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Check AvailabilitySandy Ridge is a 4 bedroom self catering holiday accommodation that sleeps 8 and is located in Clacton on Sea, East England. This property does not allow pets. Local to Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton-on-Sea, Little Holland, Thorrington, Walton-on-the-Naze
Outdoor swimming pool and hot tub
Located in a quiet road opposite the beach at Holland-on-Sea, a stay in Sandy Ridge provides the perfect setting for a traditional family seaside holiday. This detached, spacious house is well-furnished and has a sunny, west-facing garden with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, and is approximately 100 yards from the pedestrian path to the sandy beach and promenade. Also close by is the Haven Country Park and the sailing club. The area is excellent for bird watchers, particularly for sighting migrants birds, and for walkers there are numerous footpaths. Set a comfortable, equidistant walk along glorious sandy beaches between the seaside towns of Clacton and Frinton, guests can choose between vibrant Clacton with its 19th-century pier or the more exclusive Frinton; Frinton’s beach is studded with Victorian-style beach huts and both towns have a good range of shops and restaurants. Further along the coast is Walton-on-the-Naze where you can try your hand at sea fishing on the country’s third-longest pier. Sandy Ridge is a perfect holiday location to enjoy the hidden delights of this part of the Essex coastline and countryside with quaint villages including Dedham and Flatford Mill (Constable Country), tranquil gardens, sandy beaches and excellent shopping. The county town of Colchester, with its zoo and castle, is an easy drive. Garden lovers might like to visit Beth Chatto’s famous garden. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.
Ground floor: Living/dining room with wooden floor and patio doors. Second living room. Kitchen with breakfast area, patio doors and tiled floor. Utility room. Separate toilet. First floor: 4 bedrooms: 2 double (6ft), 2 twin. Shower room with double shower and toilet.
Gas CH inc (£50pw Oct-Apr). Elec, bed linen and towels included. Satellite TV. Three Freeview TVs. DVDs. Playstation 3. iPod dock. Electric Cooker. Washing Machine. Dishwasher. Fridge Freezer. Wi-fi. Lawned garden with courtyard, sitting-out area and furniture. Juliet balcony. BBQ. Parking (3 cars). Cycle store. Outdoor swimming pool (10m x 5m, depth 0.9m to 2m), open 9am to 10pm everyday May-Sep. Hot tub. Welcome pack. No smoking. Note: 4 steps in the swimming pool.
The Lemon Tree is set in the heart of Colchester and with its good food and professional and friendly team offers very pleasant informal dining.
Seamanlike precision translates very easily it seems into the all-important area of the galley of this floating French brasserie. Moored in the marina, Mariners takes full advantage of the ready availability of excellent local produce. An absolute must!
Join the Lady Florence for a relaxing cruise cruise on the Rivers Alde and Ore. Start your day with panache on a cruise lasting two and half hours during which an American style or champagne brunch is served. Or perhaps pick the evening cruise, on which you will be served a delicious dinner, whilst you relax on the river.
Aims to serve the freshest, finest food at the most affordable prices possible, ensuring that your dining experience is a good one.
The Anchor in Danbury is picturesque. Guests can relax in the Snug Bar or dine in the conservatory overlooking the rolling countryside. It's the perfect resting place for walkers and twitchers who have been on their feet all day and in need of some home cooked food, real ales and excellent service.
Set on Danbury Mount, The Griffin not only offers good food, wine and real ale but also has the added bonus of stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the lounge and gardens. The warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere keep locals and visitors coming back for more.
Walton Pier has a whole host of rides and attractions for children as well as Pirate Pete's Adventure Land.
A well established family entertainment park on the Felixstowe seafront, with something for all the family, including an amusement arcade, children's theme park, indoor crazy golf, a Sunday market, pool and snooker, 10-pin bowling, bars and cafes.
Jimmy?s Farm is a great day out for all the family. There is a nature trail, adventure playground, working farm, shops, butchery, café, garden shop and much more. They also run educational courses for children in the school holidays. (wheelchairs are welcome, but it is a working farm with muddy conditions)
To see over 260 species of animals Colchester Zoo is your place. Winner of the 'Large Visitor Attraction of the Year' award you will be certain to enjoy your visit! Say hello to the penguins, Komodo Dragons, tigers and many more and watch over 50 displays. Kids will love the undercover soft play area and 4 outdoor adventure parks.
There is always lots to do on the Farm, with daily pony rides, pat-a-pet, meeting Major, one of the big Suffolk Punch cart horses, barrel train rides, pony and cart rides (and harnessing), lamb feeding and pig feeding.
With over 60 owls and birds of prey and free flight demonstrations as well as red squirrels, a woodland walk and songbird hide, this sanctuary is well worth a visit. Activities for children include a quiz trail, mini maze and play area.
Rollercoaster, big wheel fantasy dome, sky lab, giant pirate ship and dragons claw are just a few of the rides and attractions sure to amuse the family at Adventure Island.
Welcome to a world of wildlife where you can feed the wallabies, take part in the lemur and meerkat feeding times and watch the indoor parrot free flying display as well as a birds of prey display in the outdoor arena.
Walking trails, fishing, quiet corners for relaxation or bird watching, picnic areas - all this plus 41 acres of woodland, lakes and grassland. Danbury Country Park has all the ingredients for a great family day out.
A delightful family resort with lots to see and do. Try your hand at some crazy golf or have fun on the boating lake. With exceptional views of Harwich, historic streets and some cute local seals there is something for everyone at Dovercourt.
This was the first seaside resort to have donkey rides in 1790 and deck chairs in 1898. Margate Beach is truly a pioneer. Did you know that the covered bathing machine was invented here in the 18th century? You're fully catered for here, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, there's also toilets, cafes, deckchairs and sun loungers for hire, and amusements located on the lively promenade.
Now owned by the National Trust, Danbury Commons, one of the largest remaining areas of shrublands in Essex, is a haven for insects, nesting birds and a wide variety of flowers.
This 25 x 50m roller skating rink is claimed to be the finest roller skating surface in Europe. Equipment hire, refreshments and quasar game section also available.
Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club is was established in 1880, making it one of the oldest courses in the country, and has a long and esteemed history and continues to be a prosperous golf community where you will also receive a warm and friendly welcome. It contains a genuine 18 hole links course, the Martello course and the 9 hole, Kingsfleet course, they are located next to the sea and have fantastic views over the East Anglian coast and Deben River. This rolling course is suitable to all level of golfer and offers a number of challenges, from the testing borrows on the green, deep bunkers, tight fairways, unforgiving rough and the constant presence of winds from the coast. The course is in superb condition, fairways are good and the greens are receptive and fast, with a nice mix of holes. Staff throughout are excellent, friendly, professional and really helpful, they really enhance the overall experience of playing here. The clubhouse is warm and welcoming with excellent amenities, and the food they serve is excellent, well cooked and presented and superb value for money. Felixstowe Ferry Gold Club is a true traditional course with excellent clubhouse and staff and offers a great game of golf at very competitive prices a must if you are in the area, highly recommended.
Why stand by looking at the water when you can go out and enjoy it? Bawdsey Quay Watersports Centre offers many ways to experience life on the gently rippling tides. Royal Yachting Association courses are offered and include dinghy sailing and power boating. Programmes are available for all age groups with specialised courses in safety and coaching.
This purpose built indoor race track offers all the challenges of a full size racing circuit plus all the comforts of an indoor venue.
Blackwater Leisure Centre boasts a superb pool, incorporating the challenging jungle river ride, a fun flume ride, lazy river ride, a safe swimming area for children and a novelty bubble pool.
Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre prides itself on being a family friendly golf centre. This 18 hole parkland course is comprised of two nine hole courses, the Oaks course and Acorns course. Both courses offer a variety of challenges to all standard of golfer, the Oaks course has bunkers, lakes and trees lining the fairway and greens, the Acorns course caters to beginners with mainly par 3 and 4 holes but, will allow more experienced players to enhance their short game skills. Regardless of the course you play you will find the greens and fairways in excellent condition, the courses are well maintained overall. The staff are friendly, attentive and professional and will ensure you have a pleasant experience here. The facilities are very good, the driving range offers the ideal place to practice and the pro shop is well stocked. The clubhouse is welcoming and comfortable, they serve an excellent selection of hot and cold dishes that are really tasty, well presented and real value for money. The green fees offer excellent value for money and with the breakfast deal it is fantastic value. Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre is a friendly club that extends a warm welcome to all with great facilities and fantastic green fees, highly recommended.
Witham Cricket Club is a long established club dating back to 1847 when it was initially founded. The grounds are conveniently located close to the town centre and extend to 10.5 acres, they are enclosed by trees and parkland. It is a friendly and welcoming club and is continually striving to improve its amenities and make for a more comfortable experience for members and visitors. What could be nicer on a sunny day than watching a cricket match unfolding as you relax in the peaceful surroundings whilst enjoying a cold drink.
Witham Bowls Club is a long established club dating back to 1904 when the club was first founded, and the sport was a popular pastime. In 1921 it moved to its present location amongst the pretty and peaceful surroundings in Collingwood Road. The club has both lady and gentlemen members and is welcoming to new members and guests. Don't worry if you can't play or have little experience there are coaches on hand to provide instruction and lessons. The clubhouse is warm and welcoming and provides a nice retreat to relax in or take part in the social events they organise throughout the year.
Benton Hall Golf and Country Club is an award winning club and one of the premier golf clubs in Essex, with a superior choice of facilities. On site is an 18 hole Championship Golf Club, 9 Hole Short Course, Gym, Swimming Pool, Bars and much more. This mature parkland course is set amongst the glorious countryside of the Blackwater Valley with the Blackwater River meandering through the course. It is a pretty level course and has a good variety of holes with a number of hazards including, ditches, ponds and deep bunkers. The course is fantastic, excellently maintained, the fairways are tight and the greens are true and quick and with good tee positions. The course is challenging to all level of golfer. The clubhouse is stylish and comfortable and has a lively and friendly ambience and offers the ideal retreat after a round of golf. It has a lovely terrace that overlooks the lakes. They have an impressive menu that is diverse and interesting, the food is delicious, well cooked and presented and offers excellent value for money. The staff within the club are friendly, helpful and very professional and add to the overall experience here. Benton Hall Golf and Country Club is a friendly club that offers great golf at a fair price and a course that will test all level of golfer, highly recommended.
Landguard Bird Observatory is situated in a disused military building next to the Local Nature Reserve at the southern end of the town of Felixstowe. It is an independent organisation and is operated by a registered charity and is dependent on friends and volunteers to function. The purpose of the observatory is to observe and document the wildlife of the complete Landguard peninsula, for the purpose of education and improvement of our knowledge of our feathered friends. Their location makes them the main migration watch point in Suffolk. They are open throughout the year but, all visits and tours are by appointment only. The best time to come and see birds is early in the morning and during the Spring and Autumn when migration takes place. However, the afternoons are generally better to see insects. There is a daily notice board where they state what birds are around, it is not unusual for rare birds to come in by container ship or be blown in by winds. They organise a series of events throughout the year including information walks, watching the moth traps being emptied or clean up operations that you can get involved with. Landguard Bird Observatory plays an important role in maintaining the wildlife of this area and offers a prime location to observe and enjoy the wildlife who make their home here.
Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley Countryside Project are enterprises made up of a small team whose primary aims are the conservation and enhancement of the unique characteristics of the area. The beauty and rich heritage of the site is worth protecting and this admirable project has taken huge strides over the last twenty years to encourage respect for the land and its history. Please see the website for more information as to how you can volunteer and contact tourist information centres in Sudbury, Colchester and Newmarket for local information.
Whetmead Nature Reserve is located in an old landfill site that has developed into an important habitat for wildlife. This twenty five acre site is isolated as it is enclosed by the River Brain and Blackwater and by a main road. The area is predominantly rough meadow, grassland and lagoons, with a small waterfall. The meadow maintains plenty of plant and animal species and is bordered by scrub. The three linked lagoons permits nesting and aquatic birds to breed, there is a bird hide where you can observe the birds from, it also attracts a good variety of butterflies and dragonflies. Once you get away from the main road you enter a place of peace and calm where you can enjoy the picturesque walks and wildlife that has made their home here. Whetmead Nature Reserve is a pleasant sanctuary that allows you to enjoy the tranquilly and beauty of this area and the wildlife and plants that reside here.
Orford Ness is considered an internationally important nature reserve which is also significant in terms of military history. See Europe's largest remote shingle spit and learn about military activity from the 20th century. Trails wind through the reserve, providing many ways to see the area's most beautiful scenery up close.
Belfairs Wood, also called Hadleigh Great Wood, is a gorgeous expanse of natural beauty. The name was taken from a farm which used to operate on the site in the 1200s. The grounds currently encompass 84.7 hectares which includes a 50 hectare golf course. The park offers a tennis court, playground, basketball court, cricket field, football field, two bowling greens, riding stables, gardens and much more!
Discover a wonderful collection of fine trees and shrubs including many rarely seen growing in East Anglia. The majority of these unusual plants originated from George Forrest, the renowned plant collector.
Rendlesham Forest offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers, cyclists, horse riders, walkers and general explorers. Cycle trails are available, including the 6 mile Tang Trail and the 10 mile F.I.D.O,. trail. Discover a beautiful region that is also significant because of the controversial UFO incident that allegedly took place there.
Enjoy the special atmosphere of this beautiful park, with its red deer, spectacular moated Hall and famous gardens. The stunning walled kitchen garden features exquisite herbaceous borders and beds of vegetables interspersed by tunnels of sweet peas, runner beans and gourds.
Hyde Hall has always been a dynamic garden, constantly changing to meet the various challenges the site and soil have produced. Impressive at any time of year, this 360 acre Royal Horticultural Society garden also hold events throughout the year.
A pretty town, with a great mile long sandy beach. Relax and soak up the atmosphere before mooching around the shops and maybe playing some golf in Walton-on-Naze. Try your hand at some watersports and have a stroll along the promenade with its many beach huts.
West Cliff Theatre is a premier venue in Clacton-on-Sea, it is located in a beautiful retro building close to the beach. This historic venue is full of charm and character and represents what a theatre stood for. It is run by volunteers who do a fantastic job, so professional, you will find them to be so friendly and helpful. They show a diverse and interesting selection of productions with comedy, drama, live bands, tribute acts, dance, musicals, local talent and much more available. The bar is well stocked and the prices are very reasonable, there is also a small shop where you can purchase sweets and drinks. It is an intimate venue, that is clean and well maintained. The auditorium is lovely, seating is well laid out and very comfortable and the lighting and acoustics are excellent. West Cliff Theatre is a real community theatre that the locals are lucky to have, a real gem and it shows a fabulous selection of shows with something to appeal to everyone with the extra benefit of excellent customer service, it makes for a great night out.
The Port of Felixstone is Britain's largest and most hectic container port, as well as being one of the biggest in Europe. They employ more than 2,500 people and deal with more than 3,000 ships every year and in excess of 3.7 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units annually. The largest container vessel in the world MSC Oscar made its maiden call at the Port of Felixstowe. If you have an interest in seeing a major and busy port in action then you will get the perfect opportunity here at the Port of Felixstowe. See the containers being loaded and unloaded and moved around the yard, it is a mesmerising sight to see a well organised and sleek operation in full flow.
Voted one of the top 5 market towns in the country, Maldon is set on the estuaries of the rivers Blackwater and Crouch. Dating back to Saxon times, Maldon is now famous for its sea salt, maritime links and, for those brave enough to take part, the Mud Race! Alternatively, wander along the promenade to Hythe Quay to see the old barges; originally used for transporting goods to London they now take day trippers up and down the river.
River Walk is a linear park that was founded more than forty years ago, it is a space that extends through the middle of Witham. The area comprises of wetlands, amenity grassland, meadow areas, tree and copse areas and a pond. With the great variety of wild areas it makes for a great home for birds, insects, flora and fauna. There are also more formal areas where you can stop and have a picnic or watch the ducks. The walk can be reached along most of the river and it mostly level with wide paths, making it accessible to all. The area is well maintained, clean and tidy and provides lovely walks. River Walk is pleasant and peaceful and a real benefit to the town.
Witham Public Hall has been an integral part of the local community for in excess of one hundred years, and continues to play an important role as an entertainment venue. This multi purpose venue is located in a charming historic building that has undergone many upgrades to become a premier venue for a night out. The theatre is comfortable and cosy, the seating is not tiered but you are still able to see the stage and it is very comfortable, the lighting and acoustics are very good. The staff are very friendly and helpful and further enhance the experience here. There is a full bar with waitress service during productions, drinks are reasonably priced. The hall is used for a number of purposes such as fetes, Xmas bazaars, music nights, comedy nights, craft fairs and much more. Prices for performances are very reasonable and you are assured a great night out. Witham Public Hall is a brilliant community venue and something that all towns should have.
Snape Maltings is a great place for lots of different activities such as shopping in interesting specialist stores, listening to musical performances, visiting the farmers' markets and cafes and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
With 33 names, both high street and local independent retailers, this is a great shopping centre with a fresh and modern look in the traditional market town.
Genting Casino in Margate offers the best night out, one full of fun, excitement and entertainment. There is the opportunity to play all your favourite casino games and more here. The casino has a relaxed atmosphere and is clean and well managed. They are open daily from 11.00am to 6.00am with live gaming from 2.00pm. Staff are friendly, interactive and above all professional ensuring a great night out. The dress code is smart casual. Membership is not necessary and you have to be over eighteen to enjoy the facilities, identification will be requested if you look under the age of twenty one. There is a bar that is lively, trendy and stylish and offers a great selection of drinks, in addition there is a restaurant that serves a good selection of hot and cold dishes including a number of favourite dishes and daily specials, they are freshly cooked, tasty and reasonably priced.
Bugsy's Tenpin Bowling is a family run establishment that is ideally located near to the beaches of Margate. It is a spacious, and bright facility that is clean and well maintained. It comprises of twelve lanes as well as American pool and snooker tables, and a gaming arcade. In addition there is a fully licenced bar and diner that serves fresh food, throughout the day, portions are large, the food is tasty and the prices are reasonable. The prices here are very competitive and they also have a range of special offers. The customer service is very good and the staff are very friendly and attentive. Bugsy's Tenpin Bowling offers a friendly and welcoming bowling experience at very reasonable prices.
The Droit House is located on Stone Pier in Margate, it is a charming Grade II listed building that has underwent a careful restoration project and now serves as a Visitor Information Centre. A range of servicess are offered here from assistance in booking accommodations or theatre tickets, to information on local events as well as maps, visitor guides and brochures on the local area and neighbouring towns. You will also find a collction of temporary exhibits here, generally by local artists. The centre is open daily throughout the year, opening times vary depending on the time of year. The staff who work here are very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and happy to make suggestions of things to see and do whilst visiting the region. A useful centre if you are visting for the first time.
Enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and take a ride on an award winning period country railway. A pretty line, relocated station buildings, signal boxes and bridges, all lovingly restored and rebuilt.
Walpole Bay Hotel Museum is ideally located close to the seafront in Margate, it is a charming and eloquent historic building. Stepping through the doors of this unique hotel is similar to taking a step back in time, it represents a golden age of glamour and luxury in history. First built in 1914 and further extended in 1927, the current owners are striving to recreate this old world glamour and are doing very well. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with many interesting and original features on show many are immediately evident not least the 1927 Otis trellis gated lift, and gas lamps that are still operational as well as the open fireplaces. It is a living museum and all around you in the Reception, the Lounge, Bar and Dining Room are display cabinets that are filled with lots of interesting artefacts and antiques from a bygone era, like toys, Victorian dolls, prams, sailors uniforms, golliwogs, glasses and much more. All five floors of the Walpole contain interesting exhibits, paintings and photographs. Outside is a delightful and relaxing flowered deck that provides lovely sea views. There is no charge to visit the museum. The staff are lovely, very friendly and helpful, nothing is too much bother. Walpole Bay Hotel Museum is a quirky but thoroughly unique hotel with a fabulous collection of original items, furniture, wallpaper and much more, a real Aladdin's cave.
Theatre Royal is a charming historic grade II listed Georgian theatre ideally located in the heart of Margate. It is a cultural and entertainment hub here in the local community showcasing a diverse programme of touring dance, drama and recognised comedy acts. It is an amazing venue, this charming building is beautiful with many fine original features and it has a lovely friendly atmosphere and represents what a theatre should be. It is not a huge theatre and therefore makes for an intimate and quaint venue where you van get involved with the show and even have the opportunity to meet with the performers at the end. It is cosy and comfortable and the seating is roomy, the lighting and acoustics are excellent. There are a couple of nice bars where you can enjoy pre-show drinks. The staff throughout are great, friendly, helpful and very professional in their approach, making for a pleasant experience. Theatre Royal gives you a glimpse into how theatres used to be, although old fashioned it has all the modern conveniences, fabulous shows, reasonably priced tickets and assures an excellent theatre experience overall.
Felixstowe Museum is an intimate museum and is located at Languard Point next to the Dock Viewing Area, a short distance from the town centre. The museum is home to an interesting and diverse collection of exhibits including military, archaeology and social history, spanning the past 300-400 years. The museum is well laid out even though it is awkwardly shaped, the rooms are well lit and spacious. There is a number of permanent and temporary exhibits that are frequently changed so there is always something new to see. They are open throughout the year, from 1.00pm to 5.00pm, and the opening days are different depending on the season and there is a small admission charge, full details can be obtained from the website. There is a tea room where you can get a selection of hot and cold beverages as well as snacks, there is seating inside and outside for those nice days. The Museum shop stocks a nice range of gifts and souvenirs with something to suit everyone and all reasonably priced. The staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable on both the exhibits in the museum and the local area and will answer any questions you might have. Throughout the year they organise a number of events with many aimed at younger visitors they are both fun and interesting, with lots of activities to keep everyone entertained. Felixstowe Museum has something to cater to all ages and interests, it is an informative and interesting museum that is also inexpensive, you could easily spend several hours walking around, a real gem and a credit to Felixstowe.
Landguard Fort is a formidable structure situated on a split of land close to Felixstowe at the mouth of the River Orwell, it served well as a defence for many years and has a long and distinguished history. The actual site was the last opposed seaborne invasion of England in 1667 as well as the first land battle of the Royal Marines. The current fort was constructed in the 18th century, was altered in the 19th century and underwent major extension in the 19th and 20th century. There are guided and audio tours of the fort available, these are accompanied by an audio-visual presentation, detailing the site's history, as well as life size figures demonstrating life here. It is a bit eerie walking through the dark corridors. The different rooms cover various subjects of military life. The fort is open from March through to November from 10.00 am to 5.00pm and there is a small charge for entry, children under five are free. During the year they organise various activities and reenactments, full details can be obtained from the website. There is a small gift shop that a selection of gifts in addition to drinks, ice creams and confectionery. Outside are picnic benches for your use. Landguard Fort is both historic and interesting and gives an insight into the counytrys military history, in addition to having some amazing views across the River Orwell.
Lots of hands-on exhibits that will appeal to children and adults alike. There are displays on castle prisons and medieval and Norman Colchester, so lots going on. (Wheelchair access to The Castle Museum, but is limited in the castle itself)
Home to a giant Woolly Mammoth, Egyptian gallery and artefacts from civilisations around the world, the museum in the historic town of Ipswich has something for everyone.
Sutton Hoo is a treasure trove of archaeological fascination. In one of the burial mounds a royal Anglo Saxon ship-burial was discovered. The grave is thought to be that of Raedwald, King of the Angles and Overlord of England. In addition to the burial ground there are some great displays on early English history.(Restricted wheelchair access)
Orford Castle's excellent site and distinctive construction allowed the garrison command of the field of fire without exposure to the enemy. The impressively preserved keep is of unusual polygonal design, with the addition of three rectangular towers and a forebuilding.
Witham Town Hall is located on Newland Street. You will find the Information Centre at the front of the Town Hall Building and offers all the information that you require on Witham and the surrounding area. There are leaflets and a number of visitor guides providing all the information needed with regard to places to visit and accommodations. You can also book tickets to shows here. The centre is open Monday to Friday. The staff here are very friendly and helpful, with lots of knowledge on the local area. Also on offer here are a choice of gifts, including souvenirs, local books, cards and postcards.
ST Nicholas Church is located in the town of Witham, it is a warm and welcoming congregation that you will encounter here. The current church dates to the 14th century and continues to be a place of worship, solace and reflection for those that enter through its doors. It still has regular services on a Sunday and Thursday. Many of the features in the church are thought to be the original including the porch, door and oak pews. The interior is decorative with stone quoins and columns, and the nave roof is pretty with its exposed rafters and beams. The bell tower extends to sixty five feet and is home to a peal of eight bells that hang from a cast iron frame, it is an impressive structure with large buttresses at the corners and gargoyles below the roof parapet. St Nicholas Church is a lovely historic church that offers a place of tranquillity and worship, very friendly and welcoming parishioners.
A most important Templar site, Cressing Temple has a calendar packed with great events to suit everyone, from jousting knights to history brought alive with re-enactments from down the ages and activity days for children.
Discover the history and natural world of East Anglia in this beautiful 75 acre site. Fascinating East Anglian crafts, traditional Gypsy culture, huge Suffolk Punch horses and rare breed sheep and pigs are among the attractions.
A superlative moated Tudor manor, Kentwell's restored interior includes a working Tudor kitchen and Hall with minstrels' gallery, while the gardens feature a Tudor Rose pavement maze and a Camera Obscura. Kentwell hosts historical Tudor and 1940s re-creations throughout the year.
The Woodbridge Museum provides a chronological look at the development of Woodbridge. The area began as an Anglo Saxon settlement then evolved into a Medieval market town. Learn more about what life was like through the centuries as Woodbridge moved on to become a ship building centre and garrison during the Napoleonic wars.
Framlingham is an impressive late 12th-century castle built by Roger Bigod, Earl of Norfolk. It was designed both as a stronghold and to reflect the power and status of one of the most influential people at the court of the Plantagenet kings. (Disabled access in grounds and on ground floor only)
The Shell Grotto is located at Grotto Hill in Margate, which, is just a normal street, it was accidentally found in 1835, and it is not known how or when the Grotto came about, but it is now a Grade I listed structure. This unique venue is home to 4.6 million shells, seventy feet of winding underground passages that take you to a rectangular chamber, in total 2,000 square feet is covered in mosaics that create wonderful and intricate patterns and symbols, it must have some commitment and dedication to create this mesmerising mosaic. The grotto is constructed of a mixture of cockles, whelks, mussels and oysters that are showing some wear but, unfortunately owing to their delicate nature not much preservation work can be done. Access is via a chalk stairway to the small chamber. The Grotto is open daily and opening times vary depending on the time of the year and there is a small charge for admission, full details are on the website. During the year they organise a a number of events, talks and performances again details are on the website. There is a small gift shop, that sells pretty shells, books, fossils and cards, and a tea shop, the staff are lovely, friendly and helpful. The Shell Grotto has a certain air of mystique and intrigue as no one knows how it came about, it is a unique experience and should not be missed if you are in the area.
Margate Museum is located in an attractive heritage and listed building that previously served as a police station, it is not far from the sea front and is tucked away in Margate's bustling Old Town. It is not a particularly large museum and is located over two floors and depicts the history of Margate and its people, the growth of the town as well as its prominent position as a seaside town in Britain, it also covers the towns culture and heritage. There is a diverse and interesting collection of exhibits ranging from an Iron Age burial pit to a Victorian ambulance and exhibits on WWII, there is lots of memorabilia, information on maritime Margate, old prints, models, paintings and maps tracing the towns history, interesting facts, it also has temporary exhibits that change frequently and cover a whole range of topics. The police cells are still downstairs and the court upstairs so it has a real atmospheric feel about it and you get a sense of what it would have been like to be held in these cramped cells waiting to go to the courts to see what your fate was going to be! It is well laid out and the displays are clear with lots of attention to detail. The staff are excellent extremely friendly and above all very knowledgeable, they are more than happy to show you around and answer any questions that you might have. The museum is open throughout the year on various days, the website has full details, there is a small charge for entry for adults and an additional charge to visit the Tudor House which, is located nearby. Margate Museum is a real treasure of a museum full of interesting information with lots to appeal to all ages and interests, full of interesting facts and exciting exhibits, a must if you are visiting the Margate area, you will not be disappointed.
The Leigh Library invites travellers to take a break from their journey to explore the printed page. This facility contains many intriguing titles as well as supplemental materials on a wide range of well-researched topics. Photocopying and faxing service are offered as well as computer access. Visitors should check for opening times before stopping by.
