Suffolk’s Most Beautiful Lighthouses and Their Stories
By Carl Scott
Scattered along Suffolk’s dramatic coastline are beacons of light that have stood firm against centuries of sea spray, storms, and shifting sands. Debatably they’ve also fended off mermaids. Suffolk’s lighthouses are more than navigational aids, however, they are instead icons of maritime history, silent witnesses to wrecks, wartime watchfulness, and the changing face of the sea. Each has its own story to tell, and for those who love coastal walks, sea views, and a touch of history when staying at our Barns and Barges for rent in Suffolk, they’re well worth exploring.
1. Southwold Lighthouse – The Town’s Shining Star
Towering high above the rooftops of Southwold, this striking white lighthouse is still in active use today, guiding vessels through the busy North Sea waters. Built in 1890 after the shifting coastline rendered earlier lights far less effective, the Southwold Lighthouse is unique for being located inland and effectively right in the heart of the town.
Its revolving optic, still powered by electricity, can be seen for a whopping 24 nautical miles. Visitors can book a guided tour (seasonally available), climbing the 113 steps to enjoy stunning views of the coast and learn how lighthouse keeping has evolved over the years.
We’d also highly recommend that you pair your visit with a pint at the nearby Sole Bay Inn — you’ll have a perfect view of the lighthouse from their beer garden.
2. Orfordness Lighthouse – The Ghost on the Shore
Once perched dramatically on the shingle spit of Orford Ness, this red-and-white striped lighthouse has more lately become a symbol of the fragility of Suffolk’s coastline. Built way back in 1792 and rebuilt in the 20th century, the Orfordness Lighthouse served mariners for generations, but coastal erosion eventually sealed its fate.
Despite efforts by volunteers to save it over the years, the lighthouse was sadly demolished in 2020 after being deemed structurally unsafe due to the encroaching sea. Still, its legacy endures. Visitors to Orford Ness can still explore the landscape and spot the remains of other wartime and maritime relics, making for a hauntingly beautiful place that tells a story of nature’s relentless power.
3. Lowestoft Lighthouse – Britain’s Easternmost Light
Standing proudly on Britain’s most easterly point, the Lowestoft Lighthouse has been spinning and shining since 1874. Operated by Trinity House, it marks the official starting point for many sailors rounding the British coast.
Interestingly, the current lighthouse was preceded by two “leading lights” from 1609, which helped ships avoid many dangerous sandbanks. The modern structure stands 16 metres high on top of cliffs, and despite not being open to the public, it remains another iconic symbol of Suffolk’s seafaring past.
The nearby Gunton Cliff and Ness Point offer excellent photo opportunities and are perfect spots to watch the sun rise, fitting really, since you’re standing at the first place in the UK to see it.
Altogether, each of Suffolk’s lighthouses tells a different story — of sailors guided safely home, of battles with erosion, of local communities shaped by the sea. Whether you’re a history buff, a keen walker, or just someone who loves a good coastal view when on holiday, these stoic guardians of the shore are worth the journey.
Just don’t forget your camera — and maybe a windproof jacket. The sea air here has a way of making itself known, even in summer.
To ensure you’re returning to some well-equipped and comfortable accommodation, we’d also highly recommend staying at our Barns and Barges for rent in Suffolk. We’ve made it nice and easy for you to view the availability here.
