Lowestoft

After Ipswich, Lowestoft is Suffolk county's second-biggest town; but its claim to fame is that it is the most easterly town in Britain and therefore the first place in the county to glimpse the sunrise. Lowestoft is a busy tourist town, with beautiful beaches, and lots to do. Up until a few decades ago, the town also used to be known as an important part of the east coast's fishing industry. This is no longer true, but Lowestoft still enjoys plenty of traffic on its waters. In fact, there's a lake right in the centre of town, dividing the place in two. This is Lake Lothing, which is linked to the sea at its eastern end. A mile or so to the west, it also joins up with Oulton Broad, which is Lowestoft's gateway to the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. Visitors can hop aboard one of the boat trips, or rent a craft for themselves. It's also worth watching out for the regular powerboat races which take place here.

	Dogs are not allowed on Lowestoft main beach (south of South Pier) between May and September. However, you can walk your dog along the promenade (north) or there is good walks near Oulton Broad (south side).
	There is loads to do for children around Lowestoft. Other than the obvious beach, there are also plenty of attractions including nearby Pets Corner (Oulton Broad), Africa Alive (Kessingland) and Pleasurewood Hills.

We start out tour of Lowestoft on the beach. The sands here are particularly fine, making them popular with families. Traditional seaside attractions, like amusement arcades and ice cream stalls, can be found at either of the two piers. The most obvious of these is Claremont Pier, sticking out from the centre of the Esplanade. Unfortunately, due to years of neglect, half of the structure is closed to the public. However, the landward side still features plenty of fun things, including a brand new roller-skating rink. A similar array of attractions can be found at the South Pier, which is confusingly located to the north. The name comes from the fact that it is situated on the harbour's southern side!

Up until a few decades ago, Lowestoft used to be known as an important part of the east coast's fishing industry. This is no longer true, but Lowestoft still enjoys plenty of boat traffic on its waters, including some remaining fishing boats and plenty of pleasure boats in the marina. The Bascule bridge allows traffic to cross the River Waveney, which divides the town in two.

A prominent landmark in Lowestoft is a huge wind turbine, nicknamed "Gulliver". From tip to toe it measures 126 metres, making it the tallest in the UK. It stands next to the new Orbis Energy Centre, which houses a number of renewable energy businesses. With these facilities, as well as further plans to increase the amount of nearby wind turbines, Lowestoft is looking to become England's renewable energy capital.

Lowestoft town centre is a jumble of different styles, many of which have been converted to restaurants, small hotels, B&B and guest houses. Some are set on the cliff top, overlooking the sea. The main shopping centre consists of a pedestrianised road, with mainly small, independent shops.

Oulton Broad is Lowestoft's gateway to the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. Visitors can hop aboard one of the boat trips, or rent a craft for themselves. It's also worth watching out for the regular powerboat races which take place here. Adjacent to Oulton Broad is a lovely park called the Nicholas Everitt Park, which consists of marked paths, a picnic area, a cafe, children's playground, a museum (Lowestoft Museum, free entry) and various sports (tennis, bowls and trampoline). Situated nearby, you will also find a family attraction called Pets Corner, which contains many animals, including goats, pigs, rabbits and sheep.