Harwich & Dovercourt Through Time

Harwich is one of the Haven Ports. Its position on the estuaries of the River Stour and River Orwell has played a defining role in the history of the town, as it was one of the only safe havens on the East Coast between the Thames and Humber. As a result, Harwich has played a key maritime role through the centuries. The town became a significant naval base in 1657, and soon major batteries were developed including the Harwich Redoubt, Beacon Hill Battery and Bath Side Battery. Dovercourt is actu