Burnham-on-Crouch is a quiet, unspoilt riverside town with a distinctly nautical atmosphere. During the annual "Burnham Week" there are hundreds of craft of all shapes, sizes and colours on the river, which offers some 15 miles of fine sailing before reaching the open sea. Sailing is a popular pastime throughout the year and Burnham-on-Crouch is often referred to as the "Cowes of the East Coast".

The Quay is an area full of old-world charm and many of the substantial houses which front the river and quayside are listed buildings. Both the High Street and Ship Road have a number of very old houses and the Clock Tower is an ornate landmark which has dominated the old part of the town since 1877.