Sailors’ Reading Room

The Southwold Sailors’ Reading Room was built in 1864 as a refuge for fishermen and mariners when not engaged at sea, as an endeavour to keep them out of the pubs and encourage them in Christian ideals.

The museum is housed in the Grade II listed Sailors’ Reading Room, which still provides daily papers and a place to read them.

Following a refurbishment of the Member’s Room, the Reading Room reopened in February 2019. Grab your favourite book, newspaper or gadget – and take timeout to reflect in these historic surroundings.

Displays of a seafaring nature line the walls and fill glass cabinets. Pictures and portraits of local fishermen and seascapes, model ships and maritime paraphernalia offer a fascinating history of Southwold’s connections with the sea.

For additional information about admission, opening hours, access, facilities and learning opportunities, please visit the museum’s website