Through wooded trails, wildflower meadows and sandy shorelines, you, our voracious readers, have sent us on quite a journey to unpack your favourite places in the county to have fun. So, without further ado, here are the best locations to visit in Essex, according to you.
Alma Inn and Dining Rooms, Harwich
Organic lavender farm and camping retreat, Finchingfield Camping, recommends stopping by Alma to enjoy amazing food and great hospitality. Since the 1850s the inn’s been at the centre of Harwich’s community. They’re well known for their fresh lobster, fish and chips and Sunday roasts which feature some of the best yorkies in Essex. Officially the winner of the 2021-2022 Pub of the Year and B&B of the Year at the East of England Tourism Awards, its bedazzling reputation certainly checks out!
Abberton Reservoir, Layer-de-la-Haye
Take a walk on the wild side and explore this huge expanse of wetland that provides a haven for up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese every year. The reservoir boasts an extensive list of rare species that rest their tailfeathers on the site when passing overhead, including the unusual vision of cormorants nesting in trees in spring. It’s one of the few places in Britain where they do this.
Audley End House and Gardens, near Saffron Walden
Several readers including artist Katie Alize and fancy dress hire business The Costume Company can’t wax lyrical enough about the spectacular interiors and gardens at Audley End, one of England’s finest manors. Lorna Cook, author of The Forgotten Village couldn’t agree more. ‘I’m head over heels for Audley End,’ Lorna says. ‘It’s a wonderful time capsule of a way of life that we’ll never see again. As a historical author, the house and its history are complete catnip.’
The Essex Life team recommends... Belfairs Woods
With some of the woodland being more than 1,000 years old, Belfairs is actually the earliest woodland recorded in Essex, says our editor Katy Pearson. While it has a variety of flora and fauna, including several nationally-threatened species, your little ones (if they are anything like mine!) will most enjoy the outdoor play area. The striking, wooden clad Discovery Centre is a must-stop point - with food and tables on the patio overlooking the fields (where children run wild!) and the golf course.
Bradwell-on-Sea
From the ancient Saxon chapel to the dramatic windswept marshes, Bradwell is a beautiful village and civil parish on the Dengie peninsula. The area has a long military history and is home to the former RAF Bradwell Bay air station. It’s also a paradise for walkers thanks to the nearby Saltmarsh coastal trail and the natural stunning landscape of the Bradwell cockle spit is a great place for families and dogs to explore.
Brightlingsea
As its name suggests, this coastal town is a ray of sunshine and a charming place to visit. The pastel beach huts glitter along the beach and on the high street awaits a treasure trove of independent shops to explore. There’s also a rich heritage of taverns, bakeries and cafes. At Bateman’s Cafe, you can enjoy breakfast and tea by the sea and The Rosebud offers stunning views of the creek and serves fresh fish from the market daily.
Burnham-on-Crouch
Brand manager @allotment_luvvy is all about healthy eating, the outdoors and home-grown food and is inspired by the countryside and coast. For them, a wild walk along the sea wall from Bradwell to Burnham-on-Crouch is ideal for getting the creative juices flowing. The serene riverside town, known as the Cowes of the East Coast, boasts ample old-world allure and attractive scenery. It’s also somewhat of a yachting epicentre, with lots of local sailing clubs and playing host to the internationally-recognised Burnham Week regatta.
The Essex Life team recommends... Canvey Island
Admittedly our editor might be slightly biased as she grew up on the island (and much of her family still live there!) but truly you'll be hard pushed to find a better spot for a bit of seaside dining than the Labworth. Sat astride the seawall, the Grade II listed restaurant designed by Ove Arup, first opened its doors in 1933. Today it houses the Labworth Cafe on the lower floor and Savor restaurant above it. While you're on the island why not get a history fix with a visit to the 17th century Dutch Cottage Museum?
Chalkwell, Southend-on-Sea
Author of The Orphanage, Lizzie Page, can often be discovered enjoying daily strolls along the seafront behind Chalkwell Station. ‘One day it’s mud with strange channels of water and the next, the tide is lapping against the wall and beyond the stretch of sea you can spot land on the other side,’ Lizzie says. ‘It’s a reminder nothing is out of reach.’ The beach is ideal for a revitalising walk and the many nearby cafes provide a calm and friendly space to sit and watch the world go by. Our editor Katy Pearson also never tires of the sight (and a stroll over!) of Gypsy Bridge, found off the coastal path between Chalkwell and Old Leigh beaches.
Clacton-on-Sea
All we can say is it’s ab fab sweetie darling! Fabulous is Dawn Mary’s word of the day to describe her memories of good times in Clacton. ‘It provides fabulous family holidays, fabulous holiday camps, has the best pier in the county, a fabulous sandy beach and great shops,’ Dawn says. She even goes on to say it has the ‘best air in Great Britain,’ which we’re not totally sure of, but hell even if it doesn’t, this is the place to be for an amazing day by the sea.
Cliffs Pavilion, Southend
60s pop icon and member of Love Affair, Steve Ellis, has performed at the Cliffs several times, most recently during 2023’s 60’s Explosion Tour. It’s a venue he enjoys returning to and he recalls fond memories of playing at the Kursaal Ballroom. The Cliffs opened in 1964 and today presents over 300 performances every year including the biggest pantomime in the Southeast, rock concerts, comedy shows and opera. Just let them entertain you!
Colchester Castle Park
On their travels, Carol and Martin Piper enjoy exploring Colchester Castle Park. This oasis of green livens up the town centre and is home to over 2,000 years of history. Features like the Norman castle keep and Hollytrees House form a rich, expansive tapestry showing how Colchester has evolved through the ages. Towards the northeast corner of the park, you’ll discover Duncan’s Gate. Did you know this was the original Roman gateway into the town?
Creeksea Place Barns, Burnham
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all. Carrie Elks, author of Strictly Business certainly agrees. ‘When I’m on a deadline, I like to take myself away for a few days to a writing retreat,’ Carrie explains. ‘I recently visited Creeksea Place Barns, which was fabulous, perfect if you’re looking for a self-catering stay with the best cafe in the world.’ The family-friendly retreat offers stylish, unique self-catering barns and guests have access to the state-of-the-art gym and spa.
Crouch Ridge Vineyard, Althorne
They say when arriving at Crouch Ridge that you’ll come for the wine but stay for the view! Imagine basking in the summer sun sampling premium fine wines while taking in the views of the vineyard, Crouch Valley countryside and river below. Could there be a more perfect summer’s day? The talented chef and culinary team have designed a delectable menu that compliments the wines perfectly and showcases the best local, seasonal, fresh produce.
Danbury
The landscapes of Essex have set many hearts a flutter. Julie Haworth, author of Always by Your Side is no different. The county’s gorgeous countryside and stunning villages have helped inspire locations in her works including the fictional village of Blossom Heath, which was influenced by the duck ponds and greens of Danbury, Stock and Writtle. Danbury visitors can admire astounding views of the Blackwater estuary and discover the impressive wooden knight effigies at the Church of St. John the Baptist.
Fields Farmshop, East Bergholt
It’s the most important meal of the day, which is why knowing where to go for a good breakfast is of the utmost importance. For Amanda Thomas and her fluffy pal Darcy, the Fields Farmshop is without a doubt the best breakfast anywhere. Just a tad north of the Essex border in East Bergholt, it serves a twist on breakfast classics. The inviting, cosy atmosphere will make you feel instantly at home. It’s a bruncher’s nirvana.
Finchingfield
In the words of Finchingfield Camping, this village ‘is the most picturesque chocolate box village.’ Finchingfield is well known for its gorgeous scenery and beautiful lavender. The Property Twins (@officialpropertytwins) love visiting here to enjoy afternoon tea, feed the ducks and take a nosey around the antique shops. Its unbeatable views have made it the most photographed village in England.
Finringhoe Nature Reserve, Colchester
Finringhoe was Essex Wildlife Trust’s very first nature reserve, opened almost sixty years ago. It’s evolved over the decades into a mosaic of habitats, offering sanctuary for many animals. Lifelong lovers of nature will enjoy the meandering trails that lead them through woodland, scrub and heathland towards spectacular views of the Colne Estuary. In summer the sea lavender on the saltmarsh is a bewitching site and turtle doves, sand martins and swallows are frequent visitors. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars!
Fobbing
‘It’s rumoured it was Fobbing’s marshes where Charles Dickens was inspired to write the opening scene in Great Expectations,’ reveals Emma Robinson, author of Please Take My Baby. Currently, Emma, her husband, children and small dog call the little village home. ‘I love looking out across the marshes from my writing room and being inspired by the history of the area,’ she adds. The surrounding hills are the perfect place to walk dogs and problem-solve.
Frinton-on-Sea
A sleepy coastal town along the Essex Riviera, Frinton is the perfect place for those looking to shift into slower gear for a short while. Victorian-style beach huts line the shore bringing a nostalgic yearning for days spent sandcastle building. Local Gezz Moore loves the town for its dog-friendly beach, shops and good choices of places to eat. As an area with more churches than amusement parks, it’s a good spot for walkers and those seeking a quiet beach where they sunbathe and grab some shut-eye.
Gelato Food Kitchen, Loughton
Food and travel blogger Binny (@binnysfoodandtravel) approves of this artisanal cafe and gelateria as the go-to place to satisfy your sweet tooth. Indulge in sweet and savoury crepes, hand-roasted coffee and revitalising breakfast bowls. The mastermind behind The Gelato Kitchen is Chef Anshu Anghotra, who’s driven by a passion for crafting the perfect Italian-style gelato. He uses a specialist ageing technique to introduce a depth of flavour guaranteeing diners a taste sensation like nothing they’ve experienced before.
Harwich Maritime Trail
Since 1661 packet boats have been sailing from Harwich to Holland, so to say the town knows a little about sailing would be a huge understatement. Harwich is home to numerous maritime and historical landmarks including the Electric Palace Cinema, the mariner Christopher Jones’ House and Ha’Penny Pier. It’s fun to pick up the Harwich Maritime Trail map (harwich-society.co.uk) and set off on your own scavenger hunt to discover more about the town’s past.
Hedingham Castle, Halstead
Pack up your sandwiches, lemonade and Victoria sponge in a picnic basket and head for the grounds of Hedingham Castle to lose yourself in nature and history. It’s simple to tell why this is one of Annette Speed’s favourite places in Essex. Wrapped around this well-preserved Norman keep are wonderous wooded glades and spellbinding tree trails. Inside, every nook and cranny is filled with delightful features and places to explore from the down in the dungeons to the dizzy heights of the castle’s towers.
The Essex Life team recommends...Heybridge Basin
Our very own Lindsey Furby explains her love of this delightful village. ‘Right on my doorstep, I’m grateful to be within walking distance of the basin,’ Lindsey shares. ‘In the warmer months, we love to take our canoe along the river. It’s an idyllic journey to Heybridge Basin lock where there are quaint cottages, a tearoom and two pubs. The cooler months also bring further joy along the sea wall on foot. Watching the murmuration on the estuary still brings me wonder, especially when enjoying a bite to eat at Tiptree’s The View tearoom.’
Hyde Hall, Chelmsford
RHS Hyde Hall’s eclectic mix of gardens burst with colour throughout the seasons and the site is well known for its extravagant collection of roses, whose intoxicating scent fills the hilltop garden in summer. It’s Lara Nutter and Jodie Smith’s favourite place to visit in the whole county. Writer Lizzie Chantry, author of The Little Ice Cream Shop by The Sea wholeheartedly agrees. ‘Hyde Hall has stunning views across the lakes and fields, and serves delicious tea and cake, both of which are writing staples for me,’ Lizzie reveals.
Hylands Estate, Writtle
Everyday Julie Haworth, author of Always by Your Side takes a break to go for a walk and one of her cherished spots is the Hylands Estate. Within its 574 acres, there are ancient woodlands, ponds and lakes to traverse. The ornate Victorian Pleasure Gardens are a particular highlight. The gardens date back to the 1900s and are lined by herbaceous beds holding gorgeous roses, including Mary Rose and Ann Boleyn varieties. The lily pond framed by two Wisteria-clad oak arbours is a tranquil spot for reading and resting.
Layer Marney Tower
Did you know the tower is in many ways a Tudor palace dating back to 1520? In its over 500-year legacy, 11 families have called the tower home. The building itself houses some of the finest Italianate terracotta and guests can explore the gatehouse and church, wander about the garden and grounds and interact with animals that live on the farm. There are always events on, and Wild Arts’ Essex Summer Opera Festival is always a great one to check out!
Maldon
Maldon is in no short supply of delights and attractions. Artist Angelique Hartigan recommends Topsail Charters’ barges for making the most of the trip along the coast and a decadent cream team. For Harrie Notton a call at award-winning independent bookshop Maldon Books followed by a stop at Ginny’s Cocktail Lounge is just what the doctor ordered. If you’ve still got time to spare, why not take up The Property Twin’s suggestion to take a walk along the prom to see the boats?
Manningtree
Helen Whitehead just adores visiting Manningtree to take a swim with the wild swimming group, The Manningtree Mermaids. The group is open to all merfolk, not just maids and campaigns for cleaner water at Manningtree Beach to help ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come. It has roughly 130 members who love to partake in cold water swims for health benefits, to enjoy nature more and to help people in the local community connect and form lifelong friendships.
Markshall Estate, Coggeshall
Anita Game finds the Markshall Estate a beautiful space to visit at any time of the year. There are lots of lovely walks and delicious food to savour. Travel the globe among the leaves of the Arboretum, trekking through plants from Europe, the Eucalyptus trees of Gondwanaland and the Taxodium Swamp, inspired by the Florida Everglades. Families will have fun building dens in the wild wood, feeding the beasties of the giant lakes and at the end of it all settling down with a mug of hot chocolate in the cafe.
Mersea Island
‘Don’t go to Mersea Island, it’s a terrible place’ says entrepreneur The Business Womans Network. ‘No, really go anywhere else, says the business owner who lives on Mersea and loves it endlessly. The geese in autumn and winter are worth it alone.’ Johanna Lowery, owner of Cool Coastal Huts also rates the location highly. ‘It’s a hidden Essex gem for sure,’ Johanna says. ‘It’s an actual island, with world-class seafood and of course amazing beach huts!’
Norsey Woods, Billericay
Take a page from Instagrammer Emma’s (@emsgems100) book and plan a visit to Norsey Woods. The wealth of wildlife within this ancient monument's 165 acres is what makes it so unique. Labelled a Site of Special Scientific Interest (that’s an SSSI to you and me) the coppiced wood’s plethora of plant and animal life helps to conserve biodiversity, providing an essential home for threatened and rare species like the dormouse. There’s more than meets the eye in this incredible sweet chestnut, oak and hornbeam woodland.
Old Leigh, Southend
With its thousand-year-old fishing industry, every cobble in Old Leigh has a story to tell. Let troubles melt away as you watch the boats go by and try out the area’s fantastic array of pubs and restaurants. A favourite of Ashley Milson’s is The Peterboat. For Lorna Cook, author of The Forgotten Village, it’s the sight of the old cockle boat The Endeavour, a ship that assisted with the evacuation of Dunkirk, amid the beautiful scenery that tops up her creativity well before her working day begins.
Osea Island
Without sounding too corny, this is the place where daydreams come to life and where magical nights beneath the stars, charged with magic, are spent. This private island is an idyllic place where you can create memories to last a lifetime. Imbued with 550 acres of rustic gardens, meadows and salt marsh, visitors can book a stay on the island to discover its many wonders. Biking is a great way to get around and take it all in, though the chances are once you arrive, you won’t ever want to leave. Oseaisland.co.uk
Pages Wood, Upminster
‘And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul,’ author and philosopher John Muir quotes. When it comes to getting back to nature and rediscovering life’s little pleasures, we’re on the same page, and it’s amazing how even just a couple of hours outdoors can re-balance the senses. Whatever your preferred mode of travel, cycling, horse riding or walking, this valley of green space delivers excellent views, tranquil scenery and plenty of safe space for families to let go and have fun.
The Essex Life team recommends... Paper Mill Lock, Little Baddow
‘Marking the halfway point along the River Chelmer, this used to be a quiet little spot, but many more have discovered this gem in the village since, probably due to the delicious cakes on offer at the tearoom,’ shares our own Lindsey Furby. ‘Whether you start the walk from Chelmsford (Springfield Lock) or at Heybridge, the walk along the towpath, almost 14 miles of it, isn’t for the fainthearted. I’d recommend a boat trip (essexwaterways.com) as it’ll allow you to sit back and enjoy the tranquil route which includes a church, 14 locks and nature as its best.’
Prettyfields Vineyard, Ardleigh
There’s always time for wine! If you hadn’t guessed it already, this vineyard is aptly named for its astonishing beauty. Rooted in the Essex countryside, Prettyfield’s vines will quickly capture your heart. Guests can book a tour and tasting, discovering more of the vineyard’s history and learning about the winemaking process. Then it’s onto the best part (in our opinion) the tasting, where visitors will try their four stunning recommended wines: red, rose, white and English sparkling and tuck into a ploughman’s style buffet.
Saffron Walden
For reader Claire Haddock, Saffron Walden is a must-see. ‘It’s a beautiful old town with lots of character, charm, great places to eat and independent shops. On Tuesdays and Saturdays with the market, it’s a step back in time.’ One great way to explore the town is to book yourself a guided food tasting and historical tour. Whilst soaking up Saffron Walden’s impressive architecture you’ll be taken on an incredible food tasting journey, meeting local artisans and dining on award-winning produce. I: @swtic
Southend Pier
Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Southend Pier, it is the longest pier in the world after all, didn’t you know? It’s estimated the pier attracts over 400,000 visitors every year. It was interactions in Southend seafront’s cafes and the kindness of a waitress that inspired author Lizzie Chantree’s two-book series, The Little Ice Cream Shop by The Sea and The Little Cupcake Shop by The Sea.
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Chelmsford
From living history weekends to vintage garden parties and aviation festivals there’s always something on for visitors to enjoy! At the Airmen's Mess Café, guests can relish tasty hot meals, cakes and refreshments. Lizzie Page, author of The Orphanage adores visiting the airfield. ‘The joy of writing historical fiction is you get to visit amazing places and call it research. Their Women in War exhibition helped my writing, which is why I couldn’t resist including the airfield in The Forgotten Girls,’ Lizzie says.
Thaxted
A home away from home for Linda Jean Lipkin. Thaxted’s quaint streets, charming medieval buildings, majestic church and restored windmill belong on the front of a postcard. Something a little different to write down in the diary is the annual Morris weekend that takes place in the town, where Morris dancers across the country gather to dance through the streets. It’s a festivity of merriment in epic proportions!
The Essex Life team recommends...Thorndon Country Park, Warley
Truthfully for me, there’s nothing more energy-restoring than walking beneath a vibrant canopy of bottle green, which is why I love Thorndon Country Park so much, says our Emma Palmer. The magic of the deep dark wood is unveiled along the Gruffalo Trail as you venture into the woodland to discover beautiful hand-crafted carvings of beloved characters from Julia Donaldson’s famous book. The dog activity course keeps four-legged pals happy, while competitions to spot the most wildlife can entertain families for hours. We suggest the loser treat everyone to ice cream from the cafe!
Thorrington Mill Vineyard, Colchester
There’s no such thing as feeling blue when there’s a quality glass of wine in front of you! Susie of Wivenhoe Flowers recommends a trip to Thorrington Mill Vineyard. The winery, set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, is run by Mark and Polly Baines, whose lifelong dream was to plant a vineyard. They produce an award-winning range of whites, reds and roses. Guests can book a tour of the site and every Saturday until October the vineyard is open for coffee, cake, walk and wine. Now there’s a winning combination if ever we heard of one.
Waltham Abbey Gardens
It can take a spot of exploring to uncover the site’s invisible past, but finding artwork hidden along the trails can help you learn more about this impressive landmark. Once one of the largest Augustinian Abbeys in the country, today some of the remains are still visible, alluding to the abbey’s grand past. The Rose Gardens are a peaceful spot for a relaxing stroll and a secluded getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Walton-on-the-Naze
Top spots to hit according to Allison Wright owner of Diary of a Beach Hut are the golden sandy beaches, and the ‘beach hut village.’ For Meryl Boardman, it’s the Naze Tower Cafe, where you can enjoy scrummy cakes and ice creams while also inhaling mesmerising sea views. Fair rides, bowling and escape rooms await on the pier and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun go down, as the last rays of the day emblazon the sky in pink and orange hues.
The Essex Life team recommends...the Witham River Walk
One of my favourite things to do with my nephew is take him out for a long walk, and the more interesting the scenery the better, as it helps to buy me and my partner a few moments of peace, says Lauren Knight. This soothing waterside stroll meanders along two miles of flat footpaths. The flora and fauna give us plenty to look at and our nephew loves learning the names of all the flowers, though without a doubt what he enjoys most is stopping at the pond to feed the ducks.
Wivenhoe
Collage and book artist Alison Stockmarr just loves the area when the Wivenhoe Art Trails or the Wivenhoe Town Regatta is on as the town’s streets are abuzz with activity and excitement. Between the art, the boats and the stupendous riverside walks you’ll be struggling to find enough time in the day to see it all. The mix of quirky medieval buildings and splendid timber-framed buildings make Wivenhoe a rather unique place.
