Follow the path of the River Stour estuary from Manningtree to Harwich as you journey along the Mayflower Line.
Begin your journey along the Mayflower Line at Manningtree, England’s smallest town. As you travel along the line you can explore the picture-perfect riverside town of Mistley, watch the wildlife that makes RSPB Stour Estuary its home, see a busy ferry and cruise port in action and discover the bustling seaside town of Dovercourt. All this before the train comes to a stop at historic Harwich Town, home of the inspiring Lifeboat Museum.
Harwich is a key part in the Mayflower 400 story. It is believed to be where the boat was built and where the ship's captain called home. Click here to discover the full story and how you can explore the celebrations by rail...
Explore the Mayflower Line on foot with these beautiful railway walks:
Highlights
Wildlife watching at RSPB Stour Estuary
Discover the Mayflower Project next door to Harwich Town Station
Step back in time and explore the impressive circular fort of the Redoubt built in 1808
Find out more
Getting there
Large car park and Bike&Go facilities available at Mannningtree Station
Take a Greater Anglia train from London Liverpool Street to Manningtree. Trains leave regularly throughout the day (look up times) and the journey takes approximately one hour.
Route
Cost
Opening times

Plan your trip
Take a Greater Anglia train from London Liverpool Street to Manningtree. Trains leave regularly throughout the day (look up times) and the journey takes approximately one hour.
Attractions along the Mayflower Line include:
Explore the visitors centre, RSPB wildlife garden, riverside tea room or you hire a rowing boat and follow the river to Dedham.
Journey time – 45 minute walk from Manningtree station or hire one of the Bike&Go bikes at the station.
Over 2,000 rescued animals including goats, sheep, ducks, guinea pigs, chickens, cats, horses, pigs and rabbits. Enjoy tasty refreshments in the park tea rooms before you leave.
Journey time – 8 minute walk from Mistley station
A 60 acre reserve offering fantastic views on the Southern bank of the Stour Estuary.
Journey time – 25 minute walk from Wrabness station
Ideal way for wildlife and nature lovers to spend an afternoon.
Journey time – 22 minute walk from Wrabness station
An impressive circular fort 180ft in diameter built in 1808. It is the only such example open to the public and along with the military museum it is well worth a visit.
Journey time – 4 minute walk from Harwich Town station
Enjoy this interesting insight into the history of the lifeboat service in Harwich.
Journey time – 5 minute walk from Harwich Town station
Visit this exciting project to rebuild the Mayflower ship. Browse the visitor centre for an opportunity to see history in the making.
Journey time – 3 minute walk from Harwich Town station
More lines to explore nearby
Flitch Line
Crouch Valley Line
Gainsborough Line
East Anglia Transport Museum
Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 03/03/2017 - 10:54