Fisherman's Head

Landscape Feature in Essex Rochford

England

Fisherman's Head

Houses near Courtsend The houses and other buildings in this area east of Courtsend was known by the rather fanciful name of White City! — Houses near Courtsend Credit: Trevor Harris

Fisherman's Head is a prominent landscape feature located in the coastal town of Essex, England. Situated on the east coast, it is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating natural environment.

The headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which are composed of layers of sedimentary rock, and reach impressive heights of up to 30 meters in some areas. These cliffs provide a vital habitat for a diverse range of bird species, including gulls, cormorants, and puffins, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

At the base of the cliffs, there are several small pebble beaches that provide a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. These beaches are also home to a variety of marine life, such as crabs, starfish, and small fish, making it a great location for rock pooling and exploring the fascinating intertidal zone.

Fisherman's Head is also known for its historical significance, as it was once a thriving fishing community. The headland derived its name from the local fishermen who used to launch their boats from this point, venturing out into the North Sea in search of a bountiful catch. Although fishing is no longer as prominent in the area, the heritage of the fishing community can still be felt in the charming village nearby, with its quaint cottages and picturesque harbor.

Overall, Fisherman's Head offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical charm. Whether it's taking in the stunning coastal views, observing the diverse birdlife, or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the beach, this landscape feature is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Essex coastline.

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Fisherman's Head Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.598966/0.93697487 or Grid Reference TR0392. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Houses near Courtsend

The houses and other buildings in this area east of Courtsend was known by the rather fanciful name of White City!

Trevor Harris

The northern end of The Broomway

Until the 1920's the only way onto Foulness - apart from by boat - was on this byway known as The Broomway (from the way it was marked in the past)- obviously at low tide only! From here at Fisherman's Head, it goes across the mud until it reaches an area of firm sand over half a kilometre from the shore. There it turns southwest and runs parallel to the shore for about six miles until it reaches land at Wakering Stairs. There are (or were) paths to the west to other spots on Foulness - Eastwick Head, Rugwood Head, Asplins Head and Shelford Head.

Trevor Harris

Looking north from Fisherman's Head

Towards Northern Corner. Behind the seawall and outside of the fenced MoD area, Foulness locals including have created a wildlife area.

Trevor Harris

Seawall and borrowdyke north of Fisherman's Head

View north to Northern Corner.

John Myers

Fisherman's Head

A fret rolls in on a light easterly breeze and a flooding tide over the northernmost causeway linking the Broomway to Foulness Island. The very poor visibility here when the rest of the island is bathed in warm sunshine is a stark reminder of the danger presented to the foolhardy by this unforgiving shore

John Myers

Fisherman's Head, Foulness

Contrast this with the view obtained just a month before. See TR0392 : Fisherman's Head

David Kemp

View of seawall south-west from Fisherman's Head, Foulness

David Kemp

Sea shore north-east of Fisherman's Head, Foulness

David Kemp

View north from Fisherman's Head, Foulness

The watery area seen here is a man-made 'scrape' constructed to attract nesting birds.

David Kemp

The Broomway

The Broomway is a track (a Public Right of Way) over Maplin Sands which provides access between Foulness Island and Great Wakering via Wakering Stairs. It was the only means of access, other than by boat, between the island and the mainland until the 20th century. It is accessible only at low tides, and is bordered by dangerous soft muddy sands, some of which act as quicksand. Over the years many people have died on The Broomway, either due to the incoming tide or by being caught by quicksand. The Broomway is connected to Foulness and the mainland by a series of constructed hards or headways over the soft sand. In older times the track was marked by a series of stakes, which resembled upturned brooms, hence the name "The Broomway". Although the track is a Public Right of Way - parts are classified as Byway Open to All Traffic, others as Public Footpath - access is controlled by the Ministry of Defence which has a large installation on Foulness. Access can be suspended at any time. Guided tours of The Broomway are available from Nature Break Wildlife Cruises Link

Roger Jones

The Broomway - Fishermans Head

This headway leads from Foulness Island to the Broomway.

Roger Jones

Track along the sea wall

Track, and public footpath, running just inside the sea wall on Foulness Island. Note also the borrow dyke to the left.

Roger Jones

Foulness Island seawall

Taken in the pouring rain

Julieanne Savage

Foulness Lookout Tower

Five of these along the coastline, beginning at Great Wakering.

Julieanne Savage

The former Kings Head, Courtsend, Foulness

Courtsend was the second largest settlement on the island (after Churchend). Into the 1990's it had its own pub - this building now a private house, then called the Kings Head. Following the death of the last landlord at the end of the 90's, it closed.

Trevor Harris