Orford

Orford

There is a relaxed pace to life in Orford and a visit here is sure to leave you feeling chilled out and as if you can face anything. It isn't the easiest place in the world to reach, but when you're there you won't want to leave, and you might find yourself searching for an estate agent! It is the perfect place for a leisurely weekend break as it is far enough away from it all for relaxation, but with plenty on offer to keep you entertained and, most importantly, well fed.



For those of you who like seek out historical gems, St Bartholomew's Church is a sight to behold. This Grade One listed 14th Century building, with 12th century remains attached, and is open daily to visitors. Also, there is no finer example of English Heritage than Orford Castle. Built between 1165 and 1173, the castle’s central keep is all that remains – yet this is still an impressive sight both up close and from a distance. It is the perfect place to combine a brisk walk with a step back in time. The unique polygonal towerkeep of Orford Castle stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here in the 1160s.



Orford Castle is open to visitors and is kept by English Heritage. The circular interior has five floors and includes kitchens and a chapel. For a really stunning view climb up the 27 metre high tower. Visitor’s reaching the very top of the keep will be rewarded with breath-taking views of the village and surrounding countryside, including the River Ore and Orford Ness.

There is a shop onsite, as well as Orford Museum which features exhibits from Anglo-Saxon, Roman and earlier times, plus items associated with Orford's mayor, and the lighthouses & airfield on Orford Ness. Visitors are welcome to bring your own picnic to consume in the grounds. It's a lovely day out.



Nature lovers will not be disappointed by Orford Ness – known as ‘The Island’ – as it is Europe's largest vegetated shingle spit and is fortunately protected for us by the National Trust. and is fortunately protected for us by the National Trust. Visitors will discover a huge variety of rare species and habitats of coastal wildlife - including shingle, saltmarsh, mudflat, brackish lagoons and grazing marsh. The Reserve provides an important location for breeding and passage birds as well as for the coastal shingle flora and wildlife, including a large number of nationally rare species.

From 1913 until the mid-1980s the Ness was used as a secret military test site and today visitors can walk amongst some of the unusual and intriguing test sites and buildings. The Ness is accessible by ferry, and guided tours & walks are available to visitors with a focus on subjects such as natural history, military history and general interest. There are also events held for children.



Bird lovers will also be drawn to Havergate Island bird sanctuary nearby, which is maintained by the RSPB. See RSPB Havergate Island

The banks of the river Butley provide a perfect breeding ground for Gigas Pacific Oysters. They are harvested from the banks and you can buy them from the Butley Orford Oysterage. There is also a smokehouse alongside the river, selling all manner of local produce. Nearby is the Butley Oyster where you can stop for some well earned refreshment!



For a relaxing trip along the River you could enjoy one of the local cruises. These boats sail all year round and in the Winter months you will be kept warm by a cosy fire on board as you sail the calm waters of the Alde and Ore. The Lady Florence River Cruise even offers a meal as you enjoy your time on the boat.



Orford is just 5 miles from Snape Maltings Concert Hall, a converted malt house which is today home to Aldeburgh Music. Concerts of varying musical genres are performed year-round, and should you find yourself in here during the summer, the Aldeburgh Festival is a musical experience not to be missed.



One high-quality Hotel & Restaurant in Orford is The Crown and Castle , owned by the legendry Ruth Watson (of Hotel Inspector fame, and author of several best selling cookery books) along with her husband David.



Another excellent sleeping and dining option in Orford comes from The Jolly Sailor - a wonderful tradtional inn serving Adnams Ales and local food, with luxurious accommodation options and a beautiful garden located next to the working quay on the River Ore, opposite Orford Ness.

Delicious pub food in Orford can be found at The King's Head Inn, along with bed & breakfast accommodation.



For more details of Orford visit Orford Website.

For more information on accommodation and eating out options, please see
Orford Hotels.