Walkmates
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Route by PaulWalkmates
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Start at the public Southwold Pier car park on North Parade, then walk south past the pier along the upper seafront path. At South Green, turn inland, cross Queen Street carefully and use the short lane and signed footpath between the flint walls to Gardner Road. Godyll Road leads towards York Road and the twin water towers. Cross to the common path, keeping to the marked route across the golf course.
Follow the old railway track towards the River Blyth. Turn left before the Bailey Bridge and stay on the Southwold bank, continuing through Blackshore Harbour past the fishing sheds. At the harbour car park, follow the grassy strip behind the Denes dunes north to Gun Hill Beach Cafe. The path beside the cafe climbs to the railed gardens; return down the steps to the promenade and the pier.
Allow about two hours. Expect short slopes, steps, grass paths that can be muddy, and shared town and harbour lanes. Watch for golf balls, vehicles and unprotected water edges. Avoid flooded riverbank paths and follow local closure signs. Parking is pay and display; check the current tariff. Toilets and refreshments are available around the pier and town, subject to opening times.
Based on the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Southwold Explorer guide, Buildings and Boats beside the Sea, with the Pier car park approach.
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A few things to know before you make plans.
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
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The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.