Local Area
The local area is home to a wide range places to visit and enjoy.
The main local attractions include:
Abberton Reservoir
Abberton Reservoir is a 1,200 acre reservoir and one of the most important wildfowl habitats in Europe designated as SSSI and a Ramsar site.
Coastal Settlements
This part of the Essex coast is home to a number of historic coastal settlements which were primarily established as fishing and trading ports. From Burnham-on-Crouch to the south, to Maldon, Tollesbury, West and East Mersea and Fingringhoe and Wivenhoe further to the north each is worth a visit.
Colchester
The largest town in the area. As the capital of Roman Britain there is plenty of history to see including the 11th century Colchester castle which sits on the ruins of Roman temple.
Colchester Zoo is one of the best in the country.
Layer Marney Tower
Built during the reign of Henry VIII this is England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse which gives fantastic views to the Blackwater Estuary and beyond. It has tea rooms and beautiful gardens to enjoy and hosts a number of special events during the year.
What’s on can be found on www.layermarneytower.co.uk
Maldon
The local town of Maldon has plenty to see and do. The main attraction is Hythe Quay with its almost resident collection of Thames barges and attractive port side location, and the more modern Promenade Park.
Mersea Island
The most easterly inhabited island in the British Isles and situated approximately 9 miles by road (but only 3 miles by boat) and over a tidal causeway known as The Strood, Mersea Island boasts beautiful beaches and cliff top walks and has a reputation for great seafood available from The Company Shed in West Mersea.
Mersea Regatta is a week long festival of sailing that takes place in the late summer every year (since 1838).
Old Hall Marshes
The RSPB reserve which is right on our doorstep comprises around 1,500 acres of marsh which is a SSSI and was designated a Ramsar site in 1995.
Wilkins Jam Factory
Where they make the famous Tiptree jam and much else besides. Visit the shop, tea rooms and visitor centre. For more information visit the Tiptree website.