Less than half hour from East Bergholt, the seaside town of Felixstowe, Suffolk makes a great day out whilst you’re staying at The Lion. Felixstowe is well known as hosting one of the UK’s largest container posts but it’s also a popular destination for visitors looking for a day by the seaside.
Places to Visit Felixstowe
History on the Coast
The History
The history of Felixstowe can be traced back over 2,000 years, with evidence of Roman occupation and Saxon settlement in the area. However, it was during the Victorian era that Felixstowe began to flourish as a seaside resort, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and leisure by the sea. The town's transformation into a popular holiday destination was accelerated with the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century, which made it easily accessible to tourists from London and beyond.
Today, Felixstowe retains much of its Victorian charm, with elegant seafront gardens, historic architecture, and a bustling promenade that stretches for miles along the coast. One of the town's most iconic landmarks is the Felixstowe Pier, which dates back to the late 19th century and offers stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can stroll along the pier, enjoy traditional seaside amusements, and take in the fresh sea air while soaking up the scenic vistas.
For history enthusiasts, Felixstowe offers a treasure trove of historic sites and landmarks to explore. The Felixstowe Museum, housed in a former submarine mining building, showcases the town's rich maritime heritage, with exhibits ranging from ancient artefacts to World War II memorabilia. Additionally, the nearby Landguard Fort, dating back to the 17th century, provides a fascinating insight into Felixstowe's military history and offers panoramic views of the coastline from its battlements.
Explore Felixstowe’s Natural and Coastline
Nature lovers will find much to admire in Felixstowe, with its stunning beaches, coastal nature reserves, and scenic countryside waiting to be explored. The Felixstowe Seafront Gardens, with their colorful flowerbeds, tranquil ponds, and seafront promenade, offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town center. The nearby Orwell Estuary provides sanctuary for a variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Culture
In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Felixstowe boasts a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of events, festivals, and activities throughout the year. From art exhibitions and live music performances to food and drink festivals, there's always something happening in Felixstowe to entertain and inspire visitors of all ages.
Felixstowe seafront is the home of the Spa Theatre which hosts a diverse range of shows all-year-around. Musicians, Bands, comedians and theatrical performances as well as the ever-popular panto during the festive season. Find out what’s on at the Spa Theatre during your stay at The Lion.