Southwold Lighthouse: Historic Beacon on Suffolk’s Heritage Coast
Climb Southwold Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views and rich maritime history in the heart of Suffolk’s charming seaside town.
Southwold Lighthouse, a striking 31-metre tall beacon on the Suffolk Heritage Coast, offers visitors a unique glimpse into maritime history. Located in the heart of Southwold town, this historic lighthouse features guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, a climb of 113 steep spiral steps, and breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline and town from its lantern room. Operated in partnership with Adnams Brewery, tours include fascinating stories of lighthouse keepers and a complimentary drink at the nearby Sole Bay Inn.
A brief summary to Southwold Lighthouse
- Stradbroke Rd, Southwold, IP18 6LU, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance through Adnams Brewery to secure your spot and confirm opening times.
- Prepare for a climb of 113 narrow, steep steps; the tour is not recommended for those with mobility or heart issues.
- Enjoy a complimentary Adnams beer or soft drink at the Sole Bay Inn opposite the lighthouse after your tour.
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views and photo opportunities from the lantern room.
- Check the lighthouse’s seasonal opening schedule as it is closed during winter and for maintenance periods.
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, then catch a local bus to Southwold town centre. The total journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Bus services may be limited on weekends; check schedules in advance. Walking from the bus stop to the lighthouse is about 15 minutes.
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Car
Driving to Southwold Lighthouse from nearby towns takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available in Southwold town; expect to pay around £2-£5 for parking. The lighthouse is a short walk from parking areas. Note that Southwold town centre has some pedestrianised zones.
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Bicycle
Cycling to Southwold Lighthouse is a scenic option along coastal and country roads. From Halesworth, the ride takes about 45 minutes on mostly flat terrain. Secure bike parking is available near the lighthouse area.
Southwold Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Southwold Lighthouse
A Storied Maritime Landmark in Southwold
Southwold Lighthouse stands prominently in the centre of the historic seaside town of Southwold, Suffolk. Built in 1887, this iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse has long served as a vital aid to navigation along the Suffolk Heritage Coast. Its distinctive appearance and commanding position make it a beloved symbol of the town’s maritime heritage. The lighthouse remains operational, guiding vessels safely along the coastline while welcoming visitors eager to explore its history and panoramic views.Immersive Guided Tours and Panoramic Views
Visitors can join guided tours, usually offered on selected days from April through October, led by experienced Adnams Brewery staff. The tour includes a climb up 113 narrow, steep spiral steps to the lantern room at the top, where you are rewarded with stunning 360-degree vistas of Southwold town, the sandy beaches, and the North Sea beyond. The climb demands a reasonable level of fitness and is not recommended for those with mobility or heart conditions. Along the way, guides share captivating stories about lighthouse keepers, the building’s history, and maritime safety.The Unique Partnership with Adnams Brewery
Southwold Lighthouse tours are managed by Adnams Brewery, a local institution known for its craft beers. Tour tickets include a voucher for a complimentary Adnams beer or soft drink, redeemable at the Sole Bay Inn located directly opposite the lighthouse. This partnership enriches the visitor experience by combining cultural heritage with local hospitality, making the visit both educational and convivial.Architectural and Visual Appeal
The lighthouse’s classic Victorian design features bold red and white horizontal stripes, making it instantly recognizable against the coastal backdrop. Its 31-metre height and slender form provide an elegant silhouette on the Southwold skyline. From the lantern room, visitors enjoy iconic views perfect for photography, including sweeping panoramas of the coastline, the town’s quaint rooftops, and the sea horizon at sunrise or sunset.Visitor Experience and Practical Considerations
Tours typically last about an hour, balancing time for the climb, exploration, and enjoying the views. Due to the steep stairs, the lighthouse is best suited for visitors with good mobility and fitness. Booking in advance through Adnams is highly recommended as tours are popular and can sell out. The lighthouse is closed during the winter months and for occasional maintenance, so checking current opening times before visiting is advised.Southwold Lighthouse’s Role in Coastal Heritage
Beyond its function as a navigational aid, Southwold Lighthouse stands as a cultural landmark that celebrates the maritime traditions of the East Anglia coast. It is part of the European Route of Lighthouses, connecting it with other historic beacons across the continent. The lighthouse embodies the spirit of coastal resilience and community, offering visitors a tangible link to the seafaring past and spectacular natural surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SOUTHWOLD OLD DRILL HALL
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Framlingham Castle
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English Heritage - Orford Castle
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War Memorial
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Britannia Pier
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Eye Castle
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Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden
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Whitlingham Country Park
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St. Benet's Abbey
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The Broads Authority
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Unmissable attractions to see
Adnams Brewery
0.1 km
Discover the rich heritage and coastal craft of Adnams Brewery, where tradition meets innovation in Southwold’s scenic seaside setting.
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.
The Little Fish & Chip Shop
0.2 km
Southwold’s beloved traditional fish and chip takeaway, serving fresh local catch with crisp, golden batter in a charming coastal setting.
Adnams Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Explore Southwold’s historic yet modern brewery with immersive tours, tastings, and sustainable craft brewing at Adnams Visitor Centre.
The Lord Nelson
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A historic nautical pub in Southwold offering cozy fires, quality Adnams ales, and acclaimed pizzas in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Harris & James Store Southwold
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Artisan gelato, bean-to-bar chocolate, fresh coffee, and hand-made pizzas in the heart of charming Southwold.
Southwold Sailors' Reading Room
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Historic refuge and maritime museum celebrating Southwold’s seafaring heritage since 1864.
The Amber Shop & Museum
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Discover the UK's only dedicated amber museum and shop in charming Southwold, where ancient amber history meets exquisite jewellery craftsmanship.
Buckenham Galleries
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Discover cutting-edge modern art and sculpture in the welcoming, historic setting of Southwold’s Buckenham Galleries.
ninedeli
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Discover ninedeli, Southwold’s cozy Modern British café known for fresh sandwiches, excellent coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere tucked away on Pinkney's Lane.
Coasters
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Discover the culinary delights of Coasters in Southwold, a charming English restaurant serving fresh, local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Beaches & Cream Southwold
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The Serena Hall Gallery
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Southwold Museum
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Essential places to dine
Sole Bay Inn Southwold
0.0 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Southwold serving great food and Adnams beers in a relaxed coastal setting.
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.
The Swan Southwold
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Suzie's Cafe
0.2 km
Charming seaside cafe on Southwold promenade serving classic British fare with stunning beach views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jack's Burgers & Friends
0.2 km
Tasty, freshly cooked burgers and kebabs served in a relaxed, friendly setting in the heart of Southwold’s Market Place.
The Crown
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Historic Georgian inn on Southwold High Street offering cozy rooms, a welcoming bar, and quality dining near the beach.
Squiers of Southwold
0.2 km
A quaint, traditional tearoom on Southwold’s High Street offering simple, hearty fare and a warm community spirit.
Red Lion
0.3 km
Historic 17th-century pub on South Green offering local ales, home-cooked food, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Canteen
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A vibrant community café in Southwold serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes with specialty coffee and cultural events.
Sutherland House
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Historic boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant offering gourmet dining and cozy rooms in the heart of charming Southwold.
Dining at Sutherland House
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A historic Southwold gem offering refined seafood dining and boutique adult-only accommodation in a beautifully restored 15th-century building.
Doh Pizzeria
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Family-run pizzeria on Southwold High Street serving fresh, authentic Anglo-Italian pizzas in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with vegan options.
Loaded Southwold Ltd
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A vibrant American-style restaurant and wine bar in Southwold, offering loaded fries, brunch, and a dog-friendly, casual dining experience.
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.
The Boardwalk
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Fresh, seasonal dishes with unbeatable sea views on Southwold Pier’s iconic Boardwalk Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Pretty
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Quirky gifts and local treasures on Southwold's vibrant high street.
Seasalt Cornwall
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Cornish coastal fashion meets Suffolk charm on Southwold's high street.
High Tide
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Charming Southwold gift shop with unique Jellycat toys and distinctive coastal gifts in a friendly, welcoming setting on East Street.
Collen & Clare
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Discover curated designer fashion and accessories in Southwold’s beloved independent boutique with a welcoming seaside charm.
Quba & Co
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Discover nautically-inspired, sustainable casual wear at Quba & Co Southwold—where coastal heritage meets contemporary style.
Jack Wills
0.2 km
Discover timeless British fashion with a youthful twist at Jack Wills Southwold, blending heritage style and coastal charm.
Vintage Store
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky vintage finds at WOW Vintage, Southwold’s beloved emporium of retro charm and unique collectibles.
Huus
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A Southwold homewares shop showcasing Scandinavian-inspired furniture, lighting and accessories in a bright, airy former bank building.
Denny Of Southwold Ltd
0.2 km
Historic tailoring and classic British style meet at Denny Of Southwold Ltd, Southwold’s enduring clothing shop since 1851.
Chapmans of Southwold
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Discover unique gifts and Southwold souvenirs at Chapmans, a charming High Street shop blending tradition with local spirit.
Mountain Warehouse Southwold
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Your trusted outdoor gear and clothing store in Southwold, ready to equip every adventure with quality and value.
MEA boutique
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Discover MEA Boutique, Southwold’s charming family-run shop offering stylish women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories in a welcoming coastal setting.
Joules
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East of Eden
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Lift Store Suffolk
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Duchies
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Duchies offers exceptional breakfasts and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed café setting on Southwold’s historic High Street.
The William Adams
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The Rumbold Arms
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The Red Herring
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The Alexandra Freehouse
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The Marine
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The Blue Oyster
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Liberty's Rock Cafe
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The Landmark
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Uptown Bar
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Peggotys Lounge
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Merlin’s Sports Bar
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Lady Haven
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The Empire
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The Mariners
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
