Shotley Peninsula on the doorstep of Onderneming

Nestled between the rivers Stour and Orwell in Suffolk, the Shotley Peninsula is a beautiful out-spur of villages and farmland that has been designated a Special Protection Area. 

Shotley Peninsula is named after the village of Shotley and the smaller settlement of Shotley Gate; this unique section of Suffolk has plenty to offer a visitor looking to spend some time on dry land when staying on a Woodfarm Barge. ‘Onderneming’ is moored on the peninsula and Twee Gebroeders in Woodbridge is less than half an hour away.

The Shotley Marina is one of the highlights of the area and is located at the meeting point of the River Orwell and the River Stour. From here, yachtsmen can explore both of these rivers and the open sea beyond. For more information you can visit East Coast Marinas.

There’s also a lovely little pub on the Marina called The Shipwreck, which is well worth a visit. It offers a range of food and drink along with excellent views.  

Further north, towards Ipswich, there’s a hidden little gem of the Shotley Peninsula – the tiny hamlet of Pin Mill. Small but perfectly formed, Pin Mill provided inspiration for famous children’s author Arthur Ransome, who wrote ‘Swallows and Amazons’ among many other works and is where you’ll find our fabulous 100ft Holiday Cottage Barge ‘Onderneming’. 

She is moored nicely next to the fabulous Butt & Oyster pub!

If you’re in the mood for an idyllic walk in some quintessentially English woodland then you can pay a visit to Freston Wood, especially beautiful when the bluebells are flowering during the spring.

On the other hand if you’re in the mood for more of a challenging hike then you could have a go at tackling the 67km Stour and Orwell coastal walk, which loops around the Shotley Peninsula taking in all that both estuaries have to offer in terms of wildlife and natural splendour. 

The Alton Water reservoir on the Shotley Peninsula also has a great deal to offer visitors of all ages. It’s a great spot for all of the family to enjoy. With activities including; birdwatching, walking, cycling. Bike and canoe hire are both available on site. Take a look at the Alton Water Website for more information. 

To conclude then, the Shotley Peninsula Suffolk is a gem of maritime history and natural beauty. Situated at the meeting point of the rivers Stour and Orwell, this area of outstanding natural beauty is an ideal destination for those seeking picturesque landscapes, historical landmarks, and unique coastal experiences.

The Shotley Peninsula is home to Shotley Gate, a charming village that offers easy access to attractions like Shotley Marina Ltd and the renowned HMS Ganges Museum. Here, visitors can explore a large collection of photographs and memorabilia from the Royal Navy training establishment, providing a fascinating look into its history. From here, trails lead to Pin Mill, offering stunning views of the River Orwell and Harwich Harbour, while also showcasing listed buildings that reflect the area’s rich heritage.

At the heart of the peninsula is Alton Water, a reservoir that’s perfect for walking and outdoor activities. The coastal footpath that starts at Shotley Gate and merges with other scenic routes takes you through serene countryside and historic sites, including the Royal Hospital School. The Shipwreck Shotley at Shotley Marina Ltd is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while admiring the beauty of the North Sea.

Whether exploring the maritime history of Shotley Peninsula, enjoying the tranquillity of Shotley Suffolk, or discovering landmarks like the Grade II listed buildings, the area offers something for everyone. This destination truly toggles the tip of the peninsula, making it an unmissable highlight of the Babergh District.

The best things in life aren’t always planned. That’s why we update our last-minute availability page with discounted stays whenever we have gaps. If you fancy a last-minute escape, take a look and see what’s available!