Manningtree: About the town
What does your dream morning look like? If it’s waterfront strolls and a coffee from your local independent, Manningtree town is the breath of fresh air you need. Locals enjoy tranquil estuary views over the River Stour, Blue Flag beaches and boutique shops along the high street.
The town’s origins date all the way back to the Middle Ages. Now, it has more than 100 Grade II-listed buildings and several local landmarks, including Mistley Towers, the remains of a Georgian-era church.
If you’re considering a move to Manningtree, keep reading to explore this charming coastal town in Essex.
Live in Manningtree Park: New Houses for Sale from City & Country
Whether you’re ready to downsize or you’re looking for a home with space to grow, there’s a thoughtfully designed home in Manningtree Park to suit. Nestled on the edge of the town, this award-winning development from City & Country features a collection of one and two-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom houses, and more homes with two to five bedrooms coming soon.
Alongside these high-specification homes, the development features a natural play area, dedicated space for off-lead dog walking and a paddock for its very own flock of rare-breed sheep. It’s country living, the contemporary way.
Browse available homes at Manningtree Park.
Why Choose a New Home in Manningtree?
A Neighbourly Community
Spanning just 20 hectares, Manningtree is the smallest town in the UK, resulting in a close and welcoming community of passionate business owners and locals. The area also benefits from a neighbourhood watch scheme, providing an added sense of safety.
Leisure Activities
Manningtree sits alongside the River Stour Estuary, offering tranquil beaches, open green spaces and water activities during summer. Want to go for a dip with the locals? Join the Manningtree Mermaids, a community group for wild swimming, who host regular meets at the estuary. Meanwhile, on Quay Street, the Stour Sailing Club boasts a balcony club bar, library and parlour where members can relax and socialise between sailing trips.
Exploring Essex and Beyond
Manningtree is well-connected to other towns and cities. Colchester is just an 11-minute train ride or a half-hour drive away, putting shopping trips and family days out to Colchester Castle and Zoo within easy reach. You can also travel to Ipswich – with its plethora of historic landmarks and enticing attractions – in a similar amount of time.
Excellent Schools
Ideal for growing families, Manningtree has a selection of quality primary and secondary schools nearby. Highfields Primary School and Colchester County High School for Girls are both rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, while Manningtree High School boasts a ‘Good’ rating. For early years education, there are several nurseries nearby where little ones can learn and play.
Convenient Transport Links
Manningtree has good links to the A120 and A12 road networks, so you can easily travel to neighbouring towns. Manningtree train station also runs regular services to Harwich Town, Ipswich and Norwich. Commuting to the capital is straightforward too, as you can hop on a train to London Liverpool Street and reach the City in around an hour, with stops at Chelmsford and Colchester along the way.
Nature Reserves on Your Doorstep
Wrabness Nature Reserve
Just a 12-minutre drive from Manningtree lies Wrabness Nature Reserve – 27 hectares of grassland, marshland and wooded areas near the Stour Estuary. Birdspotting is popular on the reserve, with species like the turtle dove, song thrush and nightingale nesting throughout the year. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a lead, and there’s a picnic area for refreshments.
Cattawade Nature Reserve
Cattawade Nature Reserve is a marshland area on the border between Essex and Suffolk, just a 20-minute walk from Manningtree. There are seasonal pools nearby, locally known as ‘The Splodge’, where wading birds and wildfowl spend half of the year. While the nature area is protected, you can spot wildlife from viewing points along the south bank public footpath or the white bridge over the estuary.
Boutiques and Independents
Boutique shops and independent businesses line Manningtree’s High Street, so each retail experience has a personal touch. Pick up ceramics, glassware and candles for your new home at The Stour Store, a popular homeware shop brimming with handmade wares. For organic groceries, stop by the Whole Foods Store or Manningtree Market on Fridays or Saturdays.
Dining Local
When it comes to restaurants and wine spots, Manningtree has plenty to choose from. Head to Claret and Brew on South Street for craft beers on tap and an extensive wine list to sample. Meanwhile, restaurants like Lucca Entoteca, The Crown and the Red Lion Pub and Bistro make for a memorable evening of hearty food and new flavours.
Experience Country Living at Its Finest
Apartments and Houses for Sale in Manningtree, Essex
At Manningtree Park, modern living meets community values and freedom in nature. When you’re ready to enquire about a property, we’re here to help you buy. Get in touch to book a viewing of your new home in Essex.