HARWICH CRUISE PORT
Port Location: The Port of Harwich is on London’s east coast, at Parkeston Quay. Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are both two hours from Harwich. The best way to get there is to take the train to Victoria Station in London and then transfer and proceed to Harwich International Station.
Transport: Harwich International Station is the closest train terminal to the Port of Harwich and is the best option when coming from London to Harwich cruises or for sightseeing in London. Harwich does not have any rental car agencies.
Description: This port is the least busy of London’s ports as far as cruises are concerned. Only three cruise lines base their ships here and it is not usually on the list of ports-of-call for a cruise. However, it is considered to be a historic maritime port. It has connections to Christopher Jones known as the Master of the Mayflower.
Sightseeing and Excursions: If you find yourself in Harwich for a day on either end of Harwich cruises, Redoubt Fort is an interesting sight. It was built in the early 19th century to defend the harbour against invasion from Napoleon’s army. There is also a Mayflower exhibition on the Pier. You can take a free, guided walking tour of the town in the summer.
The nearby towns of Ipswich and Colchester offer some historical sights and famous artwork and there are excursions available from Harwich to these area. Ipswich is a notable market town in England’s history and is home to Christchurch Mansion.
The mansion is located in an historic park and has on display a collection of the works of Constable and Gainsborough. Colchester has an award-winning museum – the Colchester Castle Museum. The castle was constructed by William I in 1097 and is the largest ever constructed by the Normans. It was built upon the ancient Roman temple of Claudius.
Beaches: The closest beaches to Harwich to the North are Dovercourt Beach, 2.4 kilometres away and The Dip at Brackenbury Cliffs, 1.9 kilometres away. Dovercourt has received awards for its beaches. To the South approximately 11.3 kilometres are Albion Beach and Frinton Beach.
Shopping: Just a five minute taxi ride from the Port or Harwich is Dovercourt where there is a small shopping centre with a variety of interesting shops to peruse before Harwich cruises. If you don’t want to get too far away from the port to shop, there a few retail stores a 10-minute walk away.