In the 7th century, the Anglo-Saxon monk Cedd discovered a ruined Roman fort here. He built the first chapel, likely a wooden iteration of the one today, which was built …
Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Mersea Island is essentially cut off by the tide for four hours at a time - check these before crossing. Adds a frisson of excitement to any ride.
The River Colne flows through Colchester and the Essex countryside on its way to the sea. There's a nice riverside path which is great for cycling. The river runs 39 miles (62 km) in total.
On the Dengie Peninsula in Essex, the Bradwell Shell Bank is a fantastic nature reserve unlike any you'll find elsewhere. Formed by tides, the bank has built up over time …