Mersea Island, famous for it's oysters and yachting facilities is 4 miles away and was recently described in the National Press as little Brittany! It also offers sandy beaches, a country park, a vineyard, and a variety of cafes and shops. Most famous among these is the Company Shed. The owners, Heather and Richard, provide an eat-in experience in the Shed and supply delicious seafood. Guests bring their own wine and bread.

The Essex Wildlife Trust has its headquarters at Abbots Hall, Great Wigborough covering 700 acres of farm and coastline. The Trust hopes to open Abbots Hall to the public this Easter (2004).

There is also an important reserve at Fingringhoe - open to the public - which is approximately 6 miles from Wigborough.