Business Details
Luxury Hotel & Dining in Southwold
The Randolph, established in 1899, has been a cornerstone of hospitality in Southwold for over a century. Owned and operated by Gareth and Jenny Knights since 2025, our establishment combines historic charm with modern comforts. Gareth brings 19 years of culinary expertise, having elevated restaurants from 1 to 2 rosettes, while Jenny contributes 6 years of managerial experience with Adnams. Our team, many of whom have worked with us for over a decade, lives locally and embodies the community spirit. We offer 11 individually designed en-suite bedrooms, seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, and versatile event spaces accommodating up to 60 guests. Our commitment to quality is evident in our price-match guarantee, direct booking benefits, and allergy-friendly dining options.The hotel maintains rigorous standards through regular external renovations and window replacements, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and guest comfort. As a family-run business, we prioritise personal service, whether hosting weddings, corporate events, or casual stays. Our bar stocks award-winning Adnams spirits and beers, complementing our culinary offerings. With free parking, 24-hour access to online booking, and proximity to the Suffolk Heritage Coast, we provide an ideal base for exploring the region. Our E-E-A-T principles are demonstrated through our transparent operations, community involvement, and consistent delivery of excellent service, food, and experiences.
Services
Accommodation
Dining
Event Hosting
Breakfast
Afternoon Tea
Highlights and features
- We offer over 38 combined years of hospitality expertise from our owners
- Our menus feature locally sourced ingredients from trusted suppliers
- Family-run business with deep community ties in Reydon and Southwold
- Personalised event planning for weddings and special occasions
- Price-match guarantee when booking directly through our website
What people say
Excellent service
Delicious food
Charming atmosphere
Friendly staff
Perfect location
Services
Accommodation
Our 11 en-suite bedrooms combine historic charm with modern comforts. Each room features digital flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee facilities, homemade shortbread, and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms offer walk-in showers or showers over baths. Check-in from 2:30pm with free parking available for guests.
Dining
Seasonal menus crafted by Chef Patron Gareth using locally sourced ingredients. We offer breakfast (8-10am), lunch (12-2pm), and dinner (6-8:30pm) daily. Vegetarian options and allergy adaptations available. Sunday Roast served weekly and special festive menus during Christmas and New Year periods.
Event Hosting
Versatile function space accommodating up to 60 guests. Ideal for weddings, business meetings, and special occasions. Personalised service with custom menus from Chef Gareth. Offsite catering available upon request. Dining area configurable for various event types.
Breakfast
Daily breakfast service from 8-10am available to residents and non-residents. Includes cereal options, homemade jams, full English breakfast featuring our signature black pudding, and hot beverages. Table reservations available online or by phone.
Afternoon Tea
Served daily 2-4pm with 24-hour advance booking required. Includes selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and patisseries. Available for groups and special occasions with online booking or direct reservations.
People
Gareth Knights
Chef Patron
With 19 years' experience, Gareth elevated The Sibton White Horse from 1 to 2 rosettes. Former head chef at The Swan and Crown in Southwold, he specialises in creating seasonal menus using local ingredients while maintaining high culinary standards.
Jenny Knights
Hotel Manager
Jenny holds a First Class BA in Hospitality Management and has 6 years' managerial experience with Adnams. She oversees operations at The Randolph, combining professional expertise with community knowledge to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
Questions
How can I book a room at The Randolph Hotel?
Book directly through our website for best rates, or contact us via phone at 01502 723603 for reservations and special requests.
What dining options are available?
We offer breakfast (8-10am), lunch (12-2pm), and dinner (6-8:30pm) daily, with vegetarian options and allergy adaptations available upon request.
Can I host a wedding at The Randolph?
While we can host wedding receptions for up to 60 guests, we are not licensed for wedding ceremonies. Our team provides tailored event planning services.
Are pets allowed at the hotel?
We welcome well-behaved dogs in designated rooms. Please inform us at booking to ensure appropriate room allocation and terms.
What accessibility features are available?
Some rooms have walk-in showers; please specify requirements at booking. Our main facilities are accessible via a galleried staircase.
Reviews (4)
Rob Butler
May 12, 2022
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We had a breakfast here as non-residents which was very good. Note that you have to book for breakfast if you are a non-resident. 8-10am every day. Easy to park. Playground for children in the pub garden. I would say it's about a 20 minute walk into Southwold - you can take a footpath across the marshes coming out near the pier but only try this in dry weather!
Chris Howse
May 10, 2022
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Very nice hotel, with good staff. Main thing though was the excellent food (both evening Mel and breakfasts). Beer also very good (Adnams of course). Twenty minute walk to Southwold.
Paula Johnson
Apr 06, 2022
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A super place, warm and friendly staff, lovely atmosphere, spacious with super food, excellent prices, lovely and clean. Can't wait to visit again.
Pete & Annie
Apr 04, 2022
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We had a three night stay here and we will definitely be returning. Great location as only a short walk into Southwold and amazing walks along the coast. Hotel comfy, cozy and very clean! Food was truly outstanding! But the icing on the cake with a cherry on top were the fantastic staff - big thank you to everyone at The Randolph for the five star service!
