New leaflet promotes car-free days across Harwich Harbour

Scott Dolling, Derek Davis and Seamus Bennett with the new leaflets. Photo: Greater Anglia

A new illustrated ‘Grazing Walks’ map and visitor leaflet has been launched to help people enjoy easy, car-free days out across the Harwich Haven, using train travel and the Harwich Harbour Ferry.

Funded by £1,300 from Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Improvement Fund, the leaflet links the ferry’s three destinations at Harwich, Shotley, and Felixstowe, making it easier for visitors to plan a full day out across the area.

The project was also supported by Babergh and Mid Suffolk district councils, as well as East Suffolk Council.

The leaflet brings together information on walking routes, places to eat and drink, accommodation, and key attractions, helping visitors explore an area rich in wildlife and history while supporting local businesses. By encouraging people to combine rail and ferry travel, the initiative supports more sustainable tourism and helps visitors make the most of everything the Harwich Haven has to offer.

Scott Dolling, Greater Anglia’s partnerships manager, said: “This is a great example of how sustainable public transport can open up new opportunities for people to explore the area. Our Customer and Community Improvement Fund supports locally led projects like this, and it’s fantastic to see it launching in time for the spring and summer season.”

Seamus Bennett, East Suffolk Council’s Assistant Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Transport and Economy, said: “I am really pleased to welcome this initiative to connect Felixstowe, Shotley and Harwich for people to visit the area and enjoy all the culinary delights, the tourism spots and the nature of all three locations. I think that this will be a great boost for our local community and local businesses.”

Derek Davis, Babergh District Council and Portfolio Holder for Business Development, said: “This initiative will have huge benefits in terms of wellbeing and sustainability. It encourages visitors to get out and about and leave the car behind to choose more green forms of transport, so there are benefits for everyone visiting this wonderful county. I know businesses are already looking forward to welcoming visitors to the stunning Shotley Peninsula.”

Applications to Greater Anglia’s 2026/27 Customer and Community Improvement Fund are currently open.

Full details, including bid eligibility and criteria, are available on the Greater Anglia website, and bids must be submitted online using the online form at www.greateranglia.co.uk/ccif by 23.59 on Sunday 12 April.

Projects must be completed by 31 March 2027, be focused on the Greater Anglia network area, and deliver a lasting positive impact for communities and the railway.