Brightlingsea’s beaches have retained Blue Flag status for the 24th year and are among four in the district that have retained Blue Flag status for 2026 – marking safety, cleanliness and good management.

The Blue Flag Awards, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, are designed to raise standards across England’s coastline and inland waters.

Along with Brightlingsea, Dovercourt Bay, Frinton and Walton-on-the-Naze’s Albion Beach hold Blue Flag status, while Harwich, Walton’s Naze Beach, and Martello Bay in Clacton, have all been given Seaside Awards in recognition of their quality. Each of the Blue Flag beaches have also received Seaside Awards.

Brightlingsea councillor Mick Barry, Tendring District Council’s cabinet member for leisure and public realm, said: “It’s great to see the Essex Sunshine Coast recognised once again for the quality of our beautiful beaches. Achieving Blue Flag status is a significant accomplishment.”