Essex is getting a lot of press these days thanks to a speit of new TV shows, so i’m here to let people know that Essex isn’t only about peroxide blondes, wide boys and overpriced booze!
Essex is a county located northeast of the city of London. Believe it or not, it often attracts well-known artists and horticulturists from all over the world to witness its diverse landscapes, partly because it’s so easy to get to, with its proximity to London and the boat links with the nearby Harwich ferry. Essex boasts lots of beautiful nature reserves with numerous gardens that are all worth a visit. Lively coastal towns with remote beaches are dotted around Essex too, so there is more to see and experience in this beautiful county than people appreciate. Read through to get more information on what to do when visiting Essex.
Layer Marney Tower
Layer Marney Tower is made from a rare mixture of brick and terracotta. The tower dates back from the 1520’s, created by Lord Marney himself, and constructed in the first half of Henry VIII’s time in power. Layer Marney Tower is considered the tallest Tudor gatehouse in all of Great Britain. From the 1st of April until the 30th of September 2012, it opens its gardens to the public (with a small admission fee). It is a Grade II listed building giving you some idea of its cultural importance. If you’re feeling romantic, you can even book your wedding ceremony and have your reception in the tower itself. Your mrs will just love that, although you’ll have to join the 2 year waiting list!
Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle is the largest and last surviving example of its kind in all of Europe. Initial construction of the building began between 1069 and 1076 and stopped in 1080 from the fear of the Viking invasion, however it was finally completed around 1100. This castle is made with massive vaults from the ruined Temple of Claudius and signifies the largest Norman Keep in Europe. It is now a historic place made to cater tourists from all over the world, with castle connoisseurs flocking to it each year. Visiting Colchester castle can be squeezed into a morning but it’s best to spend a day and explore with family and friends to experience how Colchester looked around 1000 years ago, with no night clubs or bottle blondes in sight!
Hadleigh Farm
A commercial farm owned by the Salvation Army in Essex, Hadleigh Farm is an excellent example of a rural business run perfectly. You can experience and learn how to be involved in its environmental and social progress while visiting the grounds.. Hadleigh Farm is hugely popular for its renowned tea rooms where they serve great food with a very local ambiance. The farm also has animals like ponies, pigs and goats that kids can play with during their time here. They also sell local produce for a very reasonable price. So, why not visit and enjoy a day in a great green environment. Hadleigh farm also played host to the mountain biking events of the London Olympic Games.
White water rafting at Lee Valley Park
If you are an adrenaline seeker you can get down and dirty with the white water at Lee Valley Park. It expands 26 miles along the river banks of Lee, starting from Ware in Herthfordshire going through Essex until the Thames of East India Rock Basin. They also offer activities such as kayaking or canoeing if the madness of a raft is too much for you. If you’d prefer a more relaxing day, you can also enjoy exploring the vast acres of land in the park, picnicking is all the rage.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
RHS Garden Hyde Hall is effectively a huge 360 acre garden. This Essex garden has been an horticultural inspiration for its visitors from across the globe. It offers an array of different plants and landscaped gardens that surely will captivate your green thumb. They also host events like the farmer’s markets and Grow Your Own talk which is about learning how to grow and use herbs. This place is very educational for tourists who are fond of their gardens back home and best for landscapists who want to learn more about their profession. Surely, it won’t disappoint you as the scenery can also be a memorable picture built to last in your thoughts.
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