Spring Days Out - things to do - Essex

Have fun this spring, Easter and summer, with our pick of spring days out in Essex…

Colchester Castle

Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TJ

Colchester Castle is a must-see for any lover of history! The Castle is one of England’s most important heritage sites, built for William the Conqueror on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Spend the day discovering the museum’s archaeology collection, step back in time and race a Roman chariot, explore behind the scenes on a guided tour or hire one of the tablets and watch history come to life before your very eyes. Visit www.cimuseums.org.uk for opening times and further information

Hollytrees Museum

Castle Park, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG

Journey through life and childhood in Colchester within a beautiful Georgian townhouse, located a few short steps from Colchester Castle in the award-winning Castle Park. Explore Hollytrees in miniature through the dolls’ house, discover Bernard Mason’s fascinating collection of Colchester clocks and learn all about the origins of ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’ which was written in the town! Chat to the friendly Visitor Information Centre team to find out the best things to see and do across Colchester. www.cimuseums.org.uk

Audley End House and Gardens

Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF

Created by the famous 18th century designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the gardens at this historic home are beautiful at any time of year, but during spring they come alive with vibrant colours. Stroll through the immaculate grounds, before stopping for tea at the café. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/audley-end-house-and-gardens

Colne Valley Railway

Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DZ

A pretty line, almost a mile long, with relocated station buildings, signal boxes and bridges all lovingly restored or rebuilt. There’s a large and varied collection of vintage steam and diesel engines. It’s a must for anyone with a love of locomotives. www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk

The Gardens of Easton Lodge

Little Easton, Dunmow, CM6 2BB

The gardens are open one Sunday a month from April to October, so check dates before visiting. The area is an idyllic haven which has been partially restored to its former glory by a team of dedicated volunteers and the owners of Warwick House. Expect beautiful seasonal blooms and colourful displays. www.eastonlodge.co.uk

Saffron Walden

Market St, Saffron Walden CB10 1HR

The pretty historic market town, in north Essex, makes for a good day out. Enjoy a spot of shopping in the town, dine at one of the many pubs or stop for afternoon tea in a café. On Saturday’s the market is buzzing. Plan ahead and pick up a bottle of wine, then try and nab yourself a seat at the fish monger stall, which serves up tasty sharing platters. You might even see local celeb Jamie Oliver! You can also learn more about the town’s history at the museum. Set in an enclosed grass meadow, beside the ruins of the 12th century Walden Castle, the museum features a number of fascinating collections and exhibitions.