In this article, we will discuss various things to do in Essex. Essex is a county in England surrounded by Suffolk and Cambridgeshire (north), Hertfordshire (west), Kent (south), and London (southwest). Chelmsford is the only city in the county. Essex holds the east side of the pre-England Kingdom of Essex. It also holds rural areas, London Stansted Airport, lakeside shopping center and new towns of Basildon and Harlow as well. Essex is the 11th largest and 7th most populous county in England. Essex is bounded by the River Thames in the south. History of Essex is deep which includes unique architectural, historic and natural treasures, enclosing everything which is great about the countryside. This county features many attractions such as Clacton Pier, RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Tropical Wings Zoo, Coalhouse Fort, etc. This county proffer guests a wide range of things to do in Essex. Here are the different fun things to do in Essex.
Things to do in Essex
1.) Combined Military Services Museum
It may seem small from the outside, but just like Tardis you will find it bigger from inside. This museum is for both young and old. Here, you can find all kinds of exhibits like medieval armor and weapons, recently included artifacts, mainly from the world war. Young one may like the glorious aspect and old people or soldier may remember their glory days. Include this place in your list of best things to do in Essex.
2.) Dedham Art and Craft Center
Dedham art and craft center is located in the center of the constable county on the Essex /Suffolk border. This three floor center showcases the work of 60+ artisans and specialist retailers. It’s a must see place for both casual and a keen shopper. So, go visit this place if you are into arts and crafts.
3.) Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
From various things to do in Essex, exploring this place can be quite interesting. Though it is under progress, but still you can visit and can see this amazing place with the last remaining WWI airfield. Going to the place is one of the most excellent things to do in Essex. It’s a very sympathetic restoration of world war by dedicated Volunteer staff. Once it gets completed it will be even more better than it actually is.
4.) Colchester Zoo
This zoological garden is located in Colchester which is home to many endangered and rare species which includes primates, birds and big cats. Plus, you can find wilds of Africa, dragons of Komodo, lost Madagascar, orangutan forest and Playa Patagonia. This 50 year old zoo is a must visit for animal lovers. Going to the zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Essex with kids.
5.) Adventure Island
This amusement park is located in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, UK. It has more than 30 rides out of which 5 are roller coaster. It also includes gift shops and catering outlets. Previously known as Peter Pan’s Playground is open until February to November only. So, plan your visit accordingly. Visiting the park will prove to be one of the most outstanding things to do in Essex.
6.) Lakeside Shopping Center
Lakeside shopping center, also known as Intu Lakeside is a big shopping center located in the district of Thurrock, Essex. It is the 11th largest shopping center in Britain. There are more than 250 shop, 50 cafes and restaurants in this center. It also has 26-acre lake named Alexandra Lake. Its timing on weekdays is 10:00 am to 10:00 pm and on Saturday it is 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. So go shopping, dining and enjoy the view of Alexander lake.
7.) Eastgate Shopping Centre
Eastgate shopping center has a variety of shops for shoppers and browsers, plenty of places to eat and drink. It has a lot of parking space, so it is quick and easy to get in or out. With Lakeside, close by makes it a good option. You can find all the normal big names in and around the center and in the other shop in the town square.
8.) Quirky Old Stuff
By its name only you can know what sort of place it is. Here you can buy and browse items for your home decoration and many other useful things which are cheap and sometimes not even easier to find because of being outdated and obsolete. You can give this place a try to buy some useful stuff for yourself. You never know what you might like here. So, keep this place on your visit list.
9.) Mercury Theatre
If you are into theatre, Mercury theatre is the place for you. Properly organized with a good view of the stage. Along with play you can enjoy drinks at the bar. It is one of the oldest theatre in town. You will fall in love with this place in one visit only for its play, staff and food.
10.) Genting Club
The Genting club is a 24-hour open club which offers one of the ultimate night outs in Southend. It is located on Westcliff-on-sea. You can play slots and Electronic Roulette here. You can also play all your favorite casino games like blackjack, Three card poker, American Roulette and many more. So, go spend one evening here and test your luck.
11.) Chelmsford City Racecourse
Chelmsford City Racecourse which is also known as Great Leighs Racecourse is a thoroughbred horse racing place, which is located near Chelmsford, Essex, England. Have fun here watching the race along with great food. You will be impressed by the hospitality provided here.
12.) The Cricketers Bar and Food
This is among the best things to do in Essex. This bar provides excellent food which is fresh, homemade style with fine hospitality service. It is hard to find a restaurant like this, given the price charged. They are probably one of the best kept secrets in Southend. Give them a chance to serve you.
13.) Asylum
The Asylum at Chelmsford is an awesome place, you will love the décor which is quite quirky and interesting. The music is awesome which involves you in it and also crowd here is friendly, plus there are a wide variety of beers available. You can see new and upcoming band performing here now and then.
14.) The Silk Road Lounge & Cocktail bar
It is a beautiful place which is well decorated with fine new fittings and many other features. It makes this place one of the best looking places in the town. Service given here is impressive and crowd coming here is classy. It is a perfect place for a good night out. It pleases every age group. So, make your one night out in this venue.
15.) Reids Restaurant
You will love the ivory rooms here and also the meal and services offered here. The staff here is quite decent and accommodating. Food is delicious along with maintaining standards. They also arrange special artists and sports star for special evenings occasionally. So, you can give this place a try and can enjoy your special evening with them.