Discovering the hidden charms of Wivenhoe – a hidden gem near London
Wivenhoe village, Essex is an underestimated vacation destination, only an hour from London by train. With the cost of living crisis in UK and more restrictions on flying to Europe, UK citizens are looking more closely at places that aren’t so cumbersome to get to and Wivenhoe certainly offers a lot. If you are a dog owner, you will love Wivenhoe even more as they have water and dog biscuits in almost every venue, and dogs are welcome literally everywhere.
You can experience vineyards, meandering river walks, cows, secret garden parties (sometimes a Regatta), boat rides on Wivenhoe river and a boat museum all in a weekend.
We went there for the Summer solstice which was the longest day of the year with a full moon on 22nd June. It was also the Regatta so locals all pulled out chairs and sat by the river, either at pubs or alongside drinks vans and food stalls, to wait for the boats in the Regatta to pass.
The weather was hot and the members of the Wivenhoe boat club were particularly fortunate with a seat in the shade in a prime viewing place on the river. We stopped at the Rose and Crown for a pint to watch before heading off on a trail alongside the river.
After walking a fair way, communing with cows and having an ice cream we wandered back into the town to have more snacks and watch boats float past.
The day was sunny and we walked into the Wivenhoe boat museum for some shade and to gain some knowledge on it’s reason to be in a prime location in town on the river. It’s free and gives a history of the town and its connection to with shipmaking.
Later in the late afternoon, we took a tour of a local vineyard, Skylark, which is only fifteen minutes away, to enjoy some decent local food and wine.
In the evening we watched the sun set at ten pm on the longest day of the year. In a double treat it was a full moon which was orange and caste a light across the water.
That night we slept well after all the country air. The next morning we walked to the local boat station and took a small boat ride on River Colne for twenty minutes to a nearby town called Rowhedge. It was a bargain at only £1.50 per person each way (dogs are free of course!) with lots of scenery and local flavour. We got out for a pint of prawns and lunch at the Anchor pub on the river in Rowhedge. The service wasn’t over friendly but the views and ambience of the place made up for it.
Once back in the town of Wivenhoe, we walked up to the high street to stop for a delicious cake and coffee at the Barrells of Wivenhoe, run by a local lady who goes the extra mile to make you feel welcome.
After a weekend filled with delightful experiences and fresh country air, heading back to London felt bittersweet. But the good news is that Wivenhoe is just an hour away, making it easy to plan our next visit.
Interesting fact: Wivenhoe in Essex was crowned as the premier place to live in the East of England in 2024, securing the top spot in the prestigious annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide.
Check out our recent weekend in Brighton post and a day trip to the prettiest village in England, Castle Combe.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wivenhoe, Essex
How do I get to Wivenhoe from London?
You can take a train from London Liverpool Street to Wivenhoe, which takes approximately one hour. Trains run regularly throughout the day. From central London to Wivenhoe by car takes approximately 1 hr 40mins.
Are dogs allowed in most venues in Wivenhoe?
Yes, Wivenhoe is very dog-friendly. Many venues offer water and dog biscuits, and dogs are welcome almost everywhere.
Where to stay in Wivenhoe?
When planning your visit to Wivenhoe, accommodation options range from quaint bed and breakfasts to charming boutique hotels. One standout option is the Wivenhoe House Hotel, a historic hotel set in beautiful grounds that offers both comfort and elegance. For a more intimate experience, consider staying at one of the local bed and breakfasts where you can enjoy a homely atmosphere and personalized attention.
When is the best time to visit Wivenhoe?
Wivenhoe is a great destination year-round, but visiting during the Summer Solstice offers unique experiences like regattas and garden parties.
Things to do in Wivenhoe, Essex?
Explore Wivenhoe Park – Stroll through the scenic grounds famously painted by John Constable, blending historic charm with modern architecture.
Walk the Wivenhoe Trail – Follow the River Colne from Colchester City to Wivenhoe Town, enjoying natural beauty and historic waymarkers.
Visit the Sentinel Art Gallery – Discover contemporary art and exhibitions in this charming Wivenhoe gallery.
Step into History at Nottage Maritime Museum – Learn about Wivenhoe’s boat-building heritage and maritime history.
Relax at Wivenhoe Quayside – Enjoy a riverside pub lunch or simply soak in the serene views of the River Colne.
Discover the University of Essex – Explore its art gallery, natural history trails, and the historic Wivenhoe House Hotel.
What is shopping like?
The charm of Wivenhoe extends to its eclectic shopping scene, where independent boutiques and quirky shops line the streets. Book lovers will appreciate a visit to The Wivenhoe Bookshop, a cozy store offering a curated selection of novels, non-fiction, and children’s books.
4 responses
I’ve never heard of Wivenhoe, but it sounds like the perfect substitute for London to me, who doesn’t really like big cities. Thanks for sharing!
What a charming and delightful description of Wivenhoe—it sounds like the perfect hidden gem for a relaxing weekend getaway!
What a lovely place to visit.
Oooo. Thank you for writing about this hidden gem. I’d love to visit just for the beautiful scenery.