Stour & Orwell Walk
With the coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold towards the northern tip of the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape more popular than ever, visitors new to the area can sometimes overlook the delights and pleasures that lie at the southern end along the rivers Orwell and Stour that create the Shotley Peninsula.
The Stour and Orwell Walk continues from the end of the Suffolk Coast Path in Felixstowe, inland along the River Orwell, around the Shotley Peninsular, then along the northern side of the River Stour to Cattawade near the border with Essex.
As the name suggests, the 40-mile Stour & Orwell Walk route takes in both historic rivers, navigates between Felixstowe and Cattawade via the county town of Ipswich.
Starting in Felixstowe, head north along the Orwell towards Ipswich via Trimley Marshes and Nacton Shores, two havens for birds and wildlife, and then Orwell Country Park and stunning views of the Orwell Bridge, to the bustling and historic Ipswich Waterfront.
The route is very well connected by public transport with trains running regularly between Manningtree and Ipswich and Ipswich to Felixstowe. There are many places to stop and pick up some delicious treats along the way, including local favourite the Suffolk Food Hall just outside Ipswich.
From Ipswich the route travels along the western side of the river to Shotley Gate where you reach the Stour and the final stretch to Cattawade via picturesque Pin Mill and awe-inspiring views of the Port of Felixstowe, the UK’s biggest container port.
There is also an abundance of wildlife to see, including a wealth of migrating birds that visit our shores every year. You may even be lucky enough to spot the rare resident peregrine falcons that nest underneath the Orwell Bridge.
You can view the map and map files on the LDWA website. Find out more about planning your visit and advice for during your time in the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape.
