The sun has started to shine again as we approach spring in the UK, and what better way to enjoy it than a day at the beach.
We all need a break every now and then from our every day commitments and stresses. So taking some time for ourselves is important. While we all dream of taking a holiday abroad, it can be an expensive affair. Plus, there are plenty of beautiful locations in the UK that are just a short drive away – saving you hassle and money.
One beach spot has been described as “the best kept secret”. The idyllic location in Essex, just nine miles south east of Colchester, has a glowing reputation for its oustanding scenery, amazing beaches and famous, pastel beach huts which have been dubbed the UK’s most Instagrammable, according to Visit Mersea Island.
Vist Mersea Island said: “The island’s peaceful atmosphere, traditional fishing village community and beautiful views across the Blackwater Estuary make Mersea the ideal choice for holidays, family days out and a place where many decide to settle down to enjoy the quality of life that living on Mersea Island brings.”
Video shared across social media have left people stunned by its beauty. @hannahrebecca__ said: “You need to visit this beach in the UK. Can you believe this is in Essex?”
Another hailed it as “the best place”. Earlier this year London content creator Reiko visited the spot and described it as “the most aesthtic beachy island”.
Sharing more details about why she enjoyed it so much, she added: “Mersea Island I have heard so many good things about this place and of course the pastel colour houses so I visited the island with @lifeonmyplate yesterday and explored this instagram famous place.”
Reiko offered some tips to anyone planning on travelling to Mersea Island. She said plan your trip well, as there could be a high or low tide. She said: “For example, there’s no transportation (even if you drive) during high tide, meaning you can’t get in/out of the island. Check train schedule of Great Anglia because sometimes they do train maintenance during weekends so it might be having bus replacement services.”
She said when she went in September last year, the journey was “fine and smooth”. She travelled from London to Colchester, then got a £27 taxi to the beach and famous colourful huts.
Reiko added: “You can ask the taxi driver to drop you off once you see the beach huts, it’s a very nice walk and good to appreciate all these little houses. About five minutes you will arrive the pastel part. Wear colourful outfits to take some pretty pictures, you won’t regret!”
You can choose from either the east of west of the island. The west is a small fishing town with sandy beaches and a range of shops, pubs and restaurants.
Meanwhile, the east is the best area for dogs thanks to its large open spaces and natural, wild beaches. The west side is the most popular, and acts the hub of the island. Tourists love visiting Mersea Island Museum and the parish church to learn about the island’s history.
There are also an abundance of food and drink hot spots. Coast Road is home to some great eateries, from the Victory Hotel, The Company Shed, The Oyster Bar restaurant and The Coast Inn.
Other highly rated eateries on the island include the Mersea Island Fish Bar – perfect for seafood lovers, as well as Maria’a Vintage Tearoom, Coastal Coffee and The Dog & Pheasant.
For those who want to enjoy a boozy break, wine tasting could be for you. The stunning Mersea Island Vineyard stretches across 10 acres, and there are five grape varieties. The vineyard produces over 20,000 bottles each year.
Have you visited this UK hidden gem? Comment below.
