Top 10 things to do in Essex
Essex mixes seaside resorts, Roman and Norman history, historic houses and a surprising amount of countryside, all close to London.
- 1
Colchester Castle
📍 ColchesterHistory, indoorsA huge Norman keep built on Roman foundations, now a museum in Britain’s oldest recorded town.
- 2
Colchester Zoo
📍 ColchesterFamilies, wildlifeA large zoo in parkland, with a wide range of animals.
- 3
Audley End House
📍 Near Saffron WaldenHouse, gardensA large Jacobean house with gardens, parkland and a working kitchen garden.
- 4
Hedingham Castle
📍 Castle HedinghamHistoryA well-preserved Norman keep with grounds. Check seasonal opening.
- 5
Southend Pier
📍 Southend-on-SeaSeaside, historyThe longest pleasure pier in the world, with a train and views across the estuary.
- 6
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
📍 Near ChelmsfordGardensA hilltop garden with wide views, known for its dry garden and seasonal colour.
- 7
Epping Forest
📍 Epping and LoughtonWalks, natureAncient woodland on the edge of London, with trails, ponds and deer.
- 8
Beth Chatto Gardens
📍 Near ColchesterGardensGarden-making at its best, with gravel, water and woodland gardens.
- 9
Layer Marney Tower
📍 Near ColchesterHistory, viewsThe tallest Tudor gatehouse in England, with climbable tower and gardens.
- 10
Dedham Vale
📍 DedhamWalks, artConstable’s landscape of meadows and river, with quiet villages and good walking.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.