Suffolk Castles & Coastline

Castles & Coastline is a five-day loop from Needham Market exploring the Suffolk coast's dramatic castles, riverside and seaside towns, heaths and marshes. Day two rides through Debenham to the restored Saxtead post mill and on to Framlingham, with its 12th-century castle. Day three passes Shawsgate Vineyard before reaching the coast at Dunwich, then continues via the holiday village of Thorpeness to Aldeburgh.

Day four heads inland via the Maltings at Snape, climbs Orford Castle, reaches remote Shingle Street and visits the Anglo-Saxon burial site at Sutton Hoo, finishing in Woodbridge. The final day explores Woodbridge's Tide Mill before a rural ride back to Needham Market, with an optional stop at Helmingham Hall Gardens.

Highlights:

• Framlingham's 12th-century castle and Orford Castle
• Shawsgate Vineyard walk and tasting
• The lost city of Dunwich and its heathland coast
• Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon ship burial site
• Thorpeness holiday village and Woodbridge's Tide Mill
• Riverside and seaside towns throughout, including Aldeburgh

Surface and terrain:
Quiet country lanes throughout, with river crossings and coastal heathland sections. No significant climbs. Recommended, minimum and maximum mileage options offered each day.

Suitable for:
Riders wanting a relaxed, scenic multi-day break combining castles, coast and countryside. Tour graded 2 (Easy).