Top Places to See When Driving From Basildon to Clacton-on-Sea

England is home to several beautiful towns and cities, each with its own charm and history. Basildon and Clacton-on-Sea are two such places that offer an unforgettable experience to its visitors. Located approximately 35 miles apart, a drive from Basildon to Clacton-on-Sea can be a delightful journey filled with scenic beauty and magnificent viewpoints.

If you're planning a road trip to Clacton-on-Sea from Basildon, you must explore the following places to make your trip worthwhile.

Fascinating Spots to Visit When Driving from Basildon to Clacton-on-Sea

1. Southend-on-Sea

Once you leave Basildon and drive onto the A13 towards Clacton-on-Sea, you'll come across Southend-on-Sea. Located on the Thames Estuary, Southend-on-Sea is an iconic seaside town known for its adventure sports and amusement parks. The town boasts a 7-mile-long beach that offers an array of water sports, including windsurfing, jet skiing, and kite surfing. You can also take a stroll along the seafront promenade, which provides an excellent view of the coastline. For entertainment, you can visit Adventure Island, one of the UK's largest amusement parks, and enjoy its rollercoasters, giant swings, and water rides.

2. Hanningfield Reservoir

A short 15-minute drive from Basildon towards Chelmsford will take you to the Hanningfield Reservoir, which is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. The Hanningfield Reservoir is a tranquil, beautiful space covering over 870 acres and serves as a nature reserve. The reservoir provides large populations of birds and wildlife, such as Siberian Chiffchaff and shoveler ducks, which you can spot at designated bird hides.

3. Colchester Castle

If you're interested in historical monuments and castles, then the Colchester Castle must be added to your trip plan. Located approximately 23 miles from Basildon, Colchester Castle is a significant landmark of the town known to be England's oldest recorded city. The Colchester Castle-Museum is home to a fantastic collection of artifacts that represent the town's rich cultural and historical heritage since the Roman era. The castle's beautiful architecture and picturesque gardens are other reasons to visit it.

4. St Peters Chapel

St Peters Chapel is located in Bradwell-on-Sea, a small village located a few miles away from Clacton-on-Sea, and is an essential part of English-history. It is believed to be one of the most ancient churches in England and dates back to the 7th century, when St Cedd established it. The chapel's architecture is simple, yet elegant, and you'll feel transported to ancient times when you set foot in this chapel. You can also enjoy a picturesque view of the North Sea from here.

5. Jaywick Martello Tower

Your journey from Basildon to Clacton-on-Sea is incomplete if you don't make a stopover at the Jaywick Martello tower. The tower was constructed in the 19th century during the Napoleonic wars to serve as a defense tower against French invasion. Today, it serves as a museum where you can immerse yourself in the town's local history, culture, and creativity. You'll find exhibitions of artwork, poetry, and several types of music composed by local artists.

Conclusion

From stunning architecture and natural reserves to adventure parks, the drive from Basildon to Clacton-on-Sea is full of excitement and adventure. With a mix of historical sites and seaside attractions, this journey has something for everyone. Whether you're traveling solo or with family, these places are a must-visit. So, plan your trip today and discover the beauty of England's coastal towns.