Location & Transportation
I love Harwich for its straightforward charm. The cruise terminal here offers only basic facilities—but that simplicity is part of its character. When you disembark, you’ll find that the port is well connected by rail. Harwich International station has regular services, even extra trains schedule themselves when large cruise ships dock. I’ve taken the train to London from here, and it’s an easy journey of about 80–100 minutes to London Liverpool Street. Just step off at the platform (the ticket office is at the far end on the right) for your next adventure.
For those planning an airport transfer, check out the information offered on this page. And if you like using GPS, simply enter: Parkeston, Harwich, Essex, CO12 4SR, United Kingdom.
Nearby Lodging
There are a few local accommodations if you want to extend your stay. In the Dovercourt area – which serves as the heart of old Harwich – you can find charming hotels and bed & breakfasts that offer a warm welcome after a day at sea.
Nearest Airport
While Harwich doesn’t have a large airport of its own, London’s airports are a convenient alternative. London Stansted Airport (STN) is about an hour and a half’s drive from Harwich, and there are plenty of transfer services to get you between the port and the airport.
Sightseeing
Harwich may be small, but its rich maritime history and preserved old town make it a worthwhile stop. I’ve walked through its conservation area, marveling at historic buildings that tell stories of centuries past. While the town itself is best enjoyed in a brief stroll, it also puts you in an excellent position for nearby day trips.
- Stroll around Dovercourt, the lively center of Harwich.
- Admire century-old architecture and soak in the coastal atmosphere.
- In the immediate area, you can also plan a visit to local landmarks that highlight the town’s seafaring legacy.
Tours & Excursions
I often suggest planning a day trip into London from Harwich—an adventure that combines a scenic train ride with a world-class sightseeing experience. A hop-on, hop-off bus tour in London is a great option; many of these tours even include a free river cruise along the Thames. This gives you a bird’s-eye view of the iconic landmarks of the capital.
Beyond London, Harwich is conveniently located for trips to:
- Colchester – Britain’s oldest recorded town.
- Constable Country – to see the inspiring English countryside.
- The ancient wool town of Lavenham.
- The fascinating Sutton Hoo burial site.
- Historic Cambridge – perfect for an afternoon wander.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Shopping in Harwich is modest but genuine. There aren’t huge malls or designer outlets here; instead, you’ll find a handful of local boutiques and souvenir shops around Dovercourt. It’s the ideal place to pick up a unique memento that reminds you of your day at this historic port.
Dining
Dining options in Harwich are delightfully local. While the selection might be limited compared to larger cities, I’ve enjoyed hearty British meals in traditional pubs serving up fresh fish and chips, as well as cozy seaside cafes in Dovercourt. Enjoy a relaxed meal as you chat with locals about the town’s storied past.
Culture & Local Events
Harwich embraces its heritage with a down-to-earth culture and seasonal events that celebrate its maritime past. Here’s what I’ve learned and experienced:
Local Events
- Harwich often hosts maritime and heritage festivals that shine a light on its seafaring history.
- Depending on the season, you might catch community fairs or special exhibitions in the old town.
- Since Harwich is well positioned for day trips to London and other cultural hubs like Colchester and Cambridge, be sure to check local listings for events in the region (Visit Harwich Heritage is a good resource).
Safety & Awareness
- The local currency here is the British Pound Sterling (£). Most places accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. However, remember that Scottish bank notes might not be accepted elsewhere in the UK.
- English is spoken throughout, though you may notice a friendly Essex accent.
- Shops and restaurants have varying hours—smaller stores usually operate from about 10am to 6pm while larger ones can be open until 9pm or even later.
- In case of an emergency, dial 999 (or 112). As always, I advise keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in busy transit areas.