Essex ferry trip around pretty coastal town named one of the best in Britain

A ferry trip around Brightlingsea and its nearby Mersea Island coastline has been named one of Britain’s best ways to see the country by boat. The Telegraph highlighted the Brightlingsea to East Mersea and Point Clear route, with services operating from Brightlingsea Harbour from April to September. It runs seven days a week with schedules adapting for low, mid and high seasons, and online booking is essential in the off-season to guarantee crossings, while mid- and high-season bookings take priority over non-booked passengers. The 12-passenger foot ferry also carries bicycles, buggies and dogs, emphasizing family-friendly access. The voyage to Point Clear covers about nine miles; a crossing to Mersea Island is roughly 20 miles and takes about nine minutes by ferry. The Telegraph notes Brightlingsea’s charm, including a simple beach and busy harbour, with planned stops and local attractions like the St Osyth sea wall and a Martello Tower museum. Tickets are available online through the Brightlingsea Harbour website or app, with additional local experiences highlighted.