Ipswich to Lowestoft

Forming one half of the East Suffolk Lines, this route connects the bustling county town of Ipswich to Lowestoft’s coastal town named the most easterly town in Britain.

Scenic views

As the train winds through the Suffolk countryside, passengers are treated to picturesque views of tidal estuaries, ancient woodlands, and the serene landscapes of the Broads National Park, including the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve.

History & heritage

This historic route, dating back to the mid-19th century, connects traditional market towns like Woodbridge, Saxmundham, and Halesworth, each echoing the region’s maritime and agricultural past. Lowestoft has a proud maritime heritage, once thriving as a major fishing port known for its booming herring industry. It also played a key naval role in both World Wars, with the Royal Naval Patrol Service based there. Today, its seafaring past is preserved at the Lowestoft Maritime Museum.

Walking

For walkers, the Ipswich to Lowestoft line is a gateway to over 160 miles of waymarked trails, many of which link directly between stations, allowing for seamless exploration of Suffolk’s unspoiled countryside on foot. Considered one of the best hop-on hop-off railway hikes in Britain by The i-Paper.

Step free

All stations along the Ipswich to Lowestoft line, have step-free access to all platforms. Ipswich station has lifts to access platforms 3 and 4. Conductors are available to deploy portable ramps where needed, and a Passenger Assist Scheme is available to help plan accessible journeys. More information here.