The historic 1912 Centre is situated within a conversation area of the unique maritime town of Harwich. It is 50 metre from a sandy beach and promenade which provided an ever-changing maritime panorama. The neighbourhood around the centre is full of interesting historical buildings amongst the old medieval streets you will find the homes of Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower and the famous diarist Samiel Pepys. Nearby is the Ha’penny Pier, ideal for fishing, crabbing and excursions by the foot ferry to nearby Suffolk – Felixstowe and Shotley.

The award-winning blue flag beach at Dovercourt Bay is a 15 minute walk away which has a superb stretch of sandy beach and a promenade that stretches for miles where walking, cycling and water-based activities can be enjoyed.

As the name suggests the 1912 Centre was built in 1923 As the Town Fire Station. It is ideally suited for visiting groups with accommodation arranged around the old engine garage, which now forms the central dining and recreational area.

The upper floor has a panoramic view over the sea and has access to four bedrooms, two with two bed and two with six beds. Additional sleeping accommodation is available on the ground floor, comprising of a six-bed room and a four-bed room with en suite facilities. All rooms have bunk beds. The Centre accommodate up to 26 people and the occupying group has sole use the Centre.

The centrally heated building has a fully equipped kitchen, showers, a drying room and ground floor facilities for the disabled. Visiting groups can bring their own sleeping bags, or a small charge can hire duvets from the Centre.

For visiting beaver, cubs, brownies and scout groups we can offer on request a ‘Meet and Greet’ signposting to the many activities which take place in and around the area e.g. leisure facilities including tennis courts, indoor swimming pool, roller rink, boating lake and sports centre.

The Centre can also be hired for meetings, exhibitions, functions, etc at a day hire rate.

Points of Interest Nearby:

Redoubt Fort – A spectacular Napoleonic circular fort and moat built between 1808 and 1810 to protect the port against the threat of invasion. It houses museum showing how the derelict building was refurbished by volunteers, old artillery pieces and period exhibits through its life.

High Lighthouse – Built in 1818 by John Rennie to replace a light over the Town Gate. The High Lighthouse house and exhibition on the history of the lighthouse. This and the Low Lighthouse provided a a transit line to guide ships safely into Harwich harbour.

Ha’penny Pier – A great vantage point to view the harbour and waterfront buildings. Its name originates from the 1/2d (half on old penny) toll charged when the pier opened in 1853 to accommodate continental ferries. The Harwich Society’s seasonal Visitor Centre in the pier provides tourist information.

Lightship LV18 – The last manned light ship to the UK, now moored permanently near Ha’Penny Pier, as a Museum Ship, that welcome visitors to tour the vessel and view its exhibits including Pirate Ratio Station memorabilia.

Lifeboats – The Harwich Lifeboat Station of the RNLI has two modern lifeboats which are a key rescue service for North Sea seafarers.

Hire price: 1 night - £270.

2 nights - £500.

5 nights - £1000.

7 nights - £12500.

Day Hire prices: per hour - £10 (min 2 hours hire).