Chantry Point

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Suffolk East Suffolk

England

Chantry Point

Boat near Orford Quay Joseph William II — Boat near Orford Quay Credit: Roger Jones

Chantry Point is a prominent coastal feature located in Suffolk, England. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinct point on the coastline. The point is situated near the village of Bawdsey, approximately 10 miles southeast of the town of Woodbridge.

The point is characterized by its rugged and rocky landscape, with cliffs and steep slopes that provide stunning views of the surrounding area. The geology of Chantry Point is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, including chalk and clay, which have been eroded over time by the relentless force of the sea.

Due to its strategic location, Chantry Point has played a significant role in the region's history. It was once home to a defensive fortification known as East Coast Martello Tower, built during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century. The tower served as a lookout post and defense against any potential invasion from the sea.

Today, Chantry Point is a popular destination for visitors who are drawn to its natural beauty and historical significance. The area offers opportunities for coastal walks, birdwatching, and photography. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves make it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Access to Chantry Point is available via footpaths and public rights of way. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring the area, as the cliffs can be unstable and dangerous.

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Chantry Point Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.082065/1.5358887 or Grid Reference TM4248. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Boat near Orford Quay

Joseph William II

Roger Jones

Orford Castle

SK53

Orford Castle 12th- century. Only the keep remains

The curtain walls and towers were demolished in the 1590's. By the end of the 17th century the keep was a roofless shell. It passed through further private hands, the 3rd Marquess of Hertford reroofed the castle in 1831. In 1928 it was presented to Orford Town Trust and is now in the care of English Heritage

Martin Dawes

Orford Castle from the Outer Bank

Martin Dawes

Orford from the top of Orford Castle

The parish church of St Bartholomew stands tall

Martin Dawes

River Ore toward quay and ferry terminal

Long abandoned boats stuck in the mud.

Martin Dawes

Over marshes to Orford from River Ore floodbank

Castle to left, St Bartholomew parish church to the right

Martin Dawes

Row of cottages on Church Street Orford

St Bartholomew parish church beyond

Martin Dawes

Orford Castle

Link

Sandy Gerrard

Church Street, Orford

St Bartholomew's Church at the top of the road leading up from the waterfront.

Des Blenkinsopp

Orford Craft Centre

Des Blenkinsopp

Orford Sailing Club

Des Blenkinsopp

Stakes in the Mud

Like some fossilised prehistoric snaky thing, the remains of a bygone wooden structure are exposed in the mud at low tide. An earlier attempt at coastal defence at a guess.

Des Blenkinsopp

Boats on the Beach

Small boats up on the foreshore near Orford Sailing Club.

Des Blenkinsopp

Abandoned Old Boats

Poor old things. I always wonder what the story is behind scenes like this. The foreshore at Orford on the non sailing club side.

Des Blenkinsopp

Gate onto Gedgrave Marshes

The public footpath comes down off the levee and heads inland. Gedgrave is a small rural parish with a population of 30 at the last count. It once had a church, St Andrew's, but that's gone and the parish is now just a few scattered houses, including Gedgrave Hall. Link

Des Blenkinsopp