Christmas 2007 is now over and yes, despite all my fears, it was a good Christmas. We spent time with family and friends, no one argued, the turkey was delicious and the cat wasn't sick! What more could I ask for?

Well........, it sounds terribly indulgent I know, but actually I could do with a quiet and peaceful holiday away from everyone. Long walks, bracing sea air, not too much to eat and somewhere cosy where I can curl up and read all those wonderful books I was given for Christmas.

A single row of assorted cottages stands sentinel against the ravages of the North Sea whose wild and wondrous waves crash relentlessly against the shifting shingle bank. Here the Alde and Ore estuary reaches the sea, its eastern bank a narrow shingle spit running northwards past Orford to Aldeburgh.

Building on the success of its Blue Flag programme, ENCAMS recently launched its new Quality Coast Award, giving you a chance to find an outstanding beach which best meets your needs

Southwold
The very select seaside town of Southwold is thoroughly deserving of the praise which has long been heaped on it.

With its privileged geography, working lighthouse, beautiful clean beaches, famous Adnams brewery, excellent pubs, shops and eateries and mix of Georgian, Regency and Victorian architecture, it's no surprise that so many people choose to visit each year. Here you might well spot the odd eminent artist, writer or actor mingling with the throng of day trippers and holidaymakers to be found on the beaches or in the town centre.

Aldeburgh
The upmarket seaside town of Aldeburgh - which grew on the site of an old medieval fishing and ship building centre - appeals to a wide cross section of people - from families, writers, artists and music aficionados to city folk in need of a quick, cultured getaway and that invigorating salty North Sea breeze.

Ultimately, if you thrive on good old-fashioned English seaside charm and unspoilt natural beauty then this is the place to come to with not a flashing neon light in sight and many a delightful pastime to partake in.