Clacton has something for everyone, nostalgia sits comfortably alongside amusement arcades and ice cream. There are miles of sandy coast, elegant hotels, beautifully kept gardens alongside the sea and a promenade.
Clacton’s Pier was one of the first constructions built in the new part of Clacton, it was opened in 1872, and continues to be an attraction to visitors to the town.
In Victorian times paddle steamers and cargo ships would tie up alongside the pier to discharge their cargos of goods or visitors to the town. Day-trippers from London were regular visitors to enjoy the sea air and attractions that the pier and the town had to offer.
You can take a thrilling ride on the fairground attractions that are situated on the pier, browse and learn of the heroics of the men who serve in the lifeboat service stationed here. Maybe you just want to stroll the six acres watching the fishermen or even trying to land a catch of your own. Entry to the pier is free and open all year round, though attractions such as the funfair are seasonal.
Well-worth a visit are the cliff top gardens, the town also offers a wide range of shops, restaurants and hotels all located convenient to the town centre and seafront. Great Clacton is the oldest part of the town consisting of attractive shops, pubs and restaurants all close to the 12th Century Parish Church.
Just out of town you will find The Clacton Factory Shopping Village boasting around 50 stores with discounts of up to 60% on High Street prices.