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The Dig: Re-discover the Beauty of The Suffolk Coast

‘The Dig’ Netflix exclusive showcases some of Suffolk’s most breathtaking landscapes and locations… Some of which are right next door to our parks!

Whether you’re looking for your forever Holiday Home, or searching for your next family adventure, The Suffolk Coast and all its beauty is the perfect place to start! Besides... It's been a place to call home for plenty of big screen adventures, so it must be something special!

National Trust Sutton Ho

One of the most significant archaeological finds in British history, was the excavation of Sutton Hoo on The Suffolk Coast in 1938. The 2021 film ‘The Dig’ tells this story, where archaeologist Basil Brown and Landowner Edith Pretty uncovers the blueprint of an eighty foot ship lay and a treasure trove including a full face viking helmet!

So, not only was Sutton Hoo once a thriving hub in the time of Anglo-Saxon warrior kings, but it is now home to a rich variety of wildlife, with beautiful countryside, woodland, and views overlooking the River Deben. The landscape quality of the area has also been recognised nationally as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty!

Carlton Meres (15.2 miles), Felixstowe Beach (16.5 miles), Suffolk Sands (16.8 miles).

Photo by National Trust Sutton Hoo ©

Aldeburgh Beach

Another beautiful landscape that has been brought to life through ‘The Dig’ is one of Suffolk’s most best known beaches; Aldeburgh. Aldeburgh Beach is both shingle and sandy and most famous for its strong connection to arts and culture. Perhaps most notably is ‘The Scallop’ a 15-foot tall stainless steel scallop in honour of Benjamin Britten who used to walk along this very beach

Along the beachfront are also a number of quirky historic buildings including the 400 year old Moot Hall, a Martello tower, a converted windmill and a Norman church. So, there is plenty to see and do that will excite the whole family!

Carlton Meres (10.8 miles), Pakefield (25.3 miles).

RSPB Boyton & Hollesley Marshes

Boyton Marsh, is a vibrant coastal reserve in the lower reaches of Alde-Ore Estuary and is perfect for nature lovers! The grazing marshes are ideal for spotting birds of prey and barn owls, plus butterflies and dragonflies too (depending on the time of year of course).

Director Simon Stone loved Boyton Marsh and was adamant that the production came to Suffolk to capture the essence of the county. He said: “You go to Suffolk once and visit the estuary lands and you see such a unique landscape, like a world that you just don't recognise as quintessentially English... and so I thought to myself this is a real opportunity to show a side of England that you don't usually see.”

Carlton Meres (15 miles), Felixstowe Beach (22.7 miles), Suffolk Sands (23 miles).

Photo by National Trust Sutton Hoo ©

Snape Maltings

Last but most certainly not least, is Snape Maltings, the starting point for some of the most beautiful walks in Suffolk and used as a base for the film crew! It sits alongside Snape Marshes Nature Reserve and is located within the ‘Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’.

Recognised as one of Britain’s finest landscapes, there’s no better place to be! It is also well known for hosting outstanding concerts and festivals throughout the year and was also a source of inspiration for Suffolk’s famous composer Benjamin Britten!

Carlton Meres (6.4 miles), Pakefield (26.4 miles), Suffolk Sands (26 miles), Felixstowe Beach (26.4 miles)..

So what are you waiting for? Head over to Netflix and watch ‘The Dig’, to be truly inspired - you’ll be itching to visit!