If you’re looking for the best outdoor places to visit in Essex, this is the post for you!

Essex county is my home and a lovely place to visit. It’s filled with excellent scenic locations and fun hidden gems. We’ve got everything from castles and country parks to stunning vineyards and coastal retreats, and there are a ton of beautiful nature spots to enjoy!ย 

In this post, I’m sharing a handful of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex. These are all outdoor activities and attractions that I love to visit. The best thing is that since I grew up here, I’m not only sharing Essex’s top outdoor attractions but some hidden gems as well.

The best Outdoor-places-to-visit-in-Essex
The best outdoor places to visit in Essex include the stunning Salt Marsh Trail.
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The Best Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex

If you’re anything like me and sway more towards fresh-air escapes, then you’ll love Essex outdoors.

For starters, the county boasts over 350 miles of coastline with picturesque beaches, seaside towns and nature reserves to explore. Inland, there are numerous medieval market towns and cities with over 2,000 years of history. Dedham Vale is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty not to be missed and the beautiful island of Mersea is fantastic for alfresco adventures!

Recently, vineyards have become a staple among the county’s outdoor attractions, offering picturesque spots to relax. You’ll also find plenty of parks and green spaces, stunning gardens and historic buildings to stroll around.

These are only some of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex; the list is honestly never-ending. However, I have selected 30 of my favourite nature spots to share with you. I hope you enjoy them!

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How to get to Essex

Essex borders Greater London and is excellent for a day trip or weekend getaway amongst nature. The easiest way to get to Essex is to catch a train from Liverpool Street Station or Fenchurch Street Station, but you could just as easily catch a bus or drive.

The transport network in Britain is very good, with train services frequently running between London and Essex. The two main lines that run through Essex are the Great Eastern Main Line (GEML) and the London, Tilbury and Southend Line (LTS).

That said, many of the sites listed below are in the countryside, so having your own car is the easiest way to access them. While most are reachable by bus, it would require careful logistical planning and plenty of time, which is just going to eat into your Essex day trip.

  • For car rentals, check out Discover Cars. I use them often and have had good experiences.
  • If you want to check out the bus routes in Essex, First Bus serve most of the county.
  • To book trains into Essex, I recommend Trainline. You’ll save money on pre-booked tickets.
Outdoor-places-to-visit-in-Essex include Chelmsford Central Park
Chelmsford Central Park.

Best time to visit Essex

As with most outdoor experiences in Britain, summer is always going to be the best time to visit. Although dry weather is not guaranteed, it is warmer than the rest of the year, and you’ll avoid muddy trails. Summer temperatures range from 17ยฐC to 23ยฐC, although it can get hotter, and heat waves aren’t uncommon.

That said, summer is the busiest time to visit the UK. The good news is that Essex isn’t a touristy destination, so you’ll not get hit with swarms of overseas tourists like you would in places like the Cotswolds.

There are also plenty of things to do in Essex in winter, and most of these outdoor activities are open all year round.

The shoulder months are my favourite time to explore Essex (and the rest of the country). May into early June and September typically offer good weather, fewer tourists and reasonable prices.


Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex: Woodlands, Gardens and Nature Reserves

Essex has some of the best nature reserves and woodland in the country, all of which can be enjoyed any time of the year. Just make sure you’ve got your wellies for the winter months! These outdoor green spaces are some of my favourites in Essex.

๐ŸŒŸ I’m also creating custom-made itineraries if you’re looking for a bespoke holiday. These itineraries are detailed and carefully designed to deliver you a perfect trip. I include in-depth route planning, logistics, day-to-day activities, hotel and restaurant recommendations, insider tips, suggested tours, and more. I aim to provide a 5* service; click for more details.

1. Tollesbury Marina and the Nature Reserve

Tollesbury-Marina-Nature-Reserve
Tollesbury Wick Nature Reserve.

Tollesbury is the village I grew up in and the surrounding sea wall is still one of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex. There are a few interesting things to do in Tollesbury, and visiting the marina is one of them. It has a lovely bistro which serves delicious Sunday Lunch and a variety of delicious seafood dishes. 

Youโ€™ll find Tollesbury Wick Nature Reserve here too. It features an array of channels and creeks created by the areaโ€™s large tidal range, with many meandering walking paths to explore. 

2. Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation 

The Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation is a 13.8 miles (22.1 km) waterway with 13 locks which runs through a largely unspoilt part of rural Essex. It connects the county town of Chelmsford with the tidal estuary of the River Blackwater at Heybridge Basin. 

The most beautiful outdoor places to visit in Essex include the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal.
Enjoying the summer breeze along the canal.

Rushes Lock & Weir

My favourite lock is a spot known only to locals and a fantastic place to enjoy during the summer months. The lock (Google Maps) is nestled along the river Chelmer between Ulting and Little Baddow, with soft grassy banks to relax on. 

There is also a weir, which can be found behind the trees, making it a fun place to swim. You can take a float and go down the weir or float around and swim in the canal itself.

Pro tip >> If you drive, there is road parking on Bumfords Lane, which is a 10-minute walk to the Lock. If youโ€™re feeling adventurous, you can reach the Lock from Chelmsford city centre in 3 hours. Start at Chaucer Road Meadows and follow the footpath along the banks of River Chelmer – this is a really nice walk, and you’ll pass Paper Mill Lock Tearooms on the way. 

The weir at Rushes Locks along the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.
The weir at Rushes Locks along the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.

Paper Mill Lock Tearooms

Tucked away in the middle of the countryside and surrounded by fields and nature, Paper Mill Lock is a wonderful outdoor place to visit in Essex. What makes this lock extra special are the tearooms which serve wonderful afternoon tea, scones and all things cheese.

You can drive there as they have parking but itโ€™s also possible to reach from Rushes Lock. Follow the footpath along the canal westward past Little Baddow Village for another hour or so; you could also kayak along the water!

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3. Hylands House & Parklands

Nestled around the back of Chelmsford, Hylands Park is home to the graceful Grade II listed Neo-Classical Hylands House with meticulously restored Georgian and Victorian period rooms. 

The grounds are beautiful and include ancient woodlands, meadows, ponds and lakes.  There are many walking paths to get lost along and different habitats to explore.

Hylands Park is lovely throughout the entirety of the year due to the changing seasons which bring about dramatic changes to the estates’ scenic beauty. This makes it one of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex all year round!

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Free
| Time: 2 hours | Washrooms: Yes (public)

4. Roman River Valley Nature Reserve

Two adults and a child in the Roman River Valley Woodland in Essex, England.
One of the most beautiful outdoor places in Essex includes the Roman River Valley.

Another beautiful spot in Essex is this majestic woodland. The Roman River Valley is discreetly tucked away behind the small village of Layer-de-la-Haye. Strolling into the woods and down a steep hill brings you into a lovely woodland with mighty oaks, willows and hornbeams! 

It rained last time I visited so it got a bit slippery, make sure youโ€™re well prepared with a good pair of walking shoes. There are many footpaths to follow along the river bank and through the woods and lots of wildlife! 

5. Stow Maries Halt Nature Reserve

Stow Maries Halt Nature Reserve
Stow Maries Halt Nature Reserve.

Have you ever wanted to see glow worms? Stow Maries is the place to visit if so! The nature reserve is set on part of the old railway line, which used to run from Maldon to South Woodham Ferrers. The remains have been reclaimed by nature, but you can walk along the old embankment.

This is a good place to visit if you want a peaceful nature walk along the fields from Cold Norton to South Woodham Ferrers. Itโ€™s also a nice place to take your dog, but make sure it’s kept on the lead inside the paddock during late summer, as there will be sheep grazing!

Pro Tip: If you’re after a long(ish) circular route which will take you around Purleigh and Stow Maries there is one on All Trails here. It’s about 11km and should take around 2.5 hours, passing a couple of pubs.

6. Chalkney Woods

Chalkney-Woods is a beautiful scenic location in Essex.
Chalkney Woods is a beautiful scenic location in Essex.

When it comes to woodlands, Chalkney Woods is one of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex, why? It’s home to the rare bluebells during the late spring and early summer months. These lovely flowers literally carpet the ground and make it such a beautiful and enchanting woodland to walk through! 

The reserve is a healthy 120 acres of ancient woodland rich in both history and wildlife. Within the wood, there are remnants of a medieval wood bank and a Roman trackway. A rich diversity of wildlife means it is an SSSI site.

Itโ€™s super easy to get to, with lots of woodland trails to explore. I would definitely say that spring/summer is the best time, for the bluebells but also to see the dragonflies which whizz around the meadows.

7. Danbury Country Park

Danbury Country Park is a place we used to go to as kids. Itโ€™s full of adventure, with lots of different areas to explore. It has ancient woodland with oaks and sweet chestnuts, three wonderful lakes, meadows and an old ice house.

Itโ€™s home to quite a famous Victorian rhododendron collection in the late spring, which attracts a lot of visitors, but a visit any time of the year and it’s a magical place. The trails through the woods during autumn are my favourite.

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Free (car park fees only)
| Time: 2 hours | Washrooms: Yes (public)

8. Abberton Reservoir Nature Park

A small footpath leading to Abberton Reservoir in the background
Going for a walk with my friend and her child around the reservoir!

One of the most spectacular outdoor places to visit in Essex is Abberton Reservoir. Itโ€™s a sanctuary for water birds all year round, including a shelter for over-wintering and migrating birds passing along the east-coast migration route.

The park offers various routes around the reservoir, accessible paths, a number of bird hides and a cafe which sits just out over the water.  The panoramic views across the reserve are magnificent, and the bird-watching is phenomenal!

9. RHS Garden Hyde Hall

One of the most magnificent garden transformations in Essex is found at RHS Garden Hyde Hall! It was founded in 1955 on a windswept hill made beautiful by the Robinsons with a lot of love, patience and well-planned horticulture.

The area now comprises a number of gardens, all of which are perfect to explore. My favourite time to visit is early autumn, as always, as it becomes a place of burnt reds, yellows and oranges, plus the crowds are less.

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Adult: ยฃ15.85 / Child age 5-15: ยฃ7.95
| Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes

10. Markshall Estate Gardens

If you’re looking for a full day attraction while you explore the best outdoor places to visit in Essex, Markshall Estate offers just that! And, if you love herb gardens, you’ll be in for a treat.

Markshall Estate Gardens claims to have the longest herbaceous border in the country. Itโ€™s also a great place to see a huge variety of rare trees in its world-class arboretum and stroll along peaceful lakes.

Itโ€™s a little bit of a hidden gem in the heart of rural Essex, with over 2,000 acres. You might not get to see it all in one visit, but highlights include the 18th Century Walled Garden, wildlife including peacocks, fish, ducks, and an 800-year-old oak tree!

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Adult: ยฃ10.00 / Child age 3-16: ยฃ6.30
| Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes

11. Audley End House and Gardens

A fun yet educational manor house to visit in Essex is Audley End; it’s one of the most magnificent heritage estates in Britain. The grand mansion and gardens, which still have working stables where you can meet the horses, are fantastic.

You’ll find walking paths around the grounds; however, itโ€™s the house which is the crowning glory. The Jacobean-style building offers its visitors an insight into the life of Victorian England.  

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Adult: ยฃ18.10 / Child age 5-17: ยฃ11.30
| Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes

13. Saffron Walden

Of course, if you’re visiting Audley End house, you will have to stop by the beautifully preserved medieval town of Saffron Walden. With a deep-rooted history and beautiful streets, namely Castle Street and Bridge Street, it’s the perfect place for snapping up photos of old English architecture.

They also have a traditional market in the town centre which is always full of interesting goodies from fresh veg to leathers, electronics, accessories and toys!

12. Dedham Vale AONB

Dedham-vale-church-essex
Explore Dedham Vale and uncover lovely churches like this one.

On the banks of the river Stour, Dedham Vale is hailed as one of the most beautiful outdoor places to visit in Essex. The attractive high street of Dedham is lined with Georgian-fronted houses, old inns, a large arts and crafts centre, small shops, tea rooms and a lovely church.

The area is famously known as the heart of the Constable Country, with its lowland landscapes and waterways making it a breathtaking place with nature and wildlife at your fingertips. A day trip is one of the best things to do in north Essex!

Pro Tip: There are countless walking trails to be explored around Dedham Vale. A good way to explore these is to download the All Trails App, which features loads of walking trails all around the world!


Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex: Castles, Ruins & Old Buildings

Essex is home to a surprising number of castles and old buildings. Many of these were built on top of and lost over the years. Some, luckily, have been rediscovered! Here is a list of my favourite outdoor activities in Essex.

14. Hedingham Castle

Want to visit one of the best preserved Norman keeps in England? If so, then youโ€™ll want to head over to Castle Hedingham, as thatโ€™s where Hedingham Castle can be found.

Built during the early 12th-Century the Castle plays host to many medieval events and festivals. There is an old woodland forming part of the grounds, which you can walk through, and in summer, it has beauitful bluebells. The May Day Fair is always a lot of fun, with craft stalls and entertainment lining the castleโ€™s grounds.

Good to know >> Closed for the winter months.

Location: here | Accessible: No | Price: Adult: ยฃ11.00 / Child age 4-16: ยฃ9.00
| Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes

15. Colchester Castle And Park

entrance-gate-to-colchester-castle, one of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex.
Colchester Castle entrance gate.

Colchester boasts the countryโ€™s first established Roman city in England with over 2,000 years of history! Itโ€™s one of the most gorgeous outdoor places to visit in Essex, especially during the summer when the castle and park come alive. 

Picnics, walks and games can be enjoyed all year round. Many of the countyโ€™s large events are hosted within the park grounds. The castle is open to visitors and has a museum which showcases the area’s distinctive history but Colchester town also has a busy high street, making it a great place for a weekend visit. 

If youโ€™re a lover of parks and castles, then England has outstanding heritage sites. Why not check out other areas in the country, such as Lincoln, The Cotswolds and Somerset?

Location: here | Accessible: | Price: Adult: ยฃ12.75 / Child age 4-16: ยฃ7.50 (castle entrance, grounds free) | Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes (public)

16. St Botolph’s Priory

St Botolph's Priory, Colchester.
St Botolph’s Priory, Colchester.

The 12th-century ruins of an Augustinian monastery are hidden just behind Colchesterโ€™s town centre. Itโ€™s a great little spot to spend an hour. It is small, so you probably wonโ€™t need longer, but youโ€™ll enjoy walking around the ruined columns and structure. 

St Botolph’s Priory was demolished by Henry VIII during his โ€˜Dissolution of the Monasteries’ in the mid-16th century. There are information boards dotted around the site, which provide useful insight into the prioryโ€™s history. 

17. St Giles Leper Hospital Remains

St Giles Leper Hospital Remains
St Giles Leper Hospital Remains

If you’re really interested in ruins around Essex, St Giles’s remains are one of Maldonโ€™s best-kept secrets. The site is very small, but it’s where those suffering from leprosy were taken. I’d recommend going here only if you have a deep-rooted interest in this kind of history, as it’s a small site. Athough, Maldon is a quintessentially British riverside town, worth a visit!

Again, the site was destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries. It was then built over and used as a barn for almost 400 years! Amazingly, the ruins were uncovered and restored in 1927. Since then, the hospital has been one of those interesting outdoor places to visit in Essex while making a visit to Maldon.

18. Finchingfield Post Mill

Just on the fringes of Essexโ€™s county line is the colourful village of Finchingfield. Probably one of the prettiest villages in Essex and a great place to visit for a day trip if you love traditional English villages and pub lunches!

The old post mill is just shy of 300 years old, and although not operational, it maintains its original four sails. Itโ€™s a grade 2 listed building which is open every third Sunday of the month, April to September, although you can walk around outside any time of the year.  

19. Cressing Temple Barns

Between Witham and Braintree, youโ€™ll find the grade 1 listed Cressing Temple Barns. The site is home to some of the last remaining timber-framed barns and one of the few surviving Templar Buildings in England.

The grounds are wonderfully landscaped, with the walled garden reconstructed to provide a relaxing and peaceful escape. Itโ€™s also got the famous Tiptree Jam Tearooms on site which makes it a great little place to stop for lunch!

Location: here | Accessible: Yes (mostly)| Price: Free
| Time: 2 hours | Washrooms: Yes

20. Hadleigh Castle

Hadleigh-castle-essex
Hadleigh Castle.

Another castle which now lies in ruins is Hadleigh Castle. Impressively, it was once a Royal Residence of Edward II in the mid-14th century before being sold for building materials some 200 years later. Nevertheless, it’s another one of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex, especially for a picnic. You’ll get to enjoy panoramic views over the countryside and Hadleigh Ray River.

The site is part of English Heritage and is open all day during daylight hours. Itโ€™s accessible along a small grass path but itโ€™s also possible to walk along the seawall and through fields from Leigh-on-Sea, which is a lovely seaside town.

Location: here | Accessible: No | Price: Free
| Time: 1 hour | Washrooms: No

21. Layer Marney Tower

A 500-year-old Tudor Gatehouse, Layer Marney Tower is a beautiful building which sits right in the middle of the Essex countryside. You can walk around the grounds and enjoy exploring the gardens and buildings but visiting the tower is best if you can arrange a guided tour.

Itโ€™s not open all year round, though, so make sure you check their website for information. Itโ€™s used a lot for venue hire, but it does have a cute tea room, which was nice, and the staff were friendly. 

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Adult: ยฃ12.00 / Child age 13-18: ยฃ7.00
| Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes


Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex: Islands, Piers & Coastal Walks

As a coastal county, it’s only fitting that some of the best outdoor places to visit in Essex are along the coast! Walking dogs along the seawall and beach are great fun, but there are also a few small islands to discover.

22. Coastal walks

The stunning Salt Marsh trail during summer in Britain.
The stunning Salt Marsh trail during summer in Britain.

An unmissable part of Essex is the ‘Saltmarsh Coast Trail’. The whole of Britain has a stunning coastline, but when I think of Essex, its marshes, rivers and reservoirs. It’s 75 miles of tranquil trails which make up the Saltmarsh Coast, that’s a lot of scenic beauty to uncover!

Youโ€™ll find that most of the coast has a seawall with a mixture of paved paths to muddy trails. Youโ€™ll be able to walk from one village to the next relatively easily. Iโ€™ve done parts of the trail but hope to do more in the coming summer.

Maylandsea to St Lawrence

My favourite so far, and quite conveniently the closest to home, is the 8-mile route from Maylandsea to St.Lawrence. It follows the seawall along a small part of the Essex coast, which meanders along marshland, riverbanks and pretty meadows. Summer is the best time as wildflowers line the banks.

Goldhanger Circular

This is a 10km circular route which follows the path along the sea wall from the charming village of Goldhanger. It’s a fun 3-hour hike where you’ll pass the Osea Beach Huts and Osea Island Causeway. Afterwards, it’s a relaxing walk through fishing lakes and farmers’ fields. Summer is the best time to go to grab the golden wheat shots before returning back to Goldhanger.

23. Mersea Island

Mersea Island remains one of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex.
Mersea Island remains one of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex.

One of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex is Mersea Island. Itโ€™s a place I used to visit as a child with wonderful memories that I love going back to the island even now.

It has a long beach on the west side with adorable multi-coloured beach huts. It does get busy, especially in the summer, but if you walk right down to the end, itโ€™s usually quieter. Cudmore Grove, which is in East Mersea, is a great place for walking your dogs, as it’s an open meadow which leads to the water.

Mersea has activities for everyone, such as water sports, boat trips, golfing and fishing. There is a large outdoor activity centre and a good variety of pubs and restaurants, too. The island is also home to the Mersea Island Vineyard.

24. Frinton Beach

Another one of my favourite outdoor places to visit in Essex is Frinton Beach, and if youโ€™re looking for a relatively quiet beach in Essex, then Frinton-on-Sea Beach is a good bet. It doesnโ€™t have much in the way of entertainment, which is what makes it less crowded. But it does have soft sand and free parking!

The beach is clean, dog friendly and lined with some cute colourful huts. In town, youโ€™ll find cafes and restaurants, but the best way to enjoy this beach is to take a picnic.

25. Brightlingsea Beach

Brightlingsea Beach is always a little busier than the above. However, itโ€™s still a wonderful place to enjoy those hot summer days, especially with the family. There is an outdoor tidal pool with a small sandy area close to the main beach. 

We saw a lot of people crabbing over the rails when we were last there, something I remember doing as a child, so it was fun to see them bring out the big crabs! 

26. The Naze (Walton-on-the-Naze)

The Naze is an incredible coastal landscape with beautiful cliffs, superb for bird-watching all year round. The beach area is home to fossilised shark teeth and shells which can be found on the beach; hunting for them is always fun.

The walk along the cliff is breathtaking and scenic, but be careful not to walk too close to the edge as it can be dangerous. Youโ€™ll find a few old pill boxes to explore along the coastal trails and make sure to take your binoculars.

27. Southend Pier & Amusement Park

One of the most exciting places to visit in Essex if youโ€™re looking for outdoor entertainment is Southend Pier. It’s the longest in the country, around 2.3 miles, and you can catch a train to the end and back or walk if you want. Itโ€™s really nice, especially on a good day, but not so great on windy days!

The amusement park, Adventure Island, is full of arcades and rides which are brilliant. We went loads as kids and even after returning years later, we still managed to have a lot of fun.

Location: here | Accessible: Yes | Price: Adult: ยฃ7:50 / Child age 5-15: ยฃ4.00 (train ride) | Time: 3 hours | Washrooms: Yes (public)

28. Maldon Promenade

The old Thames Barges docked at Maldon's Hythe Quay
The old Thames Barges docked at Maldon’s Hythe Quay

Maldon Prom has been around since the Victorian times and is a great outdoor place to visit in Essex. The town is a very popular town with a bustling historic centre and lots of charm. The Hythe Quay is what you’re aiming for, and with lovely views over the estuary and along the Prom, you’ll have a great walk.

Fun fact >> Youโ€™ll find the statue of Byrhtnoth – Earldormon of Essex – at Maldon Prom with views over to Northey Island, mentioned below. The island is also the oldest known battleground in the country, from when the Vikings attacked in the battle of Maldon in 991!

29. Northey Island

Northey Island is a hidden treasure tucked away behind Maldon town. The island is quite remote, with access via a short causeway. At high tide, the causeway gets covered by water!

Itโ€™s a great place for bird watching and scenic views over the estuary, as it’s full of wildlife. Itโ€™s closed during winter, so you’ll need to pre-book your visit. But itโ€™s worthwhile to witness some of Essexโ€™s wild nature, salt marshes and oyster beds. 


Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex: Vineyards

There’s no way you can explore the best outdoor places to visit in Essex and not head to the vineyards. Due to the mild climate and some beneficial topography, namely unique microclimates and sheltered valleys, Essex has become a prime location for vineyards.

30. The Best Vineyards in Essex

Crouch Ridge Vineyard is another one of those fantastic outdoor places to visit in  Essex.
Crouch Ridge Vineyard is another one of those fantastic outdoor places to visit in Essex.

Hands down a day at the vineyards is definitely one of the best activities in Essex for adults and many of them often host events, so check ahead for tours, tastings, or even vineyard walks to make the most of your visit!

  • New Hall Vineyard >> Located in Purleigh, this is one of the oldest vineyards in England, established in 1969. They produce award-winning still and sparkling wines, with guided tours and tastings available.
  • Crouch Ridge Vineyard >> Found in Althorne near the River Crouch, this vineyard specialises in sparkling and still wines. Enjoy tastings paired with delicious food in their on-site restaurant.
  • Dedham Vale Vineyard >> Set in the stunning Dedham Vale countryside, this family-run vineyard offers tours, tastings, and a shop featuring their wines.
  • Tuffon Hall Vineyard >> Near Castle Hedingham, Tuffon Hall produces high-quality wines, including crisp Bacchus and a sparkling rosรฉ. They offer private tours and tastings by appointment.

Where To Stay In Essex

If you’re thinking of spending longer than one day in Essex, there are so many beautiful places you can choose to stay. Here are three of my personal suggestions to suit all budgets to make your trip perfect!

Stay in Colchester: The North Hill Hotel (B)

North-Hill-Hotel-bedroom

The oldest recorded town in England and a pretty place to stay if you’re heading to Essex. The North Hill Hotel is a lovely bed and breakfast located in the town centre.

Stay in Chelmsford: Channels Hotel (MR)

I went to university in Chelmsford and think it’s a good place to stay if you’re searching for a central location. Channels Hotel is an adorable 5th-century Tudor house converted into a boutique hotel.

Stay in Maldon: Staycations Maldon (HE)

My favourite and most recommended place to stay in Essex is Maldon. The charming Staycations Maldon is a luxury apartment hotel in a historic building directly on the high street.


FAQs: Best Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex

What is the nicest village in Essex?
Essex is full of quaint villages; however, some of the nicest are Finchingfield, Kelvedon and Tollesbury. You will find rows of colourful old buildings along the high streets alongside some history and green spaces. Traditional English villages will also be home to pubs, which are great places to stop for lunch.

Where is the best beach in Essex?
Depending on what you are looking for, some of the top beaches in Essex are Frinton Beach, Brightlingsea Beach and Southend Beach. Frinton Beach is good for a more remote and quiet day out, Brightlingsea is a little busier with more facilities, and Southend Beach is a busy seaside town with an amusement park and arcades. There’s also Mersea Island, which has a fun beach and lots of entertainment.

What is the oldest town in Essex?
The oldest recorded town in Essex is Colchester. It was the Roman capital and since then has become a charming city to visit in the heart of the Essex countryside. It features a Norman-era Castle alongside a few great archaeological sites. A day trip to Colchester is worthwhile.


The Wrap-Up: Best Outdoor Places To Visit In Essex

As you can see, there are loads of fantastic outdoor places to visit in Essex, with fun spots for everyone. Whether you’re travelling alone or as a couple, or looking for exciting places as a family or the perfect picnic destination with friends.

There’s a huge variety of places to visit, but since Essex is huge, it’s sure not all of them; there’s always somewhere new to discover! If you know of somewhere which should be on the list, I’d love for you to let me know so I can check it out.

Thank you for reading. You can find my latest stories on the blog here. Follow me on Instagram (#youmeandbritain) and Facebook to see what I’m getting up to and where my next upcoming trips are!


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