Photographing Landguard Point, Suffolk

Landguard Point is an area of contrasts. It overlooks one of the busiest ports in the UK yet it is a nature reserve and area of Special Scientific Interest.

A quick guide to Photographing Landguard Point

Landguard Point is a fascinating mix of nature, history and industry. It is a place of contrasts, full of interesting detail as well as wider landscape shots. 

In the summer the shingle beach is covered in flowering plants which can be used as interesting foreground to the container terminal.  There are also several old lookouts and numerous concrete tank blocks which are all remnants of the war. 

Walking from the old pier there are some great views along the estuary to the container terminal. Closer views can also be had from the John Bradfield Viewing Area which is a good place to watch all the port activity.

This bank of the Orwell faces west so sunsets are worth waiting for.  There are some old wooden groynes for foreground interest with views across the river to Harwich.

The disused pier at Landguard Point works well for sunrise shots.  It is an old wooden structure, full of character with some wonderful detail and texture. This location is also good in rough seas and windy weather where images of the surf crashing over the pier are possible.

Landguard Point is also a great place to watch the annual Pin Mill Barge Race. More details and dates can be found at www.thamesbarge.org.uk

Photographing Landguard Point – seasonal attractions

To see the flowering beach at its best visit at the end of May or the beginning of June.

Autumn is a great time for migrating birds and the reserve often records rare and interesting species.

Winter is fantastic for wild seas and stormy skies.

Photographing the Suffolk Coast

If you would like to find out more about the area I have published a “Guide to Photographing the Suffolk Coast” which can be purchased below.

Buy Book

Gallery of Landguard Point, Suffolk