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With its long coastline, Essex has no shortage of lovely beaches to take a family winter walk on. Many of the beaches provide wide open spaces, fresh sea air and beautiful views that make them ideal for a brisk winter stroll. Here are some of the top beaches in Essex for a family walk this winter.
Frinton on Sea Beach
Frinton on Sea Beach is a great option for a winter family walk, and popular with families fostering with orangegrovefostercare.co.uk. The beach is very spacious, providing plenty of room to walk and run during the quieter winter months. The gentle slope and lack of waves make it a safe beach for children. There are various food and drink kiosks open during the winter, so you can warm up with a hot drink and snack after your walk. Toilets and free parking are also available nearby. The beach is accessible and pushchair friendly. Walk towards Walton on the Naze to take in beautiful coastal views.
Clacton on Sea Beach
Clacton on Sea Beach offers miles of golden sand that is perfect for blowing away the cobwebs with a winter walk. The beach slopes gently into the sea, creating a huge expanse of sand at low tide, ideal for stretching your legs. The pier provides a nice focal point to walk out to and take in the sea views. There are toilets and restaurants open all winter to provide refreshments during your walk. The beachfront area also has arcades and amusements if you want to make a day of it.
West Mersea Beach
West Mersea Beach is great for winter walks, with its textured shingle, sand flats, and salt marshes providing varied and interesting scenery. The coastal path along the back of the beach gives elevated views over the beach and sea. The quiet atmosphere and huge open skies provide space to breathe in the sea air and appreciate the tranquil beach during the winter. Stop for lunch at the Company Shed for their famous fresh oysters.
Chalkwell Beach
Chalkwell Beach is located on the outskirts of Southend. During winter, the beach is dramatically empty, making it perfect for an atmospheric walk. The backdrop of Victorian shelters and the cliff railway provide architectural interest. Walk along the grassy cliffs for far-reaching sea views and see how many ships you can spot. The beachside cafes are open during winter to stop at for a mug of hot chocolate after braving the elements.
Thorpe Bay Beach
Just east of Southend is Thorpe Bay Beach, with its traditional seaside architecture such as the Grand Hotel and bandstand. The long stretch of coastline provides plenty of space for a brisk winter walk. Start at Thorpe Bay pier and make your way down to Chalkwell to take in the fresh sea views. There are toilets and cafes open during the winter months for refreshments during your walk. The beach is also fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Westcliffe Beach
Westcliffe Beach provides a quieter walk away from the busier town beaches. Enjoy wide open views and clean air as you stroll along the sand and shoreline. Look out for interesting pebbles, seashells, and sea glass along the way. The Blue Flag beach has excellent facilities, with toilets and a cafe open during winter. The gently sloping beach provides safe access to the water if you’re brave enough to dip your toes in! With plenty of space, fresh air, and picturesque views, Westcliffe Beach makes for an invigorating winter walk.
With lovely scenery and open spaces, the beaches of Essex provide the ideal spots for family-friendly winter walks by the sea. Just remember to wrap up warmly! Getting some fresh air on a winter’s day is a great way to boost your mood and enjoy quality family time.