You guessed it, folks – I come bearing yet another scenic spot to add to your ever-lengthening list of places to make a beeline for if you need to escape the chaos of the capital and inhale some actual fresh air for the first time in months. And today’s dreamy day-trip destination comes in the form of Wivenhoe, a teeny-tiny tranquil town in Essex that offers history and charm in equal measure.
Wivenhoe, Essex
Picture-perfectly perched on the banks of the River Colne, the town of Wivenhoe boasts a backstory rooted in fishing, ship-building, and smuggling. The town is thought to be of Saxon origin and is recorded in the Domesday Book – and its oldest building is the church of St Mary the Virgin, which has stood proudly on the high street since (at least) 1254. So, it’s a town with some tales to tell, to say the least.
Much of Wivenhoe is part of a dedicated Conservation area, and many of the town’s picture-perfect streets not only look like they’ve leapt from the pages of a storybook, but are also of significant architectural interest. Its picturesque streets, vibrant art scene, and gorgeous waterside location make Wivenhoe the perfect alternative to Whitstable – without quite so many crowds. But admittedly Wivenhoe doesn’t really hold a candle to Whitstable if you’re looking for the incomparable charm of the seaside.
Wivenhoe is home to plently of independent spots, boasting a bookshop, a chemist, a toyshop, a coffee shop, an art gallery, and five pubs – because, well… they clearly have their priorities in order, hey? There are some rather gorgeous walking routes in the area, ranging from casual strolls to more advanced hikes. And having been named one of the best places to live by the Times last year, we wouldn’t certainly wouldn’t blame you if – upon arrival – you immediately want to snap up one of those pastel-coloured cottages for yourself.
Getting to Wivenhoe from London
Wivenhoe is approximately a 90 minute drive from London and there’s ample paid-parking available once you get there. Non-drivers can hop on a direct service from Stratford London to Wivenhoe, which takes under an hour.
