Deep water

At 350 miles long, the Essex coast is one of the longest of any county in Britain. On a map, the eastern edge is cut with jagged indentations like crooked fingers. These are the county’s many rivers and Harwich, located at the mouth of both the Orwell and the Stour is a good place to start exploring this estuarine landscape.

The story of Harwich is a maritime tale. It’s about how water has shaped not only the physical aspect of the town but its character. Discover the secrets of this delightful Essex town as you wander along the seafront, see the lighthouses that guided boats safely into harbour and a shipyard which built the finest warships of its day.

Stroll the charming streets of the old town and hear stories of the town’s seafaring past and its present role in keeping mariners safe. Walk out on the town's Victorian pier and be awed by the architectural beauty of Felixstowe skyline across the water.

Discover 'one of the best-kept secrets in Essex' for yourself...

Walk Info

Distance:

1 ¼ miles

Level:

a flat route along the esplanade and through the old town

Suitable for:

plenty of seaside sights to interest children

an entirely step-free route

should be kept on a lead in the town centre

Region:

East of England

Setting:

Seaside

Landscape:

Shaping the landscape Exploiting the landscape Working landscapes

Start:

Harwich Town railway station

Finish:

The Esplanade near the Low Lighthouse

Getting there:

nearest station Harwich Town. Change at Manningtree from London and East Anglia

access from Junction 29 of the A12, charges to park in town

many local routes and long-distance coaches

on National Cycle Route 1 Fakenham to Harwich