When it comes to planning a UK seaside retreat, Essex probably isn’t the first destination that comes to mind. It might not have the sheer volume of coastline to compete with somewhere like Cornwall, but this part of the southeast coast of England still has plenty of its own charm.
With a diverse selection of beaches and pleasant seaside towns, along with a few hidden gems of its own, Essex could be the perfect destination for family breaks UK. If you’re looking for your next dose of coastal bliss and sunny days spent on the beach, then consider giving Essex a go.
To help convince you, we’ve put together a few of Essex’s seaside destinations that no visitor should miss.
A quintessential example of the classic British resort town, Clacton-on-Sea is well known for its traditional charm and long, sandy beaches. Take a pleasant walk along its lively pier, which stretches out into the North Sea and gives visitors panoramic views of the nearby coastline.
For the fun-seekers, Clacton Pier is a draw in and of itself. With a range of amusement arcades, go-karts, rollercoasters, adventure golf and more, it’s a veritable playground and perfect for a family day out. But, for those who want a quieter day on the town, a gentle stroll along the promenade to enjoy the seaside vibes is the perfect answer.
With tiers of pastel-coloured beach huts rising up above the beach, Walton-on-the-Naze is a charming seaside town. The striking presence of the Naze Tower adds a little extra drama to the landscape, as well as offering excellent views out across the waves and the countryside.
While the sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing, the area is also famous for fossil hunting. The nearby cliffs of Walton have been attracting fossil enthusiasts for many decades. Or, if living geology is more of an interest, the Naze that gives the town its name is a beautiful headland of saltmarshes, eroding cliffs and beaches.
On the shores of the Colne Estuary, the picturesque coastal town of Brightlingsea sits. Combining natural beauty with a dose of maritime charm, the town features a postcard-perfect waterfront. Colourful boats and yachts bob in the placid waters of the traditional harbour, a lovely view to enjoy as you tuck into some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Rather than just sand, the beach features some pebbly stretches where you can appreciate the cheerful rattle of stones under your feet as you wander along the seafront. Once you’ve had your fill of the town itself, try taking a boat trip out to explore the hidden treasures of the surrounding estuary.
Rather than just a town, Mersea Island is a complete getaway from the mainland. The island is cut off by the tides twice a day, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to disconnect and recharge.
While you could walk the 13-mile circumference of Mersea if you feel up to it, there’s a range of other delights that the island offers. You can escape even further from the modern world by retreating to the wild salt marshes for a spot of birdwatching or enjoy some quiet relaxation on the unspoiled, sandy beaches.
You might not have thought of Essex as a seaside delight before, but now you know better! It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a quiet retreat or fun-filled days of activity, there’s an ideal destination here in Essex for you to explore.
The coastline of Essex makes a great choice for anything from a family holiday to a romantic couple’s retreat – so don’t miss out and book your next getaway today.
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