From quirky cafes to shady spots of woodland, escape the crowds and learn more about Felixstowe’s alternative attractions.
As we head into a sun-kissed summer, the people of Suffolk are starting to head to the beloved coast. From teenagers hitting the amusements, families barbecuing on the beach, to retirees walking their dogs along the promenade, Felixstowe seafront can feel overwhelmingly busy at this time of the year, (especially for anyone feeling anxious about the relaxation of social distancing requirements). However, this tourist town hosts plenty of lesser-known boltholes, activities and spots of beauty where you can escape the crowds and still get your dose of seasonal fun.
Landguard Point
If you’re looking for wide-open space, Landguard Point is a good place to start, with its golden paths cutting a pleasing pattern across the nature reserve. Watch the giant ships of the port sail smoothly in, gently loaded and unloaded by the biggest cranes you’ve ever seen in an epic slow-motion ballet. Alternatively, take a long walk around the perimeter of the fort to do some bird watching and rabbit spotting. The Grade I listed Landguard Fort is scheduled to reopen at the end of May, and often hosts exciting themed events too. If you’re looking for somewhere romantic or placid, Landguard Point is a versatile sanctuary.
Bookshop Crawl
Felixstowe’s high street stretches out long like a sunbathing cat, flanked by charity shops and independent bookshops where you can find true gems. As non-essential retail reopens, it has never been more important to shop small, and in Felixstowe, this couldn’t be easier. Whilst some of the bookshops have been there for a lifetime, there is always something new to explore. Stillwater Books, for instance, sells unique cards and beautiful wrapping paper in addition to handpicked books. If you get peckish, you can grab a bite at one of the town centre’s indie eateries, such as The Greenhouse Cafe just off the high street.
Old Felixstowe
On the walk along High Road East, make sure you stop to admire the fantastically well preserved Tudor and Jacobean houses nestled inconspicuously among the more modern builds, such as The Priory, recently snapped up off the market, built in the mid-sixteenth century. People regularly gather on the Cliff Road green to fly spectacular, enormous kites. About twice a year, when the tide is at its lowest, the very highest walls of Walton Castle, the ruins of a Saxon Shore Fort probably built in the third century, can be seen emerging from the waves. You will also find quieter beaches here, stretching both ways to the horizon.
The Grove
Tucked away off a roundabout on your way into Felixstowe, The Grove and Abbey Grove are shady wooded areas, popular with dog walkers and local joggers alike. You may need breadcrumbs, as losing yourself in amongst the timeless trees and splendid streams is easy to do. There is a sense of serenity about this place that makes you feel that you could be anywhere. If you look carefully, you may discover the Fairy Tree, decorated lovingly by local children.
Felixstowe Ferry
The most northerly point on our whistle-stop tour is the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry. Whether it’s fresh seafood you’re after or just a place to stop and let the world go by, the Ferry is a haven. Pause any conversation long enough, and you will hear the tinkling melody of the wind blowing through the masts of sailboats.
Whilst the traditional amusements-followed-by-fish-and-chips can be great fun, sometimes you want something a little different from your day out in Felixstowe. What I have learned from my time living here is that Felixstowe is a town that truly has it all and the people that live here take care and pride of their neighbourhoods.