The Essex Way

Places of Interest

The Electric Palace Cinema in Harwich is Britain's oldest purpose-built cinema, now lovingly restored by volunteers.  You can now enjoy a film in Edwardian splendour. 

The Half Penny Pier with its charming 19th century ticket office, this used to be the departure point for steamships to the Continent.  Today, there are ferry trips across the harbour mouth to Felixstowe, and along the Rivers Stour and Orwell.

The High and Low Lighthouses in Harwich were built in alignment to act as a pair of leading lights.  Because of shifts in the channel outside the harbour the lights became known as 'misleading lights'.  The Low Lighthouse now houses a Maritime Museum, whilst the High Lighthouse marks the end of the Essex Way.

(information taken from The Essex Way booklet published by Essex County Council)

Tips from Len Banister, Secretary of the Essex Ramblers

The Ramblers’ Association is a charity.  By joining you provide the funds to enable us to improve the opportunities for walkers all over Britain.

Once you have joined you will receive all kinds of goodies: a handbook which, besides other things, lists walker-friendly accommodation throughout the country; a top class magazine, walk; discounts from clothing suppliers etc.  Belonging also enables you to volunteer if you wish – you might want to help us survey paths; join our committees; help maintain footpaths; or lead walks.

All Groups run a programme of walks which members can join as an alternative to walking on their own.  These walking groups provide a social as well as a recreational outlet – there are in the region of 50 different led walks available in Essex each week.