Southwold, IP18 6JL

A handsome Southwold house with exceptional lighthouse and sea views, a beautiful west-facing garden and integrated garage, occupying a wonderfully central position just moments from the beach, High Street and St. James Green. For the first time in more than 30 years, St. James House presents a rare opportunity to acquire a much-loved home in one of Southwold’s most desirable positions. A substantial redbrick town house extending to approximately 2,775 sq ft, it combines elegant proportions and beautifully maintained interiors with a garden that provides a surprisingly private oasis in the very heart of this much-loved Suffolk seaside town. Few houses offer such an appealing combination of town and coastal living. From here, the beach, promenade, pier, High Street and the town’s many independent shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs are all within easy reach, while the house itself enjoys views across St. James Green and towards the sea, with the iconic Southwold lighthouse providing a particularly memorable backdrop. Arranged over four floors, the accommodation has a wonderfully natural flow and is filled with the character one would expect of such a handsome period property. The principal reception room is particularly impressive, with high ceilings, picture rails and a large picture window framing views across the Green towards the sea. It is an inviting space in which to settle back with a book, enjoy a morning coffee or watch the changing light across the coast. A separate library provides a charming second reception room and offers considerable flexibility as a study or home office. With the ability to work from home while remaining within easy reach of the beach and town, the house lends itself equally well to permanent living or as an exceptional coastal retreat. The lower ground floor introduces a more relaxed dimension, with a comfortable snug opening directly onto the garden. French windows lead out towards the terrace, creating a lovely connection between the house and outside space. A utility room, cloakroom and useful cellar add to the practicality of this level. The upper ground floor is devoted to entertaining, with a generous dining room opening through French windows into a delightful sunroom. Overlooking the garden and the rooftops of Southwold, this is an atmospheric setting for everything from relaxed family suppers to more formal gatherings with friends. The adjoining kitchen is well equipped with a range of fitted units, twin Bosch ovens and an induction hob. Four generous double bedrooms occupy the first and second floors, together with a family bathroom. The principal bedroom is especially appealing, with elegant proportions, an adjoining bathroom and outstanding views towards the lighthouse and sea. Waking to this outlook is one of the property’s defining pleasures and a constant reminder of its exceptional coastal setting. Outside, the garden is perhaps the property’s most unexpected asset. Wrapping around the house and enjoying a predominantly westerly aspect, it provides a wonderful space for enjoying long summer evenings away from the bustle of the town. A broad terrace immediately adjoining the house creates an ideal setting for outdoor dining, bordered by established herbaceous and shrub planting. Beyond, steps lead to a lawn and on to a further section of garden with greenhouse, while a paved path provides access through to a gate onto St. James Green. A selection of useful stores provides practical outdoor storage, while the generously sized integrated garage is a particularly valuable feature in such a central Southwold location, offering both electricity, secure parking and a further room providing additional storage. The position is difficult to improve upon. Southwold’s beach and promenade are close enough to become part of everyday life, whether for an early morning walk, a swim or an evening stroll along the seafront. The High Street and market square provide an appealing mix of independent retailers, delicatessens, cafés, restaurants and pubs, while the pier and famous beach huts contribute to the unmistakable character of the town. There is also plenty to explore beyond Southwold. Across the River Blyth, Walberswick offers a more village-like coastal experience, with its village green, sandy beach, dunes and popular places to eat. Further along the Heritage Coast are Dunwich, Minsmere, Aldeburgh and the countryside around Snape, while the surrounding market towns provide an excellent choice of independent shops and everyday amenities. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the area is particularly well suited to walking, cycling, sailing, golf and tennis, with miles of beautiful Suffolk coastline and countryside to explore. Minsmere provides an exceptional destination for wildlife enthusiasts, while the wider coast offers an ever-changing succession of beaches, estuaries and nature reserves. Despite its wonderfully relaxed coastal setting, Southwold is also well connected. The A12 is approximately four miles away, with rail services available from Halesworth, Darsham and Saxmundham providing connections towards London Liverpool Street via Ipswich. St. James House is an exceptional Southwold home in an exceptional position — a rare combination of handsome architecture, generous accommodation, private garden, secure parking and some of the town’s most memorable views, with the very best of the Suffolk coast quite literally on the doorstep.