Welcome to Harwich, a charming port town nestled on the picturesque Essex coast. Steeped in maritime history and surrounded by stunning scenery, Harwich offers visitors a delightful blend of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and coastal charm. In this tourist guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Harwich and its surrounding areas, including Dovercourt and Parkeston, highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, and experiences to enjoy.
Harwich Harbour: Gateway to Adventure
Start your exploration of Harwich at its bustling harbour, where colourful fishing boats bob gently on the water and majestic tall ships line the quayside. Take a leisurely stroll along Ha’penny Pier, stopping to admire the views across the estuary and watch the comings and goings of maritime traffic. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Ha’penny Pier Visitor Centre, where you can learn about Harwich’s rich maritime heritage and its connections to the Dutch East India Company and the Hanseatic League.
Discovering Historic Harwich
Step back in time as you explore Harwich’s historic streets, lined with beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian buildings. Highlights include the iconic Electric Palace Cinema, one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in the UK, and the Harwich Redoubt Fort, a 19th-century coastal defence fortification offering panoramic views of the coastline. Be sure to visit the Harwich Maritime Museum, where you can delve into the town’s seafaring past through interactive exhibits and displays.
Dovercourt: Beachside Bliss
Just a stone’s throw from Harwich lies Dovercourt, a charming seaside resort with a golden sandy beach stretching along the coast. Spend a day relaxing on the beach, paddling in the shallows, or enjoying traditional seaside activities such as building sandcastles and flying kites. Take a stroll along Dovercourt Promenade, where you’ll find quaint beach huts, ice cream parlours, and cafes serving up delicious seafood dishes.
Parkeston: Gateway to Europe
Venture inland to Parkeston, a historic village that serves as the gateway to Europe with its busy ferry terminal. Explore the village’s maritime heritage at the Parkeston Quay Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the history of cross-channel travel and watch the ferries coming and going from the continent. Don’t miss the chance to sample some delicious fish and chips from one of Parkeston’s traditional seafood restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures and Nature Trails
For those who love the great outdoors, Harwich and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. Explore the scenic countryside with a hike along the Essex Way trail, or take a leisurely bike ride along the Harwich to Manningtree cycle route. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy birdwatching at the nearby Essex Wildlife Trust reserves, where you can spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Cultural Delights and Culinary Experiences
No visit to Harwich would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine and experiencing the town’s vibrant cultural scene. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at one of Harwich’s waterfront restaurants, or enjoy a pint of locally brewed ale at a traditional English pub. Be sure to check out the events calendar for live music performances, art exhibitions, and theatre productions taking place in the area.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking relaxation by the sea, Harwich has something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit today and discover the treasures of this enchanting port town and its surrounding areas. With its rich heritage, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality, Harwich promises an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages.
Things to do Harwich
- Explore Historic Landmarks: Take a stroll through Harwich’s historic streets and discover landmarks such as the Harwich Redoubt Fort, built in the early 19th century to defend against Napoleonic invasion, and the Electric Palace Cinema, one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in Britain.
- Visit Harwich Maritime Museum: Learn about Harwich’s rich maritime heritage at the Harwich Maritime Museum, housed in the historic Low Lighthouse. Explore exhibits detailing the town’s maritime history, including its role in the Mayflower’s voyage to America.
- Take a Walk Along the Waterfront: Enjoy a leisurely walk along Harwich’s picturesque waterfront, where you can admire views of the harbor and watch boats coming and going. Don’t miss the chance to see the iconic Ha’penny Pier, which offers stunning views of the estuary.
- Enjoy Watersports: Harwich is a great destination for watersports enthusiasts. Try your hand at sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking in the calm waters of the harbor. Several local companies offer equipment rental and lessons for beginners.
- Explore Nature Reserves: Discover the natural beauty of Harwich by exploring nearby nature reserves such as the Harwich Town Park Nature Reserve and the Bobbit’s Hole Local Nature Reserve. These areas offer walking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and peaceful picnic spots.
- Visit Historic Churches: Explore Harwich’s historic churches, including St. Nicholas Church, a Grade I listed building dating back to the 12th century, and St. Michael’s Church, known for its impressive Tudor tower.
- Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious seafood at one of Harwich’s many seafood restaurants and fish and chip shops. Try local specialties like freshly caught fish and chips or traditional seafood platters.
- Take a Ferry to Felixstowe: Hop on a ferry from Harwich to Felixstowe and spend the day exploring this neighboring coastal town. Visit Felixstowe Pier, stroll along the promenade, or relax on the sandy beach.
- Attend Events and Festivals: Check out Harwich’s calendar of events for festivals, markets, and cultural events throughout the year. Highlights include the Harwich Sea Festival, the Harwich Shanty Festival, and the Harwich International Shanty Festival.
- Relax and Unwind: Finally, take some time to relax and unwind in Harwich’s tranquil surroundings. Whether you choose to enjoy a seaside picnic, browse the shops in the historic town center, or simply soak up the coastal views, Harwich offers plenty of opportunities to unwind and recharge.
