Heybridge Basin

Heybridge Basin is the start of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation to which it owes its existence. It was here that the Colliers' barges unloaded for the journey inland. Construction of the 13 mile canal to Chelmsford commenced in 1793 under the general direction of John Rennie.

The basin at Heybridge was dug out at the sea end of the navigation to allow lighters to enter the canal via the sea lock for the unloading of their cargos for transportation inland. The stretch of canal between the Basin and Beeleigh was cut out by hand to bypass Maldon because the town opposed the building of the canal fearing loss of trade in the port

In 1796 the first ship entered the basin with a cargo of coal for Chelmsford. Read the story of the navigation by John Marriage here

William Bentall moved his iron foundry from Goldhanger to a site next to the canal in the village of Heybridge because of the benefits of being able to take raw materials right up to the works.

The lock at Heybridge Basin

Today, Heybridge Basin is a haven for pleasure craft of all ages and sizes as well as being the starting point for walks along the sea wall to Maldon and beyond.

The two pubs that once served to quench the thirst of the basin workers and visiting sailors now cater for the tourists visiting this picturesque area. There is also a tea room and art and craft gallery on the sea wall.

You can reach the Basin by car from the B1026 Goldhanger Road and pay for parking in the Daisy Meadow car park which is next to the canal - this is the only public car park in the Basin. Alternatively, you can walk along the navigation towpath from the Wave Bridge or follow the sea wall from Hall Road Heybridge. Please be aware that there no public toilets available.

Sit by the sea wall and watch the craft going through the sea lock at high tide or maybe catch a glimpse of one of the old barges making their way along the Blackwater towards the sea. The Old ShipJolly SailorTea Room

See the Washington Window in Maldon's All Saint's Church

This is one of the scenes depicted in a window
of one of Maldon's churches.
Find more details here

The Bentall car was designed and produced in Heybridge during the early 1900's

Maldon once had railway lines running to Witham and South Woodham Ferrers

Beeleigh Abbey was founded in 1180 and is now part of a private house

Tolleshunt Major was granted by King Henry VIII to Stephen Beckenham

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