Southwold is a part of The Countrywide Great Tour route this summer. We reveal some of the best restaurants and places to stay in the East Anglian seaside town

Great British Life: The map of Stage 34, Southwold to IpswichThe map of Stage 34, Southwold to Ipswich (Image: Archant)

The Countrywide Great Tour begins on 4 July 2015 and takes place over 64 days visiting various coastal locations across the UK. Cyclists will begin to arrive in Southwold on the afternoon of 5 August after a ride down the coast from Burnham Market.

Almost an island, Southwold is bounded by the North Sea to the East, by the River Blyth and Southwold harbour to the South–West and by Buss Creek to the North.

If you’re taking part yourself or supporting a friend or family member in the tour, there’s plenty on offer around Southwold. Known for its iconic lighthouse, pier and beach huts the town also plays host to some delicious food and drink and relaxing places to stay.

Where to eat and stay

The Harbour Inn

Right on the water’s edge The Harbour Inn is a character-filled traditional old fisherman’s pub with a wood panelled, snug and cosy bars.

Crown Hotel

Situated on the high street this small hotel also serves as a wine bar, pub and restaurant. It has been named as Suffolk Dining Pub of the Year by The Good Pub Guide 2014 and has a TripAdvisor 2015 Certificate of Excellence. -

Swan Hotel

The Swan Hotel, which is just a short stroll from the beach, has been awarded four Stars by The AA and two Rosettes for the food in the restaurant.

For a local Bed and Breakfast check out Suffolk Secrets where there is a wide range for all budgets

Things to do:

Southwold Pier

This Victorian pier is a great place to await the cyclists. There are shops, arcade games, refreshments and attractions

Take a brewery tour

Take a tour of Adnams Brewery and discover how they create their award-winning beers and spirits or how about even having a go at making your own ginSouthwold Museum

Discover the all about the area’s history from the Viking occupation, and sea battles to the development of its industries and ARCHITECTURE.

Southwold Lighthouse

If you have a good head for heights take a tour of the town’s 31 metre high Victorian lighthouse and checkout the view from the top!

RSPB Minsmere

Escape the busy town and spend the morning until the cyclists arrive watching the rare birds and wildlife at Minsmere

Do you want to take part in the Great tour? To enter, head over to the Countrywide Great Tour website.