Sun, Sea, Sand and flying machines!
Pack a picnic and the swimsuits and head for Martello Bay, adjacent to West Beach at the bustling seaside resort of Clacton. Kids are never happier than when they are splashing about in water. So, relax and sink your toes into the gently shelving sand of this blue flag beach. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Clacton Air Show (August 24-25). The event is free-of-charge, so chocks away for two days of thrilling aerobatic displays! The traditional seaside resorts of Walton-on-the-Naze and Southend-on-Sea are also perfect places to build sandcastles and take a swim in the sea. Bring a bat and ball and create your own games on the beach and collect pretty seashells.
READ MORE: 7 dog-friendly beaches in Essex
Be More Indiana Jones at Walton-on-the Naze
Get everyone away from their screens, grab a bucket and sturdy shoes, put on your hat, and go all out Indiana Jones. There is nothing more exciting than walking along the beach and stumbling across a fossil that dates back millions of years. As the coastline erodes, more and more are being discovered on the beach at Walton-on-Naze. Look out for shark teeth, pyritised twigs and bivalve shells amongst other great finds, but be careful of the tides. Get all the information you need at the Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre at the top of the cliffs.
READ MORE: Fossil hunting in Essex: Where to find shark teeth
Ship Ahoy in Maldon
Visit historic Maldon, once a bastion against raiding Viking Forces. With its backdrop of sky, salt marsh and water, it is a haven for wildlife, enriched by an impressive history. Majestic Thames Sailing Barges cluster around Hythe Quay and evoke the days of traditional sail. Take a stroll in Maldon’s century-old Edwardian Promenade Park, which features an ornamental lake, kids splash park, sandpits, and a galleon play-ship - ahoy, me hearties! There are several picnic areas to spread your fayre, whilst watching spectacular river views over the Blackwater Estuary.
READ MORE: Why you should visit Maldon
Essex’s Hidden Gems
With uplifting nature trails through woods and on the Essex coastline, there is always something to lift the spirits and delight your senses. Make memories exploring by foot, kayak or paddleboard, some of the county’s 350 miles of coastline. There are hidden treasures to find just off the beaten track. Retrace the steps of pilgrims and wander through fields to Bradwell Church. The Saxon chapel is one of the oldest in England, built by St. Cedd in 645 AD. Another great find along the coastline is ‘A House for Essex’ in Wrabness, designed by leading contemporary Essex artist Grayson Perry. Wonder at the house’s impressive tiles and take in the views over the Stour estuary.
READ MORE: 21 hidden gems of Essex: unusual days out and things to do
Take a walk and Explore Essex
Make the pages of one of your children’s favourite books come alive with a self-led map trail at Thorndon Country Park near Brentwood, where you can discover beautiful hand-crafted carvings of much-loved characters from Julia Donaldson’s bestselling Gruffalo picture book. Children can let their imagination run free and learn more about the native woodland. You can also lose yourself in nature at Cudmore Grove Country Park with 102 acres of coastal landscapes overlooking the Colne and Blackwater estuaries. Head out on an adventure! Stretch your legs and enjoy the diversity of Essex by walking the 81-mile Essex Way from Epping to Harwich. Or try the shorter 15-mile Flitch Way, passing Victorian railway stations and a museum with a café.
The 10 of the best walks in Essex
Get Snappy
Hone those photography skills by discovering the picturesque Uttlesford district with its historic market towns of Saffron Walden, Great Dunmow and Thaxted. Pretty windmills, church spires and charming cottages nestle amongst rolling countryside. It’s a picture-perfect scene. Head over to Finchingfield, this heavenly place is one of the most photographed villages in England. The combination of the duck pond, village green, cafes and pub, overlooked by colour-washed cottages, a windmill and a medieval church, make it a winning picture.
READ MORE: A local's guide to Saffron Walden
Culture Vultures
Enjoy culture on your doorstep by taking a visit to a museum or local art gallery. Experience prehistoric to modern times at the Chelmsford Museum, or be inspired by artists at Firstsite Gallery, Colchester, and Focal Point Gallery, Southend. Also check out Big Screen Southend in Elmer Square, which is showing video art daily. Since 1953, Harlow has been known for its incredible sculpture collection. It is now the world’s first ‘Sculpture Town’ with works by renowned artists, including Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Auguste Rodin. Visitors can walk or cycle the sculpture trail and can download the self-guided tour. sculpturetown.co.uk
READ MORE: The fascinating objects at Chelmsford Museum
Revel in Regatta
Take advantage of the spectacular free events that are happening in Essex, including watching the best sailing and rowing competitions at the county’s regattas. On August 19, the West Mersea Regatta returns for the 185th year, drawing residents and families to Mersea Island, with an action-packed fete of watersports, entertainment, and a grand firework display. Burnham Regatta rounds-up the season, with its races and festivities from August 26 to September 2.
History in the Making in Colchester
Celebrate Colchester’s new city status at one of their free events. On August 19 and 20, the English Civil War Society presents a weekend of living history, re-enacting the epic siege of Colchester in 1648 with events held in the city’s castle park. Witness battles, explore encampments and discover the truth behind the tall tales.
READ MORE: A local's guide to Colchester
Go with the Music
Get those toes tapping at music events which will be reverberating throughout the county. For a jolly, happy occasion this summer, visit Music in the Park, held at Southend Bandstand in Priory Park and hear a variety of top performances by talented locals. This free event runs every weekend and bank holiday until Sunday October 1 from 3pm to 4.30pm. It may be summer but dress up for all weathers as the bandstand is not covered. Colchester’s Castle Park is also offering a variety of talent on its bandstand this summer from acoustic sessions to brass bands.
Enjoy summer in Essex this year with a wide range of free events, visits and activities. visitessex.com
