Looking to live in… Felixstowe!

Probably best known as the UK’s largest container port, Felixstowe is a charming Edwardian seaside town with a vibrant town centre and four miles of lovely beaches.

At the northern end of the town is the pleasant fishing and sailing hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry. Take a walk along the banks of the River Deben, hop on the foot ferry for a trip to Bawdsey, pick up some fresh fish for tea or bring your own wine and enjoy a delightful seafood platter at the newly opened Winkles at the Ferry. Alternatively, the Ferry Boat Inn is a lovely little pub where you can enjoy a great pint and a roaring fire during those cold winter months.

Felixstowe is steeped in history – heading south you can visit the unique Landguard Peninsula with its 18th century fort, one of England’s best-preserved coastal defences. The first structure was constructed by Henry VIII in 1543 to protect the entrance to the rivers Orwell and Stour. This is also the site of the last opposed seaborne invasion of England in 1667.

A Roman Saxon shore fort, built around 285 AD, can be glimpsed at low tide from The Dip on Cliff Road and the village of Walton, which is adjacent to Felixstowe, was even mentioned in the Domesday Book.

Felixstowe’s coastline also boasts four Martello Towers which were built between 1805 and 1812 to repel Napoleonic invasion, two of which have been converted into houses – although sadly they rarely come onto the market.

Felixstowe’s town centre has everything you need from butchers to bakers, boutique shops and the independent Palace Cinema. For great food and drink with a sea view head to The Alex Cafe, which offers a range of tasty treats throughout the day, or visit the upstairs Brasserie and choose from a wide menu of seafood, grills and other delights. Alternatively, further along the coast is The Fludyers, a vibrant pub, restaurant and hotel, which is yards from the beach. There’s also a wide variety of restaurants and cafes all the way along the promenade including some amazing fish and chips!

Over recent years Felixstowe has received millions of pounds of investment which has seen the resort grow in popularity. From the renovation of Felixstowe’s award-winning seafront gardens, the creation of a new beachside park, reopening of the Spa Pavilion and most recently the opening of the new Pier, there has been some serious investment in the town.

The town’s property market has also seen significant investment with a number of luxury apartments being developed along the seafront, magnificent houses built to make the most of the stunning sea views, and the larger Martello Park development at the south end of Felixstowe’s promenade.

Peter Ruddy, property expert at Fenn Wright, said: “Felixstowe is becoming a real hotspot for property. Fashionable coastal neighbours, Aldeburgh and Southwold, have always taken the limelight but there is growing interest in Felixstowe as house buyers and developers are attracted by the beautiful architecture and attractive price tag of many Felixstowe properties. You really can get a lot for your money.”

Anything to consider when buying in Felixstowe?