Things to do in Frinton-on-Sea

A trip to the Summer Theatre is one of the best things to do in Frinton. Based at McGrigor Hall in the heart of the town, the production celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2021. Clearly an institution within Frinton, it has welcomed the likes of Sir Ian McKellen through its doors in recent years. The Lord of the Rings star brought his one man ‘Shakespeare, Tolkien, Others and you’ show to this corner of Essex in 2019.

There are shows throughout July and August every year, and you can check out what’s on by visiting the theatre’s website. Consistent quality is to be expected from a production that’s actually the oldest surviving Summer Repertory Theatre company in England.

Seeing a match or even just checking out the lovely setting in which Frinton-on-Sea's cricketeers go about their bowling, batting and fielding is worth a slight detour out of the town centre. A low-key but picturesque rural spot plays host to limited overs matches, with a whole host of sporting and non-sporting events for all ages laid on by the club.

A visit here really represents an escape from the hustle and bustle and there’s a distinct feel that you’re in England’s countryside here. As many often say, it’s not even about the cricket, but the overall experience that the game brings spectators of all ages.

PUSH Kiting is quickly becoming a household name along this stretch of the Essex coast, with the Frinton set up just one of several dotted along the sea that includes its base just south in Clacton-on-Sea. With conditions set up perfectly more often than not, the school makes kite sports lessons and activities for all ages and skill levels.

Professional instructors and the very latest equipment combine for an experience like no other, one that definitely fits into our category of memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re after a lesson of kitesurfing or paddleboarding at sea, or fancy buggy lesson on dry land, this awesome spot can sort all the family out.

Things to do in Frinton are as simple as they are beautiful, and no activity reflects this better than a walk along the town’s esplanade. There’s a generous amount of on street parking along this signature road, so it’s easy to pick where you start and finish your stroll.

Take in the breath of fresh air and the salty sea breeze and admire the beauty of the gardens with the water’s horizon in the background. You’ll pass Frinton Beach, a sandy spot that always offers an abundance of space. When you’re done, head into town for a bite to eat or drink. There are options for all tastes.

Innovative interior design is often Scandinavian interior design, and Great Danes Antique Shop brings a slice of Danish thinking into the heart of Frinton-on-Sea. Located in the town’s main shopping street, this modestly sized shop is massive in reputation with locals and visitors alike.

There are over 1,200 products to feast your eyes on, and you’ll find it hard to resist walking away with something that adds a great touch to your space at home or at the caravan. To top off this cultured Copenhagen-esque experience, The Patio bar attached offers a tipple or two from Denmark.

Playing a family game of tennis on your local courts is one thing but heading down to a pristine grass court at a club adds an extra element to any set or two. Frinton Lawn Tennis Club is one of the best in the country, and brilliant as a sporting thing to do in Frinton.

There are 16 grass and 8 all weather courts for members and guests to play on, with squash, croquet and swimming also on offer. Just visit the club’s website to book a slot. There are coaching sessions throughout the school holidays too, so be sure to check it out when you stay with us at Orchards.

Just a hop, skip or jump from the seafront, St Mary the Virgin Church blends seamlessly into the heart of town. Things to do in Frinton don’t come much quainter than this, with this religious architecture standing since the 11th-century. The grounds and interior are open for visitors throughout the day, so feel free to pop inside and admire the detail within.

Thought to be the smallest church of its kind in Essex, the cosy structure is surrounded by peaceful gardens and is a great detour on any walk along Frinton’s seafront.

No day of things to do in Frinton is complete with a bite to eat and a drink at the Essex Skipper Pub in the town. All the classic pub favourites are served in this wonderful watering hole, alongside classic beers and a couple of local fancy varieties too.

Food is served until 8pm, with drinks available until late, so the skipper is great for an evening out too. If you’re in Frinton during the day, bring the dog along and you’ll both be welcomed with open arms.

A half hour 12-mile drive is all it takes to get to Frinton from our park at Orchards, so the town is more than doable as a day out for all the family. Here’s how you get there: 

• Head east on Point Clear Road, through St Osyth and onto St John’s Road 

• Take the second exit at the roundabout after Clacton Fire Station, and take a right at the Robin Hood pub 

• Turn left onto Thorpe Road until you reach Holland Road 

• Pass through Great Holland and turn right onto B1033 at Kirby Cross to reach Frinton