21 things to do in Essex

Are you planning a trip to Essex? Filled with incredible sites, popular tourist attractions and historical landmarks, the county has so much to offer. From its bustling towns and cities to its rolling countryside, there is no shortage of fun things to see and do in this vibrant part of the UK.

Close to London, Essex is easy to get to by train or car making it the perfect day trip destination!

One of the standout features of Essex is its stunning coastline, which stretches along the North Sea and includes a number of popular tourist destinations, such as Southend-on-Sea and Clacton-on-Sea. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, go for a walk along the seafront, or try your hand at water sports like windsurfing or kite-surfing, the Essex coast has something for everyone. Be sure to try some watersports whilst you’re there!

For history buffs, Essex is home to a number of fascinating historical sites, including Hadleigh Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and the ruins of St. Osyth Priory, which was founded in the 12th century and is now a scheduled ancient monument. There is also the Hedingham Castle, a well-preserved Norman keep that is now used as a venue for weddings and other events.

Essex is also home to a number of bustling towns and cities, including Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, and Chelmsford, which is home to a vibrant shopping and dining scene. These cities are great places to explore if you’re looking for a more urban experience, with plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions to keep you entertained. Don’t miss the Firstsite Art Gallery for a taste of some of the finest contemporary art in the county.

For those who love the great outdoors, Essex is a great place to be. From the rolling countryside of the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the sweeping marshes of the Blackwater Estuary, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re looking to go for a walk, go bird-watching, or simply relax in a picturesque park or garden, Essex has something to offer.

Essex is a county that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea, a chance to explore fascinating historical sites, or an exciting night out in one of the county’s many towns and cities, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Essex. So why not plan a visit today and discover the many wonders of this fascinating part of England for yourself?

Essex: a quick look at fun things to do!

  • Visit Southend-on-Sea: take a stroll along the world-famous pier, explore the attractions of Adventure Island theme park, or simply relax on the beach.
  • Visit Colchester Castle: explore this well-preserved Norman keep, which is one of the largest castles in England and is now home to a museum.
  • Walk along the Clacton Seafront: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront, which is lined with amusement arcades, gift shops, and traditional seaside attractions.
  • Explore the Roman ruins of Colchester: discover the rich history of Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, and explore the ruins of its Roman Temple and Amphitheater.
  • Take a guided tour of Hedingham Castle: learn about the history and architecture of this well-preserved Norman keep, which is now used as a venue for weddings and other events.
  • Visit the Blackwater Estuary: take a walk along the marshes of this stunning estuary, which is home to a wide variety of birdlife and is a popular destination for bird-watching and wildlife-spotting.
  • Visit the Hylands Estate: explore this historic estate, which is now home to a park, gardens, a lake, and a grand country house.
  • Take a trip to the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Enjoy a walk in the rolling countryside of this picturesque landscape, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
  • Visit the Chelmsford Museum: learn about the history and culture of Chelmsford and the surrounding area at this fascinating museum.
  • Enjoy a night out in Colchester: with a thriving bar and club scene, Colchester is a great place to let your hair down and have a good time. Whether you’re looking for live music, a dance party, or a quiet drink, there’s something for everyone in the city centre.

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