Nestled on the River Waveney in Suffolk is Beccles, a charming market town acclaimed for its livability, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.
Stepping into Beccles on a bright spring day, the town exuded a cheerful vibe with locals strolling amidst the blooming streets as a busker serenaded the crowd with an upbeat rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.
With roots dating back to Elizabethan times, Beccles boasts a blend of architectural marvels like a Gothic church, elegant Georgian townhouses, and picturesque half-timbered buildings, exuding historical charm in its quaint town center. The town is dotted with independent shops, including the charmingly named Books & Crannies, a budget-friendly second-hand bookshop.
Despite its accolades as a top living destination and a sought-after spot in the East of England, Beccles remains reasonably priced, with properties still available around the £200k range, well below the national average house price.
During our stay, we lodged at Hippersons Boatyard on the town’s outskirts, offering various accommodation options like glamping, floating homes, and moorings. Nestled on the tranquil river waters surrounded by lush greenery, it provided a serene setting for relaxation.
Our weekend abode, Wild Cat Island, previously showcased on Channel 4’s My Floating Home, amazed us with its spaciousness, featuring two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a charming terrace overlooking the river where swans gracefully glided by. The gentle rocking of the pod added to the soothing ambiance, evoking a peaceful retreat.
Venturing onto the River Waveney in a rented boat, we embarked on a leisurely cruise, navigating the calm waters with guidance from the accommodating staff at Hippersons. A picnic from the local café, Relish, filled with delectable homemade treats, complemented our river voyage, offering a scenic experience alongside ducks and wildlife.
Wrapping up the day at Oak Fired at the Royal Oak, a cozy pub turned pizza eatery famed for its True Neapolitan Pizza, we relished in authentic Italian flavors served by the welcoming owner, Paul, creating a delightful dining experience.
As night fell, we strolled back through the tranquil streets to our accommodation, savoring the starlit sky before drifting off to sleep, lulled by the gentle rhythms of the river.
To experience a similar retreat, Wild Cat Island is available for a five-day rental at £1,000, while day boats can be hired for £160 for a full day or £135 for a shorter outing. For more information and bookings, visit www.thesuffolkcoast.co.uk.
If you have a travel story to share, reach out to us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
For a curated selection of news, choose Daily Mirror as your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News for quick access to the stories that matter to you.