Just off the main square of the tiny but appealing village of Orford, along the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, stands Orford Castle.

This impressive building was built on high ground by Henry II and most of the castle disappeared centuries ago. Only the lofty keep remains.

We found it to be very mystical, especially in wintertime when the village and the castle seems to be deserted.

Orford Castle is maintained by English Heritage and visitors are allowed to explore the castle.

There are lots of levels to investigate. From the basement, through the lower and upper halls to the roof where there are magnificent views seaward to Orford Ness.


St Bartholomew’s

Besides its Castle Orford has another medieval gem, the Church of St Bartholomew.

This magnificent, grade one listed, building stands at the heart of the village.

It was first built between 1170 and 1220 and there are some fine Norman remains from that period outside the east end of the church.


Images by Cool Places Britain
Walking

Orford is a great base from which you can explore the stunning marshes north of the River Ore.

A short 4-mile circular follows the River Ore southward and crosses the mysterious marches before returning to Orford.

If you would like to explore the Suffolk Coast Path which runs through this beautiful landscape, then you should walk towards Aldeburgh.

This 11-mile circular starts at the large car park to the south of Orford.

The route explores the Suffolk coast and countryside and uses paths and quiet country lanes and includes the estuaries of the Rivers Ore and Alde.



Cool Places to Explore: Aldeburgh | Orford Ness | Framlingham Castle | Sutton Hoo | Lavenham.

Cool Places to Eat: Pump Street Bakery | Crown & Castle | The Unruly Pig.