The town has an area of only 20 hectares and is nestled at the very end of the River Stour. Historically, it’s recognised as the centre of the activities of renowned witch hunter Matthew Hopkins, known to history as the Witchfinder General. Town - Manningtree has been crowned the coolest postcode in the UK (Image: Google Maps)It’s not the first time Manningtree has been listed in the Sunday Times, as in 2019, Manningtree made the top 10 in the Best Places to Live list. The Mistley ThornIn the centre of the coastal village of Mistley, The Times noted this hotel eatery is “loved for its choice of locally landed seafood”. Bonus – A House for EssexA House for Essex (Julie’s House) is ranked the top attraction for Manningtree on Tripadvisor.

Source: The Times January 16, 2026 18:20 UTC