30 Things to Do in Essex – Ultimate Guide
Essex is packed with exciting attractions, from historical sites to outdoor adventures and unique entertainment experiences. Whether you're into nature, history, or fun activities, there's something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities and Nature
- Colchester Zoo – One of the UK’s best zoos, home to over 200 species, including lions, giraffes, and elephants. Great for a family day out with hands-on feeding experiences.
- Hylands House and Estate (Chelmsford) – A stunning Grade II-listed mansion surrounded by 574 acres of parkland, with gardens, lakes, and a café.
- Epping Forest – A vast ancient woodland perfect for hiking, cycling, and horse riding. Don’t miss the Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge.
- Mersea Island – A scenic coastal island famous for its seafood, especially oysters. Enjoy beach walks, boating, and the island’s relaxed atmosphere.
- Sculpture Park at Hedingham Castle – Explore a unique sculpture trail set in the grounds of a historic Norman castle.
- Southend-on-Sea – Home to the world’s longest pleasure pier, sandy beaches, Adventure Island theme park, and vibrant nightlife.
- St Osyth Beach – A quieter alternative to Southend, ideal for relaxing walks, kite surfing, or beachcombing.
- Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation – A peaceful canal route great for walking, cycling, and boat trips through Essex countryside.
- Hatfield Forest – An ancient woodland with scenic trails, lakes, and a historic deer park, managed by the National Trust.
- Great Dunmow – A charming market town with independent shops, historic buildings, and a famous tradition: the Flitch Trials.
Historical Sites and Castles
- Colchester Castle Museum – Discover 2,000 years of history in England’s oldest recorded town, including Roman and medieval exhibits.
- Castle Hedingham – A well-preserved Norman castle with breath taking views, historic re-enactments, and beautiful gardens.
- Layer Marney Tower – The tallest Tudor gatehouse in England, with stunning views and a historic mansion to explore.
- Audley End House and Gardens – A grand Jacobean country house with lavish interiors, formal gardens, and a Victorian kitchen.
- Tiptree Jam Factory – Learn about the world-famous Tiptree jams, sample their products, and visit the tea room.
- Rochford Windmill – A beautifully restored windmill offering insight into traditional milling methods.
- Frinton-on-Sea – A quiet, elegant seaside town known for its sandy beaches and 1920s charm.
- Gravesend and Tilbury Fort – Discover maritime history and views over the River Thames from this historic defense fort.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Adventure Island, Southend – A fun amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and arcades right on the seafront.
- Colchester Leisure World – A large indoor swimming and activity center with slides, wave pools, and fitness facilities.
- Sea Life Adventure, Southend – Explore marine life, from sharks to penguins, at this exciting aquarium.
- Lee Valley Regional Park – A huge park with walking trails, water sports, and a wildlife reserve. Great for cycling and family outings.
- Old MacDonald's Farm – A fantastic farm park for young children, featuring animals, soft play areas, and tractor rides.
- Bounce! Trampoline Park (Chelmsford) – A high-energy trampoline park offering freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, and foam pits.
- Streetside Gaming Bus www.streetsidegaming.co.uk/ – A mobile gaming experience that brings the latest consoles, VR, and multiplayer games to your location. Perfect for parties or events, offering an immersive gaming setup with LED lighting, surround sound, and comfortable seating.
Culture and Arts
- Firstsite, Colchester – A modern art gallery showcasing contemporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
- The Mercury Theatre, Colchester – A fantastic venue offering plays, musicals, comedy shows, and live performances.
- Braintree Museum – Learn about Braintree’s rich industrial history, including its silk-weaving heritage.
- Essex Police Museum (Chelmsford) – A fascinating museum covering the history of policing in Essex, with real crime exhibits.
- Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey – Explore the science and history of gunpowder production, with interactive demonstrations and nature trails.