Why not sit back, relax and enjoy the views of the Essex countryside to the coast from one of our railway branch lines on the Greater Anglia network? Avoid the congestion, pollution and parking issues that go with driving your car and access the Essex Coast by train. The Mayflower, Sunshine Coast, Southend and Crouch Valley train lines get closer that you think. Why not make getting there part of the adventure?
Check out these Seaside Train journeys below on Essex Coast branch lines.
Explore The Essex Coast Branch Lines
The Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership team has created leaflets for the coastal branch lines which are accessible below. Packed full of useful tips about the areas, wildlife and suggested walks, we hope you'll find these leaflets useful on your next visit to The Essex Coast.
The Mayflower Line runs from Manningtree to Harwich Town station connecting services from London, Ipswich and Norwich. This branch line follows the path of the stunning River Stour estuary to Harwich.
The Sunshine Coast Line runs between Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze. Starting from Colchester the line splits to travel to the staiton in the city centre, Colchester Town, before it travels through the Hythe to the beautiful town of Wivenhoe and so on.
The Crouch Valley Line runs for 16.5 miles from Wickford to Southminster at the top of the Dengie Peninsula. The line gives you an opportunity to enjoy a journey through the beautiful Essex countryside.
The Southend Line runs from Shenfield to Southend Victoria and is popular with both commuters and tourists. Southend-on-Sea has lots to offer, sitting on the northern side of the Thames Estuary it's a traditional seaside town.
Themed Trains
Throughout the year there are specially themed event trains laid on to the coast. This year as well as the well loved themes from previous years of traditional ‘bucket and spade’ train, a Cockney Sing-along-Train and Santa Express there will be a Music Train and Sea Shanty Train to enjoy.
The Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership team and volunteers promote the Essex Coast and its branch lines, producing railway walks, interpretation boards at stations and event trains.
Travel by bus
One of the best ways to travel and see the sights is aboard an open top bus. With 24 stops along the way the Clacton Breeze runs along Clacton seafront to Holland on Sea, Mon to Sat during the summer season. Great fun for all the family.
Or if you are traveling from further afield why not use the Hedingham Seasiders bus routes which connects the Sunshine Coast with its neighbouring villages and towns. You can extend your journey by changing buses and see what Essex truly has to offer!
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