Mersea Island
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Things to do in Mersea Island
Although we know you have more than enough to keep you busy and entertained at Mersea Island, it is definitely worth getting out and about and seeing all that Essex has to offer, you couldn’t have picked a better county to explore.
Local attractions near Mersea Island
From quaint cobbled towns, through to lush green countryside and a coastline littered with estuaries and islands, Essex is a county that packs a lot in. With all this variety and no end of interesting places to visit in Essex, it could be the perfect place to take a time out with the family.
Whether it’s things to do in Colchester, such as the town’s famous zoo and even more famous 11th century castle, through to stunning natural draws like Brightlingsea Beach and Cudmore Grove Country Park; you’ll find there’s something for everyone here.
After your incredible days out exploring all that the local area has to offer, you’ll want an equally exciting and beautifully-set base to unwind in, Mersea Island Holiday Park is the perfect base to sit back and relax in!
Places to visit
Go Bananas
One of the South East’s biggest indoor adventure play centres, Go Bananas Colchester is so much more than just a soft play centre. It makes for a brilliant family activity with your little ones, all while helping with their development too.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Wyvernwood
Introducing Wyvernwood, an Enchanted Lost Kingdom that has existed for many centuries in a peaceful and beautiful setting near Colchester, in Essex. This extraordinary world is spread over 20 acres with over 20 different areas to explore!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Colchester Zoo
Opened in 1963, Colchester Zoo is now one the best in the UK. With over 270 species to see, a huge 60 acre site to explore and a variety of shows and demonstrations to enjoy, this is a great place to visit.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Jump Street
A world where the wall becomes the floor and the rules of gravity no longer apply. The rush of Jump Street is infectious. Jump Street is the UK’s largest activity centre and makes for a fantastic day out for the whole family.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
West Mersea Beach
Crabbing is a holiday pastime that can been enjoyed by children and adults alike. There is a marked section on the causeway to the left and side where crabbing is allowed.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
Playgolf Colchester
Come and play our two golf courses, entertain the family on Fossil Falls Crazy Golf, have a bite to eat or keep fit in our superb Gym.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Brightlingsea Beach
The sandy beaches, colourful beach huts and fantastic restaurants provide plenty of opportunities for a family day out and is easily accessible by a foot ferry which picks you up from Cudmore Grove Country Park.
Drive time: Less than an hour
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Mersea Island Vineyard
This vineyard not only produces more than 20,000 bottles of distinguished wine a year, but its own beer too. Why not taste them for yourself?
Drive time: Less than 10 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Military Services Museum
Taking you on an eye-opening journey through British military history, from medieval swords to the real-life inspiration for James Bond to modern tanks.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Mersea Museum
An independent museum established in 1976 and occupying purpose-built premises that have been steadily expanded. We are in the centre of West Mersea, just to the east of the Parish Church.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Beth Chatto Gardens
A glorious English country garden created out of a wasteland and now brimming over with a wonderful array of plants adapted to the scree, gravel, woodland and water areas.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Colchester Castle
A near perfectly preserved Norman castle – with the biggest Norman keep in Europe. Built on a Roman temple, so you can discover 2,500 years of history in one superb attraction.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Abbotts Hall Farm
A 700-acre nature reserve and the head office of Essex Wildlife Trust, situated on the Blackwater Estuary. The site demonstrates a successful coastal realignment project and is in the process of being 're-wilded'.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Abberton Reservoir
A wetland site of international importance for wildfowl. Up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese visit each year. Excellent bird watching opportunities and fabulous views over the reservoir.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Visit towns close to Mersea Island
West Mersea
West Mersea, located on Mersea Island off the coast of Essex, is a tranquil coastal village renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich maritime heritage.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
Colchester
Colchester, England's oldest recorded town, seamlessly blends historical significance with modern charm. Its rich tapestry of history is evident in landmarks like Colchester Castle, a Roman-era marvel, and the ancient town walls.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
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Clacton-On-Sea
Clacton-on-Sea is a charming coastal town located in Essex, England. Situated on the Tendring Peninsula, it boasts stunning views of the North Sea and a rich history dating back centuries.
Drive time: Less than an hour
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Ipswich
Ipswich, situated in Suffolk, England, is a town steeped in history and charm. As one of England's oldest continuously inhabited towns, it boasts a rich heritage dating back over a millennium.
Drive time: Less than an hour
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Visit these shops near Mersea Island
Mersea Barns
Located on the East of Mersea Island, Mersea Barns offers a variety of gifts, toys, homeware, and food and drink. They also have everyday essentials and store cupboard items.
Drive time: Less than 10 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Mersea Farm Shop
This shop provides a wide range of products, including animal feeds, pet accessories, garden supplies, and household items. It's a great place to find local produce and gardening essentials​.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Bonners Barn Farm Shop
Located near West Mersea, this traditional farm shop offers fresh local vegetables and selected local produce​.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Gardeners Farm Shop
Offers high-quality free-range meat and farm products from a wide selection of animals raised on their farm.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.