“At one stage I thought I was at one of the secret locations we visited in Lanzarote” reads a review of Irlam’s Beach.
This hidden treasure on the north-east coast of Essex is so secluded and pristine that it often doesn’t even register on satellite navigation. Its elusive location ensures visitors can enjoy tranquillity, solitude, and if fortune favours them, an entire beach to themselves – perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach holiday.
Indeed, this untouched haven remains largely unknown outside of the local community.
Irlam’s Beach (also spelt as Earlham’s Beach) is a concealed jewel along the Essex coastline. Located near Dovercourt Bay, this secluded sandy beach is just a short distance from Harwich – a bustling international shipping port providing ferry services across the North Sea to the Netherlands.
Surrounded by marshland and sand dunes, Irlam’s Beach offers a serene escape from the typical tourist throngs of Essex. Its golden sands and grassy dunes provide an idyllic backdrop for admiring the sea views towards the docks further up the coast, reports the Mirror.
For those with a passion for maritime activities, the beach’s position affords a unique chance to watch ships not only bound for Harwich but also Felixstowe, another larger port located across the River Stour. On particularly quiet days, you may even spot more fishing boats than fellow beachgoers.
Though petite, Irlam’s Beach is brimming with picturesque allure. Predominantly marshland, it offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking peace and quiet.
A set of steps lead down to the beach and water’s edge, where you’ll discover charming stepping stones in the shallows, adding a whimsical element to this peaceful coastal sanctuary.
While it certainly invites a paddle in the water, this isn’t your conventional beach. It serves more as a spot for exploration and relaxation, perfect for bringing along a good book and losing yourself in the rugged charm of Essex’s coastline.
Despite its exposed and breezy character, you can find some respite by tucking yourself behind the dunes.
Irlam’s Beach is ideally suited for activities such as sunbathing, beachcombing, and leisurely strolls along the shoreline. While it may not be a surfer’s dream, the gentle waves create the ideal setting for paddling or simply basking in the serene sea atmosphere.
It’s also a top spot for fishing enthusiasts, with species like bass, eel, flounder, and mullet plentiful. The nearby mudbanks, rocky areas, and creeks provide ample opportunities for anglers.
While it’s not advisable to swim where the marshland converges with the sea, this location is perfect for a spot of mud-larking. However, visitors are warned to be mindful of the tides.
The beach is beautifully decorated with wildflowers and fortunate visitors may catch sight of cabbage butterflies, bees, and water birds during their visit. It’s also a dog-friendly beach, making it an ideal spot to bring along your canine companion.
Dovercourt Bay in Harwich is a popular destination, boasting its own caravan park, but just along the coast lies the largely undiscovered Irlam’s Beach. Situated along the breathtaking Harwich coastline, Irlam’s Beach reveals itself with its uniquely dark and fine sand, offering a seaside experience that contrasts sharply with the typical golden-sand beaches found throughout Britain.
Moreover, this seemingly unassuming stretch of coast has played a significant role in historical events over time. The shoreline has a fascinating maritime heritage, having served as a vital defensive and commercial centre throughout the centuries, adding a captivating historical layer to this peaceful coastal haven.
Visitors are encouraged to pack plenty of refreshments, as Irlam’s Beach has limited facilities, so it’s crucial to come prepared. Additionally, there are no lifeguards stationed on this section of the beach.
One enchanted beachgoer left a glowing review on The Beach Guide, stating: “Lovely find today really enjoyed our walk there. At one stage I thought I was at one of the secret locations we visited in Lanzarote. Really enjoyed it.”
On Google, another reviewer expressed their admiration: “Beautiful place to walk and enjoy the nature of the foreshore. At the right time of day you have the whole beach to yourself.”
Echoing these sentiments, a different visitor shared their heartfelt praise: “A wonderful spot that could be anywhere on earth , no shops, no loos, no nothing, bring everything you need as there is nothing here but nature and the sea. Simply wonderful, I hope it never changes.”