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. From the award winning Promenade Park to the pubs, restaurants and shops of Maldon High Street, Hythe Quay is a 'must see' for any visit 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 who offer pleasure cruises and day trips out into the North Sea and along the Essex Coast.

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 Sialing barges would transport hay and straw to feed London's large number of horses and in return would bring plentiful manure supplies to help local farmers grow their crops.

The barges retired from commericial trade many years ago and many have survived into preservation and now operate as part of Maldon's historic tourist fleet.

The view of Hythe Quay has changed suprisingly little over the years with view down river largley unspoilt, the only change being the replacement of barge crews 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 Chruch date to the 1100s and the spire was designed to serve 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.