DISCOVER by land and sea

Official Town Guide 2020 COLNE CLUB Contents 4 Welcome to Brightlingsea WATER ACTIVITIES , racing, cruising, motorboats Est. 1845 reconstituted in Brightlingsea 1919 WALKS & NATURE 21 Coastal Rowing Club Cadets, paddleboarding, sail tuition & 6 Brightlingsea in Bloom 21 Pioneer Trust 6 Springmead Gardens 22 Colne Yacht Club socialising - we have something for 7 Footpaths 28 Foot Ferry Timetable everyone - young, old, or in between! 7 The Lozenge 28 Brightlingsea Sailing Club 7 The Colne Estuary MARITIME HISTORY Sail tuition in one of CYC’s three Paralympian gold medalist sailor 8 Open Gardens 30 All Saints’ Church Sonata keelboats used for training Hannah Stodel learned to sail aged and by CYC members just three! This CYC member is now FAMILY FUN 31 Brightlingsea Museum tuning up for the Vedee Globe 9 Brightlingsea Lido 32 Cinque Port Liberty 11 Classic Car Show & Fun Day 32 Brightlingsea History Hub 11 Horticultural & Dog Show 33 Smacks and 12 Boating Lake 34 Bateman’s Tower 12 Carnival Fun Day SOCIETIES/ARTS & CRAFTS Photos by kind permission of John Carr, Rolex and the RYA 13 How to go crabbing 35 Arts and Crafts FESTIVALS 35 Brightlingsea Masons 14 Brightlingsea Regatta SOCIAL & COMMUNITY 15 Blessing of the Waters 36 Older Wiser Links 16 Christmas Tree Festival 36 U3A 17 Free Music Festival INFORMATION Join us, you’ll be most welcome! 18 WinterFest 26 Town Map 20 Food and Drink Festival Yacht and keelboat racing If you are interested in messing about in 38 Town Directory Yacht & motorboat cruises boats and getting to know others who are Weekly cadet sail training sessions similarly inclined and friendly, would like to Dates for your Diary Annual cadet activity week know more about our eet of Sonata MAY 2-7 Pyefleet Week Keelboat training in our own eet of Sonatas Keelboats, our Cadet scheme for youngsters, 16 Lido opening 28-30 Food and Drink Festival Sonatas available for use by competent club or how to hire our facilities, simply call or JUNE 31 Town & Dog Show members (in return for a small charge) email us. Brightlingsea One Design classic racing 7 Blessing of the Waters SEPTEMBER Paddleboarding 20 Brightlingsea Carnival Fun Day 6 Classic Car Show Our club, which has incredible views over Socialising in our superb clubhouse 27-28 Open Gardens 12 Colne Race the Harbour, a fully stocked bar and an in- JULY NOVEMBER house kitchen, is available for hire and able 20-21 Brightlingsea Regatta 9 Firework Display, Town Hard Call today for details: to host all sorts of celebration, corporate 31 Brightlingsea Music Festival DECEMBER days and family events. 01206 302594 or AUGUST 4 Late Night Shopping 1-2 Brightlingsea Music Festival 12-13 Christmas Tree Festival [email protected] www.colneyachtclub.org.uk Cover picture –Jon Sturdy Photography 07956 317504 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 3 BL. Oct.. 2019 v.1

Photos: by kind permission of John Carr & the RYA Welcome to Brightlingsea Walks & Nature

Pic: Tim Bees

Brightlingsea is a fantastic place to live, and a wonderful place to visit! It was an island and still keeps that supporting community spirit yet is warm and welcoming, side , sailing and rowing Our sheltered estuaries and gentle coast- and has flower gigs, and the clubs have a busy calendar line are so rich in wildlife that Brightlingsea displays everywhere! including the Regatta. There is always has extensive national & international maritime activity to watch or take part in coastal wildlife protection designations. Pic: Terry Hamilton Enjoy coastal walks, see saltmarsh with historic pits, grazing marsh, estuary It has a unique history as the only Cinque mudflats with abundant wintering waders Port north of the Thames, you can find our and wildfowl including Brent geese. Don’t Cinque Port emblem with three gold royal forget to look in on the Lozenge Nature lions joined to three silver dotted Area and Springmead Gardens. about the town. You will find it in our old- est building, All Saints’ Church, in the north This year the Museum will re-open in its of the town, down to the southern end of Victorian fishermen’s cottages spill down new home. Brightlingsea is always busy the island on the Cinque Port Wreckhouse from the High Street to the Hard, they were with activities and events, Panto, Christmas by the ancient Hard. built during the heyday of the port’s fishing Tree Festival, choirs, free Music Festival, fleet. Enjoy Brightlingsea’s diversity of and opportunities to learn to sail or row. In Open Gardens and many others. For centuries Brightlingsea was an oyster shops and great places to eat. the summer months take a ferry to explore Brightlingsea - where else? and sprat fishing centre, but it could be a and . by Roger Tabor hazardous way of life as recorded in the Living history can be enjoyed in the town’s unique frieze of tiles in All Saints’ Church pageantry, from the annual Choosing of Promenade Way leads to Brightling- Pic: Colm O’Laoi commemorating those lost at sea. a new Cinque Port Deputy at All Saints to sea’s seaside, centred around the iconic the amazing sight of historic oyster smacks Bateman’s Tower. Swim in the sea or the A charming mix of medieval timber-framed bedecked with bunting in Brightlingsea’s Lido, paddle with your children in the Pad- and later buildings run along the High Blessing & Reclaiming of the Waters from dling Pool. It’s a great area with children’s Street. Grade 1 listed Jacobs Hall was first the Hard. The harbour is the heart of playground, parks for picnics another for recorded in 1315 and has a remarkable Brightlingsea’s sailing community with skate boards, plus boating lake, cafes and 15th century external staircase turret. traditional gaff-rigged smacks along- colourful beach-huts.

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OUR GREEN AND PLEASANT SPACES AND NATURE TRAILS There’s a number of piles to provide a habitat for hedgehogs, amphibians and a BRIGHTLINGSEA IN BLOOM wide variety of insects, while bird feeders, roosting and nesting boxes are erected Since the formation of Brightlingsea in around the garden. Bloom in 1995, Brightlingsea has become renowned for the wonderfully colourful Around the lawn are memorial seats where and varied array of floral displays creat- visitors can enjoy the many aspects of this ed throughout the town in spring and Springmead unique garden. summer. The Lozenge FURTHER INFORMATION SPRINGMEAD GARDENS Access to Springmead Gardens is from THE LOZENGE Spring Chase. The gardens are open Bequeathed to the townsfolk of Brightling- daily except Christmas Day & New The Lozenge has been transformed from an sea in 1927 by Brightlingsea resident Cap- Year’s Day, April to October: 9am to overgrown, inaccessible plot into a nature tain Arthur Wenlock, his one-acre garden 6pm, October to March: 10am to dusk area to be enjoyed by all. became totally neglected and overgrown. (note that it may be closed occasionally for private functions). Admission free, no You’ll find a tranquil atmosphere where In 2001 Brightlingsea In Bloom secured dogs (except guide dogs) you can meander along the footpaths, £25,000 funding through the Countryside exploring the diverse variety of trees, plants Agency Local Heritage Initiative and a and wildlife, visit the pond area or just sit, The displays are designed, planted and £53,000 East of Development FOOTPATHS relax and observe all around you. maintained by an enthusiastic and dedicat- Grant to carry out a major restoration ed team of volunteers – ‘Bloomers’ – and project on the garden. There are over The Lozenge is located near the Commu- generously funded by local businesses, resi- 26 miles of nity Centre and is open daily from 9am to dents, organisations and councils. The main Today this tranquil oasis has matured footpaths around dusk between March 1 – November 30. feature created each year at All Saints beautifully, into a sheltered dell with a Brightlingsea. Church triangle reflects events, historical natural stream and bog area planted with The longest occasions, centenary commemorations moisture-loving giant Gunnera. Bark paths walk is from THE COLNE ESTUARY locally and nationally. meander around the upper shady areas. A Bateman’s Tower to Alresford Creek – large sunny border offers up a pot-pourri of about five miles in all – and it follows the The mudflats of the Colne Estuary are an Long term environmental projects carried delightful fra- sea wall. area of great natural beauty, and provide out by Brightlingsea Bloomers can be en- grances and Springmead a rich larder for migrant birds including joyed by residents and visitors and include on a secluded The paths are easy walking but provide avocet, red shank and black-tailed godwit, the Millennium Gardens on Promenade sunny bank, much of interest, especially for those who along with thousands of wading birds, Way, The Community Centre Dry Gardens, the Echiums enjoy birdwatching. Various water birds, ducks and geese every winter. Gandergoose Green Commemorative grow to great geese, waders and harriers can be seen Garden and Springmead Gardens. heights. throughout the year. The area is home to an abundance of wild- ➡

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life including barn owls, kestrels, lapwings, Pic: Tim Bees THERE’S PLENTY FOR THE FAMILY TO DO IN BRIGHTLINGSEA hen harriers, skylarks, sedge warblers and now a true community asset for the town reed warblers. Green woodpeckers can be and welcomes visitors from all over seen feeding on the ant hills of this ancient and East Anglia. grassland. The Lido is run by a mixture of paid staff Nature trail leaflets are available from the and volunteers. There are full time trained Town Council offices, and the Harbour lifeguards and special events throughout Commissioners’ office. the summer. The seasonal opening has been restored from the end of May through Pic: Ant Niles to September. BRIGHTLINGSEA OPEN The Lido has enjoyed two full summers GARDENS under its new management and has achieved incredible attendances with The 28th Brightlingsea Open Gardens BRIGHTLINGSEA LIDO over 48,000 visiting in the last two years. weekend in aid of St. Helena Hospice will In 2019 the ageing plant room received take place on Saturday 27th and Sunday Brightlingsea Lido was built in 1932 and a complete overhaul thanks to a grant ➡ 28th June, 2020, a wonderful annual event is well loved by the people of Brightling- featuring beautiful, quirky and creative sea and beyond. It is the only remaining gardens of all shapes and sizes. outdoor Lido in Essex and a major tourist attraction on the town’s Western Prome- Usually between 25 and 30 gardens take nade. part, many serving refreshments and selling plants and home-made goods. After several years of closure threats Ploughman’s lunches will be served by Brightlingsea Town Council led a campaign the Brightlingsea Hospice Support Group, which resulted in an asset transfer of the which has been raising funds to support Lido from the district council in April 2018. the Hospice for over 30 years. There was a fantastic community response from volunteers and local businesses, Last year the group raised over £18,000 which led to a total transformation of the through Open Gardens, two musical changing rooms, pool and surrounding events, a Spring Fayre and a Late Summer area. The Lido is now accessible by wheel- Lunch. chair users and has a disabled changing facility. The Town Council manage the Lido Visit all the gardens for the price of a in conjunction with a Charitable Trust, and programme – look out for the rainbow- a dedicated group of trustees oversee the coloured windmills! day to day running of the Lido. The pool is

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Family Fun WalksFamily & Nature Fun Leave the car behind and take Spirals a trip to Point Clear or Mersea Stationery and Cards on the Brightlingsea ferry from the Government’s Coastal Revival HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AND The ferry is operated by Brightlingsea Harbour Fund. Chemical use has been reduced to DOG SHOW Commissioners and is licensed to carry a a minimum throughGreeti nadvancedg Card sclean water maximum of 12 passengers. The ferry can also technologies,fo rand al lwater Occ aqualitysion sis consis- carry dogs, bicycles, pushchairs etc. Brightlingsea and District Horticultural tently excellent. Society Town Show and the companion Gifts A large landing ramp gives disabled access to Dog Show is held at the Brightlingsea The Trust also received grant funding from the jetty and beaches. The beaches are shingle Community Centre on August Bank Holiday Essex County CouncilOffi inc e2019 to facilitate and suitable for walkers but may present Monday. an✍ extension toS at asmalltion kiosk,ery resulting✍ in a difficulties for others. larger café facility with a seated area. Photocopying At East ✐ ✐ Pic: Colm O’Laoi The trustees have a five year plan which Mersea Fax Service there are aims to bring more innovation and devel- CLASSIC CAR SHOW & FAMILY steps on the opment46 Vtoic thetor ifacility;a Plac eit - isB rhopedightli ntog sheatea seaand wal limprove year round access for all. FUN DAY the pool usingTel :renewable 01206 30 energy3012 technol- which have ogies, provideFax a: 0play12 0area6 3 0and40 3splash6 park, to bThee u sTowned. Council and the Lido Trustees will Brightlingsea Scout Group will be holding At hcontinueigh tide, to work together with the com- its 10th annual Classic Car Show and Fam- accmunityess to t htoe fensureerry an dthe its assetopera tkeepsion m aimprovingy be ily Fun Day on Sunday, September 6 from inteandrrup developing.ted for a sho rItt pwaserio recognisedd. At St Osy asth one 10am to 5pm. YOUR LOCAL Stoofne thethe topshin gtenle blessereach c knownan be c oLidosvered in b ythe a UK ELECTRICIAN thinby la yTheer o Guardianf mud. in June 2018. Last year saw Enthusiastic gardeners of all ages display over 350 vehicles their produce, along with bakers and jam TheWhatever nearest v ethehic uweatherlar acces sBrightlingsea points are: Lido and 6000 makers. The craft and photography classes Brightlingsea, 100 metres; Point Clear 200 offers a reasonably-priced family day out. people come to attract many entries. BESS metres; and East Mersea 3/4 mile. Brightlingsea Electrical Services It also provides for early morning adult the event and Diaswimsl-a-Fer randy exercise classes. Please enjoy support the local The Dog Show, always well attended, has Fully Qualified Electrician – All Aspects Of the facility and follow us via social media, scout group. This year we will be welcom- four pedigree and nine novelty classes. If Electrical Work Undertaken! This service operates when there is insufficient Guaranteed Work Complying With the demandand website for a reg forula rupdates, ferry ser vopeningice. The fanderry clos- ing back the bird of prey display team and you have a dog do come along and enter it IEE And Part ‘P’ Regulations! caning be times,booke dticket for a pricescrossin andg on allan ythe of tinformahe - the K9 dog display team who will once into one of the classes. schtionedul eyoud ro willute sneed durin tog d enjoyaily op ae rgreatating tdayime sin a again thrill and delight all ages. givifantasticng at leas tsetting two ho ubyrs ’the not isea.ce. Many local charities and organisations run Entry to the show is £3 for adults and free stalls alongside others selling plants and AddFURTHERitional Ferr yINFORMATION Services for children, and it’s free to display a car. garden paraphernalia. The Openingferry can adate:lso b eMay boo k23rded at 2020quiet times for short harbour trips – please ask crew for Contact: [email protected] Note that there is no parking on the site There’s also a nature trail competition with availability. Outside scheduled operating NO VAT/NOT VAT REGISTERED! timeWebsite:s the ferr ywww.brightlingsealido.com can be hired privately (with (except for some limited Blue Badge prizes to be won, open to all who take a FREE ESTIMATES! NO JOB TOO SMALL! coxsFacebook:wain) – con tForact latestthe ha rinfobour @brightlidooffice parking). However, free parking will be walk in the Lozenge by the Community 01206 302851/07731535528 for dTel:eta i01206ls. 303067 (May – Sept) signposted. Centre.

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BOATING LAKE BRIGHTLINGSEA CARNIVAL We all love the fun of dangling a line FUN DAY with a bit of bacon tied on over the You don’t have to go to sea to get side of the jetty in the hope of catching HOW TO GO afloat in Brightlingsea. Brightling- This year’s Carnival the biggest crab. We want everyone CRABBING IN sea Scouts offer rowing boat hire on Fun Day takes place to continue to enjoy this great seaside the boating lake on Promenade Way on 20th June. pastime but we also want to make sure BRIGHTLINGSEA throughout the summer as a fundraiser. our lovely crabs don’t get hurt in the On the Recreation process. Ground off Regent If you follow the Good Crabbing Guide Road you’ll find a video at gonecrabbing.co.uk and the host of rides, stalls, live music, attrac- instructions here, it will ensure that our tions and more. crabs will not suffer any unintentional harm and prevent them becoming For information email stressed. [email protected] Starting in 2020 the Brightlingsea Harbour Office will be making available waste bin where you can dispose of any steel buckets and a degradable line plastics safely. Go to the Harbour office to replace those environmentally or the old Hard Master’s hut at the top of unfriendly plastics. There will also be a the hard.

• Do try to use the single crab line with a bag for • Do make sure all the crabs are returned to the your bait on the end - not the larger drop nets sea safely. (crabs can get caught in them). • Do remember to take all your equipment and • Do add rocks and seaweed to the bucket to help rubbish home with you. replicate the crab’s natural environment and • Don’t leave any crabbing gear on the quay. reduce stress. • Do go crabbing. When done responsibly, • Do change the water every 10 minutes to avoid crabbing is an excellent way to introduce asphyxiation. Only keep the children to the marine ecology. Reassuring legal advice crabs in sea water. DO’S AND DON’TS • Don’t put too many crabs in one • Do your crab correctly - bucket. Stick to 10 per pail. gently hold it either side of its you can rely on • Don’t keep them all day – return them to the sea. shell or pick it up with one finger on top of the www.johnfowlers.co.uk shell and one finger underneath - avoiding the • Don’t store your bucket in the sun. claws though! • Don’t use a line with a hook on. Either tie your 12 Victoria Place 01206 302694 bacon on or use an old pair of tights/bit of net to Brightlingsea • Do remove any fighting crabs - gentleman crabs tend to be more aggressive than the ladies. hold your bacon in.

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cruiser or dinghy, or can take to the water Pic: Jon Sturdy takes place at the Town Hard. in a try-it RIB or take a ferry trip with the Harbour Office. There’s also the chance to The Deputy of the Cinque Port Liberty of try gig rowing and get up on a paddle- Brightlingsea’s civic procession will assem- board. You can even row on the boating ble outside St James Church in the High lake or try your hand at model boat racing. Street to be addressed by the Town Crier. Still on the competitive side there’s a crab- bing competition and a duck race! For the The colourful procession of robed mayors, more energetic there will be a greasy pole clergy and others follow the band to the challenge and paddleboard novelty sport. top of the Hard, where the service occurs and boats are blessed. The Blessing of the You can watch an exciting RNLI rescue Waters continues on board the historic demonstration (assuming a real-life oyster smack “Pioneer” and the service emergency doesn’t call them away) or look and traditional activities are relayed by over interesting historic vessels moored to loudspeakers for those on the Hard. BRIGHTLINGSEA REGATTA the hammerhead. Then the flotilla of Brightlingsea’s historic Pic: Kevin Jay, Droneshotz Now in its 15th year, the Brightlingsea fishing smacks leaves the jetty to cheers, Regatta will again provide fun and enter- BLESSING OF THE WATERS horns and noise of the traditional ‘din’! The tainment on and off the water over the parade of smacks and other vessels along weekend of 4 & 5 July. Brightlingsea’s Blessing & Reclaiming of Brightlingsea Creek beats our boundaries the Waters on Sunday 7th June 2020 will re-asserting Brightlingsea’s rights to its It’s an event for the whole family to enjoy be led by the Bishop of sup- own waters. and the crowning glory will be the fantastic ported by Brightlingsea clergy. The Blessing firework spectacular to round off Saturday. of the Waters, fish and historic boats is a • For further information see Twitter: centuries old Brightlingsea tradition and @BlessWatersBsea The streets will be filled with music and stalls stretching along the waterfront To raise funds for a great cause, the Raft from Brightlingsea Sailing Club, across the Race, in aid of St. Helena Hospice, is open Little Boat Gifts Marina, past the University Community to teams from clubs, pubs, businesses, A friendly Bespoke Framing & Gift Shop stocking Sailing Club, down to the Colne Yacht Club organisations and groups of friends. Greeting Cards • Personalised Gifts • Ready and onwards to Morgan Marine where a Made Picture Frames • Bespoke Picture boat show will be staged. The Arts & Crafts With childrens’ entertainment, music and Framing • Framed Prints & Original Art Work • Trail will see the clubs exhibiting the work dance it’s an event to fill two days of Local Photography • Candles • Oil Burners • of local artists as well as offering food and fabulous fun and relaxation. Wooden Toys • Gifts For Him & Her. drink and a place to sit and relax. For more information or to book a stall: 1 New Street, Brightlingsea, CO7 0BZ On the Saturday anyone can try sailing in a www.brightlingsearegatta.com (01206) 304555 • www.littleboatgifts.co.uk

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BRIGHTLINGSEA CHRISTMAS This will be the 18th annual festival, a ➡ the town centre and Fiveways car park Pic: Fiona Brown TREE FESTIVAL 2020 wonderful way to get into the spirit of to the church. All profits go towards the Christmas with the old church, a beloved upkeep of the churches. landmark, decorated inside and out with trees, in a variety of imaginative and beau- FURTHER INFORMATION tiful ways. Not only is there much to look Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th December at, but to taste and hear! 10am to 6pm; with a concert on Friday night (Dec. 11th) & Gala Evening on A refreshment stall is filled with delicious Saturday night. For more information see home-made treats, a retail shop and pantry brightlingseachristmastreefestival.co.uk stocked with attractive goodies, and non- stop music from a wide variety of perform- ers. There is a small charge for coming inside, and the evening concerts are priced separately to include refreshments.

Pic: Fiona Brown A Park & Ride shuttle bus operates from ➡ BRIGHTLINGSEA FREE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Experience the exciting vibe at Bright- ists across a mix of genres – expect blues, lingsea’s fabulous free music festival and indie, ska, folk, jazz rock and swing! immerse yourself in an eclectic mix of ESTATE AGENTS AND VALUERS music in the summer sunshine. Whether visiting for one day or taking in Established 1935 the whole event, this is the one Brightling- Boasting a combination of contemporary sea experience you must not miss! RESIDENTIAL SALE & LETTINGS and traditional music, this festival has YOUR ORIGINAL LOCAL INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENT something for everyone. The event, situ- • www.brightlingseafreefest.com SPECIALISING IN PROPERTIES IN BRIGHTLINGSEA AND ated on Hurst Green over the weekend of SURROUNDING AREAS July 31 - August 2, also features a range of We offer vendors and landlords FREE no obligation valuations and competitive commission rates craft, clothing and food and drink stalls. on a NO SALE NO FEE basis Our services include full colour property details, large LED window display and all properties are Friday evening kicks off on the main stage advertised on Rightmove in addition to our own website on the green, after which the entertain- 16 VICTORIA PLACE, BRIGHTLINGSEA, ESSEX CO7 0BX ment moves into the town’s public houses with performances from talented local Tel: 01206 302639 bands. Now in its 20th year the music Email: [email protected] • www.lucasestates.com runs from noon on Saturday and Sunday, showcasing mainly original bands and art-

16 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 17 Please support our advertisers Festivals

BRIGHTLINGSEA WINTERFEST

Brightlingsea WinterFest is an annual high- light in the town’s calendar and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Since it began in 2015 WinterFest has flourished, with events happening through- out February.

It helps to raise spirits, promotes wellbeing Pic: Paul Hammond Photography and fosters a sense of community, combat- ing depression and isolation. Big Pancake Party, activities at the Fresh Fitness centre and mental wellbeing Attractions include music of all kinds, arts training workshops. and crafts workshops, spoken word, film and comedy. New in 2020 was The Great Brightlingsea WinterFest is run by a team of volunteers, led by the event’s founders, Alix Sheppard and Dave Griffiths.

Eighty per cent of funds raised will go into the WinterFest Wellbeing Fund which gives grants to people in Brightlingsea to help improve their mental, physical or social wellbeing. the remainder goes to the charity Mind.

•For more information see www.brightlingseawinterfest.co.uk Pic: Fiona Brown

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BRIGHTLINGSEA Pic: Tim Bees BRIGHTLINGSEA A WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES TO GET AFLOAT FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL ful boats – Velocity and Vanduara – built in Brightlingsea by the Pioneer Trust. Now in it’s fourth year, the Brightlingsea Food & Drink Festival returns The club has a successful competitive bigger and better for 2020! racing record, taking silverware in local and national competitions. Its social rowing Showcasing the best local food and drink is also a popular feature of the club, with suppliers, alongside a great range of inter- members enjoying the local waters during national street food, arts, crafts and garden the week and at weekends. wares. Come and browse the market for some BRIGHTLINGSEA COASTAL quality produce or relax with a picnic and ROWING CLUB FURTHER INFORMATION There will be a real ale and cider marquee listen to the live music. New members are warmly welcomed. featuring beers from the best Essex brew- The Brightlingsea Coastal Rowing Club is Contact the club on Facebook at eries, the Gin Rummy bar and a Prosecco & With free entry for kids, bouncy castles and a sporting and social organisation open to Brightlingsea-Coastal-Rowing-Club or at Pimms bar too. ice cream, it will be a feast of fun for all all. At the heart of the club are two beauti- www. brightlingseacoastalrowingclub.co.uk the family!

FURTHER INFORMATION PIONEER TRUST 28th, 29th & 30th at Promenade Way Friday 5pm - 10.30pm The Brightlingsea-based Pioneer Trust, Saturday 11am - 7pm offers unique and exciting sailing oppor- Sunday 11am - 5pm tunities to groups of all ages and abilities Adults £2.50, Kids free. Dogs welcome including youth and community groups, on leads charities, schools and private parties. E: info@brightlingseafoodanddrink. co.uk Pioneer, pictured right, is crewed by three Follow us on facebook for updates experienced sailors and can take up to 12 people sailing on trips lasting between one and five days. These trips provide excellent al Regattas in and around the Essex Coast. opportunities to develop team work, com- munication skills and most of all enjoyment Our new boat, Priscilla can take up to five in sailing and learning more about the people and can be hired for day sails and marine environment. also longer trips.

We offer three-day courses on Pioneer as • More information can be found at well as the opportunity to race her in annu- www.pioneerck18.org or 01206 303373.

20 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 21 Water Activities Brightlingsea

COLNE YACHT CLUB HarbourOUR GREEN AND PLEASANT SPACES AND NATURE TRAILS

A key feature of the Waterside Bright- lingsea is the Colne Yacht Club, with its Boat Trips amazing views over the River.

The club’s ethos is all about inspiring BRIGHTLINGSEA - POINT CLEAR - - generations to get afloat. So, whether you are a cadet, young adult, family, or simply THE on your own and want to get on the water Hidden Gem – this is the place for you! Brightlingsea offers a range of cafes, pubs COLNE and a fantastic Lido a short walk along the CONNECTION promenade. Take the kids crabbing on the Through a combination of club and mem- jetty right where we pick up and drop off… ber owned dinghies, boats, paddle- hours of fun for everyone. boards and rescue boats there is activity on you the basics and get you involved. the water most days of the week. Specially Pub Lunch River Cruise trained instructors are available to teach Highlights of the year include club racing and cruising in company, ladies only events Embrace the stunning coastal views and wildlife as our ferry takes you along the picturesque and Saturday morning Cadets with an An- River Colne to Wivenhoe for a delicious nual Cadet Activity Week, where up to 70 meal at the renowned Black Buoy Inn. youngsters get on the water every day!

Two key dates for free trial sails this year Mersea and Beyond are the 10th May and 4th July, when the Explore Cudmore Grove Country Park by foot or by bike and admire the coastline and wildlife. club encourages everyone to have a sail. Take the opportunity to visit the vineyard However, if you are really keen, just pop and local restaurant for a perfect day out. down anytime. We’d love to meet you.

The club is also famous for its November Firework Display. We also open our doors � Brightlingsea Foot Ferry to anyone looking for a place to host a � Brightlingsea Foot Ferry party or Sunday Lunch. � Brightlingsea Harbour � @bseaharbour FURTHER INFORMATION Call 01206302594, email [email protected] or For further information: visit www.colneyachtclub.org.uk Call 01206 302200 or visit www.brightlingseaharbour.org

22 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 23 Foot Ferry crossing Colchester Wivenhoe Brightlingsea - Point Clear - East Mersea Our scheduled service runs daily as per our timetable taking you across the water to Brightlingsea Town, Mersea Island or Point Clear in St Osyth.

Brightlingsea to Point Clear 3 minutes by ferry. Nature Reserve 20 miles by car. Brigthlingsea to East Mersea 9 minutes by ferry. 40 miles by car. KEY 2020 Ferry R Route – B’sea - Pt. Clear iv e 45 mins r East Mersea - B’sea - Wivenhoe C o Calendar ln Brightlingsea e Batemans Tower

3 mins 9 mins Harbour Of ce

8 mins East Mersea Point Clear Boarding / Landing Points

Map is for illustrative purposes, only do NOT use for navigation.

Nature Reserve Fares each way ADULT / SENIOR CHILD UNDER CHILD UNDER ROUTES DOGS BIKES CITIZEN 16 YRS 1 YR Brightlingsea / Point Clear £3.50 £2.50 FREE FREE £2.00 to East Mersea Brightlingsea to Point Clear £2.00 £1.00 FREE FREE £1.00 Timetable 2020

B’SEA POINT CLEAR 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700*

POINT CLEAR EAST MERSEA 1005 1105 1205 1305 1405 1505 1605 1705*

EAST MERSEA POINT CLEAR 1015 1115 1215 1315 1415 1515 1615 1715*

POINT CLEAR B’SEA 1025 1125 1225 1325 1425 1525 1625 1725*

For Brightlingsea/Point Clear pickup & drop off we will be running at regular intervals during these times

 cheduled service, no booking required.  Reduced schedule service times *only during the period 18/07/2020 to 06/09/2020 summer school holidays  Reduced scheduled service, booking required hour in advance of crossing. 24 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk Call 01206 302200 to book during reduced schedule www.brightlingseaharbour.orgbrightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 25 Illustrations by Richard Taylor Morgan Marine A5 advert.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2020 12:33 Page 1

Water Activities

BRIGHTLINGSEA SAILING CLUB Brightlingsea Boatyard

Brightlingsea Sailing Club has become one of the busiest, friendliest and most respect- ed clubs in the UK.

Members sail a wide range of dinghies and , racing and pottering at the weekends and some evenings from March to December, with day sailing during the week. The club hosts open meetings and race every morning and afternoon. championships, with crews coming from around the UK and abroad to compete. Cadet training takes place on Tuesday evenings from May to the end of July for The ever-popular Pyefleet Week takes place nine to 18-year-olds, and this year there’s from August 2-7. With around 100 boats, a three-day Youth Regatta starting on there’s plenty of activity to see as boats July 29. The club also runs an RYA Sailing School for all ages and hosts ‘try it’ taster sessions several times throughout the year.

• www.sailbrightlingsea.com

MODEL BOAT CLUB

The town’s Model Boat Club meets every Sunday and Wednesday mornings at the Boating Lake on the Promenade. It has a • Large chandlery & clothing store • Park ‘N’ Ride on private slipway membership of approximately 80 Members • Workshop repairs, servicing & • New & used boats for sale have a selection of barges, sailing yachts, • Experienced factory-trained technicians • Main dealer for Jeanneau, Highfield, small motor boats and even submarines! • 10 acre boatyard & 30-tonne hoist Sea Ray and Excel • Wide pontoons, fully serviced • Brokerage - sail & motorboat • Tel: Sandra Bowery, Secretary on 01206 • Secure storage yards & CCTV • Plenty of free parking 304401. E: [email protected] The Boatyard Shipyard Estate Brightlingsea CO70AR T:01206 302003 www.morganmarine.com 28 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 29

Brightlingsea at Christmas at Brightlingsea © Pyefleet Pictures • 01206 305677 • www.pyefleet pictures.co.uk www.pyefleet • 305677 01206 • Pictures Pyefleet ©

Martime History Maritime History

BRIGHTLINGSEA HAS A LONG AND FASCINATING MARITIME HISTORY BRIGHTLINGSEA MUSEUM days of mobile phones.

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH May 2020 sees the Come and find us at the corner of Station opening of a major Road and Colne Road to discover more and All Saints’ Church is the first building you new visitor attrac- enjoy of Our Lives. see when you come to Brightlingsea and tion for Brightling- the last you see when you leave. sea – a superbly FURTHER INFORMATION presented muse- Brightlingsea Museum Dating back to the 12th century, the church um, with stunning Open from Saturday May 16 2020: has a 97 feet-high tower and a unique frieze exhibitions and a Saturdays: 10.00am – 4.00pm of tiles commemorating every Brightlingsea range of things Sundays: 2.00 – 5.00pm man who has died at sea since 1872 to do, see, touch, Thursdays & Fridays – 2.00 – 5.00pm listen to and even (until August 31) The church is manned by custodians most smell. Tel: 01206 307121 afternoons from 2.30pm – 4.30pm from www.brightlingseamuseum.com mid-May to mid-September. A board is With a focus on the town’s fascinating placed outside the Lych Gate when there is maritime heritage find out more about our someone on duty. unique links with the , have a go at designing your own boat or fishing for fish found in local waters.

Listen to the experiences of shipyard workers before you step back in time to experience the cramped, dark conditions of a cabin on a fishing smack with the wind blowing and voices from the past recount- ing their experiences.

All the way round are fascinating images and informative text – you’ll Smart, friendly, ensuite be surprised how much accommodation at the you will have learnt, including spelling your heart of Brightlingsea name in flags and sending a message as TEL: 01206 30 66 11 they did not so long WWW.COURTYARDROOMS.CO.UK ago, but before the

30 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 31 Maritime History Maritime History

CINQUE PORT LIBERTY Pic: Liz Artindale Pic: John Carr

Brightlingsea’s unique history is kept alive in its ceremonies as a Cinque Port, the only one north of the Thames. It is a “Limb” of Sandwich, our Head Port in .

Each year on Choosing Day, the first Mon- day in December, the Deputy is chosen by the Freemen of the Cinque Port Liberty. He is the Mayor of Sandwich’s representative in Brightlingsea and in the past was the chief official of the town.

On Choosing Day, new inhabitants who have been resident for a year and a day

can also come forward to be ‘Recognised’ COLNE FISHING SMACKS AND THAMES BARGES More than just a Financial Services provider and declared Freemen. The town of Brightlingsea, on the River Further information on these events and Foresters Friendly Society has been providing financial help and support to its members for In July each year, the Deputy is confirmed Colne, was once home to several boatyards registration is from Martin Doe on over 180 years. in office, along with Deputies of two other building wooden boats including sailing 01206 272000. Limbs of Sandwich, in a historic ceremony smacks. These were used for fishing for Your local Foresters Friendly Society branch, Court Lifeboat No. 4390, was founded in 1864 in in Sandwich’s Guildhall. catches of , sprats and other types A major Match with open viewing from Brightlingsea. The branch meets bi-monthly at the of fish. Batemans Tower is for smacks, the larger Royal British Legion in Sydney Street, Brightlingsea and has approximately 150 members. Each June, the Mayor of Sandwich pays Thames Sailing Barges and small open an official visit to Brightlingsea. There is a The town is host to the Colne Smack fishing boats. This is on 12 September, with Foresters Friendly Society members can take colourful procession from St James Church Preservation Society based in the Aldous start times to be announced. advantage of discretionary financial grants for through the town centre to the Parish Hall, Heritage Smack Dock adjacent to Colne education, dental and optical care, as well as Pic: John Carr access to social and charity events in your local where he is received by the Town Mayor. Yacht Club. Membership is open to the area. general public and details are available Pic: Liz Artindale Why not come along to find out more and join us? from 01206 305188 or members@ colnesmack.co.uk. The fully restored 1898 To find out more about your local Brightlingsea branch call your Thames Sailing ‘Dawn’ is currently local Branch Introducer, Ashley Stammers, on 01206 211391 or email [email protected] berthed beside the dock.

Foresters Friendly Society is the trading name of The Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society Limited which is an Incorporated Friendly Society (Registration No. 511F) and is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Registration No. 110029). Membership benefits are not regulated by The Society organises a Vintage Film Night the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority and are regulary reviewed to ensure they are relevant to members. in March and Sail and Picnic in June.

32 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 33 Societies/ Maritime History Arts & Crafts

BATEMAN’S TOWER BRIGHTLINGSEA MASONS

Bateman’s Tower is one of the town’s best The history of Freemasonry in Brightlingsea known landmarks, a folly built in 1883 by dates back to 1836 when the Lodge of John Bateman for his daughter to recuper- Hope was formed for master mariners. ate from consumption. The Lodge of Faith followed in 1949, fol- Located beside the paddling pool, with a lowed by the Lodge of Charity in 1983. The commanding view of the creek, the River addition of the Tendring Hundred Lodge Colne and the estuary, the tower was used brought the number based at the hall in as an observation post by the Royal Observ- Tower Street to four. These Lodges often er Corps during WWII. During this time the have social events which are open to all. roof was removed to make the tower less conspicuous to enemy aircraft.

In 2005, a restoration project restored the ART & CRAFTS IN BRIGHTLINGSEA tower to its original condition, including the fitting of a replica of the original roof. Brightlingsea boasts a thriving art and It’s now used by the Colne Yacht Club and crafts community including many prac- other organisations to start races from. tising and professional artists, engaged community artists and groups. As well as The tower leans slightly – and it’s a popular providing clubs for locals, we also organise spot for watching the sun go down. Bright- several community events including: lingsea sunsets are often stunning! • Arts & crafts in aid of mental health Freemasons use four important guiding Bateman’s Tower in Tower Caravan Site and wellbeing during Brightlingsea principles to help define their path through the 1930s WinterFest (pictured); life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Situated within six acres • Brightlingsea Regatta Art and Crafts Charity. of woodland Trail featuring over 40 artists; Electric Hookups • A dedicated community art space in the Membership is open to people from all new Brightlingea Museum; backgrounds and the organisation’s aim is Monthly Lets • Open Studios – as part of Colchester & to empower members to be the best they Tendring Open Studios – artists in Ten- can be. Outskirts of Brightlingsea dring and Colchester open their studios Town Centre 1/2 a mile. to the public during September. Bright- Full details on membership are available Enquiries 01206 302204 lingsea artists usually participate on the from the United Grand Lodge website at third or fourth weekend. For details check www.ugle.org.uk or from the Essex Provin- or 07989 673128 www.colchesteropenstudios.org. cial office at www.essexfreemasons.net.

34 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 35 Please support our advertisers Social & Community BRIGHTLINGSEA ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

OUR TOWN IS A CARING AND SHARING PLACE Tel: 01206 303274

OLDER WISER LINKS FOR tion and news. It produces a leaflet of local 11 Sydney Street, Brightlingsea BRIGHTLINGSEA contacts, a topical monthly piece in the local press and a news . The leaflets OWLs – Older Wiser Links for Brightlingsea are available around the town including – started in 2013 with the aim of promot- St James’s Church, the Library, the Council ing the interests of older people in the Offices and the Autumn Centre. town and, in particular, tackling issues of • Sky, BT Sports and Racing UK loneliness and isolation. The idea is to try Get in touch by phoning Christine on to ensure that life in older age is positive, 01206 303375 or emailing Penny at fulfilling and safe - helping people to be [email protected]. • Free Wi-Fi active, to be well informed, to make new connections and to voice issues of concern. U3A • Regular Live Music and Tribute Acts OWLs is really an information hub - gather- The U3A is for all people in their Third Age, • Snooker and Pool tables ing and exchanging relevant local informa- those who have passed the stage of full time employment. • Room hire available Brightlingsea U3A, in common with all other U3As, is an independent charity • Weekly Wednesday night quiz based on the principles of self-help and mutual assistance. It has a large number of social and learning activities and currently there are Luncheon Groups, Book Groups, Come along and enjoy the warm friendly Music Groups, Walking Groups, a Language Group and many more. atmosphere

Membership is £15pa and monthly meet- NEW MEMBERS ings with a guest speaker are held in the ALWAYS Parish Hall on the first Friday of the month starting at 2pm. There will be someone WELCOME there from 1.30pm to talk with you -

For more information, contact the Mem- bership Secretary through our website at u3asites.org.uk/brightlingsea/home or on 01206 303162. Facebook.com/rblbrightlingsea E:[email protected]

36 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 37 Town Directory gsea is ou tlin r to igh w PLACES TO EAT Winkies Fish & Chip Restaurant Brightlingsea Sailing Club Tel: r n Café Chic 48 Victoria Place. & Takeaway 7-9 New Street. Tel: 01206 303275 B Tel: 07961 205619 01206 304208 Brightlingsea Sports Centre Coach House Coffee Shop CHURCHES Tel: 01206 304946 Make the most of it Waterside. Tel: 01206 304200 All Saints C of E Colne Yacht Club Colne Yacht Club Church Road. Tel: 01206 302378 Tel: 01206 302594 Waterside. Tel: 01206 302594 Brightlingsea Baptist Church GENERAL INFORMATION Golden Wok Chinese Takeaway YMCA, High St. Tel: 01206 303081 Brightlingsea Town Council 170 Tower St. Tel: 01206 615953 Brightlingsea Spiritualist The Parish Hall. Tel: 01206 303535 Freemason’s Arms Church - Community Centre. Floodline 8 Sydney Street. Tel: 01206 306444 Tel: 01206 303461/302727 Tel: 0345 988 1188 Lido Café St James C of E Library Tel: 0345 603 7628 Promenade Way Victoria Place. Tel: 01206 302378 Police Tel: 101 Mac’s Plaice 1 Church Road. St. Sabina RC Post Office: Spar Stores. Tel: 01206 306542 Richard Avenue. Tel: 01206 302485 Tel: 01206 307928 •Hire the Parish Hall for special No 1 Harbour Square United Church MEDICAL events Waterside Marina. Tel: 01206 305661 Chapel Road. Tel: 01255 423640. Chemist •Explore Springmead Gardens Raj Spice 33 Tower Street. WHERE TO STAY Boots Pharmacy. Tel: 01206 306767 Courtyard Rooms Tel: 01206 302029 •Relax in the Lozenge nature area Sea View Chinese Takeaway 1 High Street. Tel: 01206 306611 NHS Direct Tel: 111 •Swim in the Lido 32 Station Rd. Tel: 01206 305747 The Brewer’s Arms Hospitals •Stroll along the Prom Star Fast Food 1 Victoria Place. Tel: 01206 305608 Clacton Hospital •Play and watch sport in our 5 New Street. Tel: 01206 307824 Lakeside Caravan Park Tel: 01255 201717 recreation grounds The Cherry Tree Public House Promenade Way. Tel: 01206 303421 Colchester General Hospital 29 Church Rd. Tel: 01206 615322 Tower Caravan Site Tel: 01206 747474 •Sit and reflect in the Millennium The Brewer’s Arms Pub Tel: 01206 302204 Colchester Walk-in Centre Gardens 1 Victoria Place. Tel: 01206 305608 Ye Olde Swan Tel: 01206 314015 •Take in the moving picture from a The Rosebud Pub 15 High Street. Tel: 01206 302024 Doctor bench on the Hard Hurst Green. Tel: 01206 304571 SPORT Colne Medical Centre. Victoria Café Brightlingsea Bowling Club Tel: 01206 302522 •Support events on Hurst Green 22 Victoria Place. Tel: 01206 308850 Tel: 01206 302696 Dentists •Walk the paths along the River Vines Bistro B’sea Coastal Rowing Club Colne View Colne 8 High St. Tel: 01206 370764 www.brightlingseacoastalrowing.co.uk Tel: 01206 302307 •Appreciate the War memorial Yachtsman’s Arms Pub Brightlingsea Cricket Club Tel: Manor Parade •Enjoy the unique sailors’ tiles in 35 Waterside. Tel: 01206 302342 01206 304291 Tel: 01206 305080 Ye Olde Swan Pub Brightlingsea Football Club Tel: Brightlingsea Dental Practice. All Saints’ Church High Street. Tel: 01206 302024 01206 304199 Tel: 01206 305300 •Delight in our floral displays Waterside Fish & Chips Brightlingsea Rugby Club Tel: Optician (seasonal) 59 Waterside. 01206 304022 Patrick & Menzies There’s so much to enjoy in our unspoilt Essex town. Tel: 01206 302710 Tel: 01206 302249 • Discover Brightlingsea is published by Brightlingsea Town Council © 2020 Maintained for the Community by your Town Council • Design & print: The Press Gang - Tel: 01206 305677. www.press-gang.co.uk • Town Map illustrations by Richard Taylor. For more information call 01206 303535 38 brightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk www.brightlingseatowncouncil.co.ukbrightlingseatowncouncil.co.uk 39 Brightlingsea Town Council Town Guide 2015_Layout 1 08/02/2015 10:40 Page 32 W I N K I E S Fish & Chip Restaurant & Takeaway

Enjoy fish and chips at their finest in the comfort of our licensed restaurant

7-9 New Street, Brightlingsea (Just off High Street, opposite the library) Holders of the Seafish Industry Authority Friers’ Quality Award 01206 304208 Opening Times Monday 12noon-2pm 5pm-9pm Tuesday 12noon-2pm 5pm-9pm Wednesday 12noon-2pm 5pm-9pm Thursday 12noon-9pm Friday 12noon-10pm Saturday 12noon-10pm Sunday Closed