Best photo locations: Aldeburgh, Suffolk

We take a look at some of the best photo locations in the UK. Here, we visit Aldeburgh, a small coastal town on the north-east coast of Suffolk, north of the River Alde. Aldeburgh was home to the composer Benjamin Britten. From the beach to the town to the surrounding marshlands, this is a versatile shooting location.

Aldeburgh Beach

With its line of pastel holiday villas along the promenade, the pebble beach is dotted with fishermen’s boats and huts selling fresh fish. Get there early in the morning for some great lighting.

The Scallop

Walking north along the beach, just out of town, you will see The Scallop, a tribute by artist Maggi Hambling’s to Benjamin Britten. Standing 15 feet high it is engraved with a line from Britten’s opera, Peter Grimes: “I hear those voices that will not be drowned.” This beautiful sculpture offers plenty of photographic opportunities. Try exploring the shapes, experiment with a wide angle lens to capture a more dynamic photo, the lighting varies at different times of the day. The sun rises in the East for an early morning shot and sets in the West for a late evening shot. The Scallop is a very popular attraction for children especially at the weekends and holidays, you may have to wait for a clear coast before you can capture the shots you want.

Snape Maltings

Five miles away, you can explore Snape Maltings, a centre for the performance and study of music. It is situated on the Alde estuary, set against a breath-taking expanse of reeds, water and sky. There’s a lovely walk from Aldeburgh to Snape across the marshes, called the Sailor’s Path. You can download a PDF of the walk here.

Southwold

If you are in the area, just thirteen miles away from Aldeburgh is Southwold with its iconic pier and long line of beach huts. Let your creative juices loose and have fun with the hut colours, or just have a nice relaxing day at the seaside. 

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1 Comment

  1. Beautiful photo location.

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