Essex is a county in the southeast of England, known for its picturesque countryside, historic towns, and vibrant cities. However, many tourists stick to the well-known attractions, missing out on the area’s hidden gems.
This article will explore six of the most underrated and lesser-known places in and around Essex. It will surely add a touch of excitement and adventure to your vacation itinerary. From quaint villages to secluded beaches, these places will give you a chance to discover Essex’s true beauty and diversity.
Pro Tip: Book a Coach When Traveling in Group
One of the best ways to explore Essex is by booking a coach. Not only is it a cost-effective option, but it also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about the stress of driving. Additionally, a coach can take you to places that may be difficult to reach by car, such as remote villages or secluded beaches.
Another benefit of booking a coach is that it can accommodate large groups, making it an ideal option for family vacations or group tours. You can also customize the itinerary according to your preferences and interests, ensuring you can see and experience the best of what Essex has to offer.
Be sure to book a coach with a reputable company with a good safety record. It will ensure that your journey is comfortable and safe. Additionally, check the coach features like air conditioning, comfortable seating, and restrooms if it is a long trip.
Any company that specializes in Coach Hire in Essex should offer a variety of fleets. Their services should include Southend airport coach transfers, large group coach travel, guided tours & day trips, and affordable and luxury coach hire. Make sure they have competent, experienced drivers who are familiar with the routes in Essex and that their coaches are legally insured and licensed.
1. Colchester Castle Museum
Colchester Castle Museum should not be missed when exploring the county of Essex. This ancient castle is one of Britain’s largest and most impressive examples of Roman architecture, and it is a must-visit destination for history buffs. Colchester Castle saw 13,987 more visitors between July 19 and August 31, 2021, than it did the year before, demonstrating the attraction’s rising popularity.
The museum features an interactive and immersive experience, showcasing the history of the castle and the town of Colchester from its Roman origins to the present day. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and exhibitions, including the Roman vaults, the Norman keep, and the Castle Museum’s famous reconstructed Roman circus.
The castle also offers a rooftop terrace that provides a panoramic view of Colchester and its surroundings. The museum also has a special exhibition space dedicated to showcasing various artworks, artifacts, and temporary exhibitions.
2. Mersea Island
Mersea Island is located in the county of Essex, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The island is situated off the coast of Essex, and it can be accessed by a short causeway or by a ferry. It has a unique and charming atmosphere, combining traditional seaside resorts and unspoiled coastal landscapes.
Mersea Island is renowned for its delicious seafood and local oysters, which can be enjoyed at the many seafood restaurants on the island. However, there are some amazing pubs present on this island that want your attention.
According to IBIS World, the UK’s pubs and bar businesses are enormous and flourishing, and an estimated growth of 29.6% is expected in 2023. It tells us that pubs are popular and are major players in the Accommodation and Food Service Activities industry.
The island’s beaches are also perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while the surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and cycling. Mersea Island is also a great destination for birdwatching, with various migratory birds passing through the island.
3. The Hollytrees Museum
The Hollytrees Museum is housed in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, providing visitors with an immersive experience of life in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum features a series of period rooms, each of which has been decorated and furnished to reflect the different styles and fashions of the time. The rooms include the Georgian parlor, the Regency drawing room, and the Victorian nursery.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Servant’s Quarters, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the working class. The museum also has a beautiful garden, which has been restored to reflect the styles of the different periods represented in the house.
4. The Minories Art Gallery
The Minories Art Gallery is located in a beautiful Georgian townhouse and features a wide range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and prints. The gallery’s collection includes both contemporary and historical artworks, and it covers a variety of styles and mediums.
Numerous events and programs are available at the Minories Art Gallery, including guided tours, seminars, and special exhibitions. The gallery also hosts educational programs for children and adults, providing an opportunity to learn more about art and the creative process.
One of the gallery’s highlights is the outdoor sculpture garden, which features a collection of contemporary sculptures in the beautiful surroundings of the gallery’s gardens. The garden provides visitors with a unique and peaceful setting to enjoy the artwork.
5. The Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum
The Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum is a hidden gem that provides an interesting and insightful look into the historical past of the military in Essex. The fortress is located in the town of Clacton-on-Sea, and it was built in the late 18th century as a coastal defense against the French invasion.
Today, the fortress serves as a military museum and offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the military in Essex. Also, to learn about the role the fortress played in defending the coast during the Napoleonic Wars and the two World Wars.
The museum features a range of exhibits and displays, including weapons, uniforms, and equipment used by soldiers throughout history. Visitors can also explore the underground tunnels and bunkers and understand what it was like to live and work in the fortress during times of war.
6. The Castle Park
Castle Park offers a unique and picturesque experience for visitors looking for a peaceful and serene place to explore in Essex. The park is located in the town of Colchester and is home to the remains of Colchester Castle, which dates back to Roman times. The Castle park offers visitors a chance to explore the castle’s history and learn about its role in the town’s history.
The park features a range of outdoor activities and facilities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a beautiful lake. Visitors can also explore the remains of the castle and learn about the history of the castle and the town through the interpretive signs and markers.
The park also offers a range of events throughout the year, including historical reenactments, festivals, and concerts. In addition, it allows visitors to experience the town’s culture engagingly and interactively.
Discover the Numerous Undiscovered Attractions in Essex
According to VisitEssex, Essex is a fantastic travel destination that won 03 prestigious East of England Tourism Awards at the Imperial War Museum Duxford in February 2022. Additionally, the six hidden places mentioned in the article are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and nature.
Consider adding these places to your list of must-see destinations when planning your vacation itinerary. They offer a distinctive and enriching experience and give visitors a chance to explore and learn about Essex’s history and beauty in a fun and participatory way.
