Maldon

One of the oldest towns in this area, Maldon is in the county of Essex on the Blackwater Estuary and is the starting point of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation. Maldon’s links to the river remain strong and the town and port are well known for their Thames sailing barges; some of the last sail-operated cargo vessels in the world. The origins of the Thames sailing barge lie in the 17^th and 18^th centuries when flat-bottomed wooden craft evolved for use in the River Thames and the River Medway. The old building yard here still operates today and if you visit Hythe quay, you will find the home of up to 15 of these barges. Events associated with the barges are popular with locals and visitors alike and the annual race brings a carnival atmosphere along with the crowds.

Maldon is a town that likes to celebrate; as well as the annual sailing barge race and parade, the town holds an annual "Taxi Day" which sees mentally and physically disabled children from London driven to Maldon in London Black Cabs, the charitable Maldon mud race and the Victorian Evening during the Christmas celebrations. Maldon has a bustling heart with good amenities, restaurants, pubs and a well-stocked High Street that spreads out into small lanes running off it. The colourful market is held on Thursdays and Saturdays.