In 2005 flint tools and teeth from the extinct water vole Mimomys savini, a key dating species, were found in the cliffs.

[7] The Saxon period consisted of a relatively dense settlement as well as a cemetery which included at least one rich barrow burial.

[7][8] In the Domesday Book of 1086, Pakefield is called "Pagefella",[9] the name probably coming from the Pagan settlement name of Pagga's or Pacca's field.

[10] The former terminus of the Tram Service from Lowestoft is located in the centre of Pakefield and is now the site of the Tramway Hotel.

[10] In the modern era, the area played an important role in the Kindertransport programme nine months before the start of World War II.

For county council elections Pakefield is part of a larger constituency with the neighboring suburb of Carlton Colville.

The primary school was awarded a grant by the Royal Society in 2009 to develop a project called 'What has the sea ever done for us'.

The lighthouse itself was constructed in 1831 to guide boats into Lowestoft harbour through the Newcombe Sand banks, but was de-commissioned in 1864.

Now an independent station, the lighthouse is still staffed year round by volunteers in support of HM Coastguard.