The whole span of history is here, from fossil remains through the Viking occupation, sea battles, the development of the town's architecture, its industries and artistic life, the rise and fall of its railway, its famous land-locked lighthouse, its ever-changing coastline... to the 20th century transformation of this busy fishing community into a prosperous seaside resort.

Following a recent major refit funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and with the generous support of the Southwold Trust and the Adnams Charity, you will find many fascinating new displays. We confidently believe that ours is now one of the most exciting small museums in the country.

Women's suffrage: pinning your colours...

Our special 2018 display

Suffragettes often wore jewellery with a secret colour code, Green, White and Violet whose initials may have signified 'Give Women Votes'. This delicate insect brooch is an example. On loan courtesy of J Hadgraft.

The militant Suffragette movement was not active in Southwold but there was a significant chapter of the non-violent Suffragist movement here. There was even a small chapter of the National League for Opposing Woman Suffrage. The badge on the right was worn by a local member.

The Suffragist movement in Southwold is the subject of our special 2018 display at the museum.