Dunwich Heath Beach

  • Dunwich Heath Beach - Suffolk
    © Lewis Potter and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Dunwich Heath Beach - Suffolk
    © ptwo and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Dunwich Heath Beach - Suffolk
    © ptwo and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • A remote sand and shingle beach backed by the dunes, heathland and lagoons of the National Trust owned Dunwich Heath. The area is also home to RSPB Minsmere and is home to a range of interesting wildlife such as the Dartford warbler, nightjar, woodlark, red deer, adders and ant-lion.

    Dunwich Heath is more than just a nature reserve though; it is a good family beach. Towards mid tide there is a good deal of sand revealed which is ideal for digging or running around on. As well as all the opportunities for exploring the heath provides there are facilities provided at the National Trust tearooms.

    It is also a dog friendly beach with dogs welcome all year.

    Type of beach

    Sand & shingle

    Lifeguard service

    No

    Dogs friendly beach?

    Dogs allowed

    Dogs are welcome on the beach and heath all year. Please note that on the heath dogs must be kept on leads at certain times of year.

    Suffolk dog friendly beaches »

    Facilities

    • Cafe/restaurant
    • Toilets
    • Disabled facilities
    • Childrens play area
    • Picnic area

    Nearest town

    Leiston

    OS grid ref.

    TM 4780 6773

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    Dunwich Heath Beach Reviews

    Shingle beach, expensive to park

    Justin h
    Mar 30th 2021

    Nice beach but go northwards to Southwold and you’ll then get miles and miles of golden sand. This one is more for wannabe walkers from the city who are happy to pay £6 to see nature and have a good coffee and cake after.

    Idyllic!

    Jul 03rd 2023

    Idyllic location : quiet shingle beach, lowland heath, woodland, marshes and reedbeds. Has SSSI, SAC & AONB status. A haven for birdwatchers and walkers with plenty of interesting trails & lots of activities arranged by the knowledgeable National Trust wardens.. If you don’t mind shingle it’s a picturesque beach to swim.  Once you’ve had your swim, walk, run or birdwatch there’s the friendliest cafe in the Coastguard Cottages with a lookout south to the Minsmere Marshes, north to Southwold or across the North Sea.
    Parking is £6 all day but free to National Trust members. Looking after precious habitats and keeping it there for future generations needs investment .