Welcome to the Town Guide Section.

Beccles is an historic market town and at one time a busy Saxon fishing port (it even paid its taxes in herrings), reputed to have been founded in 960 AD. Granted its Charter in 1584 by Queen Elizabeth I, its history has recently been added to by an important and exciting archaeological find of an Iron Age “roadway” on the river below the town. Given its history, its squares and narrow streets, many with fine Georgian buildings, the town is a thriving modern community of some 13,000 citizens.

The town welcomes a large number of visitors each year, many arriving by boat, as Beccles is one of the extremities of a Broads’ boating holiday. There are a significant number of “natives” who first arrived as visitors, fell in love with the town, and have returned as residents.

Beccles is a vibrant town laced with societies and organisations to meet all needs, an increasing number of fine places to eat, convivial hostelries, a stimulating museum, a picturesque river frontage and quay. We also boast a retail experience ranging from delightfully unique and unusual shops as well as the larger supermarkets to fascinating modern boutiques.

Add to this a beautiful Common, a splendid open-air pool and the safest police sector in the whole of England, you can enjoy a wonderful package in our town of Beccles. We are proud of our town and I hope this guide will help you to discover and share the delights of Beccles. Jeff Harris Mayor of Beccles 2007–2008.

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