ONCE it was the resort’s hidden gem – but now more and more people are discovering it.

Those running the attractions at Landguard regularly found visitors who hadn’t even known the peninsula existed – not aware of its historic fort, the town’s museum, nature reserve or bird observatory, or had only heard of the port viewing area.

But thanks to the hard work of the Landguard Partnership, word is spreading and visitor numbers growing.

Paul Grant, operational development officer at Landguard Fort, said visitors to the monument were up this year and everyone involved was delighted.

“At a meeting with English Heritage area managers recently we were told other places in the area such as Framlingham and Orford Castles had suffered a dip, so we are very pleased that our numbers here are up,” he said.

“I think everyone is working hard to promote Landguard as a package – with lots to do all day for people who visit.

“Events co-ordinator Stephen Rampley has been raising the profile with lots of new events down here, and the support from the Felixstowe Star has helped us.

“We will hopefully have the visitor centre for next season with a proper caf� with seating inside and toilets and we might even get more people visiting.”

The fort ended its season with a living history weekend with the 95th Rifles, who camped at the site and gave various displays, including firing muskets.