Attractions in Essex

With so many great attractions in Essex suitable for a range of ages, there’s never an excuse to be bored, no matter the time of year. Discover hidden gems and iconic days out in Essex! For our official list of Top 50 Icons of Essex, including attractions as voted for by the public, click here.

Family Friendly Attractions

Discover outstanding family friend attractions in Essex, from thrilling theme parks to exciting animal encounters! If you’re looking for a great family day out in Essex, then you’ve come to the right place. Make memories with your loved ones at amazing attractions such as Adventure Island, taking on raging rollercoasters and enjoying the view from the big wheel. Come face to face with a roaring lion at Colchester Zoo, reconnect with nature at our wildlife centres, or enjoy a steam train ride at Audley End Miniature Railway. There’s something for all ages in Essex.

Historical Sites in Essex

There’s a great abundance of fantastic history and heritage attractions in Essex. Explore the grounds of England’s best kept Norman keep, Hedingham Castle, or delve into the rich Roman history of Britian’s First City at Colchester Castle Museum. Visit the chapel founded by the Patron Saint of Essex, St Cedd, or gaze upon a woolly mammoth at the Saffron Walden Museum, just one of many amazing museums in Essex. There’s many wonderful historical sites and attractions in county that make for intriguing days out.

Outdoor Activities

Thanks to our 350-mile coastline and beautiful countryside, there’s some amazing outdoor activities in Essex to enjoy. If you love being out on the water, enjoy a peaceful boat trip along the beautiful Chelmer & Blackwater Canal. For a more adventurous day out in Essex, why not try your hand at some exciting water sports, such as paddling and kayaking along the rivers and coastline? If you’re more into the country than the coast, head to one of our many breathtaking parks or gardens for a picnic, or enjoy a vineyard tour at one of our local Essex vineyards.

Art and Cultural Venues

Dive into a little bit of culture for your next day out in Essex – head to an exhibition at a local art gallery, such as Firstsite in Colchester, and enjoy a display of dazzling paintings and sculptures. For an evening of entertainment, take a look at what’s on at one of the many theatres in Essex. From side-achingly funny comedy shows to dramatic productions and live music, there’s always something to suit everyone’s taste.

Events and Festivals in Essex

There is never a dull moment with so many events in Essex taking place every month. With car and flower shows, outstanding music festivals and food fairs, it’s easy to create lifelong memories over the summer in Essex. With seasonal events taking place throughout the year – Christmas markets, Easter egg hunts, and scary Halloween mazes – there’s always something to look forward to taking place in our wonderful county. Experience events in Essex that people travel miles for, such as Maldon Mud Race and the infamous Clacton Airshow.

Plan your Visit to Essex

Are you headed to Essex for a short break in the UK? We’re here to help you plan your visit! Here, you’ll find everything you need from great accommodation and restaurants to amazing attractions and things to see and do. Take a look at our maps and guides, as well as our travel information, to make getting around Essex simple and easy.

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Theme Parks

Adventure Island is the U.K's No.1 FREE ADMISSION Fun Park. Situated on Southend-on-Sea's famous seafront, with over 40 fabulous rides and attractions including the outrageous RAGE roller coaster.
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Vineyards, Breweries and Distilleries
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Heritage

Number of results: 199

, currently showing 81 to 100.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
282 reviews
Hedingham Castle

Address

Castle Hedingham, HALSTEAD, Essex, CO9 3DJ

Telephone
+44 (0)1787 460261

mail@hedinghamcastle.co.uk

HALSTEAD

Visit Hedingham Castle for a great family day out and a memorable experience. Bring a picnic and explore the beautiful gardens and lakes then take time to explore the 110ft tall Norman Keep. We also offer tailored educational visits to both schools…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
124 reviews
Crouch Ridge Vineyard

Address

Fambridge Road, Althorne, Nr Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 6BZ

Telephone
01621 450450

info@crouchridge.com

Althorne, Nr Chelmsford

Come for our Fine Award winning wines and stay for the view! Crouch Ridge Vineyard overlooks the River Crouch, located in the beautiful village of Althorne. Visit us for Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon Tea; Taste and Tour, Pair and Share.
The Wine Barn has…
Great Lodge and Bardfield Vineyard

Address

Great Lodge, Braintree Road, Great Bardfield, Essex, CM7 4QD

Telephone
01371 810776

info@greatlodge.co.uk

Great Bardfield

Great Lodge is a tranquil rural estate in North Essex with a magnificent Grade 1 listed barn, walled gardens, vineyard and self-catering/ B& B accommodation.
Wildlife Discovery Centre

Address

Fishers Green, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 2EF

Telephone
03000 030 610

info@leevalleypark.org.uk

Waltham Abbey

The bird hide and discovery room is the perfect spot to get in touch with nature as the seasons change throughout the year
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
303 reviews
Weald Country Park

Address

Weald Road, South Weald, Essex, CM14 5QS

Telephone
+44 (0)1277 261343

country.parks@essex.gov.uk

South Weald

Located close to the M25 and A12 in Essex, Weald Country Park is a 700 year-old, 500 acre country park.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
44 reviews
Epping Forest District Museum

Address

39-41 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1EL

Telephone
+44 (0)1992 716882

museum@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Waltham Abbey

Epping Forest District Museum features seven galleries revealing the fascinating story of the museum's collections.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
442 reviews
Thorndon Country Park

Address

The Avenue, Brentwood, Essex, CM13 3RZ

Telephone
+44 (0)1277 211250

country.parks@essex.gov.uk

Brentwood

Thorndon Country Park has 500 acres of tranquil woodlands and open park space perfect for exploring the great outdoors. It's also home to the famous Gruffalo Trail.
Waltham Abbey Gardens

Address

Abbey View, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1XQ

Telephone
+44 (0)3000 030 610

info@leevalleypark.org.uk

Waltham Abbey

Set in the grounds of the Abbey, you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Rose Gardens and Orchard, explore hundreds of years of history, enjoy a picnic or take a stroll along Cornmill Stream.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
49 reviews
Gunpowder Park

Address

Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 3GP

Telephone
+44 (0)3000 030 610

info@leevalleypark.org.uk

Waltham Abbey

Open since 2004, Gunpowder has been reclaimed and regenerated from its former use as a Royal Ordnance munitions testing facility.
Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park

Address

B1013, Cherry Orchard Way, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1PN

Telephone
+44 (0)1702 318034

customerservices@rochford.gov.uk

Rochford

Situated in the rolling countryside of the Roach Valley, the 200 acre country park makes the most of it's setting with a mix of open grassland, woodland, a lake, and a network of paths & bridleways.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
318 reviews
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

Address

Sawyers Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9BZ

Telephone
+44 (0)1277 201110

office@hopefield.org.uk

Brentwood

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary is a non-profit organisation that cares for over 500 sick, unwanted and mistreated animals throughout Essex.
Mistley Kitchen School

Address

High Street, Mistley, Essex, CO11 1HE

Telephone
+44 (0)1206 391 024

mistleykitchenshop@icloud.com

Mistley

The Mistley Kitchen Culinary Workshops have developed into a destination for keen cooks of all abilities from around the country. We offer a range of relaxed but informative courses for food lovers of all abilities.
Christopher Jones House

Address

Kings Head Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3EE

Telephone
01255 502872

Harwich

Christopher Jones was the Captain of the Mayflower and once lived in King’s Head Street in Harwich. His house still exists today and after recent restoration is open to visitors on request.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
72 reviews
Bell Wharf Beach

Address

High Street, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2ER

Leigh-on-Sea

Nestled in Leigh-on-Sea`s Old Town, its a beautiful spot to watch the fishing boats coming out of the marina.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
126 reviews
Chalkwell Beach

Address

Chalkwell Esplanade, Southend, Essex, SS0 8JJ

Telephone
01702 212534

Southend

Great for long refreshing walks, it offers a relaxing get away, with a number of cafes and kiosks selling all the usual seaside treats and supplies.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
160 reviews
Thorpe Bay Beach

Address

Thorpe Esplanade, Southend, Essex, SS1 3NS

Southend

With spectacular views of the Thames estuary, this beach is a great place for refreshing walks and for those looking for a relaxing break. Wander past the picture-postcard beach huts or grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants nearby. …
Three Shells Beach and Lagoon

Address

Western Esplanade, Southend, Essex, SS1 1EE

Southend

The Three Shells beach and Lagoon's central location makes it a popular choice, especially for families.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
124 reviews
Westcliff Beach

Address

Western Esplanade, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend, Essex, SS0 7RR

Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend

Westcliff Beach (at low water and with suitable footwear) offers lovely walks and is superbly positioned for the world-famous Rossi ice cream emporium. You will also find the famous Archway Cafes, where you can grab a delicious snack or meal – al…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
275 reviews
East Anglian Railway Museum

Address

Chappel & Wakes Colne Station, Station Road, Wakes Colne, Colchester, Essex, CO6 2DS

Telephone
+44 (0)1206 242524

information@earm.co.uk

Wakes Colne, Colchester

For over 50 years the East Anglian Railway Museum has been transporting visitors of all ages back in time. The site covers over 10 acres, you can explore our Victorian station, goods shed and signal boxes to see how passengers and freight have been…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
674 reviews
Epping Ongar Railway

Address

Ongar Station, Ongar Station High Street, Station Approach, Ongar, Essex, CM5 9BN

Telephone
+44 (0)1277 365200

enquiries@eorailway.co.uk

Station Approach, Ongar

Our aim is to educate, enjoy and preserve the history and community of the Epping Ongar Railway,
Epping Ongar Railway is Essex's LONGEST heritage railway and the CLOSEST TO LONDON. We run great events and arrange fun journeys for families and…