About

For well over a thousand years, Hythe Quay has been the home to Maldon's maritime community and the gateway to Maldon for vessels arriving from the sea. Linking the award-winning Promenade Park with the pubs, restaurants and shops of Maldon High Street, Hythe Quay is a 'must see' for any visitor to the district.

In recent years, the quay has become a tourist and pleasure spot in its own right, serving as the home of the iconic Thames Sailing Barges which offer pleasure cruises and day trips along the Essex Coast and further afield.

The area around Hythe Quay was originally a separate village to Maldon but acted as the port for the town where, among other goods, the Thames Sailing Barges would transport hay and straw to feed London's large number of horses and in return would bring home plentiful manure supplies to help local farmers grow their crops.

The barges retired from commercial trade many years ago, but some have been lovingly preserved and now operate as part of Maldon's historic tourist fleet.

The view of Hythe Quay has changed surprisingly little over the years, with the scene down-river largely unspoilt - the main change being that instead of being crowded with working barge crews, the quayside is populated by tourists and visitors taking in the views and enjoying the attractions and pubs on the quayside.

Standing above Hythe Quay is St Mary's Church, which stands overlooking the Quay and out to sea. The foundations of the Church date to the 1100s and the original tower was designed so that a fire could be lit on the top, serving as a welcoming beacon for sailors returning from sea.

Fancy a drink or a bite to eat? There are two excellent pubs on the quayside with local food and drink, outdoor seating and stunning views. If a pub lunch isn't your thing then head over to Promenade Park for cafes and takeaway lunches among the trees.

There is limited parking on the quayside so we'd suggest parking up either in Maldon town centre or at the car park in the nearby Promenade Park - check out our car parking page for more details.