Happy Days Caravan Park

The creak of rigging from the Blackwater Estuary drifts across this workmanlike caravan park on the edge of Maldon, where the air carries that proper Essex saltmarsh tang and the gulls start up before you do.

This is a straightforward spot for touring caravanners and campervan owners exploring the Dengie Peninsula and Maldon's historic waterfront — the town's famous for its Thames sailing barges and that proper old-fashioned high street feel. It's not glamorous, but it's honest and you're well-placed for coastal walks, Northey Island when the tide's right, and poking about the creeks. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth a call ahead if you're bringing yours.

Facilities aren't detailed so it's one to phone before booking to check what's onsite — this isn't a bells-and-whistles place. Campfires need checking on arrival too. Expect a no-fuss, functional site where the main attraction is the working waterfront just down the road and miles of flat, bird-loud coastline to explore.