Escape to the Beach on Mersea Island
A Slice of Island Life: Oyster Delights, Seaside Strolls & Hidden Gems
Follow the historic River Colne all the way down to Mersea Island, a charming spot that is home to the world-famous Colchester Native oyster and is the ideal place to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Go for a peaceful paddle on the beach, bird-watch in Cudmore Grove Country Park, take a boat trip out into the estuary, or simply walk across the tranquil island. You can walk around the entire island using a mixture of footpaths and public beaches, however some planning is required to avoid high tides - if you happen to find the paths or sandy footpaths inaccessible, consider whiling some time away in a quaint cafe.
Easily accessible by car, taxi or bus from Colchester City Centre, Mersea Island is ideal for those seeking a peaceful day out in breath-taking scenery. Mersea Island is also a great place to discover local produce - we'd recommend enjoying a platter of fresh Mersea seafood, paired with a glass of local wine from Mersea Island Vineyard!
East vs. West Mersea: Which Side of the Island Will You Choose?
Choose from East or West Mersea - the West is a small fishing town, with sandy beaches and a selection of shops, restaurants and pubs. The East is more rural with wild natural beaches and large open spaces. The island is also perfect for inquisitive dogs, which should be kept on a lead during the busy summer season.
The most populated part of Mersea Island is West Mersea, which acts as a hub for the island. In the small town centre, you'll discover shops and restaurants, tourist attractions like the Mersea Island Museum, and the parish church of St Peter and St Paul. The island has a fascinating history and boasts evidence of Roman settlement remains, most notably in the Mersea Barrow - a Roman burial mound.
Head for the seafront and, as you venture round towards the far west of the island, you'll discover an area populated by fishing boats and sailing vessels, as well as some fine seafood restaurants and one of the pubs on the island. To sample some of the local tipples, make your way over to the Mersea Island Vineyard - their comprehensive events calendar ensures that there's something on the menu for everyone.
As you head anticlockwise around the island you can witness the beaches turn from mud to shingle, and then into sandier fare as picturesque pastel-coloured beach huts appear. After this, you'll near the holiday camps and more traditionally touristy side of the island that bustles with activity during the peak season.
The Eastern side of Mersea Island is primarily rural farming-land but significantly also includes the island's only country park, Cudmore Grove.
Outdoor Activities in Mersea: Kayaking, Crabbing & Coastal Trails on Mersea Island
Grab your paddleboards and your spades as adventure awaits on Mersea Island. From green spaces to sandy beaches, there's something to keep everyone entertained on the island.
Cudmore Grove Country Park is a fantastic nature reserve, with walks that provide stunning views over the estuary towards Brightlingsea. Wild beaches, bird hides and nature trails also contribute to the island's atmosphere, and a large impressive children's play area - plus an old WWII pill box that is ripe for exploring - help to make for a great day out for young children too.
On the other side of the island, West Mersea is home to Essex Outdoors Activity Centre, which is perfect for adventurous members of the family. Situated on the edge of the enchanting Blackwater Estuary, the activity centre is one of many spots that take advantage of the island's varied terrains, offering up superb courses and activities for schools, groups and individuals. If you're wanting to spend your time on the waves, Mersea Boating Lake and Mersea Island Watersports might be the perfect fit for you.
Alternatively, if you prefer to explore on wheels, it's never been easier to make your way around the island, thanks to the Mersea E-Bikes. With a 72km charge range, you'll be able to do five whole laps of the island without batting an eyelid. They also offer suggested routes and itinerary recommendations.
Navigating Mersea Island's High Tide Like a Local
It's important to note that at High Tide, the causeway on and off the island floods which can leave you stranded! Don't get stuck, and check the tide times at the bottom of this page.
Unless you're sailing in by boat, the only way on and off Mersea Island is via the Strood Causeway. At very high tides, the Strood can become impassable and crossing is not advised - both for the safety of you and your car. The water depth can be deceptive and local emergency services do not look kindly upon rescuing cars attempting to cross!
Tide times can only be accurately predicted a few days in advance, and flooding over the Strood causeway is likely if the water level is above 5m (or 4.5m if it is windy and the water is rough!). We generally advise to leave an hour either side of such a high tide before attempting to cross, although occasionally the road can be flooded for longer if it's a particularly high tide.