The Sunrise Coast is steeped in rich history and heritage. When visiting the area be sure to uncover the area's intriguing past and discover connections to famous names such as Lord Nelson, Sir Morton Peto and Benjamin Britten
Travel back in time and experience our cultural treasures and historic
origins first hand…
Lowestoft - Lowestoft's origins are buried deep in time and there has been a thriving coastal community here for years. The town's rich fishing and maritime connections have played a major role in the fortunes of the town, which are told throughout the many museums in the town.
Highlights of the town's colourful history include:
Lowestoft Porcelain - previously produced in the 18th Century, this famous porcelain consisted of mainly domestic wares designed for a middle class audience and is now extremely valuable and popular with collectors. Recently it was put back into production, a new factory, shop and information centre can be found on Battery Green Road, Lowestoft. The Lowestoft Porcelain Trail is a must for discovering the story of china production in the town, with ancient buildings depicting the story through time. Displays of many original pieces can be found at the Lowestoft Museum in Broad House, Oulton Broad.
Historic High Street and Scores - Discover the historic north end of old Lowestoft, which was the original main centre of Lowestoft. A must visit is Lowestoft Lighthouse… Uncover the 'Scores', which historically acted as gateways from the town down to the 'old fishermen's Beach Village'. The Lowestoft Scores Trail is a perfect way to discover more about these ancient pathways leading down to the sea. These are said to be the most haunted part of the town and can also be discovered by participating in The Lowestoft Guided Tours, which run from Easter to Halloween.
Sir Samuel Morton Peto - Is responsible for much of the town's development and enhancement during the mid 19th Century. Embark on the Peto Trail (Leaflets are available from Lowestoft Tourist Information Centre) and travel around the various architectural sites, which were formally developed by him. Buildings including Somerleyton Hall, Lowestoft Central Railway Station, Wellington Esplanade and Marine Parade are all associated with Peto.
Benjamin Britten - Was born in Lowestoft, Suffolk on 22nd December 1913. He died at his home in Aldeburgh, Suffolk, on 4th December 1976 and is buried in the churchyard of the Aldeburgh Parish Church.
To commemorate the 200th year of the death of Lord Horatio Nelson, the Lowestoft Maritime Museum will have a display of 'Square Rigged' ships models, pictures, paintings and a cut away section of a Man of War. From 30th April to October 9th 2005
Southwold
This historic market town and port situated on the mouth of the River Blyth is rich with unique heritage. Though only around 105 miles from London this ancient borough has preserved its charm as a secluded, untouched and peaceful holiday destination.
Historical focal points include the 15th century church at Southwold, which is dedicated to St Edmund, Christian Martyr and the last king of East Anglia.
Sutherland House is of historic importance, as it was the residence of the Duke of York during the battle of Sole Bay (1672).
Gun Hill takes its name from the six 18-pounder culverins, muzzle loading guns, which were cast in Elizabethan times and presented to the town during the reign of George II.
The lighthouse, built in 1890, stands an imposing 101 feet above the town and can be seen 17 miles out to sea. Its beacon serves mariners in the quest for a landfall at 'Southwold Haven', and these days it's a landmark, which signifies Southwold to so many people.
The famous greens of the town are a lasting reminder of the Great Fire of Southwold in 1659, which destroyed many buildings in the town.
Bungay
Bungay's history is long, rich and varied and the architecture reflects the towns changing fortunes over time. Probably the most famous attraction in Bungay is the castle built by Feudal Lord Hugh Bigod in 1165. The castle was all but destroyed in 1174 when Henry II besieged it but then surrendered and the king ordered its destruction. All that stands today are the remains of the two semi-circular towers, flanked by the gatehouse. A recently built visitor centre offers an insight into the castle's history.
Bungay's famous Buttercross is situated in the Market Place, where a weekly Thursday market has been held on this site since 1382. Further down the timeline it was used as a prison with a dungeon beneath.
The Saxon round tower of the Holy Trinity Church predates the castle. A brass plate on the outside door commemorates the survival of the church in the great fire of Bungay in 1688.
The church of St Mary's, with its prominent tower, dominates the local landscape. The interior of the building includes a 15th Century wooden panel presented by novelist Sir Henry Rider Haggard. I
Halesworth
The quiet market town of Halesworth is tucked away in the Blyth Valley. Mentioned in the Doomsday Book when Ulf the priest was in charge, modern Halesworth probably dates from the Middle Saxon period, with evidence of settlement from 450 - 850 AD. Stroll along the pedestrianised Thoroughfare and look out for the green plaques that give clues to the history of this quaint town. Sir Benjamin d'Urban, governor of the Cape of Good Hope, lived in the Mansion House, Market Place and gave his name to the town of Durban.
The church of St Mary's in the centre of the town has late Saxon origins and contains an unusual 18th Century altar. There are many interesting brasses and memorials inside the church, including a World War 1 propeller and an engraved tablet in memory of Sir William Hooker and his son Joseph. The Hookers were the first consecutive directors of Kew Gardens and lived in what was formerly know as the 'Brewery House' now known as Hooker House in Bridge Street.
Beccles
Formally a Saxon seaport situated on the Broads, Beccles has a number of period buildings throughout its streets. The most impressive being the Parish Church of St. Michael's with its detached tower serving as a landmark for miles around. It was here that Catherine Suckling married the Reverend Edward Nelson, who later gave birth to one of the great seafarers in history - Lord Horatio Nelson. Also, the town is home to an unusual 18th Century octagonal town hall, a Grade I listed building named Leman House and Roos Hall, which is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in England.
So… why not travel back in time and experience The Sunrise Coast's rich historical and cultural treasures first hand.
