Things to do in Suffolk: Orford village

Orford is a coastal village with lots of historic and modern interest, as well as access to Orford Ness and Havergate Island nature reserves.

Orford is famous for its local oysters and smokehouses and has two shops selling a wide range of smoked produce. Pop into Pinney's Of Orford to pick up some of the finest fresh fish in the county.

Orford Castle and Museum:
With its magnificent polygonal keep having been a local landmark since the 12th Century, the castle is remarkably intact, allowing visitors to explore from the basement, through the lower and upper halls to the roof where there are magnificent views seaward to Orford Ness. Around the rooms is a maze of passages leading to the chapel, kitchen and other chambers in the turrets.

Orford Museum:
located in the upper hall of Orford Castle, it collects and displays historical material relating to the area roughly between the Butley River and the River Alde.
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Orford Ness:
Off limits for so many years due to being requisitioned by the War Office and later the Ministry of Defence, a certain mystery grew up around Orford Ness. Now owned by the National Trust, the Ness is an internationally important site for nature conservation. It's also much more accessible; go and see for yourself - the wildlife is amazing, the history intriguing. 
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River Cruise from Orford:
The Lady Florence River Cruise Restaurant provides a different dining experience. Cruise the calm waters of the rivers Alde and Ore while being served freshly prepared local produce from Orford's famous butcher and smokehouse. From Orford, the Lady Florence cruises take 3 & 1/2 hours, operating all year round, regardless of weather and tides. The boat takes just 12 passengers. Lunch cruise: 12 pm to 3.30pm. Dinner cruise: 4 pm to 7.30 pm April to August.
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