Medieval and post-medieval quay, Burnham-on-Crouch (EHER 18399)

A medieval and post-medieval quay which was used largely for fishing vessels. There would presumably have been structures on the Quay itself linked to fishing trades, such as oyster-holding pits, fish-processing sheds as well as boat-builders, sail makers etc.

The medieval quay is thought to have stretched from the War Memorial to the Old Clubhouse. It appears to have been largely for fishing vessels and licenses were granted in the medieval period for the use of fish-weirs and oyster-dredging. There would presumably have been structures on the Quay itself linked to these trades, such as oyster-holding pits, fish-processing sheds as well as boat-builders, sail makers etc. These ancillary activities were certainly present by the post-medieval period. Cartographic evidence for the post-medieval period shows two main wharves and dock complexes, one at either end of the Quay. <1>