Beccles is an old Broads town situated on a spur over looking the valley of the river Waveney.

The river at this point is tidal and navigable by barges, yachts and power-boats.

This picture shows the pattern of expensive riverside houses and waterside facilities connected with the holiday boating industry. Close observation reveals cabin cruisers moored on the far side of the river waiting to be hired and a swimming pool in the far right. This area is found to the north of the town centre. Today the town is a centre for the holiday industry but historically it has been an important food processing and manufacturing town. Publishing and printing are important local industries.