This majestic 15th century Suffolk church is close to the sea and a real showpiece of traditional East Anglian flint work. The sumptuous two-storied porch is one of the best in Suffolk.
What’s special?
Inside the colours and carvings of the angel roof and the magnificent chancel screen with medieval paintings of saints and angels is simply breathtaking.
Look west at the gorgeous gilded font cover and east for the matching wineglass pulpit and the wonderful choir stalls with curious but exquisitely carved figures in the elbows.
All is of the highest quality but not all medieval. Note the stunning east window by Ninian Comper commissioned in 1954 and depicting St Edmund in vibrant colour.
How old is it?
An earlier 13th century building stood here when Southwold was just a fishing hamlet. It was ravaged by fire and a new building was started in 1430. It was built all in one go over 60 years and the grandeur of this Suffolk church reflects the importance of the 15th century town.
And today?
Light streams into the church through vast plain glass windows so no-one minds the loss of the Victorian glass in WWI.
The church is open for visitors every day and there is a well-stocked shop and bookstall.
There’s a regular programme of musical concerts.
You can enjoy a four-mile walk to Walberswick church and back via the foot ferry at the harbour. Find the walk on the Angels & Pinnacles orange Church Heritage Trail leaflet No. 1.
Famous connections
Jack of the Clock is a mechanical 4ft figure representing a soldier in the Wars of the Roses. He’s a rare figure who used to strike his bell to mark the hours, though there’s also one at nearby Blythburgh.
What’s nearby?
- A couple of steps away is a sweeping sandy beach
- The ‘lost’ city of Dunwich is minutes away by car
- Southwold Pier is a must if only for the Boardwalk Restaurant atop the waves and Tim Hunkin’s Under the Pier show
- Southwold Museum with its astonishing collection of objects, paintings, photographs, models and wildlife exhibits
- Looking for a holiday home? Southwold Lettings is a good place to start
Facilities
Food and Drink Available Locally
Wheelchair Accessible
Heritage Trails
Discover Suffolk’s medieval churches by bike or on foot so you can savour the delights of the countryside at close quarters.
