South Lowestoft arose on the completion of harbour improvements, begun in 1844, when the outlet of the Waveney, reopened in 1827, was deepened.
South Lowestoft has a fine esplanade, a park (Bellevue) and other adjuncts of a watering-place.
Lowestoft (Lothu Wistoft, Lowistoft, Loistoft) owes its origin to its fisheries.
The men of Lowestoft as tenants on ancient demesne of the crown possessed many privileges, but had no definite burghal rights until 1885.
For several centuries before 1740 the fisheries were the cause of constant dispute between Lowestoft and Yarmouth.