It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Christmas in Essex is packed full of festive fun and things to do for the whole family...
HEDINGHAM CASTLE
Not all things are jolly at Hedingham Castle this Christmas – they’ve teamed up with Moonstone Murder Mysteries to bring you Murder by the Mistletoe on Friday, December 13! Those who attend are set for an evening of plottwists, suspicion, and more – can you crack the case? As well as fantastic entertainment, you will be enjoying a decadentthree-course meal in the Ballroom Marquee. hedinghamcastle.co.uk
CHELMSFORD CATHEDRAL
There’s much to see and do at Chelmsford Cathedral during Advent and Christmas this year, including their popular Christmas Market on Saturday, December 7, which takes over the cathedral and its grounds. Shop for unique gifts from local makers and artisans and enjoy live entertainment underneath the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree, free entry.
Climb aboard the Christmas Express for a magical journey at Audley End Miniature Railway from November 21-Christmas Eve! The train will take you through enchanted woods to visit Father Christmas. You’ll also meet some other festive friends, including Mother Christmas, Holly the Christmas Fairy, and reindeer keepers, Logan and Thorn! audley-end-railway.co.uk
CLACTON PIER
Step into the magic of Clacton Pier’s Magical Christmas event! Discover Santa’s Enchanted Grotto and share your wishes with the jolly old man himself. Enjoy Santa’s Magical Sleigh Ride: 4D, and take in the festive sparkle from the Big Wheel, offering stunning views of the illuminated pier and giant Christmas tree. With twinkling lights and joyful decorations throughout, it’s perfectfor creating cherished family memories! clactonpier.co.uk
MERCURY THEATRE
Take flight with Peter Pan in an epic pantomime adventure! Join the Mercury Theatre in Colchester as Neverland bursts to life in a spectacular Christmas production that’s fun for the whole family. The New Adventures of Peter Pan will be an amazing spectacle of wonderful sets and costumes, tear-inducing laughs, and mind-blowing effects from November 23-January 19. mercurytheatre.co.uk
THE HARVEY CENTRE
Shop small, local, and handmade this Christmas at the Makers Market at the Harvey Centre in Harlow. Browse an array of bespoke festive gifts and local craft makers before enjoying free family crafts and musical entertainment. Don’t miss their Christmas Grotto, open every day from mid-November until Christmas Eve. There’s even an opportunity for your four-legged friends to meet Santa and receive a gift! theharveycentre.com
THE PIER AT HARWICH AND TALBOOTH HOUSE
What’s more exciting than putting up your Christmas decorations? Putting up decorations you’ve made yourself! The Pier at Harwich and Talbooth House, Dedham, will both be hosting Wreath-Making Masterclasses on select dates this November and December. The workshops will include welcome drinks as well as all the materials you will need to create your masterpiece. milsomhotels.com
CHELMSFORD CITY RACECOURSE
Choose an unforgettable celebration at Chelmsford City Racecourse this December. Bring your team to the party of the year and celebrate Christmas atIlluminate, the ultimate shared Christmas party night with a three-course meal and DJ. Or enjoy all the thrills and excitement of racing under the stars at one of their Christmas fixtures with extended opening hours, a festive drinks menu, Christmas carols and disco. chelmsfordcityracecourse.com
MARSH FARM
The magic of Christmas returns to Marsh Farm. Enter the North Pole – the elves in Passport Control will make sure you’re all set to go – stop by the Elf Academy to find outif you’re on the naughty or nice list and make your own furry friend to take home at the Teddy Bear Market. From November 16-Christmas Eve. marshfarm.co.uk
BRENTWOOD BREWING COMPANY
Beer lovers can celebrate the festive season at Brentwood Brewing Company’s annual Christmas Beer Festival on Saturday, December 7. Along with an array of award-winning beers,there’ll be food, entertainment, carol singing and live music. ’Tis the season to be merry after all! This event is very popular, and booking is advised. brentwoodbrewing.co.uk
Celebrate the season in style with family and friends at Escape Live in Southend. Their 60-minute immersive experiences are like no other. Unleash your problem-solving skills, enjoy friendly competition, and unlock the joy of the holidays – make sure to bring your thinking caps (and Santa hats)! escapelive.co.uk
STOKE BY NAYLAND
Set within a sparkling winter wonderland, enjoy a two-course Santa Sunday lunch at Stoke by Nayland resort in Dedham Vale! Taking place every Sunday from December 1-15, this is a fantastic unmissable experience for the whole family, with fun activities and a surprise present for the little ones. Entry starts from £12 per person. stokebynayland.com
COLCHESTER ZOO
In the run-up to Christmas, head to Colchester Zoo and enjoy the Magic of Christmas. The zoo will be alive with festive activities – see if you can spot Santa’s elves or find his reindeers! Visitors can also take part in The Santa Experience and meet Father Christmas in a magical wonderland from £16 per person. colchester-zoo.com
AUDLEY END HOUSE AND GARDENS
Santa is also heading over to Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden to spread more festive cheer. This Christmas visitors to the stately home can enjoy festive activities, which take place from November 30. Children will be awe-inspired as they listen to storytelling, music and enjoy a meet and greet with Father Christmas himself. english-heritage.org.uk
COLCHESTER’S CHARTER HALL
Everyone’s favourite festive film, Elf, is hitting the stage at Colchester’s Charter Hall this December. Elf – The Musical is a wonderful adaptation of the movie that stars Will Ferrel, with singer and Dancing on Ice winner Jack Quickenden taking on the role of the loveable Buddy the Elf. You really would be a ‘cotton-headed ninny muggins’ to miss this! From December 14-January 5. colchester-events.co.uk
DOWN HALL
Experience the magic of Christmas at Down Hall, a historic hotel set in the beautiful Hertfordshire/Essex countryside. There’s a chance to have a sit down with Father Christmas and enjoy a delicious brunch or afternoon tea while you tell him all about how good you’ve been this year! As well as a mouthwatering menu, a present may await you too. downhall.co.uk
A world of wonder awaits at Talliston House in Great Dunmow. Enter an enchanted world of light, music, colour and sound this winter as you tour each of the 13 rooms, before settling down for a decorated candlelit afternoon tea in the Victorian Watchtower. talliston.com
ROCHFORD CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
The most wonderful time of the year is on its way and there’s lots to see at the Rochford Christmas Festival on Sunday, December 1, with their Christmas market, children’s rides, crafts, entertainment, light switchon and more. That’s not all – the big man in the red suit himself will even be making an appearance! rochfordparishcouncil.gov.uk
BENTON HALL
For the perfect festive shopping and gift experience, visit Benton Hall Christmas market on Sunday, November 17. Spend the morning mooching around the arts and craft stalls, admiring the various trinkets and treasures on offer, soak in the festive atmosphere and don’t miss a visit from special guest, Santa. We can already hear the jingle bells and smell the mulled wine! bentonhall.co.uk#
THE VICTORY AT MERSEA
For great value Christmas packages by the sea, head to family-owned pub, The Victory at Mersea. With their carefully crafted menus, you and your guests can expect fantastic dishes, great drinks and excellent service… all enjoyed with fantastic panoramic views across the Blackwater Harbour. And why not stay the night in their luxury accommodation? victoryatmersea.co.uk
MALDON HIGH STREET
Wrap up warm and visit Maldon High Street on Thursday, November 28 for their annual light switch-on. Experience an evening filled with festive spirit, joy, and excitement, with street stalls, indoor craft markets and entertainment from local performers. maldontowncouncil.org.uk
This Christmas, the tallest Tudor gatehouse in the country, Layer Marney Tower, opens its doors to all on Tuesday, December 10! Take the opportunity to discover 500 years of history with an exclusive tour of this historic Tudor venue, including access to the private quarters. Enjoy mince pies and mulled wine on arrival and at the end of the tour you’re welcome to spend time wandering the garden, church, and tower. layermarneytower.co.uk
THE MUSEUM OF POWER
Meet Santa in his grotto, jump aboard a miniature steam train, meander through indoor Christmas stalls in the search for that perfect gift, and join in with the festive entertainment at The Museum of Power in Maldon, tickets from £5 per person, November 30-December 1. museumofpower.org.uk
HARLOW PLAYHOUSE
Join Harlow Playhouse from November 29 to January 5 for their colourful production of the classic tale of Dick Whittington! Starring Harlow favourites Jimmy Burton-Iles and Ben Parsley,this is an unmissable panto for people of all ages to enjoy this Christmas. harlowplayhouse.co.uk
COLNE VALLEY RAILWAY
Say hello to Santa at Colne Valley Railway this year. Visit Santa in his grotto before hopping on a diesel train to travel to collect a gift from his workshop. Even the dog can join in on the fun! A must-do Christmas activity. On selected dates from November 30 -Christmas Eve, from £10. colnevalleyrailway.co.uk
GO APE
Combine team building with some festive fun for your work Christmas do or try something new with family and friends this winter at Go Ape Chelmsford, located on Hylands Park. Canyouhandle the leap offaithintheir Treetop Challenge course, or become the ultimateAxe Throwing champion? goape.co.uk
PRINCES THEATRE
Experience the magic of Clacton’s biggest ever pantomime atthe Princes Theatre – Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs will be gracing the stage this winter! This production will feature a fantastic cast, breathtaking scenery, outstanding costumes, and of course lots of laughter for all. Running from December 7-29. princestheatre.co.uk
CLIFFS PAVILION
Essex legend Rylan stars as The Spirit of the Beans in Jack and the Beanstalk this winter at Cliffs Pavilion in Southend, alongside Neal Wright as Dame Trot and comedian Arron James as Silly Simon. Running from December 14-January 5, expect many laughs, great music, and naturally some audience participation from this outstanding production! trafalgartickets.com
THAMES CHASE
Join Mrs Claus and her elves in her kitchen at Thames Chase. Children will get to decorate a delicious homemade biscuit, while Mrs Claus shares stories from Santa’s workshop. Each child will receive a gift from Father Christmas. Wrap up warm and wear suitable clothing – it can get cold in the North Pole! thameschase.org.uk
LITTLE MONSTERS HOUSE OF FUN
Throughout December, Little Monsters House of Fun in Great Dunmow will once again create a fantastic festive grotto. Offering a unique personalised Santa experience where you will meet Santa and his elves – don’t forget to tell them what you’re hoping to find in your stocking this year. Tickets include entry to the soft play area, a visit with Santa, a gift, and a Santa hat. littlemonstershof.co.uk
WYVERNWOOD
Back by popular demand, experience Wyvernwood’s Enchanted Midwynter Festival. Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and his friends, including Tatiana Queen of the Fairies, and will receive a £5 gift voucher to use in the Treasure Trove! Open weekends in December, plus from Friday 20-Christmas Eve. wyvernwood.co.uk
ST OSYTH PRIORY
Create family memories at St Osyth Priory on Sunday, December 8. Enjoy welcome drinks and a story in the Great Hall, before heading upstairs to The Gallery for a delicious afternoon tea and the chance to chat to Father Christmas whilst he enjoys a mince pie… or two! This is a wonderful occasion to bring family and friends together in a magnificent setting. stosythpriory.co.uk
OLD MACDONALD’S FARM AND FUN PARK
Make friends with giant polar bears, explore the interactive Gingerbread Trail, visit Santa’s post office and much more at Old Macdonald’s Farm. Their Christmas Journey event is taking place from November 22-Christmas Eve – the perfect day out for the whole family to enjoy this winter. omdfarm.co.uk
BOOM BATTLE BAR
If your friends and family love a bit of healthy competition, head to Boom Battle Bar – with locations in Chelmsford, Lakeside, and Southend – for a festive night of fun and games! Enjoy delicious cocktails and Boom Bites while taking part in activities from AR darts to axe throwing, beer pong, shuffleboard, and mini golf. Why not unleash your inner Mariah Carey with a bit of karaoke too? boombattlebar.com
Not quite ready for turkey? Try a festive afternoon tea at Downham Hall! Served in their tastefully decorated de Beauvoir suite, you can expect all the usual Christmas touches, along with Christmas Music from a live pianist. November 30-Christmas Eve, from £48.50. downhamhall.com
RHS HYDE HALL
As darkness falls this winter at RHS Hyde Hall, witness their beautiful gardens illuminated by hundreds of lights for their popular Glow event. Set foot on a journey through the gardens that will be lit up with colour, with plenty of enchanting new features to elevate the experience even more than previous years. Taking place Wednesday to Saturday from November 22 to December 28. rhs.org.uk /gardens/hyde-hall
CHELMSFORD THEATRE
Chelmsford Theatre’s Winter Festival has all the ingredients for an unforgettable Christmas! With a jam-packed programme including this year’s pantomime Snow White, an unforgettable tale of magic, mischief, and silliness (November 25 – January 5). Plus, a Santa meet and greet, festive workshops and screenings to get you in the Christmas spirit. chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk
MOWGLI STREET FOOD
If you want to add a little bit of spice to your Christmas celebrations try the festive feasting menu at Mowgli Street Food in Chelmsford. Perfect for Indian cuisine lovers and available from November 4. mowglistreetfood.com
COLCHESTER CASTLE
This Christmas, Santa will be treating children to special festive gifts in his enchanting grotto at Colchester Castle. Little ones will be able to share their Christmas wishes with the man in the red suit, as well as meet Santa’s helpers. Entry £10 per child. colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
WIVENHOE HOUSE
On Sunday, November 3, Wivenhoe House in Colchester will be holding their Christmas shopping experience! There will be a wonderful array of 45 stalls inside and outside with local festive gifts, food and more. Head down and peruse the goods – you’re sure to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones! £3.50 plus a free mince pie. wivenhoehouse.co.uk
See Colchester Castle Park (December 6-Christmas Eve) and Hylands Park (November 29-January 4) like you’ve never seen them before with the return of Enlightened. This outdoor light trail is the perfect evening activity for the whole family – marvel at the beautiful, illuminated installations, including fun interactive elements, and enjoy delicious food and drink as you explore. enlightenedmoments.co.uk
THE THREE HORSESHOES
Let someone else take care of the preparations this year and spend Christmas at East of England’s ‘Pub of the Year’! Located on the outskirts of Colchester, The Three Horseshoes festive set menu is perfect for your Christmas celebrations. Dig into a luxury menu of butter-poached turkey, goose-fat potatoes and portsoaked black treacle tart. Available November 29-December 23. threehorseshoesfordham.com
TOPSAIL CHARTERS
Take to the water this Christmas with Topsail Charters for a unique celebration. Enjoy the quiet beauty of the winter river on a one-and-ahalf-hour cruise, before sitting down for a delicious freshly cooked two-course Sunday roast on select dates in November and December. top-sail.co.uk
BRAINTREE CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET
Get your Christmas shopping done and dusted at Braintree Christmas Street Market on Saturday, November 23. With food stalls, bars, crafts and handmade items, local produce and collectables to peruse. There will also be an Artisan Hub offering further stalls in George Yard, as well as Christmas entertainment and their light switch-on.
1935 ROOFTOP RESTAURANT AND BAR
Be wined and dined this Christmas! Enjoy a festive lunch with breathtaking views from the stylish 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar at Holiday Inn Southend. From all-inclusive shared events, afternoon teas and themed lunches – with the additional attraction of unlimited bubbles! – there really is something to suit every taste and budget. ihg.com
Head to the seaside this Christmas! Adventure Inside, Southend, is offering a wonderland experience like no other. Tickets not only include a Santa experience, but each child also gets a free round of golf, free entry to Sealife Adventure and £2 worth of free games in their Funtopia Arcade on selected dates throughout December. adventureinside.co.uk
EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY
Make your winter a wonderful one at Epping Ongar Railway! Enjoy an interactive journey on board the Epping Ongar Lights Express on various dates from November to January. This is a fantastic light show both on and in the steam train, with festive fun taking place on board. To meet Santa, book on to one of their Santa Specials on dates in November and December. eorailway.co.uk
ARTISAN CRAFT MARKET
Find unique Christmas gifts at the Folk & Bespoke Artisan Craft Market at Firstsite on Saturday, December 7. All products will be handmade, designed or created by local artists, makers, and creatives. With a huge range of products available, get Christmas wrapped up early and support your local creative businesses. Entry is free. firstsite.uk
HOPEFIELD ANIMAL SANCTUARY
It’s time to enjoy Christmas at Ho-Ho-Hopefield! At Hopefield Animal Sanctuary from November 30-December 22, you’ll find plenty of exciting seasonal activities to enjoy. Write a letter to Santa, venture through the Christmas Trail to his grotto, create your own festive arts and crafts, and enter the enchanting Miniature Christmas Village. hopefield.org.uk
