Mersea Island

Mersea Island is the most easterly inhabited island in the UK. 

It is situated in the estuary area of the Blackwater and Colne rivers and has an area of around eight sq km. The name "Mersea" is derived from the Old English "meresig," which is said to mean "island of the pool." 

The island is joined to the mainland by a causeway, first constructed in Roman times. 

This crosses a waterway known as "the Strood," which was constructed by St Sæbbi, a King of the East Saxons who ruled from 664 to 694. 

The island is popular because of its excellent beaches and sailing. 

There is a Yacht Club in West Mersea and the island is also renowned for its fresh sea food - in particular its oysters.