.
Three Wise Monkeys
50.8 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The Red Herring
51.2 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Alexandra Freehouse
51.3 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marine
51.4 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Blue Oyster
51.4 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
51.5 km
A vibrant rock-themed pub in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and extended late-night hours in the heart of town.
Lady Haven
51.5 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Uptown Bar
51.6 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
51.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
The Landmark
51.6 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Duke's Head Hotel
51.7 km
Historic coastal charm and friendly hospitality converge at Duke's Head Hotel, a welcoming bar and stay in Great Yarmouth’s heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
21.9 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
Supper Club
26.1 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
The Club
26.3 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Carbon Nightclub
34.1 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
49.4 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Trilogy Nightclub
50.9 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
51.4 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Buddha Club
51.5 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
51.6 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
52.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
Loft Nightclub
53.3 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
53.4 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
53.4 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
53.4 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
53.4 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly