A Day Exploring Beccles & Bungay

Discover two of the Waveney Valley’s most charming market towns, where independent shops, riverside scenery, historic buildings and cosy cafés make for the perfect day out in the Southern Broads.

Please note: All timings are suggestions only. Feel free to explore at your own pace and spend as much or as little time as you like at any of our recommendations.

Morning: Explore Beccles

9:00am – Breakfast at the Station Café

Begin your day in Beccles with breakfast at the Station Café, conveniently located by the railway station. Alongside excellent food and coffee, the café also serves as a visitor information point, making it the perfect place to pick up maps, local tips and inspiration for the day ahead.

10:00am – Walk Through Historic Beccles

Head into the town centre and stroll along Northgate, one of Beccles’ most historic streets. Here you’ll find an impressive collection of listed buildings, many featuring distinctive Flemish architecture and elegant Georgian façades hiding much older medieval structures beneath.

Continue towards the River Waveney and make your way to St. Michael’s Church. Dating back to the 1500s, the church has recently been restored and now also acts as a tourist information centre.

Don’t miss:

• A guided climb up the bell tower
• Panoramic views across the Waveney Valley and Broads
• The beautifully restored church interior

11:30am – River Trip on the Big Dog Ferry (April–October)

For a relaxing change of pace, take a scenic boat trip on the Big Dog Ferry, departing from Beccles Lido.

The 3-mile cruise along the River Waveney lasts around 40–45 minutes and offers excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife including:

• Otters
• Kingfishers
• Marsh harriers

The ferry stops at The Locks Inn, where you can:

• Enjoy lunch beside the river
• Stay aboard for the return journey
• Or walk back to Beccles along the riverside footpaths

Afternoon: Journey to Bungay

2:00pm – Stop at Flint Vineyard, Earsham

Leave Beccles via the A146 before joining the A143 towards Bungay. Along the way, stop at Flint Vineyard in Earsham.

This award-winning vineyard gained national recognition when its Bacchus 2017 was named:

• Indy Best Buy English Still Wine 2018 by The Independent
• One of The Times Top 50 White Wines

Visitor information:

• Tours and tastings available Saturdays (pre-booking recommended)
• Vineyard shop open Saturdays, 10am–4pm

Late Afternoon: Discover Bungay

3:30pm – Explore Earsham Street

Arrive in the historic market town of Bungay, a town with roots stretching back to Roman and Saxon times.

Start your visit on Earsham Street, home to two local favourites:

• Earsham Street Café – renowned for locally sourced, free-range food
• Earsham Street Deli – proudly known as “Suffolk’s Finest Deli”

This is the perfect place to browse independent shops and pick up local treats before continuing your exploration.

4:30pm – Visit Bungay Castle

Take a short walk to Castle Street and the ruins of Bungay Castle.

Built in the late 12th century by Hugh Bigod, Earl of Suffolk, the castle remains one of the town’s most important historic landmarks. Although now partially ruined, the site still offers a fascinating glimpse into Bungay’s Norman past.

Highlights include:

• Castle ruins and historic grounds
• Visitor centre and café
• Views across the town

5:15pm – Follow the Bungay Town Trail

Return towards the town centre, where the towering St. Mary’s Church dominates the skyline.

From here, pick up the Bungay Town Trail, a self-guided walking route showcasing:

• Historic buildings
• Ancient churches
• The River Waveney
• Independent shops and hidden corners of the town

The full trail takes approximately two hours at a gentle pace and is a wonderful way to experience Bungay’s unique old-world charm.

Top Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Check ferry and vineyard opening times before travelling
• Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting along the river
• Allow extra time for browsing the independent shops and cafés