The Essex Travel Guide explores the county of Essex located to the east of London outlining local attractions and tourist information for visitors. The county has unfortunately been saddled with a reputation as little more than commuter county for Londoners requiring a bit more space. Whilst Essex is not blessed with many famous landmarks and tourist attractions, it does have some nice places to visit and enjoy. The unfortunate reputation should not discourage visitors from paying the area a visit.
Overview and Attractions
There are some fine examples of historical building here such as Audley End House located near Saffron Walden, a Jacobean mansion set in landscaped gardens. The interior boasts classical details and has collections of fine furniture and art that make it an extremely popular attraction.
Visitors looking for historical sites can visit Hedingham Castle, located near Halstead, it is a great example of a Norman keep. The castle was built back in the 12th century by Aubrey de Vere and is currently still owned by one of his descendants. Visitors can explore four floors that detail the history of the castle these include the splendid Banqueting Hall famous for the 28 foot arch making it among largest Norman arches in England. Visiting the castle and the beautiful grounds is ideal for a day trip that the whole family can enjoy. During the summer months there are a number of events that are staged recalling the history of the castle.
There is also Hadleigh where the remains of a 13th century castle overlook the River Thames, the fine location gives rise to some stunning views. These two are relatively small when compared to Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in the whole of Europe. Currently the castle is now used by the Colchester and Essex Museum. The castle is seen as among the most historically significant buildings in the UK. The city of Colchester was the first capital of England under the Romans and the city still has some fine Roman remains.
Essex offers something for gardeners such as RHS Garden at Hyde Hall, Rettenden. This hilltop garden offers a fine rose collection and water plants, whilst Easton Lodge in Little Easton is a lovely 25 acre garden dating back many centuries. The Hyde Hall estate is 360 acres in size and offers visitors with a wonderful garden in all seasons and offers a place of peace and tranquillity located in the countryside.
Dedham Vale is on the border with neighbouring county Suffolk, is 'Constable Country'. It was here artist John Constable painted his greatest works, showing a pleasant, peaceful countryside. Bridge Cottage has featured in several of John Constable's paintings, today it houses a museum centred on the life and works of the famous artist.
The Essex countryside makes it a prime candidate for cycling with gently-rolling landscapes and green lanes, river valleys and scenic villages and cottages almost all around. Cycle Essex, consisting of a number of maps illustrates circular cycle routes has been created for all those who enjoy the pleasures of countryside touring by bike.
The routes meander through the county's most beautiful rural areas, and pass through some of the most charming villages and towns. Visitors can use their bikes to get around particularly in the summer when the weather is more conducive to doing so, a favourite is to explore by bike and then have a rest in a friendly pub and enjoy a pub lunch or go on a picnic in the scenic countryside, and it makes for a great day out.
Fans of the beach can take a look at one of the longest piers in the world at Southend-on-Sea whilst Clacton and Walton offer the fun of the seaside with events for the family to enjoy like the Clacton air show and music festivals Frinton-on-Sea has some great antique shops and boutiques.
Essex is essentially a rural county with small market towns, traditional villages full of character and some quiet country lanes. This countryside element is strong here and makes for a nice place to take it easy and unwind. Essex boasts a rich legacy of literary and music festivals visitors in summertime can certainly enjoy an open air concert or play in the heart of the lovely countryside, it makes for a picturesque setting.
The New Barn Gallery features some eye catching travel and landscape photography from the talented John Howard Davies. As an international traveller, Mr Davies has developed a wonderful array of stunning shots taken from all over the world from London to Sydney and beyond. This renowned photographer has the ability to brig pictures to life and photographs, calendars and greeting cards are all available. The New Barn Gallery is located in the suitably picturesque town of Battlesbridge near the River Crouch. Address is: New Barn, Bones Lane, Hawk Hill, Battlesbridge, Essex and Telephone: +44 (0) 1268 792026.
Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village is steeped in history, the castle was built back in 1066 and is the only mote & bailey castle in the world that has been reconstructed on its original site. Visitors can experience what it was like in a bygone era and see the animals that roam freely in and around the Norman Village. There have been many artefacts discovered over the past few years, indeed visitors and staff often find items within the Castle site, see if you can find any when you visit!
Harlow has an impressive arts history going back many years. Since the Playhouse opened it has become an important part of the town’s identity and enjoys a great deal of support from its local residents. The Playhouse produces three seasons of entertainment a year, each of these has within it a diverse range of shows, including dance shows, plays, musical tribute and well known musicals among others. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this enjoyable venue.
Clocktower Restaurants situated in Epping and Ongar are worth considering when looking for a place to eat. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner there is an interesting menu to choose from with choice for many tastes. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere here whilst wining and dining. The Ongar restaurant is in the style of a cosy bistro and creates a nice ambience helping to add to the dining experience. The restaurants can be book for private functions too.
Ye Older Kings Head is a traditional 16th Century English Inn. It also has a restaurant serving fresh food. The place is steeped in history, mentioned by Charles Dickens who is thought to have liked the pub and Dickens mentions the pub in 'Barnaby Rudge' when it was known as the Maypole Inn. Among the illustrious people to have visited are Marlon Brando and Winston Churchill. The charming pub has a lovely atmosphere, there is also an extensive food and wine list meaning you can enjoy a drink here and a meal.
Route is one of Colchester's premier nightclubs. It is a large and trendy venue that features several bars, a large dance floor, food and pool tables. There are a variety of DJs on hand to play a range of music ranging from funky house to R'n'B among others, depending on what night of the week it is. For fans of clubbing this venue has proved to be a popular destination. See Route Bar and Club Colchester for more details.
Essex is a county that may surprise you, the lack of world renowned sites and attractions should not take away from the fact that the county of Essex has plenty of places to see and enjoy for visitors. From historic houses and castles to charming towns and villages, visitors can enjoy a nice break here. The location right next to Greater London means is easily assessable by road, rail and air with Stansted Airport for visitors from abroad and other areas in the UK.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.