Where to go boating in Suffolk
By Carl Scott
At Woodfarm Barns and Barges, we’ll never pass up the opportunity to use the oft-repeated phrase that “there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats”. Coined by Scottish writer and author of The Wind in the Willows Kenneth Grahame, the quote perfectly captures the playful spirit that makes boating such an enjoyable pastime.
Whilst our neighbours in Norfolk might have the Norfolk Broads, we have plenty of boating destinations to shout about in Suffolk, and plenty of places for our visitors to get out and experience for themselves when staying at one of our Barns or Barges for rent.
Whether you prefer a boat tour or the chance to become the captain of your own vessel, the following locations and providers come highly recommended from our team.
And as luck would have it, there are options right by both of our Barges, in Snape Maltings and Woodbridge as you will see below!
Depart from the historic Snape Maltings Quay, where generations of Thames Barge skippers have plied their trade, from Woodbridge Town Steps, or from the town quay at Orford. The Snape Maltings trip on the River Alde couldn’t be more convenient as they moor directly behind Onderneming!
Taking sailors from Oulton Broad to Beccles, Waveney River Tours provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. Indeed, when joining this team for a spot of afternoon sailing, it is not uncommon to pass by reed buntings, marsh harriers and warblers when taking in the coastline.
3. Allen Gardiner River Cruise Restaurant
Whilst there can be no doubt that there is nothing half so much worth doing as messing around in boats, it is equally true that enjoying a spot of lunch whilst doing so is just as much of a worthwhile pursuit. When boarding the Allen Gardiner River Cruise Restaurant at the Ipswich Haven Marina, sailors are treated to a delectable menu of meals to tuck into when enjoying some time on the water. With choices ranging from a 2-hour brunch to a supper cruise and candlelit dinner, there really is a cruise for everyone.
4. Iken Canoe
For those who prefer a far more hands-on approach to their boating, Iken Canoe provides the opportunity to sail down the Alde Estuary in a – you guessed it – canoe! Certainly the best way of getting about this fantastic stretch of water, canoeing down the Alde Estuary means navigating creeks and flood waters as well as gently gliding along low water sections. Often populated with basking seals, the waters in these parts have everything you could possibly want from an action-packed day out.
Whether you’re a keen sailor or prefer to enjoy the water with a spot of lunch, we’re confident that you’ll find everything that you’re looking for when enjoying a holiday in our Barns and Barges in Suffolk.
