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Are you planning to visit the stunning county of Essex at some point over the next few months? If not, you certainly should be! Essex is one of England’s largest counties, and it is a diverse region with a little something for everyone. Essex has you covered whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an informative tour, or fun with the kids.
There are so many great things that you can do in Essex, so we’ve teamed up with Stage Security, an Essex security company, to provide you with this article. Stage Security will talk us through some of the reasons why you should consider visiting Essex, followed by some of the county’s top things to do activities.
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Why Should You Visit Essex?
First, Essex is a beautiful coastal region that offers the perfect setting for a staycation or a domestic holiday with the family. It has a whopping 350-mile long coastline, and Southend Pier is believed to be the longest pier in the world! Can you imagine a better destination to enjoy a relaxing stroll while cooling down with an ice cream on a hot day? Essex is one of the best places for seaside resorts, and there are plenty of beaches that you can turn to during the summer months.
Essex isn’t just about coastal environments, though. It also has a gorgeous countryside full of life, and there are several National Trust parks that you can visit, guaranteeing wonderful sights to behold, woodlands to explore, and river trails to follow. After a long day’s exploring, we all love a good beverage, right? Luckily, you won’t have a problem finding a local country pub here! These pubs provide a traditional and warm atmosphere combined with top-quality drinks and delicious pub grub.
Away from seaside resorts and countryside settings, Essex is home to many historic and quaint towns. We would go as far as saying it is the UK’s most historic region! Colchester is the oldest recorded town in the country and was once the capital city and a stronghold for the Romans. Essex is your place if you are keen on historical and magnificent sights. Are you looking for family fun? Essex has everything from unmissable zoos to arcades, piers, trampoline parks, go-karting venues, crazy golf, and more!
The county neighbours London and is easily connectable via rail and road, and it’s also close to other exciting regions like Suffolk, Norwich and Kent. Famous locals that have grown up here include Rupert Grint, Jamie Oliver, Maggie Smith, and Olly Murs.
Things to Do Ideas in Essex
Now that we’ve made it clear why you should visit Essex, whether for a day out or a family break, it’s time to turn our attention to specific activities! Here are some ideas of the best things you can do in Essex…
Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo is easily one of Essex’s best attractions and the number one place you will see recommended on any things to do list. If you have kids, put this zoo on the top of your itinerary for a wild family outing. Colchester Zoo is home to over 180 species and is one of the country’s largest zoos with sixty acres of land. You will get up close and personal with everything from Komodo Dragons to white rhinos, giraffes and zebras. Additional experiences include being a zookeeper for the day, shadowing a keeper, and a zoo academy for the kids.
Adventure Island
Adventure Island is a thrilling theme park based in Southend on Sea. The park operates a Pay-n-Play scheme, meaning you can gain free entry to the park and simply pay for the rides you want to go on there and then. You can, however, choose to buy a Day Band for £22.50 per person, which grants a range of benefits, including unlimited rides. Adventure Island offers rides for people of all ages, from breath-taking rollercoasters to fast-moving water slides and dodgems.
Mersea Island
Head nine miles southeast of Colchester, and you’ll find the idyllic Mersea Island. This island has a population of just under 7000 and is like visiting a completely new destination! You can expect a peaceful atmosphere, a friendly fishing community, and beautiful views. As well as being an outstanding choice for serene days out, Mersea Island offers an abundance of pubs and restaurants where you can tuck into local and international cuisine.
Colchester Castle
Did we mention that Colchester is one of the most historical locations in the country? There are so many historical sights in this town, none more so than Colchester Castle. The Normans built the castle in the 1070s, and it features the largest keep in Europe, which remains mostly intact. The castle is the perfect place to learn more about the city’s rich history from expert guides. You will see interactive displays, can dress up as an Iron Age Briton, and can even try building your own Norman archway.
Clacton Pier
As well as Southend Pier, the Clacton Pier is another excellent seaside attraction to add to your Essex bucket list. The pier was named Pier of the Year in 2020 by the National Piers Society and offers visitors a wide range of things to do. You can enjoy exciting rides, play adventure golf, go bowling, visit an amusement arcade, or take a trip on the giant wheel.
