A weekend break in Aldeburgh

Written by Charley Sutton 

Craving a couple’s retreat for some well-earned rest and a chance to revel in each other’s company? Then the coastal town of Aldeburgh is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

A beautiful part of Suffolk, Aldeburgh is a place to unwind, relax and spend some time with your other half, from walking hand-in-hand on the sea front to divulging in some of the best seafood Britain has to offer.

What to do in Aldeburgh

Stretch your legs and gather your bearings with a leisurely stroll along the seafront towards Thorpeness. The stony beach is dotted with weathered fishing boats and huts selling fresh crab and the sound of the waves and excited seagulls make you instantly feel like a million miles away.

Along the way, you’ll come across Moot Hall, a charming Grade I listed building, which houses the Aldeburgh Museum and Town Council. For a couple of pounds, you can get a snapshot of the history of Aldeburgh.

Soak in the scenery with a pit-stop at the Wentworth Hotel for a delicious glass of Pimms on their terrace. Don’t stop until you’ve found the Scallop sculpture on the beach, dedicated to Benjamin Britten – the town’s famous music composer. Keep walking until you’ve hit The Dolphin Inn, for another well earned drink.

Aldeburgh High Street is made up of independent shops and boutiques, selling antiques to homeware and we recommend diving into the many delis, which offer a huge array of local meats, cheese and other delights.

The next day, visit the local cinema, which is perfect for watching an arthouse film. The theatre has been showing films since the 1920s with the original building still in tact, meaning for a cosy atmosphere.

Once you’ve explored that side of Aldeburgh, why not head for Snape Maltings, where the famous Aldeburgh Music Festival is held every year. Enjoy a leisurely mooch around the boutiques, galleries and cafes.

Where to eat in Aldeburgh

Aldeburgh boasts restaurants and pubs with menus that are brimming with fresh and local fish. For a quick supper one night, head to The Golden Galleon for award-winning fish and chips, but if you fancy devouring your dinner inside, upstairs is their restaurant Upper Deck, where you can enjoy an intimate take-away dinner.

For a more romantic setting and a dinner that you don’t want to end, book a table with a sea view at The Brudenell’s seafood and grill restaurant. The menu offers locally sourced fish with a fine dining twist. We recommended the garlic crust scallops and the catch of the day. Finish off by propping up the bar and making your way down their carefully crafted gin menu.

For a relaxed pick-me-up the following day, head to Cragg Sisters Tearoom for a cuppa (they have over 20 different teas on offer) and a big wedge of homemade cake. Look out for the tiny courtyard out the back.

For a lunch or dinner that tickles your tastebuds, visit the White Lion Hotel’s new restaurant Sea Spice. It has married up Aldeburgh’s local produce with classic Indian flavours.

Where to stay in Aldeburgh 

The Brudenell hotel is ideal for a weekend away, just for the two of you. The decor is fresh and modern with a comfortable, nautical vibe.

The hotel offers 44 rooms, and for a truly ‘get away’ feeling, we recommend staying in one of their bright and comfortable Sea View rooms so you can wake up to the sound of the waves.

You’re treated to your own little balcony, where you can sit back and relax with a coffee from their facilities and watch the world (and their dogs!) go by.

The atmosphere is warm and friendly and staff are on hand for tips on where to go and what to see – or just for a general chat!

The restaurant is intimate with an impressive bar with low lights and plush bar stools. The menu is boasting with interesting fish dishes that you don’t want to end and the bar offers an extensive gin menu that the staff are happy to tweak to your tastes.

We had a brilliant nights sleep in the king-sized bed and spent the morning lazily drinking coffee in the puffy duvet before heading down for a delicious breakfast. The Brudenell’s take on a fry-up hit the spot after a boozy evening!

The Brudenell is happy to welcome your furry friends too and offers pet-friendly rooms.

Prices in July from £170 B&B per room per night for two sharing

To book a stay and dinner in the Seafood & Grill at the Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh call 01728 452071 or visit www.brudenellhotel.co.uk