Local History and Leisure
The Chichester Hotel lies in the heart of the rural district of Rochford, established as the 'Rochford Hundred' with the coming of the Normans to England. The district is rich with history, boasting numerous medieval churches and old buildings. The 'Mount' at Rayleigh is the remains of the original Norman castle Motte and Bailey and the oldest parts of the 'Old House' in Rochford date back to 1270. In 1515 Rochford Hall became the property of Bollen (Boleyn) whose daughter, Anne, was the second wife of Henry VIII. Henry visited the hall in 1533 and frequently visited Hadleigh castle (open to the public) which was built for King Edward III and commands extensive views over Leigh Marshes and the Thames Estuary. In Canewdon the Original village stocks can still be seen today.
Places to visit:
- Battlesbridge - Picturesque waterside village and home to an extensive antiques centre
- Leigh-on-Sea - Old cockling Village where shellfish may still be purchased direct from the cockle sheds.
- South Hanningfield Reservoir - Excellent trout fishery and nature reserve.
- Paper Mills at Little Baddow - Lock gates and weirs, a pretty spot from which to enjoy a tranquil stroll along the River Blackwater or a quiet waterside picnic.
- Maldon - Historic market town with a large waterside park, home to a number of old Thames barges.
- Burnham-on-Crouch - Famous yachting centre.
Bradwell - St Peters-on-the-wall Saxon Chapel and sea wall walks.
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