History of Southwold

Dating back to the Doomsday book, a settlement has existed at Southwold. In 1489, Southwold received its town charter from Henry VII. Although in its past, it was a bustling market town, Southwold is now it is more known as a relaxing holiday location.

Lighting the Way and the Famous Son

With its location at the mouth of the River Blythe, Southwold has always been a port. Although the build up of shingle in the harbour stopped it expanding vastly, Southwold was still used by many vessels. The Lighthouse, built in 1887, was constructed to replace 3 smaller lighthouses. These lighthouses were being threatened by coastal erosion, meaning that a new method was needed to guide boats into Southwold Harbour. Standing at 31m and visible from 17 miles out to sea, the lighthouse dominates the town and surrounding landscape.