Weekend in Clacton-on-Sea

A mile-long Victorian pier with free access to the promenade, offering sea views, arcades, and amusement rides (pay per ride).

Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for quieter walks; the Cod’n’Chips shack at the far end does a decent cheap lunch.

A wide, sandy beach stretching along the coast. Popular for paddling, sandcastles and picnics. The promenade has free benches and some shelter.

Tip: Head west of the pier (towards Holland-on-Sea) for quieter stretches. The sand is cleanest after a high tide.

A stretch of grassy clifftop parkland with benches, flowerbeds, and good views out to sea. Paths run along the top and down to the beach. Popular for picnics and dog walking.

Tip: Head to the east end near the War Memorial for a quieter spot with fewer families. The gardens get busy on sunny weekends—come on a weekday morning.

Early 20th-century building with a clock tower and Edwardian architecture. Free to view from outside; limited public interior access.

Tip: Stand on the south side for the best photo of the tower against the sky. Check council events – some have free open days.

Long sandy beach with groynes and a wide promenade. Good for walking, paddling, and bucket-and-spade stuff. The tide goes out a fair way, so the water stays shallow for kids.

Tip: Head east past the pier for quieter stretches and better shelling. The west end near the Martello Tower gets busy with families.

A restored 1905 cliff lift connecting the seafront to Marine Parade East. Free to ride down; small charge for up-ride (50p). The top gives panoramic sea views.

Tip: Use the stairs if you want to save the 50p—only 60 steps—but the lift is a charming novelty, especially during sunset.

During the annual Clacton Airshow in August, the seafront offers free public viewing of aerobatic displays, vintage aircraft, and military flypasts. Best spots are along the beach and the pier.

Tip: Arrive by 10am to claim a spot near the pier—the Red Arrows usually perform around 2pm. Bring a picnic and foldable chair; parking fills up fast.

Sandy beach with a mix of golden sand and shingle, backed by a promenade. Shallow waters good for paddling.

Tip: Head east towards the breakwater for quieter spots. Bring a windbreak – it can get breezy. No lifeguard south of pier.

A long stretch of sandy beach backed by formal flower gardens with benches, a paddling pool, and a miniature railway (small fee).

Tip: Pack a picnic; the Sun Deck café has reasonable coffee but skip the overpriced ice cream van near the jetty.

Small local museum run by volunteers in a former church. Displays on seaside history, Victorian life, and local fossils.

Tip: Call ahead before visiting – opening hours are sporadic and depend on volunteer availability. The fossil collection is the highlight.