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

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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Get your tickets to the BIGGEST celebration of the year!

Registration for the third Visit Essex Big Weekend opens on 21st February, where hundreds of FREE pairs of tickets for a host of attractions and fun-filled activities across the county, will be up for grabs via an on-line ballot.

A huge variety of Essex tourist attractions and related businesses will be opening their doors free of charge, or offering special gifts to lucky ticket holders on 6th and 7th April, as part of Visit Essex’s third celebration of the county’s tourism industry. Some of the county’s biggest attractions have already signed up to this year’s event, including Maldon beach huts, Audley End House and Gardens, RHS Hyde Hall, Adventure Island and Essex Wildlife Trust.

Don’t miss out! The Ballot opens on 21st February – 17th March. Two tickets per household will then be allocated at random by ballot (some family tickets are available too).

Subscribe NOW and be one of the first to hear when the Ballot opens!

Open to ALL Essex residents – find out what’s on your doorstep and have fun!

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.

You can also.....

Celebrate your special day in Essex

A couple in front of the tower by night.

Whether you are searching for a fairytale castle, a historic barn, or something completely different, you will find the perfect venue to suit you. Over 150 venues in Essex will provide ambiance, charm and character for your big day.

Have your next meeting in Essex

Wow your clients with a top class venue for your next meeting. How about a meeting in an ultra-modern eco friendly building, a historic Thames Sailing Barge or the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England? Essex will not disappoint you.

Have fun with your team in Essex

Why not make a big splash at the Lee Valley White Water Centre, host venue for the white water rafting at the London 2012 Olympic Games, or climb to great heights on the high ropes at Rope Runners or Gilwell Park.