The most recent development of Felixstowe has been the expansion of the docks into the largest container port in Europe. They are more than 5 times the size they were 25 years ago and are still expanding up the Orwell estuary. They can take the largest ocean going container vessels as the estuary access is regularly dredged.

In the foreground can be seen the Edwardian sea side station of Beach Road. This is no longer used. Holiday caravans spread out across what was once the peaceful countryside of Felixstowe marshes are within easy walking distance of the beach. Notice the swimming pool. The former military docklands spread out further up the picture. These were developed to support the RAF seaplane base which was the origin of the modern docks. The tank farm stored fuels for engines and the railway brought goods to and from the base and dockside.

Outside the gates grew light industry making plywood goods and small electrical instruments needed to service the aircraft. Today, the docks are fully commercial with no military presence. New offices, warehouses and storage parks have been built. The latest developments are at the extreme top left of the picture.