The Lock Tea Room

The tea room. Imagine sitting outdoors by the river on a glorious Sunday morning, looking across to Northey Island, the place where in 991, Byrhtnoth and his men bravely defended their land against 4,000 Vikings.

Bright and airy, The Lock is THE place to eat on the waterfront at Heybridge Basin. Indoors or out, it offers outstanding Blackwater estuary views. This former ship’s chandlers and café serves traditional café-style breakfasts, home-made lunches and ‘Tiptree’ cream teas. Enthusiastic staff take full advantage of fresh local produce: hand-made local cakes, fresh salads, jacket potatoes and ‘Tiptree’ preserves with home-made scones. A list of daily specials and the traditional menu provides a range of refreshments throughout the day.

There’s something at Heybridge Basin to suit most tastes. The Basin is where the Chelmer & Blackwater canal meets the tidal Blackwater estuary, and the fresh water merges with salt water. This Essex riverside village retains much of the character of a bygone age and it’s a wonderful place to unwind. In the winter enjoy the solitude, in spring watch as hardy walkers, avid birdwatchers and the first of the boat owners venture forth. During the summer the Basin is alive with action and from daybreak to dusk it’s a great place to sit and watch riverside life. Others say autumn is the best time to enjoy the views across the river to Northey and Osea Islands.

Please visit in-line with current restrictions, and check their website before visiting to ensure they are open.