Saltmarsh Coast

Our picturesque coastline is made up of 75 miles of stunning landscapes and beautiful wilderness. Experience panoramic views across the wild low lying Dengie Marshes between the Blackwater and Crouch estuaries.

The Saltmarsh Coast is an important wildlife habitat, with plenty of open spaces, tidal estuaries, traditional villages and historic towns. It is the perfect destination to stretch your legs and discover something new.

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Your Saltmarsh Coast Journey

Along the coastline of the Maldon District, five Saltmarsh Coast Hubs have been installed. Providing the opportunity to learn interesting facts about this fascinating part of the Essex Coast, the hubs can be found at Tollesbury, Heybridge Basin, Bradwell-on-Sea and Burnham-on-Crouch.

Additionally, audio posts and signs will help guide your journey along our coastline. This work has been undertaken as part of the Maldon District Council’s Dengie Gateway Project funded by the Coastal Community’s Fund.

Explore more of the Saltmarsh Coast by walking circular coastal routes in Goldhanger, Steeple and Mundon. Exploring historic villages, rolling farmland and gorgeous views of the Blackwater Estuary, Osea Island and Mundon Creek. Visit our Walking page for more information!

Saltmarsh Towns

The historic maritime town of Maldon is located at the mouth of the Blackwater Estuary and is known across the world for its connections to the Saltmarsh Coast, with the famous sea salt, iconic Thames Sailing Barges and the infamous mud race. It is the second oldest town in Essex and received a Royal Charter from Henry II in 1171.

Burnham-on-Crouch is located on the Dengie Peninsula and is a renowned yachting centre known as the 'Cowes of the East Coast' within sailing circles. This historic maritime town is also known for its oyster beds, boat building, and events such as the famous Burnham Week and Burnham Carnival.

Burnham's quayside is home to numerous pubs, cafés, and houseboats, as well as museums. Walking along the quay, you will pass Riverside Park, sailing clubs, and the RNLI lifeboat station. From Burnham Yacht Harbour, you can also take the ferry over to Wallasea Island.

Bradwell-on-Sea is a small village located on the south bank of the River Blackwater where it meets the North Sea. The village has had several names in the past, including Bradwell Juxta Mare and Bradwell near the Sea. This area on the eastern tip of the Dengie Peninsula has been inhabited since the time of Roman occupation in the third century.

Tollesbury is a historic maritime village located in the northern part of the Maldon District by the River Blackwater. Known as the village of 'Plough and Sail', it is an excellent place to explore for both walkers and wildlife enthusiasts. The village is also often used as a filming location due to its beautiful saltmarsh landscape.

Heybridge Basin is located where the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation canal meets the River Blackwater. It is a great place to enjoy a leisurely day with family and friends. The original village centred around the construction of the canal, and the cottages next to the lock were built for the canal workers in the late 18th century.

Explore more of the Saltmarsh Coast Trail by walking circular coastal routes in Goldhanger, Steeple and Mundon. Exploring historic villages, rolling farmland and gorgeous views of the Blackwater Estuary, Osea Island and Mundon Creek. Visit our Walking page for more information!
 

Saltmarsh Wildlife

The Saltmarsh Coast is home to a wealth of amazing and truly unique Essex landscapes and wildlife. From islands, woods and meadows, to shell banks, lakes and marshes, the Saltmarsh Coast is home to a wide range of diverse habitats. The Saltmarsh Coast features more than ten nature reserves along its coastline, offering you the chance to explore our natural landscape close up. The Saltmarsh Coast also has eight Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and three Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance.

Many of the nature reserves are managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust, RSPB and National Trust. These reserves are ideal for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone who wants to experience the diverse habitats of the Maldon District.

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