The Anchor at Walberswick
Walberswick, across the Blyth estuary · Inn
View on Google MapsPhoto: SPW
An award-winning restaurant with rooms in Walberswick, Southwold's quieter twin across the estuary, with garden chalets and a wood-fired pizza oven.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Anchor at Walberswick
Opened in 2004 by Mark and Sophie Dorber, The Anchor sits on Walberswick's Main Street, a short ferry ride or a longer drive around the Blyth estuary from Southwold itself. It built its reputation on a beer and food pairing menu long before that became fashionable, and the kitchen still takes its cask ales and wine list as seriously as its cooking.
Accommodation runs to four rooms in the main building and seven garden chalets behind it, including one accessible two-bedroom chalet, several of which are dog-friendly. A log fire in the bar, outdoor terraces and a wood-fired pizza oven give the place a relaxed, seasonal feel that changes through the year, with lunch served from noon and dinner from five.
Staying in Walberswick rather than Southwold suits visitors after a quieter base, with its own beach, dunes and crabbing bridge, though minimum two-night stays apply at weekends and the seasonal rowing ferry across to Southwold does not run in winter, making a car the more reliable way to reach the shops and pier.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
Went to the Anchor as it was highly recommended. At first we thought it was lovely because the location is very nice and the front garden looked cosy and idyllic for a quaint seaside town pub. First disappointment: ordered a pint of Adnams Ghost Ship (brewed locally) which was poorly poured and flat as an orange juice. After tasing it, asked the bar staff if we could change it for a fresh pint and were rudely told it was supposed to be a « flat pale ale » which is surprising because we had a pint of same pale ale from The Sail Loft which was perfectly carbonated and delicious. Despite the lovely and cosy front garden we were then told we could only have food inside or in the marquee in the back garden. We ordered a plate of 6 tempura oysters, as well as a plate of 6 « « fresh » » oysters. Initially we were brought the wrong order, service was nice and quickly changed it. But within less than a minute brought up a plate of « fresh » oysters which clearly were old and poorly shucked. The oysters were dry on the edges and pieces of shell still inside. They were room temperature and not moving at all when we put the pathetic excuse of the shallot vinegar on top. Only ate one each to try as we were worried it would make us sick. For £18 per plate and right on the seaside we expected a lot better. We were left paying £36 for a whole lot of disappointment. We would not recommend and will never return again.
a month ago · via Google
A wonderful New Year’s Eve stay. The food was excellent and I really enjoyed my oysters and Brill. The music and dancing started at 10.00 followed by fireworks at Midnight. Our room was very quiet and comfortable. We chose a dog friendly room which had direct access onto the garden. Breakfast was delicious. There are beautiful walks close by and a it’s a short walk to the beach . We had a New Year’s swim . The staff were accommodating and friendly. Definitely worth a visit for food, drinks or a stay .
7 months ago · via Google
A hidden gem in suffolk. They seated us last minute, staff were very friendly and accommodating and the food was incredible. We had the fish and chips and everything was freshly made including the tartar sauce. I would 100% recommend coming here, it's well worth the travel.
a month ago · via Google
We have been coming to the Anchor for years…the food is always amazing, we also had our wedding reception here in 2019 and the food and service was gold standard. It’s family friendly, dog friendly, relaxed but fabulous. Couldn’t recommend the Anchor more! Staff are always so welcoming and experienced. I would recommend this pub and restaurant to all my family and friends.
4 months ago · via Google
Diners like this pub's delicious food, including fresh fish and chips, oysters, and hearty burgers, with many noting generous portions. They also highlight the friendly and accommodating staff, the cozy atmosphere, and its dog-friendly policy.
Some reviews mention the service can be unprofessional.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- The Street, Walberswick, Southwold, IP18 6UA Get directions
- Property type
- Inn
- Location
- Walberswick, across the Blyth estuary
- Star rating
- 4 star
- Guest score
- 9.0 / 10 (950 reviews)
- Prices from
- £150 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Good for groups
- Yes
- Booking required
- Yes
- Destination
- Southwold