Beccles is a compact nucleated settlement situated on a spur of higher land on the south bank of the River Waveney as it flows downstream towards Lowestoft. The River is still tidal at this point. The town developed as a market centre and an inland port serving the agricultural industry but has diversified to support a wide range of light industry which no longer uses the river for transport. The railway was an important locating factor and can be seen clearly in this picture.

The river restricts the growth of the town to the North and West while the railway has been an effective barrier to development in the East. The town plan reflects the restricted nature of its site but this has meant that it has retained its old world charm. It is an important centre for tourism in the Broads with holiday homes and boat hire companies situated there.