Cornwall and Devon are the most popular counties in the UK for those who wants to enjoy the coast and explore the country’s most charming towns.
Both counties attract over 5million tourists a year respectively, but another county, Suffolk, offers a similarly relaxed British holiday but only attracts a fraction of the visitors.
Statistics show that Suffolk and Norfolk’s combined revenue from tourism in 2022 was £5.5billion – £2.1billion for Suffolk and £3.4billion for Norfolk.
Conde Nast Traveller recently named two Suffolk locations on its list of best places to holiday in the UK.
Aldeburgh and Southwold both made the list.
Aldeburgh is a seaside town known for its great high street. You can also visit The Red House, a beautiful country house that was once home to composer Benjamin Britten.
History buffs will enjoy the historic Martello Tower, while art enthusiasts will want to visit the four-metre high ‘Scallop’ designed by Suffolk-born Maggi Hambling.
Southwold is, in many ways, the archetypal beach holiday location thanks to its sandy beaches and traditional pier.
The vibrant beach huts and towering lighthouse add to the picturesque scene.
Lavenham, a village located to the west of Ipswich, is known as one of the UK’s best-preserved and traditional villages.
Timber-framed buildings and a traditional church give the village a medieval feel, but Lavenham was recently rated as one of the UK’s prettiest places.
Describing the village The Independent said: “One of the best preserved medieval villages in England, Lavenham in the Suffolk countryside is formed of timbered cottages, 15th-century churches and magical woodlands.
“Famous for its role as Godric’s Hollow in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, the charming backdrop of cosy tea rooms, a traditional English guildhall and crooked houses are not to be missed on a picturesque UK staycation.”
Earlier this summer, Suffolk and Norfolk joined forces with a huge funding commitment to try and attract more tourism in the east of England.
Both counties will commit £110,000 to help promote themselves to would-be visitors.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Suffolk County Council Leader, said: “We are delighted that Suffolk is joining this partnership. Our joint efforts will create a more cohesive and robust tourism strategy for the East of England.
“This initiative will not only boost our local economies but also promote sustainability and inclusivity, re-enforcing our region as a top destination for tourists.”