Season: autumn
Pin Mill, sitting on the south bank of the tidal River Orwell, is scenic and historic. Now a popular attraction for leisure craft, its traditions include sailing barges and commercial trade, both to and from Ipswich and out to the sea and beyond. The Butt and Oyster pub, right by the water’s edge, is a fine vantage point from which to enjoy the beauty here. There is a healthy artistic tradition at Pin Mill too.
Christine’s daily enjoyment of her environment at Pin Mill.
The tranquility of the River Orwell at low tide.
Season: winter
A thick, soporific mist enveloped Pin Mill during this winter visit. Plenty of weekenders were walking on the bridleway by the River Orwell, yet a calm pervaded the scene, perhaps due to the absence of even a breeze. The Dutch and Thames barges rested on the flats at low tide and smoke drifted up from the stoves of the moored residents’ barges, located along the way from the Butt & Oyster Inn and a permanent fixture by the river here.
Claire looks back in time at Pin Mill and explains the appeal of being near water.
A thick veil of mist, looking out through the trees at Pin Mill on a winter day.
Season: spring
Changeable spring weather was the order of the day at Pin Mill. The low tide allowed a view of the distant road bridge in the Ipswich direction. A swan glided through the exposed boat cradles at the end of the slipway. Tidal estuaries like this show such different faces through the tidal cycle, this time setting the Butt and Oyster pub in relief. Pin Mill welcomes visitors at all times.
What the beach means to Dave and Hazel.
When I think of Pin Mill, I think of huge arching skies, ever changing according to the seasons. Children playing Poohsticks in The Grindle and paddling. Walking to the beach along the riverbank listening to the oyster catchers calling and boats sailing gently by. Passing Barges converted as house boats. Lunch at the pub on the waters edge. The smell of the beach at low tide and memories of Arthur Ransome and ‘We Didn’t mean to go to Sea’.The annual Pin Mill Barge Race – a spectacular sight as these majestic vessels sail out to sea in waves of colour. This haunt is beloved by everyone for its unique all year round charm.