Lantern Marshes

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Suffolk East Suffolk

England

Lantern Marshes

Martello Tower One of a series of towers protecting the east coast — Martello Tower Credit: Barry Hughes

Lantern Marshes, located in Suffolk, is a picturesque coastal marshland characterized by its unique saltings. Spanning over a vast area, this marshland is a haven for various flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

The marshes are primarily composed of salt marshes, which are formed by the accumulation of sediment carried by tidal currents. These marshes are periodically flooded by seawater during high tides, creating a dynamic ecosystem that supports a diverse range of plant and animal life. The salt-tolerant vegetation found here includes sea lavender, samphire, and sea purslane, which add vibrant colors to the landscape.

Lantern Marshes is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ecological importance. It provides a vital habitat for numerous bird species, including migratory birds such as marsh harriers, avocets, and redshanks. The marshes also attract large numbers of wintering wildfowl, such as wigeons and pintails, which find abundant food sources in the area.

The marshes are crisscrossed by a network of trails and footpaths, allowing visitors to explore the area and observe its wildlife up close. The serene atmosphere and stunning views make it an ideal location for leisurely walks and photography. Additionally, there are several bird hides strategically placed along the marshes, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Overall, Lantern Marshes in Suffolk offers a unique and captivating coastal marsh experience, showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of this dynamic ecosystem.

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Lantern Marshes Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.124862/1.5905877 or Grid Reference TM4553. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Martello Tower

One of a series of towers protecting the east coast

Barry Hughes

Martello Tower near Aldeburgh

This is the most northerly Martello Tower built in England as part of the defences against a possible invasion by Napoleon. Invasion by the sea is now a greater problem, and the outer defence work of the tower has fallen victim to coastal erosion. The tower is owned by the Landmark Trust and is available for rent as a holiday house.

Eileen Henderson

North Sea coast south of Aldeburgh

A fisherman tries his luck from the shingle beach near the Martello Tower

Eileen Henderson

A Walk to the River Alde, Suffolk

This photograph is looking over a cornfield towards, in the middle distance, the River Alde. Beyond the river are the Aldeburgh Marshes and in the far distance (look for the white dome standing just above the tree-line) is the Sizewell nuclear power station. In the distance, and to the right of the picture, are the outskirts of Aldeburgh

Alan Walker

A Walk to the River Alde, Suffolk

This photograph is of Westrow Reach on the River Alde, Suffolk. The built-up area in the (left) distance is Aldeburgh whilst more towards the right is an area of the town called Fort Green. A large number of pleasure vessels can be seen moored on the river.

Alan Walker

A Walk to the River Alde, Suffolk

This photograph is of Westrow Reach looking inland towards Short Reach on the River Alde, Suffolk. In the middle distance on the left is a cornfield that forms the edge of the cultivated land. From the field to the river the land is scrub and marsh.

Alan Walker

Wartime Radio/Radar station on Orford Ness

Taken from about 1 mile south of Martello Tower at Aldeburgh

Ivor Branton

Orford Ness, Lantern Marsh Shingle Ridge

Here at the north end of Orford Ness, the shingle ridge is only 50-70m wide. The photo shows the scarce sea pea in the foreground. Orford Ness is owned and cared for by The National Trust.

Stuart Warrington

View along Sudbourne Beach

Picture taken from top of the Martello Tower

Martyn Davies

Martello Tower, south of Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Peter Beaven

Fishermen at Slaughden, looking north towards Aldeburgh

Peter Beaven

Martello Tower

View from inside the Martello Tower looking across to the River Alde. The Martello is a Landmark Trust property.

Amanda Lewis

Sailing on the River Alde

Vicky Mason

Blackstakes Reach

Looking south west along the River Alde to Blackstakes Reach near to Orford Suffolk.

Keith Evans

Earth embankment

Looking north east along the earth embankment at the edge of the Sudbourn marshes. In the distance across the River Alde is the northern end of Orford Ness Suffolk.

Keith Evans