Rendlesham & Orford

About

Rendlesham & Orford ward covers a rural area in East Suffolk, featuring a mix of woodland, farmland, and coastal landscapes. The ward includes the villages of Rendlesham and Orford, along with smaller settlements like Sudbourne and Chillesford. Orford is known for its historic castle and river estuary, while Rendlesham has connections to the nearby Rendlesham Forest, famous for its alleged UFO sightings in 1980. The area is sparsely populated, with a focus on agriculture and tourism.

The ward benefits from proximity to the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB, attracting visitors for its natural scenery and wildlife. Orford Ness, a shingle spit managed by the National Trust, is a notable landmark. Local amenities include village shops, pubs, and community facilities, with larger services available in nearby Woodbridge. Transport links are limited, relying mainly on rural roads, though the area is within reach of the A12. The ward maintains a quiet, rural character with a strong sense of community.