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, we have over 40 fabulous rides and attractions including the outrageous RAGE roller coaster.
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Essex County Cricket Club

Address

Ambassador Cruise Line Ground, New Writtle Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 0PG

Telephone
+44 (0)1245 254010

questions@essexcricket.org.uk

Chelmsford

Essex County Cricket Club is based in the heart of the county at Ambassador Cruise Line Ground, Chelmsford with First-Class cricket taking place from April through to September. Room hire available all year round for parties & celebrations,…
The Minories

Address

74 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UE

info@theminories.org

Colchester

The Minories is Colchester's Oldest Art Gallery. Entry is free and there is a range of exhibitions, events and artist residencies to experience throughout the year. Our beautiful walled garden is one of Colchester's hidden gems, where you can enjoy…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
8 reviews
Plants Galore

Address

Hamlet Hill, Roydon, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5JY

Telephone
01279 792869

customerservices@plantsgaloreonline.co.uk

Roydon, Harlow

Plants Galore: Your Family-Run Garden Centre in Essex
Welcome to Plants Galore, a family-run garden centre proudly serving Essex for three generations. We grow our plants ourselves, ensuring that you receive only the highest quality at…
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
31 reviews
Writtle Sunflowers

Address

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

writtlesunflowers@metsonpartners.co.uk

Roxwell, Chelmsford

Open from 19th July 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…
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
68 reviews
All Things Alpaca Ltd

Address

Lathcoats Farm, Beehive Lane, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8LX

Telephone
01245 201140

info@allthingsalpacauk.co.uk

Chelmsford

At All Things Alpaca, visitors are able to trek around the stunning orchards at Lathcoats Farm and spend time with our seven beautiful alpacas.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
132 reviews
Brightlingsea Beach

Address

Promenade Way, Brightlingsea, Colchester, Essex, CO7 0HH

Telephone
(44) 01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Colchester

Brightlingsea on the River Colne is rich in seafaring history and has the distinction of being the only Cinque Port outside Kent and Sussex. The town is a haven for yachting and hosts international sailing events annually.
Its sandy beach runs…
The Naze Beach, Walton-on-the-Naze

Address

Hall Lane, Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8HW

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Walton-on-the-Naze

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. Gaze across Hamford Water and watch yachts enter and…
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
559 reviews
Frinton Beach

Address

The Esplanade, Frinton-on-Sea, Essex, CO139DN

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Frinton-on-Sea

Frinton-on-Sea is a quiet family beach destination. A gently shelving sandy beach noted for its cleanliness and gentility, the area places special emphasis on relaxed family fun at the seaside.
Harwich Beach

Address

Wellington Road, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3DL

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Harwich

Harwich Beach is located adjacent to the historic town of Harwich on the estuary of the rivers Stour and Orwell in north-east Essex. The town is an important port and the old town of Harwich is a conservation area, containing many beautiful…
West Beach, Clacton on sea

Address

The Pier, Clacton-on-sea, Essex, CO151QX

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Clacton-on-sea

Adjacent to Martello Bay, West Beach has gently shelving sand and with the added bonus of the operation of Clacton’s pioneering child safety wristband scheme, gives parents that extra peace of mind.
Martello Bay, Clacton on sea

Address

Marine Parade West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, CO15 1NW

Telephone
01255 686969

seafronts@tendringdc.gov.uk

Clacton-on-Sea

Martello Bay is located approximately one mile from Clacton town centre and is adjacent to West Beach.
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…
Events by Colchester Events

Address

Castle Park, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1PJ

Colchester

Colchester Events delivers an exciting year-round programme of entertainment across the city’s most iconic venues.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
2 reviews
Vulcan Restoration Trust

Address

Hangar 5 South Road, London Southend Airport, Southend on sea, Essex, SS2 6YU

Telephone
07881 445453

info@avrovulcan.com

Southend on sea

XL426 is the only Vulcan in the world that is based indoors as well as being maintained in 'live' condition.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
22 reviews
RSPB Wallasea Island

Address

Wallasea Island, Rochford, Essex, SS4 2HD

Telephone
01702 669346

wallasea@rspb.org.uk

Rochford

Explore the wild coast of Essex at Wallasea Island with over 12km of trail to explore.
Go Ape Chelmsford

Address

Hylands Park, Greenbury Way, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8FS

Telephone
01603 895500

questions@goape.co.uk

Chelmsford

Go Ape Chelmsford is the latest to join Essex's top visitor attractions and comes 'highly' recommended. An action-packed day out for families and friends if you're looking for things to do.
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
461 reviews
Queens Theatre Hornchurch

Address

Billet Lane, Hornchurch, Essex, RM11 1QT

Telephone
01708 443333

boxoffice@queens-theatre.co.uk

Hornchurch

Whether it’s a pre-show dinner, a post-theatre drink, a lunch break, or a special celebration, Queens Theatre Hornchurch is the ideal backdrop. Our welcoming atmosphere and impeccable service ensure that your visit is always a special event.
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…