Escape to Southwold: A Perfect Day Trip from Great Yarmouth

Staying at the St George Hotel in Great Yarmouth offers a fantastic base for exploring the Norfolk and Suffolk coast. While Great Yarmouth has plenty to offer, a day trip to Southwold, a quintessential Suffolk seaside town, is highly recommended. It's a scenic drive of about an hour, making it easily doable in a day.

Getting There: The Scenic Route

The most direct route is via the A143, but for a more scenic journey, consider taking the coastal road (A149 and A12). This will take you through picturesque villages and offer stunning views of the coastline. Keep an eye out for charming pubs and local farm shops along the way – perfect for a quick stop!

Southwold Highlights: What to See and Do

Southwold is small enough to explore on foot, so park up and wander! Here are some must-see attractions:

  • Southwold Pier: A classic Victorian pier, recently restored to its former glory. Enjoy traditional seaside amusements, grab an ice cream, or simply stroll along and enjoy the sea air. The 'Under the Pier Show' is a quirky collection of handmade automata that's fun for all ages.
  • Southwold Lighthouse: A prominent landmark, Southwold Lighthouse offers tours with stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Check the opening times in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Adnams Brewery: Southwold is home to the famous Adnams Brewery. Take a brewery tour and learn about the brewing process, followed by a tasting of their award-winning beers. They also offer gin distillery tours.
  • Southwold Beach: A beautiful sandy beach, perfect for a stroll, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing and soaking up the sun. The beach huts are iconic and add to the town's charm.
  • High Street Shopping: Southwold's High Street is lined with independent shops, selling everything from local produce and crafts to clothing and homeware. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts.
  • Southwold Museum: Delve into the local history at the Southwold Museum.

Food and Drink in Southwold

Southwold offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional pubs to seafood restaurants. Of course, being the home of Adnams, many pubs serve their beers on tap. The Lord Nelson is a popular choice for a traditional pub lunch. For seafood, try The Sole Bay Inn or the Two Magpies Bakery for delightful baked goods and sandwiches.

Family Fun in Southwold

Southwold is a great destination for families. The beach and pier offer plenty of entertainment for children. The common, just off the High Street, is a large open space perfect for picnics and games. Remember to bring buckets and spades for sandcastle building!

Planning Your Visit

Southwold can get busy, especially during peak season. It's a good idea to book accommodation and brewery tours in advance. Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. And don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery!

Returning to the St George Hotel

After a day of exploring Southwold, relax and unwind back at the St George Hotel in Great Yarmouth. We offer comfortable and affordable rooms, perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers. Our range of rooms include Single £46, Double £50, Twin £50, Family £75, Quadruple £85, all en-suite with TV, microwave, mini fridge and kettle. Enjoy free parking and free WiFi, and take advantage of our convenient location, just a short walk from the beach and Wellington Pier. To make your stay even more enjoyable, consider dining in one of Great Yarmouth's many restaurants before returning to the hotel.

Book Your Stay Today!

Ready to plan your Great Yarmouth getaway and day trip to Southwold? Book your stay at the St George Hotel today! We look forward to welcoming you.

The St George Hotel, located at 7-10 Albert Square, Great Yarmouth NR30 3JH, provides easy access to many attractions. Call us at +44 1493 843723 to learn more about our hotel.