
Living in Harwich
Thinking about moving to Harwich? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools and transport connections are like - and of course the most important thing of all: how much houses cost to buy.
Your guide to moving to Harwich
Why Harwich is a good place to live
Living in Harwich brings you the charm of a historic seaside town, bustling with maritime significance. You would enjoy the well-preserved historical landmarks such as the Redoubt Fort, Cornwallis Battery, Beacon Hill Fort, and the iconic lighthouses. You'd delight in the excellent connectivity offered by the A120, three train stations and a ferry service. Dovercourt Bay beach, one of the six beaches, is a Blue Flag beach, guaranteeing cleanliness and safety. In addition to the peace and tranquillity of sea views, Harwich offers a range of dining options, including delightful fish and chips shops, quaint pubs, and a variety of takeaway options.
What's Harwich famous for?
Harwich is famous for its rich maritime history. It has played a pivotal role as a key strategic naval hub for centuries. The town boasts connections with the historic voyage of The Mayflower ship, being the original home of the ship and its captain, Christopher Jones, who sailed the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World. Harwich's historic center with its cluster of charismatic Georgian, Jacobean, and Tudor houses, largely unchanged since the time of Nelson, further adds to its fame.
Things to do in Harwich
There's a wealth of historical and cultural experiences awaiting you in Harwich. For starters, you could go on a walking tour showcasing the town's historic sites. The Electric Palace Cinema is a must-visit, being one of the oldest still-functioning cinemas in the country. Seeing the Ha'penny Pier and the Kindertransport memorial would be a moving experience. The Maritime Museum and the Heritage Trail are excellent ways to step into the town's rich past. If you're a fan of lighthouses, this town is a treat for you, with not just one, but two lighthouses. You could also join the town in celebrating its historical significance in events linked to the Mayflower anniversary.
We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.
Average asking prices in Harwich today
We update our average asking prices every day using data from millions of properties for sale.
Properties currently for sale in Harwich
Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.
Offers over
£330,000
- Bedrooms5
- Bathrooms1
- Living rooms2
5 bed terraced house for sale
West Street, Harwich CO12£250,000
- Bedrooms3
- Bathrooms1
- Living rooms2
3 bed semi-detached house for sale
Main Road, Harwich, Essex CO12
Transport in Harwich
Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Harwich.
Local connections
- Harwich Town
- National Rail
- 0.1 miles / 0.2 km
- Harwich Harbour Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 0.3 miles / 0.5 km
- Dovercourt
- National Rail
- 0.6 miles / 1.0 km
- Shotley Point Marina Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 1 miles / 1.6 km
- Felixstowe for Harwich Ferry Landing
- Ferry Port
- 1.3 miles / 2.1 km
- Harwich International
- National Rail
- 1.5 miles / 2.4 km
Schools in Harwich
Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Harwich.
Education in Harwich
- Harwich Community Primary School and Nursery
- Ages: 3 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
- The Mayflower Primary School
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
- St Joseph's Catholic Primary School
- Ages: 5 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
- Spring Meadow Primary School & School House Nursery
- Ages: 2 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2024)
- Harwich and Dovercourt High School
- Ages: 11 - 18 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2021)
- All Saints' Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, Dovercourt
- Ages: 4 - 11 years old
- Ofsted Rating: Good (2019)
Local pubs in Harwich
Bottle Kiln
Dovercourt , Harwich , CO12Royal Oak
Harwich, Essex, CO12Friendly pub, great staff and a warm welcome. Large beer garden and family play area. Pool table and darts boards. BT Sports. Real ales. Large function room for hire. Regular live music.
Bristol Arms
Shotley Gate, Ipswich, IP9Fryatts Hotel and Bar
Harwich, Essex, CO12Dooley Inn
Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11The Dooley Inn is a friendly family public house. Everyone welcome to try our delicious home cooked food, enjoy live entertainments in our lovely garden.