Things to do in Suffolk: Top things to do in Aldeburgh

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Aldeburgh is a coastal town that runs along the River Alde in Suffolk. One of the most popular seaside destinations in the UK, Aldeburgh beach is lined with colourful Victorian houses and fisherman’s huts boasting picturesque views.  

What started life as a quaint fishing village, Aldeburgh is now a thriving town and coastal favourite among its locals and tourists from across the UK. 

Aldeburgh Cinema 
Aldeburgh Cinema is recognised as one of the oldest cinema houses in the UK. It is a charity that has been active in the community for over 100 years. Built in 1919, the cinema has welcomed and entertained audiences showing everything from silent black and white films to the huge blockbusters of today.  

The Aldeburgh Festival of Music and the Arts 
A 24-day celebration of music and the arts held across Aldeburgh showcasing local talent. The Aldeburgh Festival of Music and the Arts is hosted by the Britten Pears Arts group which is a pioneering music, arts, and heritage charity that aim to transform people’s lives and bring communities together with music.  Tickets range from £15 to £40 and those under 30 can get half-price tickets to almost all events. Booking opens in January and the festival takes place in June each year.

Discover Aldeburgh beach 
What sets Aldeburgh apart from every other seaside town in the UK is its beach. Tourists from near and far travel to Aldeburgh beach to experience the charming sites and beautiful scenery. The shingle beach runs along miles of tranquil land. On a summer’s day, Aldeburgh beach can be seen bustling with life.  

Aldeburgh Carnival 
Suffolk’s award-winning carnival takes place across three days at the seaside. It is an annual event that has been taking place in Aldeburgh for over 170 years. A traditional carnival fair parades along the coast and high street while raising money for charity.  

In addition to the fair, there will also be lucky duck races, donkey rides on the beach, arts and crafts, rides for children and a carnival queen historic photo gallery.   The event takes place mid August each year.

Play a round at Aldeburgh Golf Club 
Aldeburgh Golf Club was founded in 1884 and hosts two golf courses along Suffolk’s coastline.  The Championship Course is a challenge for even the best golfer. With 6.603 yards but no par fives on the men’s card, this course is built on sandy heathland and presents views of the River Alde and the North Sea.    

The River Course consists of nine holes with a selection of par fours and par threes. The perfect place for some relaxing golf, this course can be enjoyed by a beginner or novice.  

Both courses are open to visitors at any time and clubs are available for hire. 

The Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival 
The Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival works to support and promote the Aldeburgh area and the businesses within it. At this festival, chefs, restaurants and producers are given a platform to showcase their work.  

Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival is celebrated as one of the best in the UK with all donations and proceeds going towards the following year’s festival.  

Events include cookery classes, food-based music workshops, future of food short films and much more.  

The festival runs across one weekend, late September.   

Visit the Red House 
The Red House in Aldeburgh was the home of the late composer Benjamin Britten and his partner Peter Pears. Benjamin Britten is deemed one of the greatest composers of the 20th century and was born in Lowestoft.  

In addition to exploring Britten’s music, you can also wander around the house and gardens that the composer called home for nearly twenty years. 

On-site, there is a garden café that offers lunches and afternoon tea as well as a museum shop.  Explore Aldeburgh’s shops  In Aldeburgh’s High Street you will find an array of boutiques, arts and antiques and gift shops in addition to some great cafes and restaurants.

Among the shops that can be found in Aldeburgh High Street is The Aldeburgh Bookshop. The Aldeburgh Bookshop is an independent bookshop that has been operating for over seventy years. They stock a large range of new books across all genres.  

Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh’s theatre and entertainment venue 
A place for performance and the creative arts, the Jubilee Hall has been entertaining guests since 1887.  

Local businessman Newson Garrett intended for the hall to be used for ‘concerts and dramatic entertainments provided by well-known artists’.  

Today, the Jubilee Hall is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation that provides the public with a neutral space free from political, religious or other opinions.  

Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea 
Aldeburgh is home to some of the tastiest afternoon teas in the UK. From traditional afternoon tea by the coast to boutique hotels offering themed afternoon tea, Aldeburgh has a range of afternoon tea options and venues.  The Chocolate Teapot in Aldeburgh High Street offers afternoon tea by the sea. Enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, savoury pastries, sweet treats and a pot of tea for around £20.  

Or enjoy finger sandwiches, fruit scones, lemon drizzle cake, chocolate brownie, and macaroons with tea or coffee for around £18.50 per person at The Wentworth Hotel.

Find an afternoon tea that sounds just right for you and book a wonderful afternoon of tea and cake. 

The Aldeburgh Triathlon 
The Aldeburgh Triathlon is arranged by Heritage Coast Events which is a non-profit organisation that arranges sports and events for the local community.  

Each team in the triathlon is made up of three competitors who must embark on a 750 m to 1000 m swim in the sea, a 22 km bike ride and a 5 km run.  

The triathlon will take place on the second Saturday in September from outside the White Lion Hotel.