Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea is a town steeped in a history of shipbuilding and seafaring is one of the Cinque Ports.  The beach runs along Western Promenade next to the impressive 97ft high Bateman’s Tower which is visible from 17 miles out to sea as well as a parade of beach huts that line this attractive part of the coastline.  Brightlingsea has lots of walks to enjoy and a nature trail which runs along the site of an old railway line to Alresford Creek.

The town is a haven for yachting and hosts international sailing events annually.  Boat Trips and foot ferry trips provides a means of crossing the creek, and a gateway to to explore other local the attractions such as Cudmore Grove East Mersea and the East Essex Aviation Museum, Point Clear.  The custom built ferry boat has a ramp which can be lowered to allow access for wheelchair users and cycles, as well as foot passengers using the service.

The traditional high street offers a range of mainly independent shops.  A variety of food and drinks outlets are available in and around the town. 

A host of events take place throughout the year from town festivals and carnivals to regattas.

The local Brightlingsea Museum holds a wealth of local history and offers two exciting trails – the Bricklesey Mouse Trail for younger visitors to the museum and the Town Heritage Trail for families and adults and also houses a unique Beach Hut souvenir shop.

The Thames Estuary Lobster Hatchery gives visitors the opportunity to learn all about the fascinating process of lobster breeding and rearing, as well as all kinds of other local marine life.

There are disused oyster pits near the Town Hard, where the Colne Smack Preservation Society can be found.

In 1347 five ships and 51 men were sent to the siege of Calais. ‘William of Brightlingsea’ was in Sir Francis Drake’s fleet which vanquished the Spanish Armada.

The 13th Century Jacobes Hall, in the town centre is timber-framed with an undulating tile roof and external staircase.

All Saints Church, which is sited on a hill about a mile inland from the town, was mainly built circa 1250.  The Church contains some Roman brickwork and a frieze of memorial ceramic wall tiles commemorating local residents whose lives were lost at sea.

For local information and accommodation details visit:
www.visitbrightlingsea.co.uk