Seaside town loved by celebs with a beachfront pub that's one of Essex's best

Essex, with its miles of stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, is a favourite among locals and celebrities alike. We have a number of brilliant beaches in our county that we couldn't be more proud of.

Mersea Island, in particular, has become a popular destination not just for Essex residents but also for some well-known stars. The island boasts sparkling waters perfect for a swim and a pub within walking distance of the sandy beach.

And now, women's lifestyle magazine has ranked Mersea Island as one of the best places to live in Essex - the seventh best in fact. In its summary of places to live for 2025, Muddy Stilettos said: "A scenic island with miles of coastline and the best oysters in the country – what’s not to love?

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"There is an added element of adventure to living here, too – Mersea’s reached via a raised road with the sea lapping around it and sometimes gets cut off at high tide. The island is split into East and West Mersea, with most of the shops and restaurants on the west side.

"With its laid-back coastal vibe, pretty beach huts and great restaurants, it’s a coastal spot that is becoming more popular by the minute." The beach at Mersea is a mix of stone and shell, steeped in history. Remnants of a World War II pillbox can be found on the eastern shore, along with remains of a Tudor fort.

It's also a dog-friendly beach, welcoming our four-legged friends all year round. Celebrities such as Denise van Outen and The Only Way Is Essex's Lydia Bright are known to frequent this beautiful coastal area.

For those hoping to spot a celebrity or two, The Company Shed is the place to be. This independently run seafood restaurant, previously visited by Denise, offers fantastic views of the seafront.

Further along the coast, you'll find The Coast Inn, a family-friendly restaurant in a chic setting, and The Sandbank pub and restaurant. If you're after a seaside experience akin to Southend-on-Sea or Clacton but without the throngs of people, West Mersea Beach could be just the ticket.

Thanks to its calmer waters, West Mersea Beach is a favourite among paddle boarders and kayakers. But even on a bustling day, there's always a quiet, secluded spot to enjoy.

Many visitors understandably flock to the area near the car park for convenience; however, if you venture onto the beach and turn left, walking away from the beach huts, you'll discover much more space - and a larger sandy area too.

The average house price in Mersea is now £464,425, with the majority of purchases being detached houses at more than £535,329. Semi-detached houses go for a more affordable average £320,833, and flats £346,444.

Regarding its best-kept secret, Muddy Stilettos said: "It’s not exactly a secret, but the beach huts have become an Insta sensation. Muddy like the hires offered by The Hut, where you can take your pick from two front-row options, Mabel or Erin, both as chi-chi as their names imply, and yours for the day for £80."

And for the best places to eat, they added: "Michelin-starred Stark is an exciting new addition to East Mersea, with a frequently changing, seasonal six-course tasting menu. Food critics also rave about The Company Shed, with local oysters half the price you’d pay in London.

"Fancy a classic? Head to The Victory at Mersea for pie, mash and liquor. The Coast Inn is a lovely spot for sharing a seafood platter or fish and chips, while Mersea Barns is a top choice for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. Then there’s The White Hart Inn, serving dishes like grilled octopus and Colne Valley lamb chops."