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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Number of results: 201

, currently showing 101 to 120.

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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
286 reviews
Firstsite

Address

Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JH

Telephone
+44 (0)1206 713 700

info@firstsite.uk

Colchester

Firstsite is an international gallery and creative community space. See the world differently – experience the very best art and culture from around the world that inspires, empowers and opens your mind.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
218 reviews
Hollytrees Museum

Address

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG

Telephone
01206 282940

museums@colchester.gov.uk

Colchester

Three centuries of fascinating toys, costume, clocks and decorative arts displayed in an attractive Georgian town house from 1718.
The Naze

Address

Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8LJ

Telephone
01255 686633

clactontic@tendringdc.gov.uk

Essex

The Naze is located just north of Walton-on-the-Naze, in North East Essex. The beautiful Naze cliffs and national nature reserve provide the perfect opportunity for walking and bird watching.
Admirals Park

Address

Rainsford Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2PL

Telephone
+44 (0)1245 605566

parksservices@chelmsford.gov.uk

Chelmsford

A beautiful town centre park leading into Tower Gardens and West Park, Admirals is one of Chelmsford's most popular parks
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
50 reviews
Copped Hall

Address

Epping Upland, Epping, Essex, CM16 5HS

Telephone
+44 (0)207 267 1679

coxalan1@aol.com

Epping

Copped Hall was the burnt-out shell of a fine Georgian mansion but now being restored. Superbly sited on a ridge overlooking its landscaped parkland. The mansion and gardens are situated on a site of ancient human habitation.
Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge/The View

Address

Rangers Road, Chingford, London, E4 7QH

Telephone
020 7332 1911

epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Chingford

A timber framed hunting grandstand built for Henry VIII in a beautiful part of Epping Forest with ancient oaks, fine views and activities for children. Next door, The View showcases the Forest, designed to appeal to all ages. Entry is free.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
305 reviews
Naze Tower

Address

Old Hall Lane, Walton on the Naze, Essex, CO14 8LE

Telephone
01255 852519

mail@nazetower.co.uk

Walton on the Naze

Sited at the beautiful coastal location of the Naze, this historic 86ft navigational tower houses over eight floors, an art gallery, museum, tea rooms and a roof viewing platform with spectacular panoramic views.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
48 reviews
Beecroft Art Gallery

Address

Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6EX

Telephone
+44 (0)1702 212511

museums@southend.gov.uk

Southend-on-Sea

The Beecroft Art Gallery holds over 2000 works of art ranging from 17th century Dutch Masters to contemporary works and Fashion and Textiles. Temporary exhibitions of local artist's work, alongside dynamic collection based exhibitions provide…
Country Park at Marsh Farm

Address

Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP

Telephone
+44 (0)1245 222350

country.parks@essex.gov.uk

South Woodham Ferrers

A 300-acre country park adjacent to the River Crouch that offers scenic grazing marsh and sea wall walks.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
98 reviews
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium

Address

Central Museum, Victoria Avenue, Southend, Essex, SS2 6EW

Telephone
+44 (0)1702 434449

Southend

Southend Central Museum and Planetarium is home to an exciting selection of internationally significant archaeology, including a permanent display of the incredible Anglo Saxon Prittlewell Princely Burial. Come see the intriguing new exhibition…
Jubilee Beach

Address

Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2EN

Telephone
01702 212534

Southend-on-Sea

A busy beach, with lots going on including Emergency Service Information Days and splash fountains.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
69 reviews
Shoebury Common

Address

Shoebury Common Road, Shoeburyness, Essex, SS3 9HG

Shoeburyness

Shoebury Common is a blue flag beach that has been recognised for its water quality, beach cleanliness, and safe pedestrian areas. There is also ramped disabled access to a wooden platform.
The common is home to Uncle Tom’s Cabin which offers a…
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.
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
187 reviews
Nickelodeon Adventure Lakeside

Address

Thurrock Lakeside Shopping Centre, 612 The Quay, West Thurrock, Essex, RM20 2AD

Telephone
01708 983960

West Thurrock

Explore the worlds of your favourite Nickelodeon characters inside Nickelodeon Adventure Lakeside.
Maldon Promenade Park Beach Huts

Address

Promenade Park, Park Drive, Maldon, Essex, CM9 5JQ

Maldon

The beach huts are close to the popular Splash Park and Valley Play Area as well as being a short walk to the town of Maldon.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
45 reviews
Saffron Grange Vineyard

Address

Rowley Hill Farm, Little Walden, Essex, CB10 1UZ

Telephone
01799 516597

vineyard@saffrongrange.com

Little Walden

Saffron Grange is one of Essex’s best kept secrets. A family-run vineyard nestled on the gently sloping hills just outside of Saffron Walden, it produces delicious, premium quality English Sparkling Wines. Available for informative, friendly tours…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
31 reviews
Writtle Sunflowers

Address

Pooty Pools Farm, Radley Green Road, Roxwell, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 4NW

writtlesunflowers@metsonpartners.co.uk

Roxwell, Chelmsford

A beautiful PYO flower field in the Essex countryside, with a small maze, a sunflower walk, picnic area and refreshments. You won't get fresher flowers, or a better photo opportunity, anywhere else! Open End of July through to end of August.