If you’re drawn to the idea of rural living, Sanderling Reach on the Essex Coast could be for you. This elegant development consists of 2, 3, 4 and 6 bedroom houses for sale in West Mersea, providing residents an idyllic place to call home. Its proximity to the beach and countryside allows you to benefit from all the advantages of coastal living. Keep reading to discover some of the benefits associated with rural life – all of which you can experience at Sanderling Reach.
Access to Space
Living at Sanderling Reach means having an abundance of nature, fresh sea air and coastal landscapes on your doorstep. The homes in the development are designed around plentiful landscaped open spaces and rich planting, giving you convenient access to all the nearby natural wonders. A mere 500m away lies West Mersea Beach, an expansive stretch of Essex coastline offering stunning views over the Blackwater Estuary. West Mersea also boasts several public parks, meadows and grassy areas to explore, such St Peter’s Well Meadow and Monicah Park.
Close-knit Community
Mersea is the UK’s most Easterly inhabited place, with a population of approximately 7000. The local community includes generations of fisherman, a creative collective of artists and makers, and entrepreneurs who run the eclectic mix of shops, pubs and restaurants on the island. There’s plenty to do here, from trying your hand at water sports to participating in events at the Mersea Centre, providing lots of opportunities to integrate with the community.
Furthermore, Sanderling Reach is designed to help forge a community spirit. The development features communal green spaces, including an off-lead dog park and children’s play area, providing places to meet and socialise with your neighbours.
Nature Reserves
Mersea Island benefits from being close to numerous nature reserves. Notable areas include East Mersea Flats and the nearby Cudmore Grove Country Park. The latter features over 102 acres of coastal landscapes dotted with historical features, including WWII pillboxes and gun emplacements, the remains of a 17th century blockhouse and 300,000-year-old cliffs which sometimes yield fossils. A peaceful place to come for a walk or spot wildlife, the park boasts lush meadows, a children’s playground and a beach with breathtaking views over the Essex coast.
Across the water from West Mersea lies Blackwater Estuary National Nature Reserve, which is split into three main areas: Old Hall Marshes, Tollesbury Flats and Salcott Flats. Altogether, the site covers over 13,000 acres of wetland that provides essential habitat for waterfowl, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Outdoor Activities
At Sanderling Reach, you’ll be in the ideal location to get active outdoors whenever you like. Being right on the Essex coast means you’ll have excellent access to water sports. Mersea Boating Lake, situated in the heart of East Mersea, is the ideal spot for practising paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing and more, as the man-made saltwater lake is only 1.5m deep and boasts no current or tide, ensuring a fun but safe environment for honing your skills. Mersea Island Water sports also offers paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing lessons for all skill levels. Meanwhile, West Mersea Yacht Club provides a community for keen sailors along with a racing programme, cruises and educational training. If you prefer to stay active on land, you’ll be pleased to know the island boasts leisure facilities and sports clubs, such as the popular West Mersea Bowls Club, and numerous walking trails to stretch your legs and admire the views.
There are plenty of outdoor activities for kids too. Essex Outdoors has a 60-acre site in Mersea, providing a selection of adventurous experiences for children. From caving and kayaking to first aid and orienteering, kids can find new hobbies and learn essential life skills.
Are you ready to embrace rural living in Essex? Explore our houses for sale in West Mersea to find your dream home by the coast.