Clacton Area Guide
Welcome to Clacton
Things To Do
The main shopping area contains many of the more familiar national chains, independent stores as well as a variety of eateries to tantalise your taste buds which is a common theme throughout the area. Just outside of town is Clacton Shopping Village offering a wide range of individual stores with famous name brands at discounted prices.
Local Schools
There are a number of well rated Primary and Secondary schools in Clacton including:
- Tendring Primary School
- Rolph Primary School
- Great Clacton Junior School
- Clacton County High School
- Clacton Coastal Academy
- Tendring Technology College
Transport Links
Clacton-on-Sea boasts a comprehensive and convenient transport network, making it an attractive destination for both locals and visitors.
Rail Links
Clacton-on-Sea train station is a key transportation hub, primarily served by Greater Anglia trains. These trains provide frequent services connecting Clacton-on-Sea to London Liverpool Street, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. Trains also run from Clacton-on-Sea to other nearby towns such as Colchester, Wivenhoe, and Chelmsford, making it easy to explore the surrounding region.
Station Facilities
Clacton-on-Sea train station offers a range of facilities to enhance passenger experience:
- Step-free Access: The station has step-free access to all platforms.
- Accessible Toilets and Ticket Machines: The station includes accessible toilets and ticket machines, as well as a height-adjusted ticket office counter and an induction loop.
- Car Parking: There are two car parks at the station, one for short-stay and one for long-stay parking, with a total of 49 spaces, including 4 accessible spaces.
Road Connectivity
Clacton-on-Sea is easily accessible by car, with the A12 and A133 providing direct routes into the town. From the A12, take the Colchester North exit and follow the A120 and A133 to reach Clacton-on-Sea. The town is relatively driver-friendly, with ample and affordable parking options available, although traffic can be more congested during peak holiday seasons or events like the Clacton Air Show.
Local Public Transport
The town has a well-organized local bus network operated by First Essex and Hedingham Omnibuses. These buses run at half-hourly intervals and connect Clacton-on-Sea to nearby towns such as Colchester, Walton, Frinton, and Harwich. Local bus services stop outside the train station, and Clacton-on-Sea is also a PlusBus location, offering integrated bus and rail travel options.
Other Transport Options
- National Express Coaches: Clacton-on-Sea is connected to London and other major cities via National Express coaches, which offer several daily services.
- Cycling: National Cycle Route 150 runs along the coast, providing a scenic cycling route. The train station has extensive bicycle storage facilities, including 108 spaces in compounds and stands, and a secure cycle parking area with smartcard access.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Accessible taxis are available, with details posted on station information posters. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also operational in the area.