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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Family Friendly
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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, we have over 40 fabulous rides and attractions including the outrageous RAGE roller coaster.
Culture
Animal Encounters
Vineyards, Breweries and Distilleries
Parks and Gardens
Heritage

Number of results: 196

, currently showing 121 to 140.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
116 reviews
Harbour Ferry Boat Rides

Address

1 The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HH

Telephone
01728 666329

customerservice@harwichharbourferry.com

Harwich

Harwich Harbour Foot and Bicycle Ferry is a quick and fun way to get from Suffolk to Essex across the Harwich Harbour. Departing from Felixstowe Landguard Fort, Harwich or Shotley Marina, its the perfect alternative to a long car journey or…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
128 reviews
Dovercourt Bay

Address

Lower Marine Parade, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3SS

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Harwich

Dovercourt is a peaceful family resort with gentle shelving sand and shingle beaches. A wide range of family activities are available along the promenade including an impressive range of sport and leisure facilities e.g. skate park, model yacht pond…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
42 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
89 reviews
Dedham Vale Vineyard

Address

Green Lane, Boxted, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5TS

Telephone
07944 376584

info@dedhamvalevineyard.com

Boxted, Colchester

Dedham Vale Vineyard is set in 40 acres of vines, woods and pasture on the edge of the Dedham Vale, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Sample the wines and wander through the vines as you enjoy this glorious part of North Essex.
The vineyard…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
13 reviews
Brightlingsea Museum

Address

Dove House, Station Road, Brightlingsea, Essex, CO7 0DT

Telephone
01206 307121

info@brightlingseamuseum.co.uk

Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea Museum has something for visitors of all ages and interests. The displays are designed with a surprise around every corner and with lots of things to do. And it's free!
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
37 reviews
New Hall Wine Estate

Address

Chelmsford Road, Purleigh, Essex, CM3 6PN

Telephone
+44 (0)1621 828343

newhall@newhallwines.co.uk

Purleigh

Located in the heart of Essex this 120 acre vineyard produces award winning wines.
The Cellar Shop is open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm during Spring and Summer, and 9am-4pm Monday-Friday during Autumn/Winter.
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…
Tuffon Hall Vineyard

Address

Tuffon Hall, High Street Green, Sible Hedingham, Halstead, Essex, CO9 3LL

Telephone
+44 01787 462288

info@tuffonhall.co.uk

Sible Hedingham

Tuffon Hall is a modern, boutique vineyard in the heart of East Anglia. Producing award wining wines of the highest standards.
We host vineyard tours and tastings, weddings and have a range of beautiful accommodation
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
181 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.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
123 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
68 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
224 reviews
Shoebury East Beach

Address

George Street, Shoeburyness, Essex, SS3 9AD

Shoeburyness

East Beach is a long sandy beach that is crowned with a magnificent grassy hinterland making it a superb location to enjoy a picnic. It’s perfect site for a family get together, set away from the central seafront area. A very popular part of the…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
159 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. …
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
540 reviews
Albion Beach, Walton on the Naze

Address

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

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Walton-on-the-Naze

With one of the area’s best beaches and home of the UK’s second longest pier, Walton charms visitors of all ages. From beach activities to countryside walks, Walton has it all
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
165 reviews
Epping Forest

Address

Epping Forest, Paul's Nursery Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4AE

Telephone
020 8532 1010

epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Loughton

Epping Forest is of national and international conservation importance with two thirds of it being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
39 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.
Finchingfield Post Mill

Address

Finchingfield, Essex, CM7 4NA

Telephone
+44 (0)345 603 7624

country.parks@essex.gov.uk

Finchingfield

A small 18th century Post Mill having one pair of stones and tailpole winding and has been extensively restored. Visitors may climb up to the first two floors.
The Old House

Address

17 South Street, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1BW

Telephone
+44 (0)1702 318120

leisure@rochford.gov.uk

Rochford

The Old House in Rochford was built in 1270. It's a real gem in the District's crown and a must see for everyone.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
278 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.
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.