top of page

Plan Your Visit

A literary escape by the sea, just 90 minutes from London.

Discover Frinton-on-Sea

Frinton-on-Sea has long been associated with literature, dating back to its mention in the Domesday Book. With the arrival of the railway in the late nineteenth century, it developed into an elegant seaside resort - something still reflected today in its Arts and Crafts houses, leafy avenues and historic seafront.

​

The wide Greensward and Esplanade stretch along miles of golden sand, with a promenade that runs from the Naze to nearby Clacton.

​

Writers and notable visitors have long been drawn here, including Winston Churchill, Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII. Author Arthur Ransome set Secret Water in the surrounding backwaters, while novelist Ursula Bloom was a long-time resident.

Our Venues

Events take place across a selection of unique local venues, including:

​

  • McGrigor Hall, home of Frinton Summer Theatre

  • Frinton Lawn Tennis Club

  • Frinton Links Golf Club

  • Walton & Frinton Yacht Club, with its views across Arthur Ransome’s ‘Secret Water’

​

Each venue offers its own atmosphere, from historic halls to coastal views.

Accessibility

We aim to ensure that all festival venues offer excellent accessibility provisions. If you have specific requirements, please contact us in advance and we’ll be happy to help.

Our Advice

Where to Eat, Drink and Shop

Frinton’s Connaught Avenue offers a wide selection of independent places to eat, drink and browse.

​

You can also visit Caxton Books, the town’s independent bookshop and longstanding festival partner.

Where to
Stay

There is a range of accommodation available in and around Frinton-on-Sea, from guesthouses to holiday lets.

​​

We recommend booking early, as availability can be limited during the festival period.​

Getting
Here

By car

Frinton-on-Sea is located on the Essex coast, approximately:

  • 20 minutes from Clacton

  • 30 minutes from Colchester

  • 1 hour from Ipswich and Stansted Airport

  • 2 hours from London via the A12

There is ample free parking available in the town.

​

By train

Regular services run to Frinton-on-Sea from London Liverpool Street via Thorpe-le-Soken or Colchester, taking around 90 minutes.

bottom of page