Events in Aldeburgh, Suffolk
Music, heritage and year-round coastal charm
Whether you’re staying in Aldeburgh itself or visiting from one of our nearby countryside cottages, there’s always something happening on this stretch of the Suffolk coast. From world-class music festivals to quirky carnivals, regattas and centuries of history tucked into its streets, Aldeburgh offers a year-round calendar of events and attractions – all served with sea air and Suffolk character.
“Aldeburgh’s calendar is a mix of coastal charm, culture, and community spirit — there’s always something to see, hear, and enjoy.”
The Aldeburgh Festival & Snape Maltings
One of the region’s cultural crown jewels, the Aldeburgh Festival takes place each June, bringing world-class classical music, visual art, talks, and performance to Snape Maltings, just a few miles from Aldeburgh. Founded by composer Benjamin Britten and tenor Peter Pears, the festival has grown into a global destination for lovers of the arts – but still retains its intimate, local feel.
While Snape is the festival’s heart, events and pop-up performances spill into Aldeburgh itself, taking over galleries, churches, pubs, and even the beach. If you’re visiting during festival time, expect surprises around every corner – music in unexpected places and a creative buzz in the air.
Our take: A must-visit for arts lovers, the festival combines world-class performances with the charm of a small coastal town.
Aldeburgh Carnival
Come August, the town bursts into colour for the Aldeburgh Carnival – a much-loved family event that fills the High Street with floats, music, fancy dress, and good cheer. It’s been running for over a century and remains one of Suffolk’s most endearing community celebrations. With activities for all ages and a party atmosphere that builds through the day, it’s a summer highlight for visitors and locals alike.
Our take: Fun for all ages, the carnival captures Aldeburgh’s community spirit and makes a summer visit unforgettable.
Food, drink & festive celebrations
Aldeburgh’s love of good food and drink shines through at the Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival, held just down the road at Snape Maltings each autumn. Expect dozens of local producers, cooking demos, and a real celebration of Suffolk’s thriving food scene – from Adnams ale to artisan cheeses and Gressingham duck.
Come winter, the Christmas Lights Switch-On transforms the High Street into a glowing festive scene, often with live music, mulled wine, and a full calendar of smaller events around town. It’s a magical time to be beside the sea.
Our take: Year-round food, drink, and festive events make Aldeburgh a destination for every season.
Live music, clubs & community events
Throughout the year, Aldeburgh hosts regular live music in its pubs and community spaces. The Yacht Club and Golf Club both run social events, often open to visitors. Whether it’s folk on a summer’s evening or jazz over a winter pint, there’s always something playing somewhere.
Our take: From intimate gigs to community gatherings, Aldeburgh’s events calendar keeps the town lively and welcoming for everyone.
Year-round places to visit
Even outside of festival dates, Aldeburgh is brimming with history and culture:
The Moot Hall houses the Aldeburgh Museum, where you can explore the town’s story from Anglo-Saxon roots to its modern-day seaside charm.
The Red House, once home to Britten and Pears, offers a rich insight into the musical legacy of the town, with exhibitions, gardens, and fascinating archives.
A short drive inland brings you to Sutton Hoo, one of the most significant Anglo-Saxon archaeological sites in Europe – now beautifully reimagined by the National Trust and made famous in the film The Dig.
Of course, some of Aldeburgh’s best attractions are always open: the beach, the coastal footpaths, the Jubilee Walk to Snape, and the marshes and woodlands that surround the town. Whether you’re walking, swimming, birdwatching or just sitting on a bench with chips and a view, Aldeburgh has a way of stealing hearts – in every season.
Our take: Even outside major events, Aldeburgh’s culture, history, and coastline make it a year-round destination.
Nearby big-hitters
Looking to expand your Suffolk stay? Latitude Festival at Henham Park brings big names and bold performances each summer, while the charming Henham Steam Rally is a favourite for fans of vintage engineering and rural Suffolk character.
Whether you’re chasing culture, craving coastline, or just looking for a lively calendar of events, Aldeburgh delivers it all. Stay with The Suffolk Cottage Collection, and experience it as the locals do – with a warm welcome, the best tips, and a front-row seat to all the action.
Explore Aldeburgh
Aldeburgh’s events calendar offers something for everyone, from classical music and community carnivals to food festivals and festive celebrations.
Must try: Attend the Aldeburgh Festival at Snape Maltings, watch the colourful Aldeburgh Carnival, or enjoy the Food & Drink Festival in autumn.
Visitors love: The mix of world-class culture, quirky local events, and the chance to experience the town’s charm in every season.
Our take: Staying with The Suffolk Cottage Collection puts all of Aldeburgh’s events on your doorstep, making it easy to enjoy the town like a local while soaking up the best of Suffolk’s music, heritage, and coastal charm.
Holiday Cottages near aldeburgh
