Ernie's Adventures

What’s Mersea Island Holiday Park like?

This tranquil holiday park is hidden away in East Mersea and boasts beautiful views over the Blackwater estuary. Generally, the site – run by Away Resorts – is quieter than most because a number of the caravans are owner-owned but there are also plenty to hire – and many are dog-friendly. Most of the static holiday homes have either two or three bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight.

How dog-friendly is Mersea Island Holiday Park?

If you don’t have a dog here, you’re in the minority! While pets should be kept on lead when exploring the site, there is a designated dog exercise area down by the beach. There are poo bins aplenty and most caravans also come with enclosed decking areas, so you can relax knowing your dog is safe and sound when outside. Pets are also allowed in the onsite clubhouse, which is called The Muddy Duck. Up to two dogs are allowed to stay at a time for £45 per short break (up to six nights) or £60 for stays of over a week.

Tell me more about Mersea Island Holiday Park

There are three standards of caravans to relax in here – Comfort, Superior and Luxury. All holiday homes come with well-equipped kitchens, ready-made beds and flatscreen TVs with Freeview. Wifi is also available but charges apply, and it’s not exactly reliable.

Mersea Island Holiday Park has lots going on, too. There is an indoor swimming pool and in the summer months, there are regular outdoor film screenings, watersports sessions and evening entertainment. There’s even an annual cream pie fight on the August Bank Holiday!

What’s the food like at Mersea Island Holiday Park?

The park is self-catering so you can take as much or as little food as you need. For emergency supplies, the onsite shop stocks all the essentials and you can buy snacks and drinks from The Muddy Duck, as well as takeaway pizzas. The Dog and Pheasant pub is within easy walking distance of the site and serves great pub grub (pictured above). Dogs are welcome in both Bessie’s Bar and the garden. There are plenty of other pet-friendly places to eat and drink on the island too. Our favourites include Mersea Barns, The Fox Inn and Coastal Coffee.

Are there resident dogs at Mersea Island Holiday Park?

No, but you’ll meet plenty of other dogs out and about. You’re almost in a minority if you don’t have a dog here!

Where are the best dog walks near Mersea Island Holiday Park?

The site is right on the beach (watch out for high tide) and adjacent to Cudmore Grove Country Park, which has some fantastic walks. From reception, you can also follow the footpath through neighbouring Fen Farm to the waterfront. Check out my Ruff Guide to Mersea Island – it has plenty of suggestions for things to do and places to go.

What Ernie loved about Mersea Island Holiday Park

Digging on the beach, morning strolls to the shop to get the paper

What I loved about Mersea Island Holiday Park

The peace and tranquility of the site

How to book Mersea Island Holiday Park

Three-night breaks at Mersea Island Holiday Park start from as little as £85. For more information, see the Away Resorts website or call 01442 508850.