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Harwich with its sister port of Parkeston is eastern England’s ‘Gateway to the Continent’. From Harwich Quay the great continental ferries can be seen at close quarters as they set out for Holland, Denmark and Germany. A stroll along the Esplanade reveals the busy harbour scene, with huge container vessels heading for Felixstowe, Ipswich and Parkeston, and the endless traffic of sailing barges, yachts, tugs and launches. The casual visitor will enjoy exploring the narrow streets of old Harwich, all full of character. Its most fascinating and historic features are often tucked discreetly away, and provide a rich reward for those who search them out.

Dovercourt is the residential and holiday suburb of Harwich. Although more modern in appearance it is actually older and larger than Harwich and is indeed mentioned in the Domesday Book. Fine promenade areas, an attractive and safe beach and seafront - awarded the prestigious Blue Flag - parks and entertainments, including choral and band concerts, as well as the fortunate low rainfall, make it a most welcoming town with good hotels and restaurants for those wishing to stay awhile. Excellent waters also make sailing, windsurfing and angling pleasurable pastimes.

The expanding port at Parkeston handles large modern passenger ferries with roll-on roll-off facilities. It is also a port of call for many impressive cruise liners during the summer months. It has an excellent electrified rail service to London, Ipswich and Cambridge, with direct connections to inter-city services.

For the businessman, importer or exporter, seeking office or warehouse space with easy access to our EU partners, the area provides considerable potential. As you read on you will see that the area has ambitious plans for commercial, industrial and leisure development.