Discover the charm and beauty of this hidden gem on the Essex Coast, with its diverse and unexpected local history in its Museums, or experience it for real by stepping aboard a Thames Sailing Barge from its historic quay. Explore world-renowned coastal communities with dinghy sailing, paddle boarding, modern yachts, by wind or motor, you can enjoy the endless views of its coast. A photographer’s dream! Enjoy a classic seaside experience in a beach hut and let the kids enjoy the Splash Park in the award-winning Promenade Park.
Looking for things to do with the family? There are lots for little legs too… check out the play areas and playgrounds in Maldon’s parks and open spaces, as well as the leisure & entertainment centres. Experience high streets full of independent and eclectic shops, enough to fill many days of retail therapy. Enjoy food and drink at Maldon’s restaurants and cafés, pubs and bars or take a trip to an award-winning vineyards or breweries. Maldon is one of the oldest recorded towns in Essex and a walk up the High Street to the crest of the town reveals many buildings whose brick facades conceal medieval timber frames.
At the junction of the High Street and Market Hill stands the tower of St Peters which is attached to the building erected in 1704 by Dr. Thomas Plume to house his famous library and the Maldon’s grammar school. The school has long since moved and the ground floor now contains the Maeldune Centre which displays the Maldon Embroidery depicting life in the town from the Battle of Maldon to the present day.
Further along is Maldon’s Moot Hall, built in the 15th century for the d’Arcy family and most recently used as the council chambers, magistrates court, and police station. Another few yards and you will reach the 13th century All Saints’ Church, famous for its triangular tower and Washington Window.
Maldon’s Market Hill is lined with more timber-framed buildings including the old workhouse and leads steeply down to Fullbridge at the crossing of the River Chelmer. This area was once a thriving port and Maldon’s wharves were kept busy unloading ships laden with timber and other materials. It is also the home of the old Maldon railway station building which has survived despite the railway being closed in 1964. At the end of Station Road, you will find the Combined Military Services Museum containing a large collection of weapons, armoury, and other displays.
For information about getting the bus from Witham railway station to Maldon click here