St Osyth is about five miles from the seaside resort of Clacton-on-Sea. In the centre of the village stands the medieval remains of the Priory situated within 383 acres of land. Building began in 1118 for the Augustine Canons and ultimately became one of the great Augustine Abbeys in Europe. The village centre has been designated a conservation area and there are 112 buildings listed of historic or special architectural interest in the parish, including the Priory and the Church of St. Peter and Paul. The area is popular amongst holidaymakers. There is a small harbour used by seafarers for mooring and boat repairs, and to the west is St Osyth Beach where an area has been set aside for naturists.