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.

Crowded though it might be in summer, Southwold is in no way spoilt. Its unrivalled appeal lies in the fact that it still retains an air of Victorian elegance long lost in so many other seaside resorts and it is surely one of the most celebrated of the country's beach hut towns, with a string of impeccable brightly coloured (and much sought after) huts lining its shore.

Where to park:
Waveney District Council car parks are at the following places: The Pier (Pay & Display), Harbour Quay East (Pay & Display, April-October), Harbour Quay West (free), Ferry Road (free)and Market Place (free - one hour parking only.)Do bear in mind though that Southwold's car parks quickly fill up during peak season.

What sort of beaches can I expect?
The Denes is a quiet rural shingle beach which is backed by marshes and bordered by the mouth of the River Blyth on one side and town of Southwold on the other. For a resort beach, The Pier beach - with its golden sands and shingle – is unbeatable.

To read Southwold's entry for 'The Denes' beach in the Marine Conservation Society Good Beach Guide 2007 click here And for 'The Pier' beach entry in the same Guide click here

Activities for the children:
The main attraction is the wonderful retro pier, which appeals to young and old alike. Highlights include a traditional amusement arcade, Bucket & Spade Beach Shop and 'Under The Pier Show' - the latter featuring Tim Hunkin’s wacky hand-built machines such as the 'Mobility Masterclass', where you can test your ability on a zimmer frame. Also look out for Tim's famous Water Clock and Quantum Tunnelling Telescope.

*The Good Beach Guide is published by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) - the UK charity dedicated to the protection of our seas, shores and wildlife. It is the biggest and best beach guide available with a description, photo and map for each of 1,200 beaches in the UK and Ireland. For further details visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk