Heybridge Basin

Heybridge Basin is located at the end of the 13 mile Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation and contains the sea lock which joins the canal to the Blackwater estuary.

The basin was dug out of the marsh to enable sea going vessels to enter the canal and unload their cargoes onto the barges for transportation inland to Chelmsford. The navigation was completed in 1796 and commericial traffic traffic to Chelmsford by canal ceased in 1972.

The canal has found a new use by leisure craft and the Basin is a favourite location for visitors and walkers, as well as being a safe haven for dozens of craft of all types and sizes.

From the sea walls at Heybridge Basin you can take in the splendid views of the Blackwater estuary and Osea Island, and you may even see an historic Thames Barge on a cruise out from Maldon.

From here you can walk the sea wall path to Maldon, or in the opposite direction, to Goldhanger and beyond. You can also walk the canal towpath to Heybridge or Beeleigh Falls and the acient hamlet of Beeleigh.

There are two pubs at Heybridge Basin, so if you prefer the less active option, you can sit and relax with a drink and a meal and watch the activity of this popular marine centre. Check out the reviews on Trip Advisor for the Jolly Sailor and the Old Ship.

At high tide, boats leave the safety of the Basin through the huge lock gates and enter the estuary.

There is also a tea room run by the famous Tiptree Preserve company where you can get a cup of tea or coffee and a cake, sandwich or meal. Ice cream is also available from the kiosk.

Tea Room at Heybridge Basin

One hour boat trips along the navigation are operated by Essex Waterways between Easter and September. More details here

GETTING HERE

You can reach the Basin by car from the B1026 Goldhanger Road. Limited parking is available in the Daisy Meadow car park which is next to the canal. Be aware that the car park can get quite busy at times and is the only public parking in the area.

CHARGES FOR USING THE CAR PARK HAVE NOW BEEN INTRODUCED
£1 for one hour rising to £5 for 24 hours. Payment is by means of debit/credit card or the Ringo phone app.

There are no public toilets at Heybridge Basin.

Alternatively, you can walk along the navigation towpath from the Wave Bridge or follow the sea wall from Hall Road Heybridge.

View Heybridge Basin in a larger map

Maldon Bonfire Night & Fireworks Display is happening again this year in Promenade Park, Maldon on Saturday November 2nd

Up in the town or down by the water - there are plenty of places to park in Maldon.

Maldon High Street has independent shops galore - there's something for everyone.

Eat and drink to your heart's content - dozens of places to satisfy your craving.

Shopping and eating is such hard work - treat yourself to a bed for the night.

All Information on these pages has been compiled from information from third parties and which may be subject to change or cancellation. As we cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies you are advised to confirm details with the various organisers before embarking on a long journey. visitmaldon.co.uk is an independent website offering information and has no connection with any other organisation.