Heybridge is a large village, large enough to be a town, adjacent to Maldon, near the River Blackwater in Essex, England. It is often overshadowed by its historic neighbour, and one could mistakenly think it to be the same town, as the two have merged with one another over the years.

Heybridge has a number of residential areas, most recognisably the newer Bovis housing estates to the west of the town, which were built in 1995. Before building commenced, a full archaealogical dig was undertaken and the excavations showed the existence of an important Iron Age settlement and ritual complex, a large Roman settlement and a succeeding Saxon settlement, as well as scattered pre-historic remains. Along the Goldhanger road are situated a number of traditional British holiday campsites, catering for both permanent residents and visitors.

Facilities

Heybridge's facilities include a number of takeaways (Paul's Place, China Garden, Best Kebab and Copsey's Fish Restaurant), two small supermarkets, a video shop, chemist, vets and dentist; many are situated around the Bentall's Shopping Complex along the Colchester Road. The town is also home to the popular Heybridge Swifts football club, currently competing in the Isthmian League Premier Division, though soon the team will move to neighbouring Maldon and new houses will be built on the former ground.

Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation Canal

The final stage of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal runs from Beeleigh through Heybridge and terminates at Heybridge Basin. This stage of the canal required much planning and work at its inception, as a constant running water supply was needed to the two mills nearby, in Langford and Heybridge. This was achieved through the diversion of the river Blackwater and extenisve works around the Beeliegh locks. The Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal was originally used to transport coal & wood to the inland town of Chelmsford, as the road route via Danbury crests the highest hill in Essex. The canal was used for this purpose until the late 70's. Today it is mainly used for pleasure boats and fishing.

Heybridge Basin

Another notable feature is Heybridge Basin, a picturesque area where the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal merges into the tidal Blackwater Estuary, fed by the rivers Blackwater and Chelmer. The two rivers are joined by a lock which is regularly used by pleasure boats. There are two pubs adjacent to the lock (The Old Ship Inn and The Jolly Sailor) which provide traditional British food. There is also a small tea room operated by the world renowned Wilkin and Sons conserves company. The basin offers bracing and pleasant walks along the seawall, or alternatively one can follow the canal leading back into the heart of Heybridge town. During the summer months, rowing boat hire is also available at a small price.

Sports and recreation

Heybridge has a King George's Field in memorial to King George V

External links

• Heybridge Swifts
• Heybridge Youth Football Club
• Heybridge Parish Council

(Sorry old basin sites web pages are no longer active!)

• Photos of Heybridge Basin
• Some other photos
• 1st Heybridge Scout Group
• The award winning Heybridge Primary School website!