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Essex has the country’s longest coastline. The University of Essex – Colchester Campus is well located for a day of adventure and fresh sea air. So if you are an Essex student then continue reading to find out what beaches you may visit in your spare time!

A University Of Essex Student Should Go To Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea is a small seaside village located between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, at the mouth of the River Colne and Brightlingsea Creek. Take a stroll down the Western Promenade to visit Bateman’s Tower, which is listed as Grade II. If you enjoy sailing, Brightlingsea Beach is the place to go!

Explore Mersea Island

Mersea Island’s coastline is dotted with beaches. Mersea Island is about eight miles south of Colchester on the Essex coast. There is no railway station on the island, however, buses from Colchester run frequently. Check the tide timings before you visit since the causeway onto the island, The Strood is inaccessible at high tides.

West Mersea Beach

This south-west facing sand and pebble beach is about a 20-minute drive from campus. It offers views of the Blackwater Estuary. There is a great picnic area nearby where you and your guests may have a beach meal. If you want to sample some of the local eateries, West Mersea Oyster Bar and The Duke’s Seafood are located just across from the quay.

East Mersea

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Visit Cudmore Grove Country Park and walk the beaches. East Mersea has a rugged coastal terrain that is ideal for beachcombing. If you’re interested in history, check for the ruins of a listed Tudor blockhouse here.

If you don’t mind travelling, the following beaches are ideal for you to visit:

Clacton Beach

Clacton Beach is about a 30-minute drive away. The beach stretches for miles and features a fine Victorian pier as a centrepiece. So an Essex Student you should take advantage of the chance to watch the sunset, have a picnic, or perhaps some fish and chips with your pals. On the beach, you may engage in a variety of sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and windsurfing.

Clacton Pavilion
University Of Essex | Essex Student | Budget Friendly Essex Beach Trips

Nearby Arcade To The University Of Essex

The Clacton Pavilion is a short walk away. This is a modern arcade and theme park venue, so get your tickets at the door to win some cool goodies. To read more about what the Pavilion facilities offer click here.

Walton-On-The-Naze Beach

The beach in Walton-on-the-Naze is very pleasant and convenient. The beach is about a 30-minute drive away so it is a perfect destination for a beach day away. There are lots of parking nearby, and the train station is literally on the shore so it is very easy to get to. Walton-on-the-Naze not only has a beautiful sandy beach but also has the second-longest pier in the United Kingdom. The sand here is just right for making sandcastles! After a day at the beach, an Essex student should visit Walton town for shopping, fantastic pubs, and cuisine.


You can find out more about the university’s suggestions by clicking here.