Holland-on-Sea

Holland-on-Sea is a charming seaside town known for its quiet beaches, coastal walks, and rich history. It’s perfect for visitors seeking a relaxing getaway with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Holland-on-Sea has roots stretching back to Saxon times, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Hoilanda.  The name means “harbour,” referencing the former Gunfleet estuary at Holland Haven, Read more…

Little Clacton is a historic village offering a peaceful escape with easy access to the coast and countryside. Its rural character, fascinating heritage, and network of footpaths make it a great destination for walkers and history enthusiasts alike. Little Clacton dates back to the 11th century, when settlers branched off from the track between St Osyth and Little Holland.  The Read more…

Weeley is a welcoming village with a rich history and easy access to scenic countryside walks.  Just a short drive from Clacton-on-Sea and Colchester, Weeley offers a peaceful escape while remaining well-connected by rail and road. Weeley’s name comes from the Old English “Wēo-lēah”, meaning “willow wood or clearing.”  The village is first mentioned around 1050, and appears in the Read more…

Kirby-le-Soken is a picturesque village steeped in history and surrounded by stunning countryside and coastal scenery.  Part of the area known as The Sokens, it lies west of Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze, retaining its rural charm while offering easy access to seaside attractions. The name Kirby comes from Norse roots: “Kirk” (church) and “By” (village), meaning “village by the church.” The Read more…

Located in a small valley just 2 miles south of the Stour Estuary, Wix is a charming village in the Tendring district of Essex.  Once an important crossroads on the route to Harwich, Wix is now a peaceful rural destination with a fascinating past and easy access to scenic countryside walks. Wix’s name originates from the Old English word wic, Read more…

Little Bromley’s name originates from Old English, meaning “broom-covered clearing.” The village is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, highlighting its long-standing agricultural heritage. The most notable landmark is St. Mary’s Church, a Grade II* listed building dating back to the 12th century. Its striking tower and medieval architecture make it a must-see for history enthusiasts. The churchyard offers Read more…

Situated just three miles west of Harwich, Ramsey is a picturesque village in the Tendring district of Essex, offering a blend of rural tranquillity and fascinating heritage.  With its elevated position overlooking the River Stour and easy access to coastal paths, Ramsey is a perfect destination for walkers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape. Ramsey’s roots stretch back Read more…

Nestled on the southern bank of the River Stour, Wrabness is a tranquil village just six miles west of Harwich. Known for its stunning estuary views, rich history, and thriving wildlife, Wrabness is a perfect destination for walkers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace and quiet. Wrabness dates back to Anglo-Saxon times, its name likely derived from a Saxon called Read more…

With its rich railway and maritime heritage, proximity to Harwich’s historic attractions, and access to scenic coastal walks, Parkeston is more than a port, it is a destination for history lovers, walkers, and anyone seeking a unique slice of Essex life. Parkeston was originally part of Ray Island, a tidal marshland known as Le Rey during the Saxon period. I Read more…

Great Oakley is a picturesque village offering a peaceful countryside escape with a fascinating past.  Its name derives from the Anglo-Saxon term meaning “oak clearing”, suggesting its origins during woodland clearance in the 9th or 10th century.  The village is even recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, marking it as a wealthy parish in Norman times.  Over the centuries, Read more…