Visit Essex | Official tourism website for days out, holidays and much more

A few words from us during COVID-19

Dear All,

We acknowledge that we are in uncertain times at the moment and whilst we would love to welcome you to our wonderful county of rolling countryside, miles of coast and many attractions we understand that it might be difficult and we want you to stay safe. If you are planning a trip to one of our attractions or events please check with the venue that they are still open.

If you haven’t done so already please sign up to our newsletter and follow us on our social media platforms @visitessex. We will share with you some fun facts that you might not know about Essex (believe us there are many), and introduce you to some of our ambassadors to find out what they love about our county of hidden gems.

We will of course be supporting our tourism and hospitality businesses and information for those working in the sector will be posted here. For more information visit the UK Government website and the NHS website

Thank you for your patience and we look forward to seeing you in the near future, when Essex will be waiting with a warm welcome.

Keep safe,
The Visit Essex team

This is Essex - Take a second look at Essex: It's people, places and events

Essex is a real county of contrasts offering a rich tapestry of everything that makes Britain great. There is a wonderful collection of old and new, and Essex manages to combine modern facilities, fascinating towns and villages and ever-changing coastlines to create the perfect day trip or short break. Boasting the palatial splendour of historic houses such as Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden, to newly created architectural masterpieces such as Firstsite in Colchester, together with affordable accommodation, Essex should be the destination of choice for your next visit.

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2020 is the year to visit Essex!

Essex 2020

Celebrating science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, there are lots of events taking place throughout the county this year, including the British Science Festival in Chelmsford this September.

Mayflower 400

A series of events are taking place to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage to the "New World". From shanty festivals to illuminations, this is the year to visit coastal Harwich.

Velo Essex

A new closed road cycling event will take place in the county this September following 50 or 100 miles of beautiful Essex countryside. 15,000 spaces available. Plus a free family event and Cycling Festival!

Come and stay for a short break in Essex

Banner showcasing the best of Essex including shopping, historic houses and more

Plan your visit

Things to do

Picture of two children learning to cook from cook dressed in Victorian costume.

There is a wealth of places to visit and explore in Essex from historic houses and gardens, museums, theatres, outdoor activities and much more.

What's on

Picture of a night performance with fireworks and street theatre.

There are plenty of events for the whole family to enjoy throughout the year, from fairs and festivals to concerts and theatre, yet another reason to visit our county.

Food and drink

Picture of two young couples eating seafood.

The county has some of the freshest, finest food available. Whether your preference is fish and chips by the sea, or a gourmet dinner in luxurious surroundings.

Travel to and around Essex

Essex is on London's doorstep and is served by an excellent rail network and local bus routes as well as accessible travel links from all over the UK and Europe.

Explore our county

Cultural Essex

Picture of the iconic Firstsite building at night.

Discover Essex’s creative spaces. They come in all shapes and sizes and are crammed with artistic treasures, from international names to emerging local artists.

Discovery Coast

Picture of a sunset over the The Naze waters with some rocks protruding from the water.

Explore our 350 miles of coastline, the longest shoreline of any county in England, a place of surprising wild beauty, rich in wildlife and sprinkled with history and hidden cultural gems.

Historical Essex

Essex’s history has been shaped by a wide variety of cultures. Romans, Saxons, Vikings, Normans – all left their mark. Echoes of their influence can still be seen today.

Rural Escapes

Picture of a cow at the edge of the River Stour and drinking water.

A scenic patchwork of rich farmland speckled with pastelwashed villages of thatch and timber, the views interrupted by mighty oaks and ashes presided over by the hurrying skies.