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Exquisite Vineyards, Gardens and Sailing the Blackwater

To fully appreciate the sights and attractions of this tour, we recommend that you allow two days - so why not make a weekend of it?

Day 1 - Stay at Crouch Ridge Vineyard where the old Dairy has been lovingly restored into self-catering cottages with stunning views overlooking the Vineyard and the River Crouch.  Pre-book onto a tour and tasting experience: a private tour of the vineyard with the owner, a sparkling afternoon tea/wine tasting package or a Gold Tour paired with a cheese or charcuterie board to complement the wine or simply enjoy a meal and some great English wine.

Go by train, car or stroll along the sea wall to Burnham-on-Crouch, spotting wildfowl and wading birds that feed on the salt marsh along the way.  You’ll see sailing boats from Burnham which is known for its annual sailing regatta in August.  From Burnham you can take the ferry across to the RSPB nature reserve at Wallasea Island and watch seals sunbathing on the banks.

Day 2  - The nearby, historic town of Maldon has quaint cafes, independent shops, historic churches and pleasant walks along the scenic River Blackwater.  

Pre-book a Thames Sailing Barge experience with Topsail Charters whose magnificent, vintage sailing barges set sail from Maldon Quay. Choose from a full day sail, taking in the creeks and estuaries along the coastline, a brunch, morning coffee or afternoon tea shorter cruise or a ‘Hands On’ Sail Day, an interactive experience where you learn how to sail the barge. The privately owned Osea Island and National Trust owned Northey Island, just offshore, can be seen from the barge.

The Royal Horticultural Society gardens at Hyde Hall are only a few miles away from Maldon where you’ll find a mix of traditional and modern themed gardens, nestled in a lovely part of rural Essex.  Highlights include the Dry Garden where drought resistant, sun-loving plants thrive, the Hilltop Garden with its collection of roses and views of the rolling countryside and the Global Growth Vegetable Garden which supplies fresh produce to the garden’s restaurant and café.