24 hours in Manningtree and Mistley in Essex

A picturesque waterside location with a fascinating story, Manningtree is a real jewel of a town. Enjoy a bracing walk along the River Stour and make the most of its independent shops and restaurants.
 

One of the smallest towns in England, the name is thought to derive from 'many trees'. According to Manningtree Museum archive (manningtree-museum.org.uk), the town grew from the wool trade in the 15th to 18th century and found fame (or infamy) due to its links with Matthew Hopkins, the self-appointed Witchfinder General.  

Matthew Hopkins Witchfinder General (Image: Getty)

By Tudor times, Manningtree had become a thriving port known as Manytre. Manningtree and Mistley were brewing centres and ports for 200 years and the legacies of these trades live on today.  

Old maltings in Mistley (Image: Getty)

Mistley retains much of its Georgian character from the time of Richard Rigby, who planned to transform Mistley into a spa town. The plans did not turn out as he had hoped, despite famous architect Robert Adam being involved in the project. Rigby’s dream ended when his money ran out after he was disgraced for the mismanagement of his position as Paymaster of the Forces. Mistley Towers and the Swan Fountain are some of the most notable remnants of Robert Adam's work. The town still has many Georgian buildings, as well as the oldest Methodist church in Essex. 

EXPLORE  

When the tide is out, the beach can be enjoyed any time of year. During the summer months, it’s a perfect place to take part in watersports with the Stour Sailing Club. 

Immerse yourself in history at Manningtree Library, where the museum and archive are housed, and discover local photographs, publications and historical information. Next, take in the views at Mistley Towers, two porticoed classical towers, which stood at each end of a Georgian church and were designed by Robert Adam in 1776, as well as the pretty Swan Fountain.  

Mistley Towers (Image: Getty)

You can absorb everything the area has to offer on foot by taking on the Rigby ramble, an easy two-mile trip on roads, tracks and footpaths which passes landmarks left by the Rigby family. There is also the pretty Manningtree town walk, with full details on the Manningtree Museum website. 

DINE

Walking through Manningtree, you are struck by the number of inviting cafes, restaurants and pubs that are dotted throughout this small town. There is the appealing Lucca Enoteca, a pizza restaurant serving handmade Neapolitan-style pizza, which is wood-fired using the freshest ingredients sourced from Italy. They also serve antipasti, salads and daily specials, not to mention fabulous desserts. 

Outside dining at Lucca Enoteca (Image: Mark Bolton)

The Crown pub has stunning views over the river from its courtyard, a view that draws you in as you pass the courtyard entrance from the street. The Mogul is a popular Indian restaurant serving an array of tasty dishes including vegetarian and vegan options. 

There are plenty of places to grab a coffee and cake at Cafe Rio, Hobson’s Deli and Cafe or Seven South Street café. There is also Mistley Place Park Tea Rooms, which are named after the local landmark. 

SHOP  

Shoppers are treated to a host of independent shops, offering a truly unique shopping experience. There’s NaviStitch, which sells nautical art, cards and gifts for all occasions. Get your fill of wholesome and delicious food at The Wholefood Store. Established in 1998, it stocks a range of wholefoods, organic fruit and veg, delicious sourdough, natural supplements, essential oils and plant-based candles. There are also quiches, salads, sourdough sandwiches, bakes, cakes, cookies and delicious coffee. The authentic south Indian dal and curries are made by chef Lakshmi.  

The Wholefood Store (Image: Newsquest)

The Tree offers up items made by local makers and artists and is a great place to find unique pieces. Frippery was started more than 15 years ago in Colchester by friends Clare and Kim, and they have brought their wide array of goods to Manningtree, including brands such as Tilly Sveaas and Olia jewellery, St Eval and Parkminster Candles. The clothing is from Chalk UK alongside Italian and Danish brands. Or why not peruse the art space Studio 42 and even have a go yourself with one of its workshops? 

STAY 

If you are looking to stay over for an unforgettable weekend, there are plenty of places to book. The Mistley Thorn is an attractive hotel set in a Georgian building, which dates back to 1723. The comfortable accommodation consists of eleven rooms and four of them have panoramic views down the Stour Estuary. There is a self-contained cottage attached to the side of the building. All rooms have luxury beds, comfy dressing gowns, Ren toiletries, docking stations and free Wi Fi. They welcome smaller well-behaved dogs in some rooms.  

Or why not opt for Brook Street B&B, a self-contained cottage with private access through a courtyard garden? The cottage is in the centre of Manningtree within five minutes of pubs, restaurants, shops and the River Stour with easy access to The Essex Way footpath. 

Manningtree's small but perfectly formed beach (Image: TazzyBro Photography)

LIVE

Fancy making a permanent move? Here are two top property picks... 

The Moorings (Image: Fenn Wright)The Moorings is an 18th century, Grade II-listed, four bedroom property boasting its own cellar, double garage and private garden. It is situated on Mistley High Street with accommodation set over three levels. Standout features include sash windows to the front elevation and an open fireplace. 

Marketed by Fenn Wright, £595,000 

Gyles & Rose property (Image: Gyles & Rose)This beautiful 19th century farmhouse is set in two acres just a short distance from the River Stour. It has four bedrooms and extends to over 3,000 sq ft of living space, with 15,000 sq ft of mixed-use outbuildings. It boasts a swimming pool as well as a commercial-sized greenhouse. 

Marketed by Gyles & Rose, £1.6m