About the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

The Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a distinctive area of legally protected countryside, towns and villages in East Suffolk and North Essex.

The area was designated in 1970 with the purpose of conserving and enhancing the protected landscape. A beautiful stretch of the Suffolk coast, from Kessingland in the north, to the River Stour Estuary in North Essex in the south.

Wildlife rich estuaries, shingle beaches and heathland characterise the area, together with important agriculture and forestry land and picture-postcard coastal towns.

Tourism is the foremost economy with visitors attracted by the authenticity of the area, its amazing environment, quality accommodation and local food and drink. It’s cherished for its relatively undeveloped, tranquil landscape and stunning natural and cultural history.

How do I know if I am in the AONB?

To find out if an address is within the AONB you can use either:

Google Maps – the AONB is shown as a pale green area.
Magic Maps – you can use our quick guide (PDF) on finding out if a place is within the AONB on Magic maps.