20 Attractions to Explore Near Blackwater Estuary National Nature Reserve

The beach is a mix of sand, stones, and shells. It can be a bit sharp on your feet but it’s not awful. Beach/water shoes may be a good idea just to make it a little more comfortable! The sea is also very shallow, making it good for little kids as it doesn’t suddenly get deep. One of the beautiful locations where you can spend a good time with your loved ones.

Abberton Reservoir is a wetland site of international importance for wildfowl. It is a pumped-storage reservoir, with water pumped into it from the River Stour. It lies 6 km southwest of Colchester near the village of Layer de la Haye. It lies close to east-coast migration routes and, with its surrounding envelope of pasture and tree plantations, is a welcome sight to tired birds.

One of the most restful and spiritual buildings in the country which is the oldest church in England built by St Cedd in 654ad. The Chapel is used regularly by the nearby Othona Community, and is presently only open on Thursdays and Sundays for private prayer.

A statement house, of grand design, decorated with ornate terracotta, Layer Marney has been a family home for over 500 years. It was Tower was built in the 1520s by Lord Marney, friend to both Henry VII and Henry VIII. Climb the Tower for magnificent views over the River Blackwater estuary. On the way up stop off to enjoy the huge dolls’ house, built in the Georgian style, see the East Anglian art in the Batte Lay Foundation Art Exhibition and, just before you reach the top, check out the Crown

Osea Island, formerly also Osey, is an inhabited island in the estuary of the River Blackwater, Essex, East England. It is approximately 380 acres in size and is connected to the north bank of the river by a causeway, covered at high water. The population of the Island is included in the civil parish of Heybridge. It is accessible only via a winding tidal causeway, or helicopter.

Cudmore Grove Country Park is a beautiful nature reserve on Mersea Island which covers over 102 acres. Nestled on the coast where the Colne Estuary meets the Blackwater Estuary, you'll find impressive views across the park and estuaries, sandy beaches and salt marsh, rolling grasslands and meadows buzzing with wildlife.

Colchester Zoo is a majestic zoological garden that was home to 200 species set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes. It is home to many rare and endangered species, including big cats, primates, and birds as well as many invertebrates and fish species. One of the iconic attraction which was wort visit in this area.

A beautiful Blue Flag Award beach located near Brightlingsea in Essex. Formerly an important fishing and shipbuilding area, Brightlingsea is now a haven for yachting. A popular resort with plenty of amenities. A range of sports and leisure activities are available along the promenade and sailing barges offer pleasure trips to visitors.

Northey Island is an island in the estuary of the River Blackwater, Essex. It is a Site of special scientific interest with a large area of undisturbed Saltmarsh. It is also the site of the Battle of the Maldon in AD991 making it Britain's oldest recorded battlefield site. Guided tours can be organised only by prior arrangement.

A beautiful and Picturesque watermill with a working waterwheel. It was built as a fishing lodge in 1591, converted to a fulling mill around 1640 and then converted to a corn mill in about 1840, which continued working until the 1930s. It is well worth a visit for all the family. The working waterwheel and the grounds give plenty of scope for family fun. The grounds have a pond, wetlands and woods and are home to a variety of wildlife including birds, bats, waterfowl, bugs, and beetles.

The Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation is the canalization of the Rivers Chelmer and Blackwater in Essex. It runs through a largely unspoilt part of rural Essex with a footpath along its full length. The waterway passes highlights such as the lock at Paper Mill and All Saints Church in Ulting, joining the sea at Heybridge.

One of the unique and beautiful parks which was around 100 years old. It features an ornamental lake, kids splash park, beach huts, sandpits, a galleon play-ship area, zip-wire, and several picnic areas. The park hosts events throughout the year and provides spectacular river views over the Blackwater Estuary. One of the iconic locations where you can spend a good time.

The Combined Military Services Museum holds a nationally important collection of military artefacts. The Museum tells the story of the British fighting force from the English Civil War to the present day with unashamed pride. Spread over three floors the Museum offers the visitor the opportunity to discover our military history in their own time. The collection includes medals, uniforms, firearms, swords and one of the finest displays of Special Forces equipment anywhere in the country.

It was one of the first religious houses in England to adopt Augustinian rule built between 1093 and 1100. The site remains under the care of English Heritage and the modestly sized grounds are free to explore, with benches and grassland providing opportunities for picnics.

The Colchester Arts Centre is a located in a venue as unique as the artists that perform there. Events range from jazz music, comedy shows, beer festivals, farmer's markets and folk clubs. Big acts play alongside quirky local events, and you are sure to find plenty of upcoming events in the Arts Centre at every time of year. One of the unique attraction to enjoy your day and also to rejuvinate your mind.

Firstsite is the East of England's contemporary visual arts organization. From its spectacular golden building designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, Firstsite presents a varied and challenging program of exhibitions, commissions, residencies, and screenings, in a broad range of media and art forms, by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.

Hollytrees Museum is located in the beautiful grounds of Castle Park. This attractive Georgian town house, dating from 1718 houses the town's social history museum, showcasing three centuries of fascinating toys, costume, clocks and decorative arts. This Museum provides a great insight to how life in Colchester has evolved since the house was built.

Colchester Castle is one of England's most important heritage sites and is the largest Norman Keep in Europe. The keep of the castle is mostly intact and is the largest example of its kind anywhere in Europe, due to its being built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, Colchester. The museum now houses a wonderful museum containing a wealth of history. There is plenty for visitors young and old including interactive exhibits.

Colchester Castle Park is situated to the northeast of Colchester Town Centre and is divided into the Upper Park and Lower Park by the Roman Wall that crosses through it east to west. The park not only encompasses much of Colchester's rich heritage within its boundaries but is much loved and used as a part of present-day life. the park includes historical sites including the Roman Wall, Victorian Bandstand, and the Castle itself. Hollytrees Museum sits within its grounds and tells a social histo

The Museum of Power is a Museum that contains a fascinating collection which ranges from a working overhead machine shop to a petrol powered iron. The jewel in our crown is the 'Lilleshall' triple expansion steam pump now back on steam after 50 years. The museum hosts major events such as the Easter Transport Fest, Classic Vehicle & Vintage Show, American Car Show, and Bike Meet, which see a large array of visiting vintage cars, motorbikes, and American and custom vehicles on display.