Woodbridge is a historic town of great character situated on the River Deben. Its charm lies in the many narrow picturesque streets of fine houses and cottages, the river, a popular marina, the busy boatyards, the famous Tide Mill, the ancient buildings around the Market Hill and the fine Church.

Woodbridge has an interesting shopping centre, with many specialist shops, good restaurants and pubs, together with art galleries, antique shops, town museum, Suffolk Horse museum, an excellent cinema/theatre, large recreation areas and an indoor heated swimming pool.

During December, the Market Hill and main shopping streets in Woodbridge are well worth a visit in the evening as the cottages and shops are all decked out with little Christmas trees with twinkley fairy lights - very festive and very pretty!

Woodbridge has a fine selection of restaurants and the majority of pubs offer tasty bar snacks. However, the area's many "pick your own" farms provide an excellent choice of fresh fruit and vegetables if you want to dine at home.

Woodbridge is in an ideal location for sailing, cruising, walking, bird watching, fishing, golfing, painting, etc. and is within easy reach of the coast and the many other places of interest in Suffolk.

The town is linked with a good network of main roads and regular bus services, and there is a train service connecting the town with Ipswich, London, Cambridge, etc..

For a hearty fried breakfast or even a simple bacon sarnie, washed down with a mug of tea or coffee, pop down to Ferry Quay Cafe on The Quay at Bass's Dock - a delicious "al fresco" start to the day, with views across the Deben towards Sutton Hoo. A very popular and busy cafe! Tel: 07943 959 530, Mobile: 07943 959 530, Email ferryquaycafe@fsmail.net

The fine 6 storey tower mill, Buttrum's Mill in Woodbridge, is fully restored with sails turning most weekends and should not be missed as it is a fine example of the Millwright's craft.

A historic 'must' is a visit to the picturesque Tide Mill on the waters edge, probably one of the most photographed scenes in England.

The Deben

The Deben's riverside pubs provide watering holes for sailors exploring the river whilst land lubbers can sit back and watch the world go by. The yacht clubs along the river hosts regattas and races throughout the season.

Further reading

Visit the ever-popular web site WoodbridgeSuffolk.info, for more local information.