Kirkley Cliff Road, Lowestoft

Perched on one of Lowestoft’s most sought-after coastal stretches, Britten House is a distinguished Grade II Listed residence offering 4,771 sqft across four floors (stms). This exceptional guest house seamlessly combines historic grandeur with modern comfort, featuring a private ground-floor suite ideal for owners or staff, alongside ten further en-suite guest suites that continue the property’s tradition as a thriving boutique destination. The interior showcases high ceilings, ornate period detailing, and uninterrupted sea views, while the beautifully maintained gardens and gated pathway provide direct access to Lowestoft South Beach. With its remarkable provenance as the birthplace and childhood home of Benjamin Britten and its potential to operate as a luxury guest house or a substantial private residence, Britten House represents a rare opportunity to own a property of both cultural significance and enduring coastal appeal.

A prime position on Suffolk’s stunning coast

Kirkley Cliff Road occupies a truly prime position in the coastal town of Lowestoft. Just a short stroll from the expansive sands of Lowestoft South Beach, this location allows residents to enjoy morning walks along the promenade, sunrise views over the North Sea, or spontaneous beach outings at any time of year. The coastal setting lends itself to a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle, with cycling and water sports easily accessible, while the nearby greenspaces provide a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Kirkley offers a charming array of local shops, cafés, and independent boutiques, giving everyday living a personal, community-focused feel. For broader shopping or entertainment needs, Lowestoft town centre is just a short drive or bus ride away, with supermarkets, high street stores, restaurants, and cultural attractions all within easy reach.

Transport links are highly convenient. Lowestoft train station, around 1 mile away, provides direct services to Norwich and Ipswich, while bus routes connect to neighbouring coastal towns such as Southwold and Gorleston, as well as Great Yarmouth to the west. This makes commuting, day trips, and weekend escapes simple and accessible.

The surrounding East Suffolk and Norfolk coastline is rich with picturesque towns and seaside experiences. Gorleston offers a quieter, family-friendly beach perfect for leisurely days by the sea, along with charming local cafés and a welcoming community atmosphere. Southwold is famed for its iconic pier, colourful beach huts, independent shops, and boutique eateries, making it a quintessential coastal retreat. Great Yarmouth, by contrast, delivers a livelier seaside experience, with a mix of traditional amusements, sandy beaches, entertainment arcades, and a vibrant nightlife. Each destination is within easy reach, providing residents of Kirkley Cliff Road with an exceptional variety of coastal experiences, from relaxed family days to bustling seaside adventures.

The birth place and family home of the British composer Benjamin Britten

Britten House holds a distinguished place in British cultural history as birth place and family home of one of the twentieth century’s greatest composers, Benjamin Britten. It was here, within these very walls, that Britten’s extraordinary musical journey began. The property remained his home until 1934, by which time he had already composed his Simple Symphony, Op. 4 — a work derived from themes he first wrote in this house between the ages of nine and twelve. Britten would go on to become one of the most celebrated figures in modern classical music, renowned for his operas, choral masterpieces, and song cycles written for his lifelong muse and partner, the tenor Peter Pears. Together, Britten and Pears founded Britten Pears Arts, an enduring institution that continues to champion the creativity, innovation, and human spirit at the heart of their work. This remarkable house therefore stands not only as an architectural treasure but also as a living monument to the early genius of a composer whose music continues to resonate around the world.

Britten House – A historic coastal residence

Set along one of Lowestoft’s most desirable stretches of coastline, Britten House stands as an exquisite example of architectural grace and coastal grandeur. This remarkable Grade II Listed building overlooks Lowestoft’s award-winning south beach, the property captures the essence of refined seaside living, where heritage meets the rhythm of the sea.

As you approach along Kirkley Cliff Road, the home’s striking façade commands attention with its symmetrical proportions, period detailing, and beautifully maintained front gardens. The large, light-filled windows with stained glass panels reflect the coastal sun, while the property’s impressive curb appeal sets the tone for what lies within, a place of substance, serenity, and enduring style.

Inside, high ceilings, ornate ceiling roses, traditional fireplaces, and grand stained glass windows speak to a bygone era, blending seamlessly with the comfort and functionality expected of a modern guest house. Every room offers an individual sense of character and warmth, enhanced by the soft murmur of the sea just beyond the windows.

The ground floor welcomes guests through a gracious entrance hall with original tiled flooring, leading to two reception rooms that balance formality with comfort, perfect for both intimate gatherings and elegant entertaining. The dining room opens towards the sea, where morning light spills in across the plush carpet floors. To the rear, a private living area, bedroom, and shower room provide flexibility for owners or long-stay staff, while two large bedrooms with private en-suites offer luxurious accommodation. The lower ground floor offers a cellar space ideal for storage or future conversion (stpp).

The first and second floors are dedicated to guest accommodation, eight further en-suite bedrooms are thoughtfully designed to complement the building’s original features. From the upper levels, uninterrupted sea views stretch across the horizon, a daily reminder of this home’s rare and privileged position.

Outside, the property continues to impress with its beautifully maintained gardens. A gated pathway leads directly to the beach below, offering effortless access to the shoreline. To the rear, a neatly landscaped lawn and brick-paved private car park provide ample space for guests and residents.

Beyond its exceptional beauty and provenance, Britten House offers extraordinary potential. Its current operation as a thriving boutique guest house provides a ready-made business in a location cherished by visitors year-round. Alternatively, for those seeking a home of grandeur and coastal grace, the property lends itself perfectly to being restored as a substantial private residence, a home of music, light, and history overlooking the Suffolk sea.

Agents note

Freehold

Disclaimer

Minors and Brady (M&B), along with their representatives, aren’t authorised to provide assurances about the property, whether on their own behalf or on behalf of their client. We don’t take responsibility for any statements made in these particulars, which don’t constitute part of any offer or contract. To comply with AML regulations, £52 is charged to each buyer which covers the cost of the digital ID check. It’s recommended to verify leasehold charges provided by the seller through legal representation. All mentioned areas, measurements, and distances are approximate, and the information, including text, photographs, and plans, serves as guidance and may not cover all aspects comprehensively. It shouldn’t be assumed that the property has all necessary planning, building regulations, or other consents. Services, equipment, and facilities haven’t been tested by M&B, and prospective purchasers are advised to verify the information to their satisfaction through inspection or other means.