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in the county of Suffolk

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About Orford

Orford lies on the beautiful Suffolk Heritage coast, it is mostly known for its internally important nature reserve which occupies the landscape between the River Alde and the sea - this is the largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe, it is renowned for its flora and fauna.

The town has associations with Benjamin Britten, Orford Church was the setting for some of the great composer's works, these include Noye's Fludde in 1958, and at a later date his beautiful Curlew River. Other aspects of the town's 20th century history include the use of the spit for radar experiments during the 1930's.

Orford's early history began at the time of the Doomsday Book when it was naught but a small hamlet, but in less than a century it had become a busy port with a huge defensive castle, built by Henry II. Orford Castle has a remarkable, well documented "Royal" history and is unique in shape, it is the earliest castle for which the entire building documentation still exists, this is kept in the Public Records Office in London. All that is left of the castle is its magnificent keep, which is perfectly preserved and one of the best of its kind in the country.

Visitors to the castle will enjoy exploring the network of passageways, large "airy" rooms, and love the views of the village from the battlements. The castle is in the care of English Heritage, it is open to the public with ample material being available illustrating the life of the castle since its inception so very long ago.

Apart from its historic castle, Orford has an impressive 12th century church which is well worth spending time in. The village spreads out from a wide market place surrounded by attractive properties in a rich array of architectural styles. Orford Quay offers a lively scene where visitors can enjoy plenty of boats and small river-craft.

Orford retains a tranquil atmosphere, it is ideal for people wishing for a relaxing time just messing around in boats, crabbing, walking, bird-watching, or just to sit, soak up the peaceful charm of the place whilst enjoying wonderful views.

A ferry takes you to Orford Ness and to Havergate Island, music lovers can enjoy concerts in the local church or at the nearby Snape Malting's and Aldeburgh, both are just a short drive away.

The area offers an excellent choice of accommodation, plenty of old inns, atmospheric restaurants and cafe's for visitors wishing to make a longer stay to experience the beauty of the Suffolk Heritage Coast and all that Orford has to offer.

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Hotels & Accommodation in Orford

	The Brudenell The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, England (4.8 miles, 7.7 km, direction NE) Visit the Brudenell Hotel, and you'll find a haven of calm and relaxation in a contemporary and welcoming setting. Situated only a pebble's throw from the sea, with wonderful views along the beach. ... More info and book online.. Price from £70.00
	The White Lion Hotel Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, England (5.3 miles, 8.5 km, direction NE) Complete with commanding beach location, the White Lion is Aldeburgh's most prominent hotel. It is an excellent base from which to discover Suffolk's many delights. Guests enjoy nearby bird reserv... More info and book online.. Price from £110.00
	The Thorpeness Hotel Thorpeness, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, England (6.9 miles, 11.1 km, direction NE) The hours fly by where time stood still......a genuine seaside 'hidden gem' on the Suffolk Heritage coast. Golf, Tennis, Cycle Hire,Walking available all year round. Located adjacent to the M... More info and book online.. Price from £9.00
	Best Western Ufford Park Hotel Ufford Pk, Woodbridge, Suffolk, England (8.3 miles, 13.3 km, direction W) Ufford Park is the perfect location for both the business and leisure visitor. The hotel and leisure complex offers an impressive range of facilities, from the challenge of its 18 hole par 71 golf c... More info and book online.. Price from £79.00
	The Bull Hotel & Restaurant Market Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk, England (9.3 miles, 15.0 km, direction W) The Bull Hotel can be found in the centre of the English Market Town of Woodbridge in Suffolk. The Hotel overlooks the lovely Tudor Shire Hall and Market Hill. A former 16th century coaching Inn, Th... More info and book online.. Price from £75.00

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Nearby travel help

Wickham Market Station	(7.2 miles, 11.6 km, direction NW)
Melton Station	(8.5 miles, 13.7 km, direction W)
Norwich Airport	(41.6 miles, 66.9 km, direction N)
London Stansted Airport	(57.0 miles, 91.8 km, direction W)
M11 Junction 9	(57.6 miles, 92.7 km, direction W)
M11 Junction 8	(59.0 miles, 94.9 km, direction W)
Orford to London	(81.8 miles, 131.7 km, direction SW)