What to do in Essex? 

Throughout the region there are so many things to do. With so many great tourist attractions to visit, whatever your interests, you can be sure of a great day out. From shopping at Freeport Braintree to Paintball or Sea Kayaking of the Essex coast, a day for the kids at Colchester Zoo or a quiet round at one of the great Golf Courses Essex offers.

Essex has a number of notable stately homes. Audley End House near Saffron Walden was once a Royal palace while Ingatestone Hall has been owned by the same family since the 16th century. Layer Marney Tower is the tallest Tudor gatehouse in Britain, made more impressive by the lavish terracotta decoration.

Traces of medieval England can be discovered in the many delightful market towns such as Saffron Walden, Thaxted with its 500 year old Guildhall or Paycocke's House, a National Trust property in Coggeshall.

Close to the European mainland, Essex has been influenced by many different cultures and historical events. The Normans left their mark in castles at Colchester, Castle Hedingham, Stansted and elsewhere.

Ancient woodlands such as Epping Forest or the uniquely preserved Royal hunting forest at Hatfield add interest to the landscape. Why not escape to one of our country parks or open spaces for a stroll or a family picnic. Alternatively visit The Dedham Vale and Stour Valley, an Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty, where you can walk in the footsteps of John Constable and take in the lanscape that inspired him or visit a church with a difference - the Dedham Art and Craft Centre. 

Essex has one of the longest coastlines of any English county and a number of excellent blue flag beaches at Dovercourt, Brightlingsea and 3 in Southend-on-Sea. For more traditional fun head to Clacton-on-Sea for some fun-packed rides on the pier.