Pictures of Dunwich

About Dunwich

Dunwich has a lovely shingle beach backed by very low cliffs, it is startling in its beauty and has been the haunt of artists and writers for several centuries. Its noted past visitors have included the artist Thomas Churchyard, and Swinburne, whose poem "By the North Sea" was inspired by this delightful place. Other visitors have been Bernard Barton, Henry James, Charles Keene, Jerome K. Jerome, and many others.

This is an area with a history of ravage by storm, it has been prone to storms ever since the 14th century when in the month of January 1326 a great storm flooded what was then a thriving town, washing away homes and three churches. A museum in the town recalls this and other "stormy" events.

Interesting sites in the village tell of its former glory when it was a busy seaport in the Medieval era, these include the ruins next to the church of St.James which are all that are left of an 800 year old chapel and Medieval Priory. The 14th century gateway to Greyfriars Priory stands firmly at the side of the road, these can be easily seen and explored.

Lovers of wildlife should not miss out on a visit to Dunwich Heath, a wonderful landscape cared for by the National Trust where you will find a rich variety of plant life, gorse and beautiful coastal heathers. This is one of Suffolk's most important conservation areas, it offers exceptional coastal views and is a place where you can enjoy birds, insects and butterflies. There is a study centre on the heath, a pleasant tea-room and a shop for souvenirs. In front of the heath at low tide there is access to a pleasant sandy beach.

There remain some picturesque cottages around the village, a church and a typical village pub. It is all so perfectly peaceful with little to do except soak up crisp sea air, relax with a spot of boating or fishing, or simply enjoy wonderful coastal walks looking at fishing vessels slung up on the beach.