Frinton-on-Sea is a favourite destination for day-trippers for its immaculate beaches, independent shops and café culture. It is also a draw for homebuyers too, and there are plenty of reasons to make this timeless seaside town your call home.
Once seen as a place to move to for the slightly (ahem) more senior generation, now Frinton-on-Sea has appeal across the age divide. New multi-million-pound apartments are popping up in various locations and the property market is flourishing.
No wonder it is a popular place to live, the view of the sea from The Greensward is constantly changing throughout the seasons. In the summer months, the beach is alive with families enjoying the peace, as well as revellers flying kites or enjoying water sports.
The town has a railway station with links to Colchester, and travelling from Frinton to London Liverpool Street takes around one and a half hours. According to the Frinton Resident’s Association website (frintonresidents.co.uk), it was the extension of the railway line from Thorpe-le-Soken to Walton-on-the-Naze in 1864 that meant there was a big influx of visitors to Frinton-on-Sea. The Great Eastern Railway Company built a station here in 1888 to meet with demand.
The idyllic coastal town was the brainchild of Sir Richard Powell-Cooper, who bought an interest in a bulk of land here in 1893, following on the development that had begun in 1886 by engineer Peter Bruff. One of Sir Richard Powell-Cooper’s initial developments was the golf course on the marshland of what is now known as the Greensward. This was followed by the development of The Grand Hotel in 1896 and Lawn Tennis Club in 1899.
Food and drink
It may be famous for only having one pub, but there’s lots going on within the seaside town when it comes to eating and drinking out. Located on Connaught Avenue, The Lock and Barrel is Frinton’s only pub and is the place to go for a drink and some tasty pub food; they’re dog friendly too.
If you are in the mood for a drink with friends, Arnies Cocktail Bar is the perfect pitstop. Also on the avenue is Avenue Bistro, which serves food with a Mediterranean twist, or you could try the fish bar Pier One. If you are in the mood for North African-inspired cuisine, head to The Hungry Bedouin. For fine Indian food, visit the British India Restaurant.
Enjoy the café culture at Fred's Café, Keto Bite UK, Bird & Bean and pick up an ice cream at Poppins. For an unforgettable breakfast, head to Stanley's Restaurant, Ashlyns House, on Fourth Ave. Visiting on a Sunday? Go to Frinton Golf Club for a delicious Sunday carvery.
Things to do
The big draw for this popular seaside location is the beautiful unspoiled beach. It is kept clean and there are no ice-cream vendors or arcades to distract from its wholesome charm. The pretty beach huts can be rented out for day-trippers who want to set up camp and make a full day of it. Alternatively, you can take shelter under the traditional Frinton Clock Tower on the Greensward.
If you are in the mood for some seaside tourist excitement, Walton is a short walk along the promenade to the pier where there are arcades and rides.
For golf fans, there is Frinton Golf Club, which is known for its splendid golf courses and friendly atmosphere. Built circa 1904, Frinton's clubhouse is thought to be one of the oldest surviving purpose-built golf clubhouses in England.
Walton & Frinton Yacht Club is at Walton-on-the-Naze where keen sailors, or people wanting to try out the sport, can enjoy a sailing experience in a stunning location.
Places to stay
Why not enjoy relaxing beach walks and lazy dinners out on the town at your own pace with a weekend away in Frinton-on-Sea?
Frinton45 bed and breakfast is run by Annie and Paul. They offer beautiful accommodation within a short walk of the beach. The comfortable rooms include a king-size bed and plenty of amenities.
The traditional Rock Hotel is situated on The Esplanade, and it faces the greensward with uninterrupted views of the sea. Owned by the Benmore family, guests can expect a warm welcome on arrival.
There are plenty of options on Airbnb for accommodation in Frinton, including one annex with double bedroom and en suite. It also has access to a garden with views overlooking fields and a private patio area with hot tub.
