A – Z of Locations: O is for Orford

During this year I shall be posting photographs from places around the UK, many of which have not been published before. Where I have previously blogged about a location I will provide a link to the post, though you won’t be able to comment on it as I restrict comments to six months.

O is for Orford / Orford Ness

Orford Ness shingle spit

Orford Ness is a shingle spit linked to the mainland at Aldeburgh, stretching along the coast to Orford and divided from the mainland by the River Alde. It is ranked among the most important shingle features in the world, this National Nature Reserve sees rare and fragile wildlife thrive where weapons, including atomic bombs, were tested and perfected.

To reach the shingle spit you need to take a National Trust ferry ‘Octavia’ and once there you can follow trails through a stunning landscape and ex-military testing areas, buildings and displays.

Orford itself is one of the prettiest villages on the Suffolk Coast with a castle, pretty cottages and welcoming pubs to the picturesque quay offering river cruises.

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Heyjude

I have lived in the UK for most of my life, but when young I definitely had wanderlust and even ended up living in South Africa for several years which was a wonderful experience. I now look forward to a long and leisurely retirement doing what I like most - gardening, photography, walking and travelling.

31 thoughts on “A – Z of Locations: O is for Orford”

    1. You been to Suffolk?
      Right hand still numb/tingling so I do need to seek some help. Worse in the morning.

  2. At first, I thought you had spelled Oxford incorrectly 😊 Clouds make such a difference to a twilight image. I love the first one. I’m sorry to hear you’re in pain, Jude.

    1. It’s a shame we arrived here at dusk as obviously the ferry wasn’t running. I’d like to go back and explore this area again.

    1. I could have used Oxford, but I am trying to highlight places most people won’t have heard of. The pain is easing except for my right arm/hand. Fingers crossed I can get a GP appointment this week.

  6. I love the Orfordness ness of your wonderful photos Jude.
    I was a bit, hang on read that again when
    “this National Nature Reserve sees rare and fragile wildlife thrive where weapons, including atomic bombs, were tested and perfected”
    appeared.
    Was the Nature Reserve there before or is this the gov’ts way to keep any development taking place?

      1. Thanks. I heard on a TV program this evening about England and their part with the US, atomic warheads and development of Cruise Missiles. It was more about Greenham Common and the womans peace camp

  7. Much loved by artists since ever! It’s a lovely, and gentle, stretch of coast. Peaceful even. Love our trips to Southwold and Walberswick when we’re staying with Michaela’s Mum.

  8. I am fond of Aldeburgh, and have been there a few times. I never made it to Orford Ness though, so thanks for showing me.
    Best wishes, Pete. x

    1. Fascinating history of the place, see my link on Bushboy’s comment. I reckon you’d enjoy visiting it.

  9. Lovely photos of a beautiful area. It’s a few years since I was there, and never in the evening, so I loved that last photo in particular. I’m sorry though to read in the comments that you’re going through a lot of pain. I hope you can feel better soon 🤗

    1. Thanks Sarah. I am hoping that the warmer weather will help. And yes, the Suffolk coast is rather interesting.

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