Essex Coast

Built in 1808 to guard Harwich harbour against invasion by Napoleon's forces, this sturdy circular fortress is now a fascinating heritage site. It houses some fine displays of large guns, as well as military uniforms and memorabilia.

Harwich's most famous landmark is a 90-foot, nine-sided tower which was built in 1818 to serve as one of two lighthouses for the port. Today it houses the collection of the National Vintage Wireless and Television Museum.

Hailing from the heyday of British shipping, LV18 is the only surviving lightship not to have been stripped of its accommodation and has been restored by volunteers. It still contains the original crew quarters, galley, mess room and six Gardner diesel generators.

Reputedly Essex's smallest complete church, St Mary's is most famous for its east window, which has four panels of stained glass designed by the famous Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones.

Housed in a 19th century lifeboat station, this interesting little museum tells the story of Walton's seafaring heritage and the town's brave lifeboat crews. Amongst the museum’s collections are the former lifeboats James Stevens No 14 and City of Leicester.

Opened in 1911, this is one of the country's oldest purpose-built cinemas and has survived with its silent screen, projection room and ornamental frontage intact. It is now a distinctive community venue for films and live music.

The Frinton Summer Theatre has been presenting a varied programme of plays and musicals for over 75 years. It was featured in a TV documentary, On Stage in Frinton, broadcast on BBC Four in 2015.

Soaring 86 feet above the coastline, this historic 18th century landmark has been converted into an art gallery which shows works by established and up-and-coming artists. Head up to the roof platform for amazing panoramic views.

With its stunning art deco interior, the Princes Theatre is a great venue to enjoy music, plays, opera, ballet, comedy and children's shows.

This charming 600-seat seaside theatre features a year-round programme of entertainment, including a traditional summer season variety show.

Slow paced and unashamedly allied to a bygone era, Frinton is all about enjoying simple, timeless pleasures. One of the most popular pastimes is a stroll or a picnic by the sea on the long stretch of cliff-top grass known as the Greensward.

Taking its name from the old English for nose, the Naze stretches three miles northwards from the town. The 70-foot-high cliffs are rich in fossils and there are two protected wildlife habitats: the John Weston Nature Reserve and Hamford Water.

Packed with family attractions, including rides, amusements, ten-pin bowling, restaurants and a 5D cinema, this impressive, hi-tech complex is a seaside fun park for the 21st century.

There's fun for all the family whatever the weather on Clacton Pier. Attractions include rides, amusements, adventure golf, video games, cafes and the SeaQuarium marine life centre.

The second longest pier in Britain is home to one of the world's longest established amusement parks. Attractions include funfair rides, ten-pin bowling, amusements and the Seaspray Diner for snacks and drinks.

Whatever takes your fancy, however much you want to spend, you'll find a place to eat that fits the bill. The choice ranges from traditional seaside eateries to fine dining establishments specialising in cooking from around the world. Clacton and Walton both offer a wide range of budget and mid-priced eateries, while Frinton is the favourite for foodies with several excellent restaurants, including Franck's and Avenue Bistro, the latter having a large terrace for al fresco summer dining. The Pier at Harwich harbour is a boutique hotel and restaurant, run by the well-respected Milsom family.

If take away is more up your street, you'll find plenty of options in Clacton, Walton and Harwich. There's everything from traditional chippies to big brands such as Subway and McDonalds.