I often write about interiors and my own home and love it. It’s my passion. But where I get my fresh air and local inspiration from is quite often along the Suffolk Coast.

While we bask in and make the most of this ‘ Indian Summer ‘ here in the UK, a trip to the seaside was on the cards today. We are really lucky to live fairly close to one of the most beautiful ( yep, I’m biased ) coast lines. As I mentioned in a recent post – we try and go as much as we can. Because it’s chilled and always uplifting.

Aldeburgh and Southwold are fairly close to each other so today we did both. Starting off with an absolutely delicious milkshake at Delphine’s Diner in Aldeburgh. The mint green and red decor immediately transports you to another place along with the authentic rock n roll background music. Even the staff are dressed in uniforms from the 50s era. It’s a gem of a place.

If you already know the high street, you’ll already have checked out the great interiors stores, art galleries .. oh, and the sweet shop Shingle and Sherbert. They also sell very pretty and colourful ceramics. Well worth checking out.

The stoney beach of Aldeburgh is a good workout. It feels like I’ve walked ten miles after wading through the pebbles. I love walking past the painted old boats and looking back at the tall bright houses that face the sea. There’s something comforting about them because they never change.

Have you ever climbed up the steps and looked at the rooftops and the ocean ? It’s beautiful, especially with the row of homes with blue doors and window sills. Today the fuschia plant half way up was flowering and bright pink.

I think these houses are possibly some of the cutest in Aldeburgh. So quaint and I love the palettes. They’re all very individual but work well together.

After a little drive, we were in Southwold, which is just such a happy place to be. Rows of dreamy beach huts with their cryptic names.

The bright yellow ‘ Billy Bumpkin ‘ is possibly my favourite and this striped hut wins me over every time I pass it. Like the pastel shades ?

I think this photo sums up Southwold. Old fashioned, fun and evocative. Even now, every time we visit, the place steals my heart. Pretty sure my girls will feel the same when they grow up too.

After admiring the crisp white lighthouse for a bit and a long walk along the promenade, we stopped to eat our sand covered sweets. Somehow they taste pretty good at the seaside.

Where do you like to go when you need a little time out and inspiration ?

Leave me a comment under the post or tweet me @lucylovesyablog  – would love to hear from you.

I’d also like to thank you for voting for me in the Amara IBAs  – I have made it to the shortlist and am very grateful.

Lucy x

You can follow me on Pinterest for more colourful inspiration here.