Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
The nicest Clacton days are often the least complicated: a walk by the water, something hot to eat, a few hours on the pier and no great rush to be anywhere else.
Clacton has the cheerful energy you want from a British seaside town, but it is easy to find a quieter side too. Whether you are here with children, visiting as a couple or simply craving a change of scene, this is how we would spend the time.
01
Start with the pier
Clacton Pier is the town at its most lively. There are fairground rides, arcades, bowling, adventure golf, go-karts and soft play, so it works just as well for an excitable six-year-old as it does for adults who fancy a harmlessly competitive afternoon.
You do not need to tackle everything. Pick a ride, wander out over the North Sea and leave room for the sort of seaside snack you would never order at home. That is part of the pleasure.
Our tip: Save the arcades for a grey spell and make the most of the open deck when the sun appears.
02
Give the beach proper time
It is tempting to treat the beach as the view on the way to somewhere else. Don’t. Bring a towel, a book or a bucket and settle in. West Beach has gently shelving sand and sits beside Martello Bay, about a mile from the town centre, making it a good choice when you want a little more breathing room.
Even when it is too cool for swimming, the seafront is lovely for a walk. The wind clears your head, the horizon does its work, and coffee always tastes better afterwards.
03
Walk, cycle or get out on the water
A holiday does not always need an attraction attached to it. Follow the seafront on foot, bring bikes for a family ride, or head inland towards Great Bentley if you would like a longer route and a glimpse of the countryside around Clacton.
Water sports are available along the coast when conditions allow, and Clacton’s airfield also offers pleasure flights for anyone who would rather see the shoreline from above. It is worth checking directly with local operators before setting out, especially outside summer.
“Leave a little empty space in the day. Clacton is good at filling it for you.”
04
Make an evening of it
Clacton is not only a daytime town. The Princes Theatre and West Cliff Theatre both host a lively mix of comedy, music, family shows and seasonal performances. A theatre night is also a very good answer to a rainy forecast.
Check what is on before your stay and book anything you really care about. Then have an early dinner, take your seats and enjoy the pleasure of having nowhere to drive afterwards but home.
05
Browse the town, then hunt for a bargain
The town centre mixes familiar names with independent shops and plenty of places to stop for lunch. If you enjoy a proper browse, Clacton Shopping Village is just outside town and brings together outlet stores across fashion, homeware, footwear and more.
Keep this one in reserve for a cooler day—or for when the suitcase still has space.
06
Come for the airshow
The two-day Clacton Airshow, usually held in August, is one of the big dates in the town’s calendar. The seafront fills up, aircraft sweep over the water and the whole place feels wonderfully festive.
If your visit falls that week, plan ahead: accommodation and parking get busy. For the current programme and travel advice, check the official event information before you go.
Make a few days of it
Come back somewhere comfortable
A good day by the sea deserves an easy evening. Take a look at our Clacton holiday homes and find a place where you can unpack, slow down and stay a little longer.
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