The Beginning or the End?
There are 12 locks between Heybridge Basin and Chelmsford. The village of Heybridge Basin owes its existence to the canal. The excavated earth and gravel from the sea lock and turning basin was used to make a mound “Lock Hill” for the wharves, offices, pubs and workers cottages. Many of the original buildings still exist. The Old Ship was rebuilt in 1858 on the site of the Original Pub which was destroyed by fire and the Lock Keepers House opposite was built in 1842.
Heybridge Basin is now used as a haven for visiting yachts and a place from which to begin or complete a pleasant days exploration of the waterway, afloat or on foot.