Harwich

Seaport in Essex, southeast England, on the estuary of the rivers Stour and Orwell, 113 km/70 mi northeast of London; population (2001) 20,100. It has an important freight terminal and ferry connections with the Hook of Holland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Bathside Bay will be developed to add to Harwich's existing port facilities.

The resort of Dovercourt lies to the south.

History An important trading centre since the 14th century, Harwich has been a fortified port since the time of James I, and was the scene of a naval engagement between the Dutch and English in 1666.