One of the prettiest villages on the Suffolk coast, Orford is a tranquil yet vibrant community of about 700 residents that is steeped in history.
Set on the banks of the river Ore a little over five miles from the mouth of the estuary to the North Sea, Orford's origins trace to the Middle Ages.
Two remarkable landmarks, the medieval Orford Castle and St Bartholomew's Church, dominate the skyline. King Henry II chose Orford as the site to build a new castle in 1165. The Church followed some ten years later.
In its early times, Orford was an important port and fishing village. The trades of fishing and managing oyster beds in the river waned following changes to the estuary and sea access. By the 18th century, boats were engaged in the coastal trade of exporting wool and dairy produce, and importing coal. In the 19th century, farming became a mainstay of local business and employment. Today, Orford is also known for leisure and tourism.
With its rich history and a wide range of present-day facilities and attractions, Orford has something for everyone.
The castle, managed by English Heritage, is open to the public and houses Orford Museum. The church is open daily for visitors. Local river boat trips can be taken from the quay, also a popular spot for crabbing in summer!
Orford Ness, a shingle spit across the river from the mainland, was a secret experimental military testing site during most of the 20th Century. Now owned by The National Trust, it is an internationally important attraction for its fascinating history and as a coastal bird and wildlife reserve.
The National Trust also operates birdwatching trips to its Havergate Island nature reserve. The river is known for avocets, terns and spoonbills.
Facilities in Orford include the King's Head and the Jolly Sailor, two pretty period pubs each with accommodation, the Crown and Castle hotel and restaurant, the Butley Orford Oysterage restaurant, and the Riverside Tearoom on the quay. Many properties are available for holiday use.
There is also an art gallery, a village store with sub-post office, a bakery, a shop selling locally smoked fish and other foods, a butcher and a fishmonger.
The village also has a doctor’s surgery, a primary school, a recreation ground and club, a sailing club and more.
So much to do and see - come and visit us!