The Best Things to Do and See in Lowestoft

Lowestoft is a coastal town located in Suffolk and nestled on the edge of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. It’s a traditional seaside resort town bustling with many attractions and points of interest.

If you’re planning a visit to Lowestoft soon, it’s worth checking out the best of what the town has to offer during your trip. The following is a selection of ideas for you to consider, including family-friendly options:

Best Attractions and Points of Interest

Whether you’re a solo traveller on a staycation or have a family in tow, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of things to do in Lowestoft that will keep you busy during your time there.

Pleasurewood Hills

If you’re looking for a family-friendly amusement park in Lowestoft, the number one choice is undoubtedly Pleasurewood Hills. It’s a great day out and boasts over 35 rides, shows, and attractions and offers plenty of fun for all the family.

Africa Alive!

Open all year round except for Christmas and Boxing Day, Africa Alive! is another family-friendly attraction that lets you explore the sights and sounds of the world’s most powerful and beautiful animals. Discover lions, giraffes, meerkats, hunting dogs, and more.

South Pier

The South Pier is arguably one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Lowestoft. It’s a family-friendly entertainment complex located in the south of the town and includes gaming machines, ten pin bowling, and more. (Image: "Fountains @ South Pier, Lowestoft" by timparkinson is licensed under CC BY 2.0v)

South Beach

When you’ve visited the South Pier, it’s worth spending some time relaxing or having fun at the South Beach. It’s a clean and vast expanse of sand, complete with beach huts, toilets, and you can also take your dog for a walk there. (Image: "The pier @ South Beach, Lowestoft" by timparkinson is licensed under CC BY 2.0)

East Anglia Transport Museum

Do you have an interest in public transport from yesteryear? If so, you might like to visit the East Anglia Transport Museum. It’s a heritage museum that features many classic buses, trams, cars and vans. There’s even a narrow-gauge railway at the site to experience!

Somerleyton Hall

If you prefer to spend a day enjoying some of England’s heritage at your leisure, Somerleyton Hall is for you. It’s a stately Victorian home set in stunning 12-acre gardens and is open from Easter through to September.

Lowestoft and East Suffolk Maritime Museum

Another point of interest to add to your itinerary when looking for things to do in Lowestoft is the Lowestoft and East Suffolk Maritime Museum. It’s packed with lots of local history and is a great day out if you’re looking for an indoor attraction on a rainy day.

The Marina Theatre

Located in the cultural heart of the community is The Marina Theatre. It’s a live entertainment venue that also encompasses a cinema. It’s an excellent place to visit if you’re a solo traveller or a couple looking for a fun evening’s entertainment in Lowestoft.

Best Places to Eat and Drink

There are many excellent places for solo travellers, groups, and families to eat and drink in Lowestoft. Here’s a selection of the top ones:

JOJO'S Kitchen & Bar

Sometimes, you just might fancy having an American takeaway-themed meal to eat for lunch or dinner. One of the best places for delicious takeaway food is JOJO'S Kitchen & Bar. They also offer a selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The Lowestoft Tandoori

Nothing beats an evening meal in the company of your significant other or your family than a visit to The Lowestoft Tandoori. It’s the town’s best-rated Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant, and they cater for all dietary requirements with their delicious dishes.

The Harbour Inn

Whether you fancy a pint or want to visit a place that offers a traditional British meal of fish and chips, you will undoubtedly get spoilt for choice at The Harbour Inn. It’s a comfortable pub enhanced by friendly staff, excellent value food and drinks, and a cheery atmosphere.

Tea By The Sea

When you’ve done some exploring, there’s nothing quite like sitting down in a quaint and friendly tea room and enjoying a hot beverage with a bite to eat. Tea By The Sea offers fresh sandwiches, delicious scones, and, of course, hot and cold drinks to suit all needs.

The Duke's Head

One of the best dog-friendly pubs in Lowestoft is The Duke’s Head. It offers excellent food and a vast selection of beverages to whet all palettes, plus it also boasts a beautiful beer garden that you will absolutely enjoy in the summer months.

Other Things to Do in Lowestoft

There is undoubtedly something for everyone in Lowestoft. If you would like some additional ideas of attractions and points of interest, or other things to do in Lowestoft, consider these examples for your itinerary:

Gunton Warren Nature Reserve

If you’d like to spend some time having a relaxing or romantic walk by the sea, one of the best places to visit is Gunton Warren Nature Reserve. It’s a dog-friendly location and also a historical point of interest.

Carlton Colville Skatepark

Whether you’re a beginner skateboarder or a seasoned pro, you should add Carlton Colville Skatepark to your itinerary. It’s a good-sized skatepark with smooth and clean surfaces. (Image: Chris Davies, The Skateparks Project)

Prestige Escape Rooms

Lastly, if you and a group of friends would like to combine skills and enjoy an immersive experience, it’s worth planning a trip to Prestige Escape Rooms in Lowestoft High Street. You’ve all got just one hour to find clues and solve puzzles to escape and win the game!

Nearby Places to Visit

You’re bound to have plenty to see and do in Lowestoft, but if you’d like ideas for nearby options, the famous resort town of Great Yarmouth is only 10 miles or 20 minutes north of Lowestoft. Plus, five minutes west of Great Yarmouth is The Broads. Further afield, you’ve also got the historic city of Norwich which is 30 miles or just under an hour away from Lowestoft, so there's no shortage of fun days out to be had!