Pincushion Island

Island in Essex Tendring

England

Pincushion Island

Brightlingsea war memorial Credit: Helen Steed

Pincushion Island is a small landmass located off the coast of Essex, England. Situated in the North Sea, it is part of the Foulness Island group which is owned by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and is used primarily for military purposes.

Covering an area of approximately 0.06 square kilometers, Pincushion Island is characterized by its unique shape, resembling that of a pincushion, which gives it its name. The island is predominantly composed of sand, shingle, and marshland, with patches of vegetation scattered across its surface.

Access to Pincushion Island is restricted due to its military significance and is strictly controlled by the MOD. Being a part of the MOD Shoeburyness Range, the island is used for weapons testing and training purposes. Consequently, it is not open to the public, making it an isolated and untouched area.

The island is a haven for various bird species, making it an important site for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Pincushion Island and its surrounding waters are home to a diverse range of seabirds, including gulls, terns, and waders. The island's shoreline is also home to a variety of marine life, such as seals and other coastal species.

Overall, Pincushion Island is a small but significant landmass off the coast of Essex, primarily used for military purposes. Its unique shape, restricted access, and diverse wildlife make it an intriguing and protected area within the Foulness Island group.

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Pincushion Island Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.803524/1.0433233 or Grid Reference TM0916. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Brightlingsea war memorial

Helen Steed

Brightlingsea High Street

Helen Steed

The former Royal Hotel on Francis Street

Helen Steed

Western promenade, Brightlingsea

Helen Steed

Muddy path to Brightlingsea

A path leading from Brightlingsea Creek to the town.

Pebble

Flowers and Victoria Place

Looking towards the King's Head undergoing repairs

Glyn Baker

Ordinary Bicycle and Electric Bike

An artistic bicycle rack masquerading as a penny farthing. In the background is TM0816 : Field Poppies and War memorial.

Glyn Baker

Field Poppies and War memorial

In the memorial garden there is a marker recognising the ANZACS who were stationed in Brightlingsea 1916-18. It appears the current management scheme is to keep the grass well cropped on the west side and more wild on the east.

Glyn Baker

Dead End Path

Judging by the well worn trail most people seem to think the path runs along the sea wall to the left. However the right of way follows the right hand side of the "fleet" that is in front of the camera unless you intend to get very muddy see TM0916 : End of the Path

Glyn Baker

End of the Path

The public right of way passes through the abandoned oyster beds to the right of the channel.

Glyn Baker

Saltmarsh Panorama

Brightlingsea footpath 25 runs along the sea wall to the right.

Glyn Baker

A Brightlingsea Byway

This is Brightlingsea Byway 13.

Glyn Baker

Moorings in Brightlingsea Creek

Glyn Baker

Landing Stage for Point Clear and East Mersea

During the summer months there is a regular ferry service from here to Mersea via Point Clear.

Glyn Baker

Brightlingsea Lido

First opened in 1932 like most open air pools it fell out of favour and was due to be closed. However a group of locals banded together and the facility was relaunched in 2018. See Link

for more info.