If you're looking for a day out along the beautiful Suffolk coast with a variety of routes to choose from then why not visit RSPB North Warren. Or if you're after a more remote and challenging walk then nearby Dingle Marshes is perfect for you.
RSPB North Warren
Near the picturesque coastal town of Aldeburgh, here you can stroll around the beautiful coastal wetlands, woodland and heathland, as well as the variety of wildlife that comes with it.
There are three popular circuit walks, or you can follow footpaths and form a route of your own. Five viewing platforms provide excellent views of the grazing marshes, which during winter are home to thousands of ducks and geese. Listen out for the whistling calls of the wigeon, spot tiny teals or look out for the wintering geese. At dusk, try to spot the marsh harriers and flocks of starlings coming in to roost in the reedbed.
Photo: RSPB North Warren by Andy Hay
1. South Marsh circuit - 4 miles (6.5 km). Here you start on the beach and walk around the stunning marshes.
2. North Marsh circuit - 5.6 miles (9 km). You will be surrounded by wetland and scrub from the viewpoint along the old railway line. A favourite location for the white-fronted geese that winter here after travelling from Arctic Russia and try to spot the rare bean geese among them. Returning via Thorpeness you will have the chance to see woodland, open water and beach wildlife.
3. Reedbed loop 1.9 miles - (3 km). This shorter circuit is easily accessible for everyone. Here you will walk through woodland and grassland, as well as a boardwalk section leading to the reed bed viewpoint on the old railway path.
For information on wheelchair accessibility and how to get there, please check our Accessibility page. Please note, dogs are welcome along footpaths, but keep them under close control to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Photo: White-fronted geese by Andy Hay
RSPB Dingle Marshes
Nearby the quaint village of Dunwich, this reserve is perfect for those looking for a more remote day of walking in wilderness, amongst the reedbeds and shingle beach. Home to bitterns, little egrets, redshanks and many more, the reedbeds and tidal pools are a wildlife haven.
Photo: RSPB Dingle Marshes by Andy Hay
Circuit trail - 4.5 miles (7.2km). Here you can walk via shingle beach, grassy bank and forestry track. Walking along the shingle ridge can be strenuous, so make sure you're up to the challenge and wearing suitable footwear! There is also a hide located on the nearby Forestry Commission land in Dunwich Forest that overlooks the reedbed. To complete this route you will need to ensure you use an Ordinance Survey map of the area.
And if all that walking has built up your appetite, there is a tea room serving fish and chips in the Dunwich beach car park or food is available at The Ship in Dunwich.
If after all these beautiful walks you're left wanting more, find out what's on offer in Suffolk at Discover Suffolk.