East Suffolk’s thriving food and drink scene becomes a major tourism draw
The Suffolk Coast is shining a light on its growing food and drink offer, which is proving popular with tourists.
The district, which stretches along Suffolk’s stunning coastline and picturesque countryside, is increasingly drawing food-loving travellers seeking authentic local flavours and memorable culinary experiences.
Food and drink tourism is playing an increasingly important role in East Suffolk’s growing visitor economy, with latest figures showing the sector is now the largest area of visitor spend.
Tourism generated¹ £729.4 million for East Suffolk in 2024, a 5% increase on the previous year, helping to contribute to Suffolk’s overall visitor economy, now worth £2.279 billion. East Suffolk welcomed 12.4 million visitor trips during the year, cementing its position as one of the county’s most popular destinations.
Food and drink accounted for 40% of all visitor spending in East Suffolk, underlining its importance not only as part of the visitor experience but as a key driver of tourism growth.
Jess Brown, Manager, The Suffolk Coast, says: “Food and drink have become one of East Suffolk’s greatest tourism assets. Visitors are increasingly looking for authentic experiences, whether that’s meeting local producers, enjoying freshly caught seafood on the coast, exploring a brewery or distillery, or discovering artisan food businesses. The quality and diversity of our food and drink offer is helping to attract visitors throughout the year and encouraging them to stay longer and spend more while they’re here.”
East Suffolk has built a strong reputation for high-quality local produce and food experiences. The area has attracted a lot of food and drink producers who have been attracted to the area thanks to its pretty countryside, relaxed lifestyle and vibrant culture.
Along the coast, visitors can enjoy freshly landed fish in Aldeburgh, sample the famous smoked fish from Pinneys of Orford, or explore a growing number of independent cafés, restaurants and food festivals celebrating local ingredients.
The district is also home to nationally recognised producers including Pump Street Bakery, Acre Bakery and Two Magpies Bakery, alongside traditional butchers such as Salter & King, which showcase locally reared Suffolk meats.
For visitors looking to discover the stories behind the drinks they enjoy, East Suffolk offers a range of brewery and distillery experiences. Adnams in Southwold continues to attract visitors with tours and tastings of its award-winning beers and spirits, while Fishers Gin in Aldeburgh offers opportunities to learn about the botanicals and landscapes that inspire its distinctive coastal flavours.
Away from the towns and coastline, visitors can experience a slower pace of life through East Suffolk’s network of farm shops, roadside produce stalls and honesty boxes selling freshly laid eggs, seasonal vegetables, homemade jams and chutneys. These small businesses provide a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with local producers and take home an authentic taste of Suffolk.
While day visitors account for the majority of East Suffolk’s tourism market, staying visitors generate a disproportionately high economic impact. Food and drink experiences are increasingly seen as an important way of encouraging visitors to extend their stay, explore more of the district and support local businesses.
Led by East Suffolk Council and supported by the Sizewell Tourism Fund, their ‘Gather in Suffolk’ campaign aims to attract more visitors to the area and support hospitality businesses across the region.
Discover more about East Suffolk’s food and drink scene.
