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Visit Harwich - hometown to Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower
Harwich is not just any port. Not only is it the UK's second busiest passenger ferry port, its harbour, which is the largest between the Humber, in the north of England, and London, was created by a storm surge in the 1100s, a quirk of fate that gave rise to the area’s long and fascinating seafaring history.
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This traditional historic maritime town has a fascinating history. The attractive old town was built on a grid pattern, in the 13th Century, by the Earl of Norfolk, to exploit its strategic position at the mouth of the Stour/Orwell estuary. The famous seafarers Hawkins, Drake and Frobisher all sailed from Harwich during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I on various expeditions.
Harwich is probably best known for being the home of Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower, who in 1620 took the first pilgrims to America. 2020 sees the 400th anniversary of this incredible journey. Find out more about the Mayflower 400, other destinations in England with connections, and the year-long commemoration programme here. Follow the Mayflower 400 Trail and discover the exciting stories that link the port to one of the most significant voyages in history.
An enjoyable way to discover Historic Harwich is to follow its Maritime Heritage Trail and imagine yourself in the days of famed diarist Samuel Pepys, who was actually MP for the town. Start your walk at the Low Lighthouse Maritime Museum built in 1818 and Lifeboat Museum, where you can get aboard a lifeboat and ending at the Barge Murals which overlook the site where Thames Sailing Barges were built up to 1930. A special gem is the Treadwheel Crane, built in 1667, a kind of colossal hamster wheel based on a Roman design. The crane was worked by men walking in the interior of two large wheels to raise and lower goods and materials. As far as is known Harwich has the only British example.
On route down the quaint streets there is the chance to take in gems such as the Electric Palace Cinema, built in 1911 and now the oldest unaltered purpose built cinema in Britain (which has local actor Clive Owen as its patron). Also St Nicholas Church which was rebuilt in 1821, and The Redoubt Fort which was built in 1808 as a large circular fort to protect the harbour from a Napoleonic invasion. These are just a few of the outstanding treasures the trail has to offer. Also visit the old Radar Tower, at Beacon Hill Fort, which was the first radar installation of the second world war, and can be opened on request to the Harwich Visitor Centre.
Alternatively, join one of the local guided summer tours organised by the Harwich Society or visit the Harwich Museum housing displays that tell the history of Harwich from way back to present day. This volunteeer led museum is open 7 days a week.
Dovercourt
Dovercourt Beach, adjacent to Harwich, is one of the best in Essex. It's a peaceful family resort with gentle shelving sand and shingle beaches. Awarded Blue-Flag status and possesses two beautiful, cast iron lighthouses.
Inspiration
Number of results: 16
Address
Wick Lane, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3TAHarwich
Why not discover and explore the beauty of the Tendring Peninsula by bike? There’s nothing like following the beautiful coastline or taking in the picturesque villages and countryside en-route. You’ll find the ideal setting for a family cycle ride…
Address
Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3SSTelephone
01255 686969Harwich
Dovercourt is a peaceful family resort with gentle shelving sand and shingle beaches. A wide range of family activities are available along the promenade including an impressive range of sport and leisure facilities e.g. skate park, model yacht pond…
Harwich
The Pier at Harwich offers two superb restaurants, each very different in style and atmosphere, giving guests plenty of choice. The Pier, on the first floor has stunning views over the Stour and Orwell estuaries - a perfect place to enjoy a glass or…
Address
Wellington Road, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3DLTelephone
01255 686969Harwich
Harwich Beach is located adjacent to the historic town of Harwich on the estuary of the rivers Stour and Orwell in north-east Essex. The town is an important port and the old town of Harwich is a conservation area, containing many beautiful…
Address
The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HHTelephone
+44 (0)1255 241212Price
Price £125.00 to £210.00 per room per night for bed & breakfastHarwich
Situated on the quay in Harwich, this small AA 4 star hotel has 14 bedrooms, many with fine views over The Stour and Orwell estuaries. Enjoy all day dining throughout the year in the Pier Restaurant or small plates, cocktails and gin library in the…
Price
Price £125.00 to £210.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
Address
Kings Head Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3EETelephone
01255 502872Harwich
Christopher Jones was the Captain of the Mayflower and once lived in King’s Head Street in Harwich. His house still exists today and after recent restoration is open to visitors on request.
Half day guided tour of Essex with own driver and vehicle visiting Harwich and Dedham as you uncover the story of the Mayflower in 17th Century. It's a tale of a Captain, the pilgrims and a witch-hunt.
Start in Harwich where it is likely it all…Address
Low Lighthouse, Harbour Crescent, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3NJTelephone
+44 (0)1255 502872Harwich
Housed in a disused lighthouse, the museum has specialised displays on the Royal Navy and commercial shipping. History of the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy in Harwich.
Address
The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HHTelephone
+44 (0)1255 502872Harwich
Information on everything in Harwich and historic exhibition on Harwich and the Mayflower. Free tourist information service and exhibition.
Address
Timberfields, Off Wellington Road, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3EJTelephone
+44 (0)1255 502872Harwich
Museum contains the last Clacton off-shore. Oakley Class Lifeboat 34ft and a history of the lifeboat service in Harwich.
Address
Behind 29 Main Road, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3LTTelephone
+44 (0)1255 502872Harwich
A circular Fort built in 1808 with ten guns. Open as a military museum with battle re-enactments and other events held during the summer months
Address
The Guildhall, 11 Church St, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3DSTelephone
01255 507211Harwich
Set in the heart of the historic old seaport, Harwich’s Guildhall is a Grade I listed building dating from the 17th century. The wealth of history and heritage that it contains, along with its remarkable architecture, make it a fascinating place to…
Dovercourt
A quiet haven hidden in the middle of the town this small nature reserve is approx. 2 acres with a small pond. Used by local groups, schools etc for educational purposes. Also by general public to view flora & fauna
Harwich
Departing from Harwich this is a truly wonderful 120 minute trip. So far every single trip has seen lots of seals but if you don’t see seals close up you get a free trip!
Address
King's Quay Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3ERTelephone
+44 (0)1255 553333Harwich
One of the oldest, least altered, purpose-built cinemas in Britain. Open Friday-Sunday, watch the latest blockbusters, west end streamings or enjoy live music with refreshments available in screen.
Address
West Street, Harwich, CO12 3DRTelephone
+44 (0)1255 506183Harwich
The High Lighthouse was leading lights for the channel into Harwich Harbour, until 1863. The building is 90 feet high and has 100 steps to the top where you can experience stunning views over the Harbour and Town.
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