Places to Visit in Maldon
Maldon offers a range of activities and places to visit to suit any visitor. The district of Maldon itself is rich in history, wildlife and natural attractions. For example, visitors may enjoy:
- Sailing - given its proximity to the east coast of England the district of Maldon has had strong maritime links for centuries. Nowadays, the area is used primarily for leisure sailing and there are various marinas dotted around the district.
- Nature/wildlife - Maldon is a naturally beautiful area which includes a variety of landscapes from charming rural villages to rolling farmland. Many visitors particularly enjoy the areas around the Crouch and Blackwater rivers and estuaries which are rich in wildlife and birdlife. The salt marshes here (which are also used to harvest Maldon Sea Salt) are also worth a visit. The area is also the starting point for the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation for canals which is popular with walkers and nature lovers. The National Trust has a site at Northey Island which holds visits by appointment or twice a year on open days.
- Historical sites - visitors to Maldon town should take a look at the Hythe Quay which is still home to some of the famous Maldon barges which used to trade up and down the east coast. The church of St Peter’s on the Wall which was built by St Cedd over 1300 years ago is also worth a visit. Maldon’s Moot Hall is an interesting way to learn more about the town of Maldon itself. And, the All Saints’ Church with its triangular tower is a unique example of this kind of architecture. Visitors can also visit the site of the Battle of Maldon.
- Museums - there are various museums in the Maldon district. The Maldon District Museum, for example, will give a fantastic introduction to the town’s history and the Burnham on Crouch Museum shows the strong maritime links of the area. The Museum of Power in Langford is a former pumping station that now contains displays about power and which sometimes has miniature train rides on offer. Burnham on Crouch’s Mangapps Railway Museum has various engines and a station. People who are interested in the Battle of Maldon can also visit the Maeldune Heritage Centre which contains the Maldon Embroidery which celebrates the battle itself. The Plume Library in Maldon is one of the oldest reference libraries in the UK - established by Thomas Plume in the 17th century it is still home to thousands of books including many from the 16-17th century.