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The Tendring Peninsula, on which Harwich and Dovercourt are situated, also has much to offer the visitor.

Harwich International Port, adjacent to the village of Parkeston, will be visited by those just “passing through”. It is Britain’s main sea terminal for passenger services to Holland, Denmark and Germany. Other freight ships and cruise liners can also be seen.

Also on the quay is Harwich International Port railway station from where there are regular services to London, as well as the nearby towns of Colchester and Ipswich.

Travel just a few miles from Dovercourt town centre and you can be out in the rural countryside. The nearest village is idyllic Ramsey, which is overlooked by its medieval hilltop church and also a striking windmill.

A winding county road will take you to Wrabness, passing Copperas Wood and Stour Wood on the way. These woods are perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can walk through to the edge of the River Stour, discovering plenty on the way. There is a public hide for bird watchers and part of the wood has been set aside as a bird reserve. A short walk along the riverside brings visitors to discover the foreshore at Wrabness - the unlikely setting for some elaborate beach houses and a haven for boat owners.

Around a few more corners and the road leads to the villages of Bradfield, Manningtree and Mistley. The visitor will find Mistley of particular interest with its historic towers and an environmental centre, which proves particularly popular with children.

Slightly further afield are the picturesque villages of Dedham and Flatford on the Essex/Suffolk border. This is real “Constable Country” and visitors can visit the scenes of many of the paintings of famous artist John Constable.

On the opposite side of the peninsula lie the golden beaches of Walton, Frinton, and most popular of all, Clacton - now home to Clacton Shopping Village housing major retail outlet shops. In Clacton and Walton visitors can bustle among the busy amusement arcades and sea front shops, as well as taking a walk along the historic piers.

For shoppers the large surrounding towns of Colchester and Ipswich offer an extensive range of shops. Both are just half-an-hour from Harwich by road or rail.

The local Tourist Information Centre, adjacent to Parkeston Roundabout and the nearby Supermarket will be pleased to give advice and information on the area. Tel: 01255 506139 or visit the website, www.harwichconnexions.co.uk