The Shotley Peninsula sits nestled between the two rivers of Stour and Orwell, near the town of Ipswich. Though not a classic tourist attraction, the Shotley Peninsula boasts stunning scenery, coastal walks and a thriving sailing community.
Villages
The Shotley Peninsula is made up of nine villages. At the very tip of the Peninsula, where the Stour and Orwell meet, is the village of Shotley Gate. From here the harbour towns of Felixstowe and
Harwich can be seen over the water. Shotley Gate is also the home of HMS Ganges which was once a flag ship in the Royal Navy and was then used as a training ship. It is now a museum exhibiting memorabilia from its past.
Pin Mill is one of the highlights of the Peninsula, mainly for its position on the river and beautiful walks. Visitors can attend the Pin Mill Studio where they can try their hand at arts and crafts such as textile printing and ceramic painting.
The villages of Holbrook and Stutton have stunning stretches of unspoilt shoreline; Holbrook Creek especially boasts beautiful views and a peaceful ambience.
Also in Holbrook, and backing into the small village of Tattingstone are dense woodlands which are home to herds of deer. These can sometimes be seen by lucky, and quiet, walkers.
The villages of Erwarton and Harkstead lie in the centre of the Peninsula, they are more difficult to negotiate to due to winding country roads, but are worth it for the stunning Suffolk scenery. The 13th Century Church in Erwarton is said to be the burial place of the heart of Anne Boleyn, the second of Henry VIII’s wives. Anne Boleyn also spent time at Erwarton Hall as a child.
The village of Freston is rather small, but it is home to the rather large Freston Tower. The tower is a six storey Folly dating back to 16th Century. It looks out onto the river Orwell and is a striking and quirky landmark.
Walking
Whether a short stroll or a long hike, there are walks to suit everyone on the Shotley Peninsula. Multiple footpaths thread across the area and take in its diverse landscape including coast, woodlands, meadowland and farmland. The footpaths are clearly signposted and vary in length from a twenty minute walk to an extensive coastal trek taking in the whole Peninsula. Walkers can follow a set route or just set out to explore.
Alton Water Park
One of the main attractions on the Peninsula, Alton Water Park is a manmade reservoir set between the villages of Tattingstone, Stutton and Holbrook; the main entrance is in Stutton but it can be accessed from all three. The 400 acre park surrounding the reservoir is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a stunning area to walk or cycle round or to just relax with a picnic.
Sailing and Water Sports
Being set between two rivers the Shotley Peninsula is a very nautical area. There are marinas at Woolverstone and Shotley, as well as moorings at various points along the coastline, such as Pin Mill.
There is also sailing on the reservoir at Alton Water Park, as well as other water sports such as windsurf and canoeing. The RYA (Royal Yachting Association) training centre at the Alton Water Sports Centre runs several sailing courses.
Pubs
There are several pubs on the Peninsula which not only serve delicious food but also provide a great place to socialise and enjoy a pint of Adnams or IPA, the local beers.
For excellent food head to The Kingshead in Stutton which has a diverse menu prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The Butt and Oyster in Pin Mill also serves first-rate food, specialising in seafood due to its position on the river.
The Bakers Arms in Harkstead and the The White Horse in Tattingstone provide more typical pub fare, but are also very good quality and have a friendly atmosphere.
The Swan in Holbrook, though limited in its food menu, is an excellent drinks pub with a relaxed mood and pleasant beer garden.
The Shotley Peninsula is a hidden gem buried in the Suffolk Countryside. A beautiful place in which to explore, eat and relax.
Victoria Richman - An experienced, versatile writer with particular focus on the topics of conservation and travel.
