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Clacton Pier

Top ways to experience Clacton Pier and nearby attractions

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Clacton Pier - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Clacton Pier

Top ways to experience Clacton Pier and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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Clacton Pier (2024) All You MUST Know Before You Go (with Photos)

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Clacton-on-Sea

A traditional English seaside resort that is still very popular with day trippers from London. Holiday makers visit from far and wide to enjoy its traditional attractions, beautiful sea front gardens and award-winning beaches, which line Essex sunshine coast for several miles.

This friendly resort has a long stretch of shingle and sandy beach, with safe shallow sea bathing. As the largest town in the Tendring peninsula, it has extensive retail facilities and a number of good pubs and restaurants, including the 16th-c Ship Inn.

The seafront has a traditional British seaside feel with a Victorian pier (circa 1871), a pavilion, cliff top promenade and several beautiful gardens. The most attractive of which is the Clifftop Public Gardens. The pier, one of the widest in the UK, has a large amusement park with thrill rides and amusements.

Rising up from the pier towards the town, the main street is spanned by an iconic arched footbridge. Nearby, on Marine Parade, is the Pavilion Centre. A traditional entertainment venue with an auditorium, restaurants and a fun park for children.

Clacton also boasts two theatres, the Princes and the West Cliff; both providing shows, music and modern entertainment throughout the season.

Although the town dates back to the stone age, there is very little of architectural worth remaining, apart from a reconstructed 15th-c Grade II Moot Hall. The hall was originally located in grounds of Horstead Place, near Bury St Edmunds. It was removed, piece by piece, on horse and cart and rebuilt in Clacton in 1910.

Holland on Sea, to the northeast, is a modern development with a pleasant green. Next to this sits Holland Haven Country Park, a lovely relaxing spot to watch seabirds and other wildlife.

The area of Jaywick, a few miles southeast of the pier, is a shabby development of bungalows and prefab dwellings, most of which have seen better days, so is best avoided by tourists.

Three Martello Towers can be found along this stretch of coastline. Constructed in the early 19th-c, they were built as part of a line of 29 defensive towers, sited between St Osyth and Aldeburgh , in Suffolk. Several have been restored and converted into art galleries and museums. One tower, further west at Point Clear, houses the East Essex Aviation Museum, with an interesting collection of wartime exhibits and militaria.

The ruins of St Osyth Priory, founded by Richard de Belmeis in the 12th-c, can be visited in in the parish of St Osyth, between Clacton and Brightlingsea .

A little further north, along the coast, is Walton-on-the-Naze, a paradise for bird watchers with broad salt marshes and little Islands. Just south of Walton is Frinton-on-Sea, a more genteel resort, with excellent sands and sloping cliffs.

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15 Best Things To Do In Clacton, England

Clacton-on-Sea, England is a charming seaside town that offers plenty of fun activities for both visitors and locals alike.

From its iconic pier, to its breathtaking nature reserves, and its fascinating historical attractions, Clacton has something to offer everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation on the beach, or an exciting day of sightseeing, Clacton is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Here are 15 of the best things to do in Clacton, England.

Table of Contents

Visit Clacton Pier

Clacton Pier is a must-visit for anyone wanting to get a real taste of what the town has to offer! Built in 1871, the pier is one of England’s oldest surviving seaside piers, boasting a wide range of attractions and activities.

Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the North Sea, explore the amusements, shops, and cafes, or take a ride on the historic Victorian carousel. The pier also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, such as the Clacton Air Show and the annual Christmas Festival.

A visit to Clacton Pier offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out for the family, a romantic stroll along the pier, or a spot of fishing, Clacton Pier has something for everyone.

With plenty of activities, attractions, and events, Clacton Pier is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Clacton.

Take a Stroll Along the Beach

Take a stroll along the beach and feel the sand between your toes as you take in the stunning coastal views.

There’s nothing quite like a walk along the beach to help you relax and take in the scenery.

Clacton-on-Sea is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in England.

From the golden sands of the Martello Beach to the more family-friendly Clacton Beach, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll with a loved one or a fun day out with the family, Clacton’s beaches offer plenty of activities and attractions.

From swimming and fishing to arcades and fairground rides, you can find something to keep everyone entertained.

Don’t forget to take a break and enjoy some of the delicious food and drink available from the beachfront cafes and bars, or take a dip in the sea for a refreshing swim.

With so much to see and do, a walk along the beach in Clacton-on-Sea will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Visit the Nature Reserves

Experience nature up close and explore Clacton-on-Sea’s beautiful nature reserves. With its vast array of wildlife, gorgeous landscapes, and picturesque views, visiting the nature reserves in Clacton-on-Sea is something that should not be missed.

From the coastal salt marsh, to the lush green forests, there are plenty of reserves to explore and admire.

The Clacton-on-Sea Nature Reserve is one of the most popular reserves in the area. It is home to a variety of birds, insects, and animals, and is a great place to take a peaceful stroll and admire the scenery. The reserve has a network of paths and trails, making it perfect for walking, cycling, and bird watching. There are also a number of hides and shelters, where you can observe the wildlife without disturbing them. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a deer or two!

For those who are feeling adventurous, you can also take part in a guided tour of the reserve, where you can learn more about the local wildlife and their habitats.

No matter what your interests are, a visit to the nature reserves in Clacton-on-Sea is sure to be a memorable experience.

Explore Jaywick Martello Tower

Step back in time and explore the fascinating Jaywick Martello Tower, located just a few miles from Clacton-on-Sea. Built in 1809, this tower was used to defend the coasts of England from Napoleon’s navy during the Napoleonic Wars. It was one of the 74 towers constructed along the south and east coasts of England to protect against invasion.

Today, the tower is open for public tours and visitors can explore the remains of the fortification and learn about its history. The tower is surrounded by a moat and accessed by a drawbridge, giving it a truly medieval vibe. Visitors can explore the first floor, where the soldiers slept and lived, and visit the gun room, where they can learn about the tower’s defensive capabilities and the weaponry used to protect the coast.

After exploring the interior, visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the roof and take in the magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The tower also features a museum housing exhibits from the Napoleonic War era, and a beautiful garden with a variety of plants and flowers.

Visit the Clacton Airshow

The Clacton Airshow is an exciting opportunity to witness thrilling aerial displays and marvel at the incredible feats of modern aviation. Visitors can get up close and personal with military aircraft, vintage planes, and other aircraft flown by highly skilled pilots. From aerobatic stunts and classic biplanes to helicopters and remote-controlled drones, the Clacton Airshow offers something for everyone.

The airshow also features a wide range of ground attractions. There is an interactive village dedicated to aviation, as well as displays of military vehicles and aircraft simulators. Additionally, there is a variety of food and drink stalls and plenty of activities for the kids.

With a packed program of events, the Clacton Airshow is a great way to experience the thrills of aviation and is sure to create a memorable day out for all.

Shop at Clacton Factory Outlet

After visiting the airshow, it’s time to go shopping! Clacton Factory Outlet is the perfect place to find great deals on all kinds of items and clothing.

This outlet mall has over forty stores to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. From designer clothing to accessories, you’ll find the best bargains here.

Plus, the outlet mall is conveniently located in the heart of Clacton, so you can easily get there from the airshow. Here, you’ll find all sorts of items at discounted prices, including books, electronics, and more.

There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, so you can take a break and grab a bite to eat. With so much to choose from, there’s something for everyone at Clacton Factory Outlet.

Shopping here is a fun and enjoyable experience, and you’re sure to find something you love.

Go Fishing at East Beach

Head to East Beach for a relaxing day of fishing! Enjoy the beauty of Clacton’s coastline while you cast your line and see what you can catch.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, East Beach offers something for everyone. It’s a great spot for both shore and boat fishing, and the beach is a popular destination for local fishermen. There’s a wide variety of fish species to be found in the waters off East Beach, including cod, bass, and even some salmon. You can also pick up bait from the local shops or even rent a fishing rod for the day.

The beach is also a great spot for birdwatching, with plenty of gulls, ducks, and other coastal birds to spot. East Beach is easy to access and there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the scenery.

Whether you’re looking to catch a big one or just sit back and relax, East Beach offers a peaceful day of fishing in a beautiful setting.

Visit the Lifeboat Museum

Experience the fascinating history of Clacton’s maritime heritage at the Lifeboat Museum! Step back in time and explore the stories of the brave lifeboat crews who risked their lives to save others at sea.

With interactive displays and exciting exhibits, you’ll get an up close look at lifeboats from the past and the incredible stories behind them. Discover the tools and techniques used by the crews, and learn about the strength and courage it took to battle the waves and save lives.

From early rescue attempts to modern lifeboats, you’ll get an authentic look at the history of sea rescues in Clacton.

You’ll also be able to explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, such as photographs, documents, and paintings, all of which are sure to give you an even deeper appreciation for the brave lifeboat crews from the past.

The Lifeboat Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Clacton and is sure to provide an informative and inspiring experience.

Explore the Local Art Galleries

Check out the vibrant art scene in Clacton and explore the local galleries! You’ll be able to admire the works of talented local artists and get a unique perspective on the culture of the area. Whether you’re a fan of traditional art or modern art, there’s something for everyone.

With the many galleries in the area, you can spend the day meandering through them and discovering new pieces that catch your eye. From the Clacton Art Gallery to the Holland Art Gallery, there are plenty of options to explore.

At the Clacton Art Gallery, you’ll find a mix of art styles that range from classic art to contemporary pieces. The displays are ever-changing, so you’ll always find something new.

The Holland Art Gallery is another great destination for art lovers, offering a wide range of artworks from both local and international artists. Here, you can enjoy both sculptures and paintings, as well as interactive art installations.

These galleries are a great way to learn more about the local art scene and get inspired.

Enjoy a Meal at a Local Pub

Savor the local flavors at one of Clacton’s charming pubs and enjoy a delicious meal! Whether you’re looking for a traditional British pub, a lively sports bar, or a more modern eatery, Clacton is sure to have something to satisfy your appetite. From classic fish and chips to more contemporary dishes, the pubs in Clacton offer a great selection of delicious meals.

You can also sample some of the local specialties like sea bass, kippers, and oysters. Most of the pubs offer a variety of drinks to accompany your meal, including real ales, wines, and ciders. Enjoy the warm, cozy atmosphere of a traditional British pub and savor a delicious meal in the company of friendly locals.

Most pubs in Clacton have outdoor seating areas, so you can enjoy your meal while taking in the stunning views of the coastline. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, enjoy the best of Clacton’s flavors at one of its local pubs.

With plenty of options for drinks and food, you’re sure to have a wonderful experience at one of Clacton’s cozy pubs.

Take a Trip to Frinton-on-Sea

Take a leisurely stroll along Frinton-on-Sea’s beachfront and delight in the charming harbor views.

Frinton-on-Sea is a beautiful seaside town located on the Tendring Peninsula in Essex, England.

It is known for its picturesque beachfront, with its wide sandy beaches, a promenade, and a pier.

You can also explore the many shops, restaurants, and cafes that line the streets.

The town also has many historical sites, such as the Frinton-on-Sea Museum, which has a collection of artifacts and stories related to the town’s history.

In addition, there are a number of art galleries, theaters, and other attractions to explore.

If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing day out, Frinton-on-Sea is the perfect place to visit.

From strolling along the beachfront to exploring the town’s unique attractions, there’s something for everyone in Frinton-on-Sea.

Visit the Clacton Golf Club

After leaving Frinton-on-Sea, I was ready for my next adventure: a visit to the Clacton Golf Club.

Located just a few miles from the seaside town, the Clacton Golf Club is an 18-hole golf course, set in the stunning countryside of North Essex. It’s one of the most scenic golf courses in the area, and features undulating fairways, challenging greens and plenty of water hazards.

I was especially looking forward to the 18th hole, a par-3 that overlooks the Clacton-on-Sea pier.

The club offers a wide variety of services for players of all levels, from beginner lessons to professional coaching. The clubhouse has a restaurant and bar, and the pro shop is well-stocked with all the latest equipment and apparel.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just starting out, you’ll find something to suit your game at Clacton Golf Club. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely round with friends or a competitive game with fellow golfers, the Clacton Golf Club is an ideal destination for a day out.

Try Watersports at East Beach

Heading to East Beach, visitors can experience the thrill of watersports with a variety of activities available. From jet skiing and parasailing to kayaking and canoeing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sea and Clacton’s coastline.

All of the watersports on offer are suitable for families, and with plenty of experienced and certified operators available, visitors can be sure that they’re in safe hands while they explore the coastline.

The beach itself is a great spot for swimming, with the sea providing gentle waves and clear, shallow waters. The beach is also a great spot for sunbathing and beach activities like volleyball and cricket, making it a great spot for families to enjoy the day together.

With a variety of food stands close by, visitors can refuel after a day of swimming and watersports.

Take a Day Trip to Colne Point

After experiencing the thrills of watersports at East Beach, why not take a day trip to Colne Point?

Located just a few miles south of Clacton, Colne Point is a scenic spot with stunning views of the coastline.

From the beach, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the coast to explore the area’s many attractions.

For those looking for a more active adventure, there are plenty of activities available such as windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

For a more relaxing experience, take a walk along the beach, dip your toes in the sand, or just take in the stunning scenery.

There’s plenty to explore and discover at Colne Point, so it’s a great way to spend a day outdoors.

Explore the Local History at Clacton Museum

Discover the past at Clacton Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the area’s fascinating history!

The museum features a wide range of permanent exhibits that explore the history of the area, from its prehistoric origins to its time as a popular seaside resort.

There are also displays on the local wildlife, including a replica of a Bronze Age boat as well as some of the rare species of birds and animals that inhabit the nearby nature reserves.

Visitors can also explore the archaeological collection, which includes artifacts from the Stone Age, Roman, Saxon, and Victorian periods.

The museum also houses a library, where visitors can find books, documents, and photographs related to the area’s history.

The library also has a collection of maps and other documents relating to the region’s early settlement and development.

Visitors can also take part in educational events and workshops that explore the area’s history and culture.

There is also a cafe and gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items related to the museum.

I’ve had a great time exploring all the best things to do in Clacton!

From exploring the pier to discovering the local history at Clacton Museum, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

I’ve been able to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, from the beach to the nature reserves, and I’ve had a blast trying out watersports at East Beach.

Clacton is a great place to visit, and I’m sure I’ll be back again soon to experience more of its attractions.

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What travellers are saying

Pier a hit with VisitEngland

• 29 November, 2021
• On the pier

A popular seaside attraction continues to provide a top quality experience for all the family according to leading experts in the field.

VisitEngland undertook a full day checking over all the facilities at Clacton Pier and the assessor was impressed with the improvements made since the last inspection.

Ruth Bolton decided the pier will once again retain its much sought after accreditation in the national scheme and it also achieved a higher overall quality score.

“This assessment took place against the backdrop of the 2020/21 global pandemic, but it is clear that the owners are committed to investing in the attraction and continue to be focused on improving the visitor experience year on year,” she said.

“Of the key areas assessed, staff has notably improved as well as the scores for attraction and catering.

“Clacton Pier delivers an enjoyable visitor experience providing entertainment and fun for the whole family.”

She added that among the highlights were the friendly and cheerful staff, and the very good selection of indoor activities on offer.

Suggestions were made to encourage visits without an online booking on the website, as well as updated presentation in the seaquarium.

The pier will now be able to display the accreditation award for at least another two years before a further inspection is carried out.

Director Billy Ball said he was delighted that the improvements and investment over the past three years were recognised by VisitEngland.

“We know there has been a massive transformation in our offer since the last assessment in 2018 and it is great to have that commented on by such a prestigious outside body,” he added.

“The accreditation gives local residents and those travelling from further afield confidence in the standards they can expect from us.

“Inspections such as this keep you on your toes and make you want to drive the business forward.”

The pier also recently received a Food Standards Agency five star food hygiene rating.

Clacton Pier’s Christmas experience got off to a flying start at the weekend and will continue until December 23. Details of all packages can be found at www.clactonpier.co.uk

PHOTO BY KEVIN JAY

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Clacton Pier

Opening hours.

9:30am–10pm

Clacton Pier is renowned as an iconic British seaside attraction, and they are extremely proud to have been at the very heart of their community since 1871. They might be 150-years-old, but are definitely not stuck in the past! 

Although steeped in a rich history, they have a distinctly modern twist having recently invested a multi-million-pound sum in an exciting new indoor development with soft play, adventure golf and restaurant. These complement the very latest in thrill rides, amusements, bowling centre, a seaquarium, bar and a variety of quality food outlets to satisfy all ages and tastes. 

They have two new, exciting rides for the summer of 2021, the Clacton Pier Wheel Experience and the Looping Star Roller Coaster. They have been introduced as part of their ongoing plans to expand their offer to pull in visitors from far and wide – as well as cater for local residents – 364 days a year. 

Family-owned by two brothers, Billy and Elliot Ball, Clacton Pier is the largest in Europe at 6.5 acres and won the prestigious Pier of the Year Award in 2020. They pride themselves in creating the perfect atmosphere and environment where families can make happy memories which will last a lifetime.

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Text by Susie Parr, photographs by Martin Parr.

In contrast with Southend’s straight, endless miles of harsh, gravelly sand, Clacton’s seafront offers delights on a more human scale. The beaches are smaller, more curved, and the yellow sand is soft. Here, instead of collapsing, sandcastles stand firm when the bucket is removed. Even the fun fair on the pier seems gentler, and more geared to families with children. At the end of the pier, a sleepy cafe sees few customers apart from one or two performers from the Fantasia Circus coming in to re-fuel between sessions on the high wire.

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, fifty worshippers from St Francis’s Catholic Church in Stratford, East London, pile out of their coach and on to the sand by the pier. Deck chairs are arranged, tables set up, cool boxes unpacked, wind breaks hammered in and barbecues lit.

This seems to be the beach of choice for church day trippers; another group from Wembley sets up camp nearby. There is some paddling but not much swimming. Lana, who is wearing a Jesus Loves You tee shirt, says that these outings -carefully planned for months- are good for people who can’t go on holiday, and especially important for the children. Having lost her own mother last year, she now has no reason to travel to Jamaica, yet she needs a break from London. The day trip to Clacton presents the ideal opportunity to get a change of scene, a breath of sea air, and enjoy platefuls of chicken and rice in good company.

A couple of days later, on the same beach, a group of Hindus from Ilford are trying out Clacton as the venue for a ceremony to mark the end of Shravan Month. They have fasted intermittently through the month and have now come to the sea to pray, sing and make offerings to Lord Shiva.

Although there are some men in the group, it is predominantly older women who take part in the ceremony, wetting their feet in the sea, making a model of Lord Shiva from sand gathered at the water’s edge and laying out candles and offerings of food. They have to come to the seaside for this ceremony, and hitherto  – for some reason – have chosen Bournemouth, a five hour journey from home. Clacton is much easier for them, being only 90 minutes away.

Further along the seafront, a large family gathering of Sikhs, hailing from many different parts of the UK, congregates on the sand. The women spread out sheets and blankets, sitting slightly apart from the men, who have wine and barbecue on the go. One man plays the tabla drum and sings softly. He is very nearly drowned out by the golden oldies that blast from the speakers stationed outside Bar 3. Here, lager in hand, weekend DJ Martin is half way through a 7 hour shift, picking out favourite tracks from his files of CDs. Unfazed by the lack of an audience, he is a real pro – introducing each number and smoothly shifting from up tempo disco to relaxed, mellow mood as the afternoon fades.

Along the coast, in Frinton and Walton on the Naze, there is little to disturb the peace as beach huts are unlocked and swept, kettles boiled and owners settled on sun loungers for a quiet chat or a go at the crossword. The sedate atmosphere and homogenous demographic makes nearby Clacton’s beaches, crowded and diverse, with palm trees planted in pots in the sand, seem a million miles away. Londoners bring the world to the seaside. For the Hindu worshippers from Ilford, Clacton is a revelation, and they plan to return.

Susie Parr, March 2018

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Clacton Pier

Top ways to experience Clacton Pier and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Clacton Pier - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Nigel Farage shakes up UK election, establishment on return to politics: 'British Trump'

LONDON – Maverick populist leader Nigel Farage sent shockwaves across Britain’s general election as he returned to frontline politics last week, with his party set to disrupt the Conservative Party’s centuries-old grip as the most popular right-wing force in the country.

Farage announced on Monday that he will lead the right-wing Reform UK party and seek a seat in Parliament for the seaside town of Clacton-on-Sea in the July 4 general election to "make Britain great again."

"So I’m back. I’m standing as a candidate in this election. I’ve taken the leadership over of Reform UK," Farage said in a video posted to X, referring to the successor of the Brexit Party. "You know why? I see our country going down the drain. I believe in Britain. These boring idiots that lead the Labour and Conservative parties are not worth the space."

The announcement comes after Farage’s nearly half-decade hiatus from political campaigning amid the success of the Brexit campaign to leave the European Union (EU). Britain voted to leave the EU in the contentious 2016 referendum and formally departed in 2020.

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"I can’t turn my back on those millions of people who followed me, believed in me," Farage said in a speech. "I’ve changed my mind because I can’t let down millions of people."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Farage’s campaign launch did not go without problems, as a woman threw a McDonald’s milkshake over him as he left an event. Local police arrested the woman on suspicion of assault.

The populist leader's political comeback is set to shake up the already fragile election campaign of the Conservative Party led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak , who called a surprise snap election last month amid declining popularity and internal party turmoil. 

A YouGov poll this week stated that Farage-led Reform UK is trailing behind the Conservative party by just two points and may soon eclipse it as the country's second most popular political party. The poll stated that around 17% of the surveyed voters would back Reform UK, with 19% voting for the Conservative Party. 

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The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, would receive the overwhelming 40% of the vote and is set to gain the majority of seats in Parliament, according to the same poll.

"Finally the U.K. has a politician willing to stand up and say what the people have been saying for years," Thomas Corbet-Dillon, a former adviser to former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, told Fox News Digital. "No more immigration. The majority of issues facing our country, lack of housing, overwhelmed health services and lack of jobs has been made worse by the Conservative Party, who have imported millions of people from the third world, against the wishes of the people."

He noted, "Nigel Farage has become the most important politician in the U.K. and may actually live up to the title of the British Trump," adding, "Farage is breaking the establishment Conservative Party just like Trump broke the establishment Republican Party in 2016. MAGA Americans should support Nigel and the Reform Party from across the pond."

Former Conservative cabinet minister Nadine Dorries, who served under the government of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, speculated that Reform UK is on track to take over as the country’s main right-wing party.

"I’m guessing that after the appalling events of the past few days over candidate selection, that Reform will have overtaken us in the polls by Saturday evening," Dorries said on X , referring to internal clashes within the party over selecting which candidates are allowed to run in select areas.

The Conservative campaign has so far failed to pick up steam and has been marred by a series of political miscalculations, while Reform UK is gaining momentum and outflanking the Conservatives over right-wing issues such as immigration and patriotism.

Sunak was forced to issue a groveling apology on Friday after he left a D-Day commemoration event early to conduct an election interview that will air only next week. "After the conclusion of the British event in Normandy, I returned back to the UK. On reflection, it was a mistake not to stay in France longer – and I apologise," Sunak wrote on X.

Farage seized on Sunak’s D-Day error, saying the Conservative leader "could not even be bothered to attend the international event above Omaha Beach," adding in another post on X, "Patriotic people who love their country should not vote for him."

The Tories, as the Conservatives are commonly called, sought to counteract the rising popularity of Reform UK by promising to curb immigration, highlighting the introduced scheme to send some asylum-seekers to Rwanda as a deterrent against illegal migration.

Reform UK, meanwhile, committed to an aggressive crackdown on immigration, proposing a "one in, one out" migration quota and increasing taxes on foreign employees.

Net migration levels soared to nearly 700,000 last year, a figure that both the Conservatives and the Labour Party promised to reduce if elected.

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Farage's party represents the most potent challenge to the Conservative Party’s domination as the country’s premier right-wing political force, likely reshaping the party and pushing it further to the right.

In 2016, at the peak of the campaign to leave the EU, Farage’s previous pro-Brexit political party, the UK Independence Party (UKIP), polled at around 17%, forcing Conservatives to move rightwards and adopt the policies of the insurgent populists.

In the 2019 election, Farage’s Brexit Party agreed to stand down candidates and not oppose Conservative candidates in exchange for the Conservative Party agreeing to a timely departure from the EU without any delays. Reform UK and Farage have ruled out a similar deal this election.

Farage and his party are currently projected to win only four seats in the new Parliament due to Britain’s first-past-the-post electoral system, in which the candidate with the most votes in the area wins the seat.

The party is expected to massively contribute to the Conservatives' electoral defeat by splitting the right-leaning vote, paving the way for Labour Party candidates. 

"Farage knows that Reform won’t win any seats, but he doesn’t seem to care that a vote for Reform only helps Labour. He’s doing exactly what Keir Starmer wants him to do," the Conservative Party said in a statement.

In Clacton, despite the town’s overwhelming support for right-leaning candidates, Farage will face a tough competition against his Conservative rival Giles Watling. 

This will be Farage’s eighth attempt to win a seat in Parliament.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Original article source: Nigel Farage shakes up UK election, establishment on return to politics: 'British Trump'

Nigel Farage confirms he will stand for Clacton seat in general election

The former Brexit Party and UKIP chief will also take over the leadership of Reform UK, promising to stay in post for five years.

Political reporter @NifS

Tuesday 4 June 2024 09:41, UK

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Nigel Farage has announced he will stand as a candidate in Clacton, Essex, for Reform UK in the general election on 4 July.

Last week, he ruled out putting himself forward , instead promising to help what was Richard Tice's party as it campaigned across the country.

But speaking at a news conference on Monday, Mr Farage announced the U-turn, and also confirmed he would take over from Mr Tice as leader of Reform for at least the next five years.

Politics live: Farage to stand and take over as Reform leader

Mr Farage claimed he had a "terrible sense of guilt" for not putting himself forward when the election was called, saying he felt he was "letting [his supporters] down".

He then described how he had a "normal day" on Sunday to "reflect" on his decision, where he "walked the dog, did some fishing, popped in the pub", and then made his choice.

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Read more: All you need to know about Nigel Farage

"I've changed my mind," the leader said. "It's allowed you know, it's not always a sign of weakness. It could potentially be a sign of strength.

"So I am going to stand in this election. I'll be launching my candidacy at midday [on Tuesday] in the Essex seaside town of Clacton."

Mr Farage added: "I can't turn my back on the people's army. I can't turn my back on those millions of people who followed me, believed in me despite the horrendous things that were being said about me."

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There had been questions hanging over what role Mr Farage would play in the election, whether that be as a candidate to stand against the Tories or whether he could broker an election pact with Rishi Sunak.

But his decision is sure to worry those on the right of the Conservative Party, who fear they could lose some traditional voters to Reform UK - especially with Mr Farage at the helm.

It may also allow him to take part in some of the wider television debates, seen as key for smaller parties to get their messages across to the electorate.

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Earlier, Mr Sunak downplayed the impact Mr Farage could have if he chose to stand as an election candidate, telling reporters: "One of two people will be prime minister - either Keir Starmer or me.

"A vote for anyone who's not a Conservative candidate is just a vote to put Keir Starmer in Number 10."

But the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, Daisy Cooper, accused the Tories of "already becoming the mirror image of Nigel Farage's Reform", and said Mr Sunak's "constant pandering" to the party had "horrified former lifelong Conservative voters in the centre ground".

She added: "Sunak must show some backbone and rule out Farage ever joining the Conservative Party in future, including if he gets elected to be an MP."

Going on the attack in his speech, Mr Farage said the current election contest was the "dullest, most boring campaign we have ever seen in our lives", accusing Mr Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer of "sounding the same".

Mr Farage said: "There is a rejection of the political class going on in this country in a way that has not been seen in modern times.

"So the really big message here is what I'm really calling for, and what I intend to lead is a political revolt... a turning of our backs on the political status quo. It doesn't work.

"Nothing in this country works anymore. The health service doesn't work, the roads don't work, none of public services are up to scratch. We are in decline and this would only be turned around with boldness."

He added: "Make no mistake, we are unashamedly patriotic. We believe that it's right to put the interests of British people first.

"We believe Brexit needs to be implemented properly and we are going to be the voice of opposition. And I tell you what, I've done it before. I'll do it again. I'll surprise everybody."

Farage message to voters will send shivers down spines in Tory HQ

Political correspondent

We've just witnessed what is probably the most dramatic moment of the general election campaign so far - Nigel Farage, a figure of fear for the Tories, is entering the fray.

All eyes will now turn to the polls, where Reform UK is performing at around 12%.

It hasn't made any major breakthroughs so far and this vote share will not translate into a seat.

However, speaking to Sky News after the announcement, Mr Farage was adamant the party would now ascend and win more than the 3.9 million votes UKIP took in 2015.

It was at that election that Douglas Carswell - after defecting from the Tories - won a seat for UKIP. It is in this seat that Farage is now bidding to be an MP after seven failed attempts to enter the Commons.

Clacton will be viewed as a soft target for Reform. This was a strong Leave voting area and the Conservative candidate, Giles Watling, is a Remainer.

Reform UK is polling above the national average in this seaside town - YouGov and Sky News' MRP poll puts its share here at 19.5%. But the "Farage factor" cannot be underestimated. He could really win here.

All of this will send shivers down the spines of those in Tory HQ, but Sir Keir Starmer may be rubbing his hands with glee.

Polling already suggests that Reform could cost the Tories 100 seats by splitting the right wing vote across the Red Wall and Essex. It explains why the Tories were pushing the message hard that "a vote for Reform is a vote for Labour".

Farage has turned that on its head. The election is a foregone conclusion and the Tories are too divided to be serious in opposition, he says.

Instead, given the Tories have already lost, Farage argues that a vote for the Tories is the real wasted vote.

That's his pitch to voters who he is now inviting to join his "political takeover".

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The Conservatives held the seat of Clacton at the last election with a majority of almost 25,000 - when Mr Farage and the Brexit Party stood down their candidates in a number of seats to help Boris Johnson with his "get Brexit done" campaign.

But the seaside town was previously held by UKIP when then Tory MP Douglas Carswell defected to the party and held a by-election.

He then kept hold of the seat in the 2015 vote, before the Tories won it back in the snap election of 2017.

The other candidates standing in Clacton are:

• Matthew Bensilum, Liberal Democrats

• Natasha Osben, Green Party

• Jovan Owusu-Nepaul, Labour Party

• Giles Watling, Conservatives

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