Holidaymakers flock to it, artists are inspired by it and affluent city-dwellers escape to second homes there.

Now, a new study has demonstrated Aldeburgh’s particular allure with older people.

According to the report, commissioned by the Royal Mail, Aldeburgh has the highest average age of any town in the UK.

With a mean age of just over 55, IP15 comes out top in one of several studies held to mark the 40th anniversary of the nationwide allocation of postcodes.

With its fresh coastal air, rich cultural heritage and thriving high street, Aldeburgh mayor Sarah Fox was unsurprised by the town’s popularity with older people.

“Many people have been coming here on holiday since they were children so they are already familiar with the area,” she said.

“Then there’s the health benefits of being by the sea, the high quality of local shops and services and also the huge number of societies and organisations that people can join.”

Chairman of the Aldeburgh Gardening Club, Beryl Baxter, 71, also felt the active social scene was a major attraction for many.

“I’ve never known a place like it,” she said.

“The big attraction for a lot of people seems to be the music scene and beyond that they also tend to get involved with amateur dramatics societies - I think a lot of people just like the social life.”

With so many societies to join, Sheena Griffiths, 74, a member of five different groups, believes the active lifestyle supports longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

“To have so many opportunities is amazing,” she said.

Regulars in the Cross Keys pub were also appreciative of their home town.

Rodney Singleton who grew up in Aldeburgh, said its residents enjoyed a “wonderful quality of life”.

“Aldeburgh is anything you want it to be - there’s something for everyone,” he added.