Photographing Suffolk - Part 1 the estuaries

PHOTOGRAPHING SUFFOLK PART 1 - SUFFOLK’S ESTUARIES

Welcome to Suffolk The Suffolk Coast stretches from the container port of Felixstowe in the South to the seaside resort of Lowestoft in the north. In its 47 mile length, much of which is covered by an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the coastline is broken by 5 major estuaries; the Stour, Orwell, Deben, Alde and Ore complex and the river Blyth. Together these rivers increase the length of the coastline by some 176 miles, afford some of the best sailing around as well as providing some of the most significant wildlife sites in the UK .

Each estuary is subtly different in its make up and use. The Stour and Orwell are by far the most commercialised and have the most pressure placed upon their resources. They are the busiest of the counties rivers; the cranes of Felixstowe’s container port towering over the mouth of the Orwell and the passenger terminal at Harwich occupying a prominent position at the mouth of the Stour. But despite this both rivers remain unspoiled, beautiful places to explore.

The Deben, Alde and Ore complex and the Blyth are the best preserved of our estuaries.

They are bounded by vast expanses of mudflat and saltmarsh and are home to a wide variety of plants, birds and animals. The Deben and Alde and Ore complex are both Ramsar sites which are wetlands that have been classified as internationally important habitats. Havergate Island in the middle of the Ore is an RSPB reserve and is home to large numbers of avocet and other waders which use the area as a summer breeding ground

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Suffolk is a county often shunned by photographers for being too flat or featureless. But I think it is an area of the UK that is well worth exploring. It may be flat but that is part of the attraction and also part of the challenge.

I have spent the last 10 years photographing the Suffolk Coast and have discovered a vibrant and beautiful place full of variety that touches my soul.

These booklets covers many of the areas that I love to photograph, some of which will be familiar and others less well known. They are intended as an introduction to Suffolk not as an exhaustive list of the best photographic locations. This booklet is part one in a series of three. The full set covers: Part 1. Suffolk’s Estuaries Part 2. Suffolk’s Coast Part 3. Suffolk’s Countryside I hope that these guides will give a taster for the wonderful photographic opportunities available in Suffolk and encourage you to get out and explore this beautiful county for yourselves.

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The Orwell Photographic Locations: Ipswich Waterfront and Orwell Bridge Freston Pin Mill Landguard Point

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Ipswich Lying at the head of the River Orwell, Ipswich waterfront has much to offer the photographer. With its two marinas and links to maritime history and modern boatbuilding there is always something to see on the water. Thames barges moor regularly along the harbour walls and there are several events which take place annually that are worth attending including the race of the classics, the old gaffers rally and the maritime festival. If you would like to explore the Orwell from the water then Ipswich is a good place to pick up a boat with the Thames barges offering the most unique photgraphic experience. Sailing Barge Victor runs regular river trips throughout the summer from the Quay.

If you are looking to photograph the Orwell bridge one of the best places to go is the Orwell Country park. This has plenty of shoreside access and footpaths which run directly beneath the bridge.

Good for Maritime shots

Boats and marine details

Architecture

Wide landscape shots

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM169440 Latitude: 52.052382, Longitude: 1.1634153 Postcode: IP4 1QJ Ipswich waterfront can be reached from junction 56 of the A14 and following the A137 Wherstead Road into town. There are plenty of car parks in the town centre, all just a short walk from the waterfront.

Facilities There are many good cafes and restaurants along the waterfront.

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Viewpoints and images 1. The Waterfront

Some of the best views of the waterfront can be taken from the south side of the marina.

This allows you to look back at the customs house and the new waterside properties. The top image was taken from Ipswich Haven marina looking across the water to the Customs house and the bottom was taken from Neptune Marina on the north bank looking west.

Sunset is a particularly good time to visit especially on a still evening when the reflections and colours can be stunning.

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Many of these images were taken during rallys or regattas when the waterfront looks especially colourful. The race of the Classics (a fleet of tall ships) is a regular visitor to Ipswich. The vessels usually stay for a night or two and are worth photographing.

2. Orwell Bridge When the Orwell Bridge was built in the early 1980’s it had the longest prestressed concrete span of any bridge in Britain. Its centre section alone measures 190m and is 39m high at its mid point giving large ships clearance to reach Ipswich docks at all states of the tide.

Good views of the bridge can be had from Orwell Country Park which consists of 200 acres of woodland, heath and riverbank with circular footpaths taking in all the habitats. It is possible to walk underneath the bridge from here and this is also a good vantage point for sunset photos.

Park in the Bridge Wood carpark just off the A14.

Another good vantage point for the Orwell Bridge is from the layby on the B1456. This affords views across the saltmarsh on the West bank.

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Freston The tiny village of Freston is home to the Freston Tower; a six storey building dating back to the 16th Century and arguably the oldest folly in the country. It is an impressive red brick building towering high above the Orwell. It is now owned by the Landmark Trust and is available as a holiday let.

To access this area it is best to park in the layby on Freston Hill which is located just along from the Suffolk Food Hall. There is a footpath which runs from here down to Stoke Sailing Club and the banks of the river.

To see Freston Tower turn right and follow the path along the river edge.

Good for Shots of Orwell Bridge

Boats and marine details

River views

Wide landscape shots

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM174400 Latitude: 52.016262 Longitude: 1.1681530 Postcode: IP9 1AB Ipswich waterfront can be reached from junction 56 of the A14 then following the B1456 to Shotley. The layby can be found on the river side of the road just after the Suffolk Food hall. Park here and take the footpath to Stoke Sailing Club and the river.

Facilities There is a lovely cafe and restaurant at the Suffolk Food hall catering for coffee or lunch. Further afield there are good pubs in Chelmondiston and Pin Mill or along the waterfront in Ipswich.

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Viewpoints and images 1. Freston Tower and the Orwell There are some good views of the River Orwell from the slipway at Stoke Sailing Club. It is possible to stand here and look back along the strand towards Orwell Bridge. There are a few posts in the water and plenty of dinghies around for foreground interest. To photograph Freston tower it is best to walk along the river towards Woolverstone . There are some good views across the open parkland with some nice trees and plenty of gorse in the Spring.

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Pin Mill Half way along the Orwell on its western shore lays the small riverside hamlet of Pin Mill. Renowned for its boating connections and made famous by Arthur Ransome in his books “We didn’t mean to go to sea” and “Secret Water” this idyllic settlement has much to recommend.

The delightful mix of chocolate box cottages, a working boatyard, and an attractive waterside pub all surrounded by 85 acres of National Trust woodland make Pin Mill a popular destination for artists and photographers.

The waterfront has changed little since Ransome’s day and there are always barges to be found moored along the hard. The Butt and Oyster Pub is an attractive backdrop to the river whilst Harry Kings boatyard adds an authentic maritime air to the riverfront.

There are several old derelict boats moored further along the river and these can be reached by following the woodland path past the pub.

Good for Maritime shots

Boats and marine details

Architecture

Wide landscape shots

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM206379 Latitude: 51.996412 Longitude: 1.2126696 Postcode: IP9 1JN Pin Mill is reached from the A14 by taking junction 56 and following the B1456 to Shotley. Upon entering the village of Chelmondiston take the turning on the left signed Pin Mill and the river. There is a small pay and display car park at the bottom of this road. Pin Mill can get very busy on a hot summers day and parking can be a problem.

Facilities The Butt and Oyster Pub serves good food all day. There is a small public carpark on the left before the end of the road and toilets on the river front.

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Viewpoints and images 1. The Waterfront

Pin Mill waterfront is an area that has changed little over the last 200 years. It is very photogentic and is popular with artists and photographers. On the waterfront you will find the Butt and Oyster pub, in front of which is a shingled area (the hard) and a small rill leading to the river. This allows dinghies to be launched at all states of the tide but it also makes a good lead in line to the river. At low tide you can follow the rill to the river but be warned it is often muddy and can be very slippery.

On the opposite side of the rill there are usually several Thames barges moored on sturdy metal posts running along the edge of the hard. These are quite photogenic and at low tide you can get quite close to them.

To the left of the pub the road continues along the riverfront passing the village green, Harry Kings Boatyard and the sailing club.. There is a pontoon and a slip way into the river and a few old anchors and dinghies lying around that make good subjects for an image.

I prefer to photograph Pin Mill at high tide because of the great reflective qualities of the water, but low tide is just as interesting although a lot more muddy!

Sunrise shots are good from the slipway looking towards the Pub and misty autumnal mornings are magical.

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2. The River

There are some good shots to be had along the banks of the Orwell no matter which way you walk from Pin Mill. Walking past the pub and through the woods will lead you to the old houseboats and and at the far end you will find the derelict boats and barges. These make great subjects but they are not easy to get to and its good to remember that the mud is very slippery and sticky so care is required.

The river footpath also runs in the opposite direction, past the sailing club and through the fields by the river. These are often covered in poppies in the summer and there are good views of Ipswich school on the top of the hill. There is a nice little area of saltmarsh at the end of the first field which allows good views back to Pin Mill along the river.

The path eventually leads to Woolverstone marina and the Royal Harwich Yacht Club, both of which are worth exploring.

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3. Pin Mill Smack and Barge races

Every year in June or July Pin Mill Sailing Club hosts the annual smack and barge races which sees traditional Thames barges and Oyster smacks race along the Orwell from Pin Mill to Harwich harbour. Although the racing takes place out in the central channel of the river there are several good vantage points on land for capturing the action. The best place to watch the racing is from Buttermans Bay, which is adjacent to the start line and can be reached by following the riverside path past the pub and through the woods.You will eventually come to a small cottage and open area on the riverbank where it is possible to get a good view of the action. The footpath follows the river from here all the way to Shotley which is another good vantage point.

For more information on the Pin Mill smack and barge races please see www.pmsc.org.uk If you are interested in getting out on the water for some close up action then trips can be arranged aboard SB Victor www.sbvictor.co.uk or through Topsail Charters www.top-sail.co.uk

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Landguard Point Landguard point, the most southerly area in Suffolk, is a really interesting and varied place and is great for photography. If you stand on one of the earth embankments and look around, you will see container ships, cranes, passenger ferries, and tug boats all going about their business in one of the busiest container ports in Europe. But wander around and explore and you will also find a shingle beach which supports a wide variety of flowering plants, a disused pier which runs out into the North Sea, some interesting relics from the wars and an impressive fort which dates back to Henry VIII. There are two car parks, one at the viewpoint which looks out over the docks and is a great place to watch the ships come and go and the other is at the end of Manor Terrace which is closer to the beach.

There are lots of great shots to be had here at all times of the day and plenty of different things to photograph.

Good for Maritime shots

Sunset over harwich Harbour

Sunrise over the North Sea

Historical landscapes

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM283320 Latitude: 51.940184 Longitude: 1.3202047 Postcode: IP11 3TW Landguard is reached by following the A14 into Felixstowe. Upon entering the town follow the signs for the docks and Landguard point. Just before reaching the observation point turn left into Manor Terrace and park in the free public car park at the end of the road. There is a foot ferry linking Landguard with Shotley and Harwich.

This will give you a different perspective on the river and is well worth exploring.

Facilities There are several good cafes in Felixstowe but most are situated at the opposite end of the town beyond the pier. There are toilets in Manor Road car park.

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Viewpoints and images 1. The old pier

The disused pier at Landguard point makes a good subject for sunrise shots. It is an interesting old wooden structure with some wonderful detail and texture. There are some old metal groins that are partly submerged in the sand which lie adjacent to the pier and add a good contrast to the wooden structure. These images were taken in January with the sun rising directly in front of the pier.

This location is also great in rough seas and windy weather where images of the surf crashing over the pier are possible.

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2. Harwich Harbour

Harwich Harbour is a busy place with lots going on. The John Bradfield Viewpoint at the end of Viewpoint Road is a good place to park and photograph the docks. There are some interesting old wooden structures on the beach which make good foreground interest.

The docks are great for sunset images looking across to Harwich. Night time photography is also good. The docks are lit very brightly and the colours reflecting in the water look great.

The image below was taken from Harwich waterfront looking across to the port, similar views can be taken from Shotley. Both locations can be accessed using the foot ferry from Landguard Point www.harwichharbourferry.com

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3. Sailing events

As a yachting photographer I spend a fair amount of my time out on the water and have covered a lot of sailing events on the Orwell. There are 3 good events that are worth looking out for where it is possible to get good images from the path along the edge of Landguard Point. The races I recommend are: The Classic Regatta organised by Suffolk Yacht Harbour. This takes place annually in June www.syharbour.co.uk The Pin Mill Barge Match and the Pin Mill Smack Race. Both these events take place in June or July and more details can be found at www.pmsc.org.uk

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The Deben Photographic Locations: Bawdsey Quay Felixstowe Ferry Ramsholt Woodbridge

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Bawdsey Quay Bawdsey Quay lies at the mouth of the River Deben and is one of my favourite places for photography. It is one of those diverse locations that has much to offer whatever the season. There is a slipway into the river, a small sandy beach, wide open expanses of saltmarsh that bloom with sea thrift in the spring and a coastline that is littered with the remains of wooden groins and old concrete structures. There is also plenty of activity on the water with a variety of yachts and fishing boats and there are always dinghies on the beach which make good photography subjects.

Good for Sunrise shots

Wider landscape images

Sunset shots across the river

Detail shots

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM331378 Latitude: 51.990338, Longitude: 1.3944322 Postcode: IP12 3AX Bawdsey Quay is reached by following the B1083 from Woodbridge and crossing the river Deben at Melton. The road ends at Bawdsey Quay where there are 2 carparks; one on the quay and one in the woods just before the river.

Alternatively take the foot ferry across the Deben from Felixstowe Ferry boatyard.

Facilities There are toilets and picnic tables in the carpark. The Boathouse cafe on the Quay serves light lunches and excellent coffee. There are also a couple of cafes on the Felixstowe Ferry side of the river

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Viewpoints and images 1. Bawdsey Beach

Bawdsey Beach is a fabulous place to explore. It faces east so is best for sunrise and early morning shots. It is also much more interesting at low tide or when the tide is on the ebb.

Park on the quay and take the footpath along the edge of the beach. Follow this around the edge of the dinghy park and it will eventually bring you out onto the east beach.

This part of the beach is watched over by the impressive structure of Bawdsey manor with its ornate architecture. The beach here is a curious combination of wild and man made which makes it a fascinating place to explore. There are lots of old wooden groins and broken concrete structures which can all be accessed at low tide. These make good subjects for long exposures. There are also plenty of little details which make great images in their own right.

At low tide the gravel banks create interesting shapes in the mouth of the Deben and it is possible to walk out for a different perspective on the coast.

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2. The Quay

The East Coast is renowned for its sunsets and Bawdsey Quay is the perfect place for making the most of the amazing evening light. There is parking on the Quay and plenty of interest within a few meters of the car. There are two slipways; one on the beach (shown in this image) and one used by the foot ferry. There are always a collection of small dinghies on the shingle beach which make good foreground interest and a whole series of groins and tank blocks further along the shoreline which make unusual compositional features.

3. Saltmarsh

One of my favourite places in Spring time is Bawdsey saltmarsh as it is covered in a carpet of pink sea thrift. Try to time your visit with high tide so that the pools and creeks are full of water which mirror blue skies beautifully and create a pleasing colour pallet.

The saltmarsh is just a short walk from the Quay in an inland direction.

Tide table can be checked at www.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast_and_sea/tide_tables

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Ramsholt Situated on the waters edge at the end of a winding sand covered lane lies the tiny hamlet of Ramsholt. Consisting of a few chocolate box cottages, a round tower church overlooking the river, a quay and a riverside pub this idyllic settlement nestles in a wooded valley on the banks of the Deben and is a wonderful spot for waterscape and landscape photography.

Ramsholt is the starting point for a river walk which follows the River Deben almost as far as Woodbridge through woodland, marshland, reedbeds and saltmarsh and provides a remarkable variety of habitats for the photographer.

Good for Sunset shots across the river

Wider landscape images

Boats and dinghies

Church and agricultural

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM307414 Latitude: 52.023623, Longitude: 1.3615751 Postcode: IP12 3AB From Woodbridge take the B1083 to Shottisham and Bawdsey. At the T junction turn right, then take the first right and follow the signs for about 2 miles to the Ramsholt Arms. There is a car park on the left at the top of the hill from which there is a 100 metre walk to the river.

Facilities The Ramsholt Arms is a lovely place for a riverside drink or meal with plenty of seating outside overlooking the river.

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Viewpoints and images 1. The River

Ramsholt Quay is a diverse place for image making and is interesting at any time of the year. It faces west across the river Deben and is renowned locally for its sunsets which can be stunning. In the summer the river is busy and the quay is a bustling place full of activity. There are always plenty of yachts on the water and dinghies on the beach. If you want to get away to somewhere quieter follow the river path for about a mile through the woods and along the edge of the water meadows to a little bay known locally as ‘the rocks’. This is a great place to explore at low tide. There are often one or two boats anchored here and in the winter it makes a lovely little sheltered harbour for the local bawley yacht (below).

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If you take the footpath from the quay and follow it along the river you soon reach a series of wooden structures lying at the edge of the river. I have always loved this section of the Deben. The triangular wooden structures are a constant source of intrigue and I love the shapes they form when uncovered at low tide. The mudflats are also really interesting here as they fill up the bay and have amazing reflective qualities especially when the light is good. If you love this type of environment there are endless compositional possibilities along this stretch of river. There is also a sluice a little further along where the mudflats offer some really interesting shapes and patterns when they are exposed at low or mid tide.

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2. Church

Ramsholt Church is one of only 38 round tower churches in Suffolk; its origins date back to medieval times. It sits in a tranquil location on a rise looking out over the River Deben and is a wonderful place to explore. Spring and early summer are especially good times to visit when the churchyard is covered in flowers. The is a lovely little door at the front of the church and some really interesting graves amongst the flowers. In the winter sunsets across the river can be especially stunning.

There is parking outside the church or you can take the footpath across the fields from the riverbank.

3. Surroundings

Ramsholt is not really a village as such, but there are some interesting houses and old buildings which are best explored on foot. I particularly like the view from the path opposite the main carpark. Follow this through the woods and down into a valley where you can see the old school house situated amongst the trees on the hill opposite.

The land around Ramsholt is mostly arable but this can sometime yield some great images especially in the autumn when the harvest in underway.

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Woodbridge Spilling out along the edge of the River Deben Woodbridge is the perfect place for a stroll with the camera. Its white clapperboard tide mill stands proud over a busy waterfront with posh yachts in the marina and barges and houseboats along the quay.

Away from the riverfront the town is full of interesting buildings many with a Dutch influence. There are some lovely parks, a model boating lake, some interesting independent shops and even a working windmill. Photographically the waterfront is the main attraction but it is worth exploring the river footpaths particularly north to Melton as there are some interesting derelict barges, some houseboats and two working boatyards.

Good for Sunset shots across the river

Wider landscape images

Boats and barges

Night photography

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 212 Grid Reference: TM273487 Latitude: 52.090328 Longitude: 1.3173884 Postcode: IP12 4AU Woodbridge lies just off the A12 London to Lowestoft road. The postcode IP12 4AU will take you straight to the station carpark which is just a short stroll from the river.

Woodbridge is also easily accessed by train with an hourly service linking the town with London via Ipswich.

Facilities There are loads of great cafes and restaurants in Woodbridge and along the river you will find the Station cafe, the Riverside restaurant as well as the Anchor Pub.

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Viewpoints and images Riverside and Tidemill

Woodbridge waterfront is a bustling place full of great photographic opportunities.

The Tidemill is the most iconic and well known landmark here and there are great opportunities for both sunrise and sunset shots. The views from inside the marina over the mill pond are good especially at sunset. Night time photography is also worth trying the tide mill and marina are particularly good subjects.

The riverfront around Ferry Quay is full of barges and old fishing boats and is a good place to explore. From here you can walk along the river to Martlesham Creek for a wider view of the town and the river in general.

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The Ore & the Alde

Photographic Locations: Shingle Street Hollesley Marshes Butley Ferry Orford Iken Snape

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Shingle Street Nestling in the crook of Hollesley Bay, just below the entrance to the River Ore lays a lonely and windswept row of cottages. This is the beautiful but isolated settlement of Shingle Street; 26 houses, a row of white coastguard cottages and a Martello tower looking east over a vast expanse of gravel to the empty sea beyond. This is a wild and at first glance barren environment, its landscape shaped by the winds and tides.

Constantly shifting hills of gravel form the boundary between the dwellings and the water offering some protection from the ravages of erosion. For the photographer Shingle Street has endless possibilities with habitats ranging from shingle beach to saltmarsh and mudflats to grazing marshland.

Good for Sunrise shots

Wider landscape images

Sunset shots

Detail shots

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM369431 Latitude: 52.035904, Longitude: 1.4536661 Postcode: IP12 3BG From Woodbridge take the B1083 to Bawdsey and after half a mile turn left on the Hollesley Road. Continue on this road into Hollesley. Upon reaching the cross roads at Duck Corner go straight ahead into Rectory Road. Follow this road for a mile and a half until you reach a small car park on the left just before the row of white cottages.

Facilities There are no facilities at Shingle Street. The nearest cafe is on Bawdsey Quay, at the Suffolk Punch Trust or in Orford.

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Viewpoints and images

Shingle Street is a photogenic location who’s popularity is built on the quality of light that is so often found here. This is a wild place and one which I love to visit. The most iconic view is of the coastguard cottages which nestle at the back of the beach and look out over the river entrance. There are huge mounds of shingle in front of these which can be used to good effect. In summer the beach is covered in sea kale, sea peas and yellow horned poppies which all add extra interest. It can be quite windy at Shingle Street so I like to experiment with long exposures to blur the clouds and the flags which often fly outside the buildings.

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This is an area of coastline that is constantly changing. Mounds of shingle shift and build along the river entrance and the coast has changed much in the 10 years that I have been photographing it. There is now a sheltered bay of water with a shingle bank that curves around in front of the coastguard cottages. This affords some good views back inland and makes a great place for sunset images.

At low tide shingle spits are revealed in the mouth of the River Ore and you will often catch seals resting here. Look out for dinghies, winches and other nautical paraphernalia lying around on the beach which can be used for foreground interest.

The shingle beach is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and supports a large number of flowering plants including sea pea, yellow horned poppy, sea campion, vipers bugloss, sea kale and red valerian. In early summer these plants transform the foreshore from a barren wasteland to a vibrant, thriving sea of colour.

There is a lovely line of bleached white shells that runs across the beach from the sea to the coastguard cottages. This has been a feature of the beach for years and is a continually changing and evolving peice of art which makes a lovely feature for an image.

From Shingle Street it is possible to walk the coast path to Alderton past 3 martello towers. There is also a line of tank blocks and some old pill boxes which add an air of history to the landscape.

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Hollesley Marshes Hollesley Marshes is an RSPB reserve, an area of grazing marsh at the back of Hollesley prison with a footpath running to the beach. This is one of my favourite areas of the Suffolk coast and there is always something interesting to photograph.

The marshes are great for wildlife with abundant flocks of geese in the winter and avocets and wading birds nesting in the summer. The beach is mostly shingle backed with large areas of mudflats and saltmarsh and the coastal path links Shingle Street in one direction and Butley creek in the other. The light here can be amazing and despite the flat landscape it is really worth exploring. If you turn left along the river wall you will reach Simpsons Saltings which is managed by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

There are usually a few dinghies hauled out onto the beach here. Look out for seals in the river and spoonbills in the creeks.

Good for Sunrise shots

Coastal landscapes

Wildlife

Coastal plants

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 197 Grid Reference: TM370448 Latitude: 52.051356 Longitude: 1.4558172 Postcode: IP12 3JW From Woodbridge take the B1083 to Bawdsey and after half a mile turn left on the Hollesley Road. Continue on this road into Hollesley. Upon reaching the cross roads at Duck Corner turn left and follow the road to the water tower where you turn right into Oak Hill. Follow this road for a mile until you reach the prison, the car park for RSPB Hollesley Marshes is along a track on the left immediately before the prison.

Facilities There are no facilities at Hollesley Marshes. The nearest cafe is in the Suffolk Punch Trust.

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Viewpoints and images

There are many different viewpoints at this location offering a wide variety of shots.

Barthorps Creek lies just inside the mouth of the Ore and can be reached by turning right along the sea wall. The mud has been moulded into some great shapes here and the views are far reaching and stunning. There is an old WWII pill box on the river wall good for photos or just to sit and soak up the view out to sea. For me the photographic opportunities here are best at half tide. Sunrise is particularly good especially in the winter.

The marsh itself is fantastic in Spring when it is all green and fresh and the horse chestnuts, and cow parsley are blooming. The saltmarsh is also covered in pink thrift in the spring.

From left clockwise: Footpath through the marshes, across the marshes, Sampsons Saltings, saltmarsh and River Ore.

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Butley Creek and Boyton Marshes Butley Creek is a tiny tributary on the River Ore. It is home to the RSPB reserve of Boyton Marshes. There is a footpath here which runs the length of the creek and continues all the way to Shingle Street.

Butley Creek is a flat open landscape with wide areas of saltmarsh and vast expanses of mud exposed at low tide. It is a wild and lonely place with a lovely atmosphere.

There is a small foot ferry which crosses the creek connecting the two sides of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths footpath. This only runs in the summer. For more details and times see www.aldeandore.org/index.php/butley-ferry-2/

Good for Sunrise shots

River shots

Birds

Remote coastal landscapes

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 212 Grid Reference: TM386474 Latitude: 52.074193, Longitude: 1.4817864 Postcode: IP12 3LR From Woodbridge take the B1083 to Bawdsey and after half a mile turn left on the Hollesley Road. Continue on this road into Hollesley. Upon reaching the cross roads at Duck Corner turn left and follow this road for a couple of miles. Take the first turning on the right after the watertower to Boyton. Go through the village and at the 90 degree bend take the track on the right which leads to the small RSPB carpark.

Facilities There are no facilities at Butley Creek. The nearest cafe is at the Suffolk Punch Trust in Hollesley or there are several cafes and pubs in Orford.

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Viewpoints and images

The wooden stages and the small collection of dinghies at the creek edge make good photographic subjects and the sun rises across the river in the summer. Wander further along the river towards the sea and you will pass Boyton dock with its derelict brick building on the waters edge. The saltmarsh here is usually covered in pink thrift in the spring, May /early June is usually the best time to visit for this. On the other side of the sea wall lies the RSPB reserve of Boyton Marshes, a great place to see Avocet and other wading birds.

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Orford Orford is a lovely little village on the banks of the river Ore which has a huge amount to offer photographically. There is the Norman castle, and the church, plenty of attractive cottages and a quay where there is always something going on. From the quay there is access by boat to RSPB Havergate Island, which is Suffolks only Island and the National Trust site of Orfordness with its bunkers and pagodas and attractive lighthouse. Access to Orfordness is seasonal and by boat only. In the summer there are often photographic trips available to Orfordness - please contact the National Trust for more information. It is worth taking a walk along the river for the views across to Orfordness and back across the fields to the village itself.

Good for Sunrise shots

Wider landscape images

Historical landscapes

Architectural detail

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 212 Grid Reference: TM425495 Latitude: 52.090908, Longitude: 1.5390408 Postcode: IP12 2NU From Woodbridge follow the B1084 all the way to Orford. Upon arriving in the village continue on the same road past the market square and the church heading for the quay. The car park can be found on the left hand side just before the end of the road.

Facilities There are toilets in the car park and several cafes and restaurants in Orford

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Viewpoints and images 1. The Quay and River

The Quay is great for early morning shots, with the sun rising just down the river. There are always plenty of boats along the quay and in front of the sailing club to add some interest. If you walk right along the river from the quay you will come across a couple of old fishing boats which are quite interesting to capture. The views across the fields from the river wall are also worth exploring.

2. The Village

The village itself is fascinating with a diverse range of architecture on display from Dutch gables and quaint cottages to ultra modern new builds. The castle is definitely worth a visit with good shots from the grounds as well as from the river bank. It is also worth paying to climb the stairs and get a view of Orford from the roof of the keep which is a great way of orientating yourself with the local landscape. Sunset shots can be had from the river with the sun sinking just behind the castle.

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Snape and Iken Snape and Iken lie at the head of the River Alde. Snape is a large village which is home to the famous Snape Maltings; a music and shopping venue. Snape was once a thriving port with its success based on the maltings which established here in the 19th century. Today the river is much quieter and more wild with only a few boats making the journey to Snape. There are two footpaths worth exploring; the sailors path which runs from Snape to Aldeburgh and affords some good views of the maltings and the river, and the footpath to Iken on the opposite bank. This runs through the reed beds and has some good photographic opportunities.

Good for Sunrise shots at Iken

Wider landscape images

Sunset shots

Architecture

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 212 Grid Reference: TM392575 Latitude: 52.163911, Longitude: 1.4967210 Postcode: IP17 1SR From the A12 take the A1094 to Aldeburgh. At Church Common take the B1069 to Snape. Follow this road through the village and over the bridge and then take the turning immediately on the left which is the car park for Snape Maltings.

Facilities There are two cafes in the maltings and a pub by the entrance to the car park. There are toilets in the car park.

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Viewpoints and images 1. The River and the Maltings

There are several good locations for taking images of the river and the maltings. The road bridge over the Ore is good for sunrise shots especially in the Autumn when the sun rises directly down the river. There are also good views along the Sailors Path looking back along the river to the maltings. At the rear of the maltings is a lovely statue, some reedbeds and access to the river. There are some good shots to be had through the statue or the reeds to the buildings beyond.

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2. River Footpath to Iken

The footpath from Snape to Iken is well worth exploring. It runs through fields before joining a boardwalk through the reedbeds. There are several dead trees along this stretch of the river which make interesting images. The reedbeds are very wide at this point and the river is some distance away from the path and not particularly accessible.

The path rejoins the river just before Iken and there are some good views here across the water to Iken church. This location is especially good for sunrise images as the sun comes up behind the church. The small wooden jetty makes a good foreground subject.

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Barges used to be a common sight on the River Alde and although they are not as common as they used to be they can still be seen along the river. The image at the top show Cygnet which still moors at Snape wharf.

The reedbeds along this stretch of the river are dotted with old dead trees. This is one of my favourite places to come in the autumn as the colours can be stunning.

The river is very beautiful at all states of the tide but it is not that easy to access much of the shoreline. If you would like to explore a bit more then Iken Canoe offer canoe and kayak hire which is a great way to see the river and get up close with the wildlife.

For more information see www.ikencanoe.co.uk

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The Blyth Photographic Locations: Blackshore / Southwold Harbour Walberswick

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Southwold Harbour and Walberswick Beach The entrance to the River Blyth is a little utilitarian - a straight channel through high concrete walls but it soon opens up into an attractive traditional harbour with plenty to see. The Southwold side has a working boatyard and a row of black huts which give the area its name - Blackshore. The Walberswick side is much more natural with flower strewn banks and wooden stagings occupied by sailing vessels. The two sides of the river are connected by the Bailey Bridge at one end and the Walberswick foot ferry at the other.

Walberswick has a lovely sandy beach backed by dunes and some good walks along the coast to Westwood marshes.

Good for Sunrise shots

Wider landscape images

Sunset shots across the river

Boat photography

Directions, access and parking OS Explorer Map: 231 Grid Reference: TM499752 Latitude: 52.317981 Longitude: 1.6662664 Postcode: IP18 6TJ From the A12 take the A1095 to Southwold. Follow this through the centre of town and out the other side and continue to the river along Ferry Road. At the end of the road is a car park on the left hand side just past the campsite.

Facilities There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Southwold and Walberswick. There is a cafe on Blackshore itself and toilets by the carpark.

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Viewpoints and images 1. Southwold Harbour

Southwold harbour is a bustling photogenic place. There are black sheds on the shore, fishing boats in the water and all sorts of fishing paraphernalia scattered around the various stagings. There are good shots to be had from both sides of the river. Sunsets are good looking across to Walberswick from Southwold harbour and the ferry staging makes a great focus for this as do the black wooden buildings on the Walberswick side.

From Walberswick the view across to Southwold is lovely especially if there are some brightly coloured fishing boats in the harbour. It is worth walking to the Bailey Bridge and beyond to see Reydon Mill.

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2. Walberswick Beach

There are some good views of the Blyth from the Walberswick side of the river looking inland across the dunes. This orientation works especially well at sunset. The concrete pier on this side of the river is interesting as are the bridges over the Dunwich River and the groins that run along its length.

Looking out to sea on the Walberswick side there are the remains of an old wooden structure by the current concrete pier. These eroded posts make good subjects provided sunrise coincides with mid or low tide.

There is a footpath along the back of the beach which runs behind the dunes and leads across to Westwood marshes. Here lie the remains of an old pump mill sitting amongst the reedbeds.

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Gill Moon Photography www.gillmoon.com gill@gillmoon.com 01394 410347