Local Area Information
CLACTON-ON-SEA
Clacton Beach
Some parts of the beach have very steep slopes to access the promenade. We recommend heading to Martello Beach, which is a very short and slight slope from the road to the promeade. Park at Hastings Avenue Car Park (CO15 1XY) and use the ramp next to the lifeboat station to access the promenade. In this area you will find a few cafes and a Toby Carvery with outdoor seating looking over the promenade.
Clacton Pier
From Martello Beach it is a 20 minute walk along the promenade to the Pier.
Alternatively, you can drive to the Pier and park closer. There is a steep road leading to the Pier called Pier Gap. Parking is limited on this road, with one disabled parking spot. There is plenty of parking along Marine Parade but beware of the steep hill down to the Pier.
The Pier itself is all on one level with wheelchair access/ramps to bars, restaurants, bowling and family entertainment centres.
Century Cinema
Our local cinema has two screens and a great ‘old style cinema’ feel to it!
The cinema is on the first floor, but ramp access and a lift is available. Please call the venue ahead of time for advice on best seating options. Film times at
www.centurycinema.co.uk / 01255 429850
Go Bananas Indoor Play Area
Local indoor soft play area for children. Some areas are accessible - more info at
www.go-bananas.co.uk
Princes Theatre & West Cliff Theatre
We are lucky to have two brilliant theatres in Clacton, both of which are fully accessible. More info is available on the websites. Please call the venue in advance of your visit.
Princes Theatre: 01255 686633
West Cliff Theatre: 01255 43 33 44
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SURROUNDING AREA
Frinton-on-Sea
We recommend a visit to the neighbouring seaside town Frinton-on-Sea, which is a 15-minute drive away. This quaint town has an old school seaside feel, with a large green leading to the beach. Take a wander around the local shops and soak up the atmosphere. Access to the beach is via a slope near Second or Third Avenue.
Colchester Castle
Just a 30 minute drive away is the historic town of Colchester. Not only is Colchester great for shopping and restaurants, but is home to Colchester Castle. Why not take a stroll around Castle Park before taking a self guided tour? If visiting on a weekday, we recommend visiting after 2:30pm due to school groups. Colchester Castle is fully accessible to wheelchairs with lifts and ramps.
Disabled parking is available 100m from the entrance.
Please see the accessibility guide at the end of this booklet.
Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo is a great day out for all ages! The zoo is accessible for wheelchair users apart from a few paths which are steep/rocky (these are signposted).
Accessibility guide available in our welcome book.
Beth Chatto Gardens
Take a stroll around a number of beautiful themed gardens. Accessible to wheelchairs, although some paths are gravel. Not suitable in bad weather. More info at www.bethchatto.co.uk/help-contact/accessibility.htm