Bird watching
at all levels is spectacular in the area. There are many
breeding birds to be seen including Avocets, Marsh Harrier,
Bearded Tit, Nightjar, Woodlark, Redstart and Barn Owls
to mention just a few. Spring and autumn migrations bring
a huge variety to the area whilst winter brings large
amounts of wildfowl. Dartford Warblers have just made
a welcome return to Hollesley common after over 50 years
absence.
Rendlesham,
Tunstall and Dunwich Forests are home to several varieties
of Deer including Red, Fallow and Muntjack.
The sand and shingle beaches offer a wealth
of interest for the beachcomber. Agate, Jasper, Jet,
Cornelian and Amber are some of the stones to be found.
Suffolk Amber is found in lots of shapes, size and colours
and when polished makes beautiful jewellery. Amber has
for thousands of years been much sought after for its
supposed magical properties.
Mike and Wendy Adams, the owners of The
Sandlings Centre, have good knowledge of this semi-precious
stone and would be pleased to discuss the subject with
anyone interested. There are many sandy cliffs and crag
deposits for those interested in fossil hunting,
There are many places of real interest
to visit within easy driving or cycling distance of
The Sandlings Centre which are too numerous to list
in this short overview of the area. Suffice to say all
tastes are catered for and we mention below some port
of calls not to be missed.
WOODBRIDGE
Woodbridge medieval town of character on the River Deben.
Good shopping with excellent specialist shops. Tide Mill
and Harbour area a must.
SUTTON HOO
Famed as one of the most important archaeological finds
ever. This is the site of the Royal Anglo Saxon Burial
Ship found with its priceless treasure. A new visitor
centre complete with replica ship is opening March 2002.
ORFORD
On the River Ore. Fine castle built by Henry II, Good
River Walks, Craft Shop, Tea Room on the quay. Jolly Sailors
pub recommended for a pint of Adnams Ale.
SNAPE MALTINGS
On the River Alde. Home of world-famous Aldeburgh Festival.
Musical events most weeks throughout the year. Tea room,
River Trips, Shops Galleries.
ALDEBURGH
& THORPNESS
Buy fresh fish off the beach. Visit Moot Hall Maritime
Museum. East Coast Amber for sale. Visit the Post Mill
and take a rowing boat out on the Mere at Thorpeness.
Excellent Beach.
HAVERGATE ISLAND
Now an RSPB reserve. Famous for its smuggling connections.
Only approachable by boat and by arrangement. Early booking
recommended.
Roads throughout East Anglia are good and The Sandlings
Centre makes an excellent base for those who want to tour
further afield, i.e. Cambridge 1 1/2 hours, Norwich 1
1/4 hours, Bury St Edmunds 45 minutes, Colchester 45 minutes.
POPLAR
PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
Just a few minutes walk from The Sandlings Centre, Poplar
Park can offer horse riding for all ages and abilities.
From the absolute beginner to the very experienced rider
who perhaps wants to sharpen up their skills in Dressage,
Show Jumping or Cross Country, the staff, horses and facilities
at Poplar Park are ideal.
Set in natural parkland and adjacent to miles of heath
and forestry commission land, the park has B.H.S. affiliated
novice and open cross country courses, gallops, dressage
arenas, an indoor school and miles of hacking on sandy
tracks with hardly a road in sight. American western-style
riding is becoming increasingly popular and horses specifically
trained to this relaxed style of riding are available.
Individuals
or groups are welcomed but in either case booking is recommended.
