Happy as a clam
Happy Days – the coast is clear. From seaside walks with fish and chips in hand to exploring markets and discovering castles. Aldeburgh, Suffolk, is the prime location for your next seaside escape. Settled on the Suffolk coastline and surrounded by marsh land, Aldeburgh is steeped in history. From coastal bombings from the World Wars to the source of England’s richest archaeological discoveries of the Anglo Saxon period, Aldeburgh is a tapestry of those that have lived and loved there. Just under three hours from central London, discover Suffolk’s hidden treasure through Quince founder and Aldeburgh resident, Sarah’s eyes. Our latest addition to the Quince property portfolio, Penty on the Hoo, is designed with hints of the 50’s and 60’s married with our iconic Quince finishes. High on a hill, just minutes to the shore line, there’s so much to explore when staying with Quince.
A whale of a time
Take a dip into the Suffolk coastline. With East Anglia being enveloped by countryside and farmland, we think it’s time to focus on the coast. When we think of a seaside staycation, we think of crunching on shells and shingle, local strawberries and cream, and of course, fish and chips. Aldeburgh is the setting of our latest seaside addition at Quince, Penty on the Hoo. It’s the Suffolk home of culture, wildlife, history and art. Explore the East coast with Quince.
Penty on the Hoo
Moorings is a wonderful, beautifully presented family home in the heart of Aldeburgh, 5 minutes walk from the beach and the excellent independent shops the town is renowned for. The house is well equipped, very comfortable with a light and airy feel. There are good comfy mattresses and lots of space for all with both a small and large sitting room. It was described as a 'hug' of a house by a guest. The garden is south facing so lovely and sunny with bbq, outside bath, table and chairs for 10-11 people.
High on a Hoo
Celebrating all things Suffolk seaside. Home to indulgent fish restaurants, seaside art galleries and boutique shops, Aldeburgh offers a unique seaside holiday that takes you back. If you’re looking to bring the family together with minimal effort and maximum fun, we’ve got you covered.
Home to the English composer, Benjamin Britten and his partner in life, English Tenor, Peter Pears, The Red House has symphonies in its walls. This historic farmhouse is set within five acres of gardens and is a great day out for all music lovers. With a gallery space, museum shop and an outdoor cafe to enjoy, hear the natural orchestra of the birds and countryside around you. Just a 3 minute journey from Penty on the Hoo. The Red House - Image From https://brittenpearsarts.org/visit-us/the-red-house
MoreDrink it all in. With its founder having grown up in the local area, Fishers really does have the taste of Aldeburgh. From the shingle beaches, natural salt marshes and wild meadows, try the Suffolk created gin for yourself during a tasting. Treat yourself to a Sundowner Supper, Tour and Tasting where you can sit within the Coastal Room and take in the view from the UK’s closest gin distillery to the sea. With this tour, a wonderful coastal platter of dishes from the finest local producers is included. This is one sure fire way to get a taste of Aldeburgh for all the senses. Fishers Gin - Image From - https://fishersgin.com
MoreA place becomes a town because of the people that live there. Also known as the Aldeburgh Museum, Moot Hall gives a rare insight into the people that have created and make up the town of Aldeburgh. Delve into the history of Aldeburgh as you read through the local attractions and their history. Moot Hall gives a unique insight into the people that made up Aldeburgh from Anglo-Saxons to Fishermen. Image From https://www.aldeburghmuseum.org.uk/explore/
MoreArt you don’t have to shell out for. As you venture between Thorpeness and Aldeburgh be sure to take the trail along the flat coastline where you will stumble upon Maggi Hambling’s Scallop sculpture. The art installation celebrates and commemorates the lives of the Aldebrugh residents that lost their lives throughout the World Wars. Ever changing, the sculpture was created to morph and mould throughout the seasons and from different angles so that there is always a new way to look at it. Take a look towards Thorpeness to see the magical house in the clouds. The Aldeburgh Scallop - Image From https://bitaboutbritain.com/the-scallop/
MoreFun factory. Whether it’s steam-engined vehicles, trolleybuses, or the deepest water tower in Suffolk, The Long Shop Museum has something for everyone, big and small. Steeped in the tingling attractions of the Industrial Revolution, the museum allows children to step back in time and explore times gone by. Dress up like Victorian workers and make moulds similar to those that have come before. Children can also follow the Explorer’s Passport museum trails and earn prizes along the way. All aboard! The Long Shop Museum - Image From https://www.longshopmuseum.co.uk
MoreAlto to Antiques. Owned by musicians, Snape Maltings is known as the home to Aldeburgh music. If that’s not music to your ears, the Snape Maltings homewares store is an Aladdin's cave of crockery, cutlery, cushions and more. A bite to eat from the pub or cafe, searching for some interior inspiration at the homewares store or perusing the art gallery, located just a 10 minute drive from Penty on the Hoo, spend a day at Snape Maltings. Image From https://gillmoon.com/product/autumn-at-snape-maltings-2/
MoreEeezy Breezy. When exploring Aldeburgh there is plenty to see and do. Why not give your legs a rest and hire an electric bike. Eezy Bike uses clean and green energy so you can enjoy the freedom of nipping along the roads while being guilt free. Feel the salt spray and the wind in your hair as you cycle past the Aldeburgh Scallop art installation by Maggi Hambling on your way to The Dolphin in Thorpeness. With prices starting from £40 a day, there’s no excuse not to. Electric Bike Rental - Image From https://eezybike.co.uk
MoreMeander along the shoreline to view The Angel of the East pebble collection jutting out from The South Lookout. Each pebble has a message of love and sympathy to those that are worse off than us. During the pandemic there were messages of loss and currently there are messages of hope for those affected by the war in Ukraine, all of which are facing East towards the International Peace Palace.
A holiday for everyone
We get it. Trying to find activities for every age is challenging. We’ve been there, done that, and have found our favourite places to visit that the whole family will enjoy.
Sand in Suffolk - Southwold Beach
Putting the sand into the sandwich. The Southwold beach is a local sandy beach with colourful huts along the seafront. Meander along the pier and read the celebratory plaques making you reflect and appreciate, from remembering people to congratulating weddings and birthdays. This special spot is one to be witnessed. Image From Instagram (@harryborrettphotography)
Walk to the pub - Aldeburgh
Take a 40 minute coastal walk (or cycle) that has a big treat at the end of it for you. From Aldeburgh to The Dolphin, Thorpeness, you can view the North Sea coastline and then indulge in the nibbles, starters and pub classics. Thorpeness was created by the Scottish playwright Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie for his family, friends, and those who could not afford a holiday home in Aldeburgh. Each of the homes were built in the 1930s and stand today. The Dolphin, Thorpeness - Image From https://www.thorpenessdolphin.com/2017/06/01/garden-room-open/
Kids Activities in Aldeburgh
Plain sailing. Sit by and watch as little ones and boat enthusiasts alike sail their model boats across the Aldeburgh Boat Pond. Open from the end of March and into the summer, this boat pond is right in the centre of the coastline of Aldeburgh. We apologise in advance as the children always want their own model boat themselves! The Aldeburgh Boat Pond - Image From https://www.landscapephotographytuition.co.uk/product/aldeburgh-group-workshop-photography-tuition/
Framlingham Castle
Castle on the Hill. Yes, the very one. Located near Ed Sheeran’s home in the UK, Framlingham Castle was the muse of his hit, Castle on the Hill. Surrounded by a beautiful lake, the castle was once a home to earls and dukes of Norfolk. Take in the view after the spectacular wall walk and see how special this gem truly is. Image From https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/framlingham-castle/things-to-do/
Beer Tasting in Suffolk
Drink like a fish. The locals feel as though Southwold is a way of life, and Adnams bottles this Southwold way of life. They’ve been brewing for 150 years and have opened their doors to show locals and visitors where the magic happens. There is a selection of brewing and distilling experiences to choose from. You’ll be a brewing wizard in no time. Adnams Distillery, Southwold - Image From https://adnams.co.uk
Lunch by the beach in Dunwich
Old school, hearty and wholesome. The Ship at Dunwich offers a relaxed and informal dining experience filled with nautical nods. Open to early morning crabbers for breakfast, lunchtime snackers and supper searchers all year round. The Ship at Dunwich - Image From https://www.shipatdunwich.co.uk/gallery?lightbox=dataItem-kd00v83t
Horsey days out with the family
Horsing around. Created to protect the oldest English breed of a working horse, The Suffolk Punch Trust has an organised breeding programme to create a new generation of the animal. Visit the trust for an outdoor day out in Suffolk with your family. With events and attractions throughout the year, all are welcome. The Suffolk Punch Trust - Image From https://www.thesuffolkpunchtrust.co.uk/meet-our-horses
Historic day out with the family
Protecting the harbour. The Landguard Fort at Felixstowe played an important role in the defence of the East coast of England for over 400 years. Now owned by the Landguard Fort Trust, the historic landmark is open to the public for guided tours through the mazes, tunnels and secret passageways. Landguard Fort at Felixstowe - Image From https://www.landguard.com/galleries/general-gallery/
Family Pub in Suffolk
Keeping it in the family. Owned by twin brothers, The Plough and Snail offers family dining in a spacious, historic pub. Chef Oliver creates quality, seasonal food while using local suppliers. Oliver’s brother Alex mans the front-of-house while offering customers a range of local lagers and ales. The twin brothers also own the Regatta restaurant in Aldeburgh and The Golden Key in Ipswich. Image From https://www.theploughandsailsnape.com
Restaurants and pubs around Aldeburgh
Seafood on the Seafront in Suffolk. It would be shellfish not to. Packed with seafood, The Suffolk offers a truly coastal menu, filled with fish soup, shellfish and grilled mollusks. This seafront restaurant celebrates local produce married to the beautiful surroundings. Why not delve into the cocktail menu and experience the perfectly crafted Aldeburgh Armada, careful, it's got a kick! Image From https://the-suffolk.co.uk
VisitBritish Food in Suffolk. Having been a part of the Suffolk tapestry for over 25 years, The Lighthouse Restaurant offers classical British cooking in a relaxed setting. The husband and wife duo that own the restaurant are an integral part of the restaurant and have now brought out their very own Lighthouse Gin. The Lighthouse Restaurant - Image From https://www.lighthouserestaurant.co.uk
VisitUpon a prominent location on the Aldeburgh High Street is Regatta. Owned and run by dynamic twins Alex and Oliver, who had previously worked there, Regatta is now a beautifully family run culinary experience that is a perfect fit with it's sister restaurants The Golden Keys and The Plough and Snail. This wine bar come restaurant offers guests experiences such as wine and food tasting as well as seasonal special offers. We recommend the seared scallops!
VisitIndian Food in Aldeburgh. Spice up your life. Exactly what it says, SeaSpice offers Indian food just moments from the Suffolk pebbled beach of Aldeburgh. With classic Indian delights you can eat within the restaurant or bring it back to Penty on the Hoo during your stay and receive 10% off your takeaway. SeaSpice Image From https://seaspice.co.uk
VisitBakery in Aldeburgh. With locations across Suffolk, we can see why Two Magpies Bakery is so popular. With friendly staff helping you to decide which sweet treat to pick and fresh sourdough and pastries every morning. Who says you can't have a cinnamon roll for breakfast? Pop across to Saxmundham and see how the delights are created by joining a masterclass of your choosing, whether you're looking to brush up on your French baking or you're dedicated to doughnuts, there's a class for every baker. Image From https://twomagpiesbakery.co.uk
VisitFish and Chips in Aldeburgh. Aldeburgh Fish and Chips is a company that started from a single shop and now has three locations across the town. Famous throughout locals, the fish and chip recipe has not changed for over five decades. With two locations under different names, the same family owns each. Locals will swear they are different and each will have a favourite. Fish supper? It would be rude not to! Aldeburgh Fish and Chips - Image From Instagram (@aldefishnchips)
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Properties with pedigree
At Quince we know that a getaway isn’t seriously complete without the most important member of the family. No pet peeves wanted, just pure happiness and fun-filled days that your pooches will love too. We provide clean dog bowls for your four legged friends, one less thing for you to remember. There is space for two, very well behaved pups in each of our properties, just get in touch and let us know!