Audley End House & Gardens
WELCOME TO ESSEX
If you are looking for new ideas for your group travel programme, then look no further than Essex; the driest county in the UK, the birthplace of radio and the home to the world’s longest pleasure pier and Britain’s first city.
With over 200 attractions there is plenty to do. From picturesque villages to historical landmarks, a stunning coastline and big open skies, vibrant cities and quaint market towns, Essex is full of surprises. You will find an eclectic mix of ancient castles, exquisite vineyards and award-winning museums.
Located on London’s doorstep and with easily accessible major road links via the M25, M11 and A12, the county is the ideal destination for a short break. Essex also boasts international gateways at Stansted and Southend Airports, Harwich International Port and the London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury, making it easily accessible from far and wide.
Together with a variety of accommodation, this diverse country should be the destination of choice for your next group visit.
So why not explore somewhere new, explore Essex.
Cover: Topsail Charters
Walking through the city of Colchester is a walk through 2000 years of Britain’s eventful past.
Colchester Castle
COLCHESTER
Some of the most important events in British history have taken place in and around Colchester over the past 2000 years. Today Colchester offers a diverse mix of city, coast and countryside. Together with its extensive history, art and architecture, great range of accommodation, cosmopolitan eateries and shopping opportunities, Britain’s first city is ideally placed for your next group trip.
The city boasts one of the top 50 museum collections in the country as well as one of the country’s leading contemporary art galleries, Firstsite. The popular Mercury Theatre offers a packed schedule of productions throughout the year, as well as behind the scenes tours and the award-winning Castle Museum is an absolute must-see. Castle Park provides the perfect escape just off the High Street.
Venture out of the city centre and visit the historic Tudor gatehouse Layer Marney Tower, wander around the world-renowned Beth Chatto Gardens or discover the Eastern Regions No.1 Zoo, Colchester Zoological Society, the home to 160 animal species.
For groups with a sweet tooth, indulge in an afternoon tea at Tiptree Tearoom. Here you can also explore the John Wilkin Collection which is jam packed with artefacts showcasing traditional preserve making and a well-stocked shop selling their world-famous jam products.
Just a short drive from Colchester, you will find yourself in Constable Country, a National Landscape or head south of Colchester and enjoy the fruits of the sea on Mersea Island, famous for its oysters.
Dedham
Harwich Maritime Museum
Hometown of Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower
HARWICH
Harwich is a unique old town, steeped in maritime history. It is the home to the UK’s second busiest passenger ferry port but is probably best known for being the hometown of Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower, who in 1620 took the first pilgrims to America.
Follow the Mayflower 400 Trail down the quaint streets and discover the exciting stories that link this old port town to one of the most significant voyages in history. Alternatively, take the Maritime Heritage Walking Trail and pass notable sites including the Redoubt Fort, Treadwheel Crane and Harwich Museum. The Harwich Society organises guided tours in the summer months, perfect for groups.
During your visit, stop by the breath-taking Electric Palace Cinema. Built in 1911, it is now the oldest unaltered purpose-built cinema in Britain and was used as a filming location for Downton Abbey: A New Era.
Take a seal watching trip from Ha’penny Pier, one of the UK’s only surviving working wooden piers, through to the Walton backwaters – a fun experience all year round. Or wander along Dovercourt Beach, to see it’s two beautiful cast iron lighthouses. Awarded Blue-Flag status, it’s one of the best beaches in Essex.
Southend-on-Sea
With its seven miles of coastline, Southend-on-Sea offers you plenty to do by the sea.
SOUTHEND ON SEA
Enjoy traditional seaside fun along Southend’s beach front with its family friendly attractions or stroll along the world famous pier which stretches over a mile out to sea. Refreshments can be enjoyed at the end of the pier before taking the train back to shore and visiting the award-winning Rossi ice cream parlour.
You’ll also discover a thriving cultural scene with museums, historic houses and a range of art spaces. Size up the old masters and exhibitions at the Beecroft Art Gallery. Step into the half-timbered Tudor Southchurch Hall and 12th century Prittlewell Priory for an insight into the past. The Central Museum and Planetarium are also a must, taking you on a tour of the night sky.
Events and festivals run throughout the year with music, dance, puppets and visiting ships all featuring across the many venues. There’s also an increasing range of fine dining and restaurants as well as a vibrant nightlife on offer. Southend’s theatres, the Cliffs Pavilion and the Palace Theatre, are a popular choice with groups with shows including touring West End musicals, top comedians and music concerts.
Nearby, Leigh-on-Sea is a charming fishing village where you will find a wonderful array of seafood on sale amongst the cockle sheds, alongside clapboard artists’ studios and picturesque cobbled streets.
Leigh-on-Sea
Nestling on the River Blackwater, Maldon is full of history and once stood as a bastion against raiding Viking forces.
Maldon
MALDON
Once Maldon stood as a bastion against raiding Viking forces. Today the backdrop of sky, saltmarsh and water make this area of Essex a beautiful haven for wildlife, enriched by a resounding history. The majestic Thames Sailing Barges which cluster around the Hythe Quay evoke the days of traditional sail. Step aboard with Topsail Charters for a gentle cruise along the Blackwater with an optional banquet available for up to 50 passengers. Afterwards, take a short walk along the promenade to the statue of Byrhtnoth, the fierce Anglo Saxon warrior, commemorating Maldon’s most famous moment in history, the Battle of Maldon in AD991.
The steep climb up Market Hill leads to the historic inns, churches and fine medieval buildings in the town. The most striking building in the High Street is the Moot Hall with its balcony and pillars stretching across the pavement. Guided tours include the unique brick spiral staircase leading to the bell tower which affords far-reaching views across the rooftop and estuary landscape.
Nearby, the Museum in the Park, The Museum of Power, and the Combined Military Services Museum add to the rich heritage of the town. Further afield, explore aviation history at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, the only remaining World War I Aerodrome with its original buildings intact.
With award-winning vineyards close by and the inland Chelmer and Blackwater waterway to explore by foot or boat. Maldon has plenty to capture the imagination.
Museum of Power
area.
A delightful, medieval town named after the saffron crocus which was grown extensively in the
Kings Street, Saffron Walden
SAFFRON WALDEN
Saffron Walden is a delightful medieval town with a rich heritage of old buildings, including the magnificent Jacobian mansion Audley End House and Gardens. Now a vibrant market town, it has a wonderful array of independent shops, cafés, museums and galleries to explore.
Fine examples of elaborate moulded plasterwork (pargetting) can be seen on the Old Sun Inn (believed to have been the headquarters of Oliver Cromwell) and the houses in Castle Street and Bridge Street.
Saffron Walden Museum is of particular interest and contains everything from mammoth tusks to mummies. In the grounds of the museum are the ruins of the castle keep which dates back to the 1130s or 40s.
Bridge End Garden is a real jewel and full of charm. Careful restoration has replicated gardening techniques and designs typical of the Victorian era and brought the garden back to its full splendour.
Make the most of your trip with a walking tour from Saffron Walden Blue Badge Guides. Tours can be arranged to suit your particular group’s interests.
Set in the northwest of the county, it is easily accessible from London and Cambridge. The surrounding countryside boasts the idyllic, historical towns of Thaxted, Great Dunmow and Stansted Mountfitchet. Quintessential England.
Bridge End Gardens
Step back in time in our many historical houses and gardens.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
HISTORIC
HOUSES & GARDENS
With over 14,000 listed buildings to its name, Essex is unusually well supplied with interesting architecture of all shapes and sizes. Many of its most notable buildings are of military importance; mighty fortresses like Colchester Castle and Hedingham Castle, testaments to foreign power in a conquered country, and coastal forts at Tilbury and Harwich, built to repel invasion. Others are more purely decorative but worthy of a visit all the same.
The Jacobean splendour of Audley End House and Gardens near Saffron Walden is a must for groups as it’s one of England’s most magnificent stately homes and definitely worth a tour. The home of Christopher Jones, the Captain of the Mayflower, is another must-see. Located in Historic Harwich, its augmented reality feature brings the Harwich Mayflower story to life.
The 16th century Layer Marney Tower in Colchester, the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England, is one of the finest examples of Tudor architecture, whilst the medieval Cressing Temple Barns in Braintree, home to the oldest timber-framed barn in the world, is not be missed.
Essex proudly plays home to Beth Chatto, one of the most influential gardeners in Britain whose gardens in Elmstead Market demonstrate her pioneering approach in a tranquil oasis. Historic gardens like Bridge End in Saffron Walden and Easton Lodge, have also been lovingly restored to their former glory for all to enjoy.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall, one of only five RHS gardens in Britain, sits prominently on a hilltop on the outskirts of Chelmsford enjoying 360 degree views over the rolling Essex countryside, whilst the Gibberd Garden in Harlow provides the setting for some 50 sculptures, quirky structures and items of architectural salvage
Whatever your tipple, Essex has something to tantalise your tastebuds.
Clayhill Vineyard
VINEYARDS, BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES
Thanks to the ideal growing conditions in this part of the world, Essex boasts a number of vineyards and breweries – so there’s plenty of choice when it comes to selecting a local tipple to complement the best of our region’s fare.
Essex has also produced excellent wines since Roman times. You’ll find wine making experts making the most of the excellent climate with vineyards throughout the county open to visitors for tastings and tours.
Today there are in the region of 50 vineyards spanning across the county, from Saffron Grange Vineyard in the north-west to the Crouch Valley where Crouch Ridge Vineyard and Clayhill Vineyard give picturesque views down the valley. Following a tour, soak up the vista with some good food and wine.
For beer fans, Brentwood Brewing Company provide guided tours around their premises for the ultimate brewing experience.
Or why not take a distillery tour at East Coast Distillery and learn about the magical, local botanicals that make their gin unique?
Whatever your tipple, Essex has something to tantalise your tastebuds.
East Coast Distillery
Ingatestone Hall
TOP ATTRACTIONS FOR GROUPS
Audley End House and Gardens, Saffron Walden
One of England’s most magnificent stately homes, this Jacobean mansion has a restored Victorian service wing, children’s nursery and stables and during special events you can experience the team at work as they would have done all those years ago.
Beth Chatto Gardens, Elmstead Market
Created from an overgrown wasteland, with poor soil and boggy hollows, these informal gardens are a triumph of planting in every condition. The gardens are spectacular providing a huge source of inspiration for any gardener.
Colchester Castle, Colchester
Situated in the country’s oldest recorded town, and what was once the capital of Roman Britain, this magnificent Norman Keep houses an award-winning museum featuring many hands-on displays, showing the town’s history from the Stone Age to the Civil War.
Combined Military Services Museum, Maldon
An award winning collection of British military artefacts from the English Civil War to today. With focus on the Special Forces, espionage, uniforms, medals, swords and over 700 guns in the Donnington Firearms Collection.
Colchester Zoological Society, Colchester
Set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes, with a variety of habitats this zoo is well worth a visit. Book one of Colchester Zoo’s Animal Experiences for a unique opportunity to get closer to the animals and learn more about them.for any gardener.
Epping Ongar Railway, Epping
Cressing Temple Barns, Nr. Witham
Cressing Temple takes its unusual name from the medieval monks of the Knights Templar who founded the two vast wooden barns, which form the centrepiece of this delightful rural estate.
Nestled to one side of the barns is the restored Walled Garden, with traditional vines and fruit trees. The Tiptree Tea Room serves meals with fresh and local ingredients.
Essex’s longest heritage railway. Take a seat in period coaches and pass through beautiful countryside from Ongar to North Weald. The Group Bookings Team are local volunteers, very knowledgeable and happy to advise on various options for small or large groups.
Great Lodge & Bardfield Vineyard, nr Braintree
Originally a medieval deer park, Great Lodge was given to Anne of Cleves by Henry VIII when their marriage was annulled and the magnificent Grade 1 listed brick and tile barn dates from that period. Nestled behind the barn is Bardfield Vineyard which has been producing award-winning wine for almost thirty years. Group wine tours and tasting by appointment weekdays.
Harlow Sculpture Trail, Harlow
Harlow is home to a growing collection of over 101 public artworks, including masterpieces by some of the greatest sculptors of the 20th century. Combine a guided walk with a visit to the Gibberd Gallery, home to
Epping Ongar Railway
the Sir Frederick Gibberd Watercolour Collection. Bespoke tours available on request from Harlow Art Trust. Printed guides of three trails allow you to explore by foot or bike.
Harwich Seal Watching
Explore the peaceful Hamford Water Nature Reserve by boat! Spot seals basking on mudbanks and enjoy incredible birdwatching . A perfect nature escape for groups whatever the weather in Essex!
Hedingham Castle, Hedingham
Enjoy exploring this magnificent 900 year old Norman keep set in 160 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland, lovingly restored by the Lyndsey family.
Ingatestone Hall, Ingatestone
This 16th century manor house built by Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs, is still occupied by his descendants. The Hall stands in open countryside, and is surrounded by ten acres of enclosed gardens comprising extensive lawns, walled garden and stew pond.
Layer Marney Tower, Layer Marney
Layer Marney Tower, the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in Britain, is one of the country’s most dramatic buildings. Groups can climb the tower and enjoy light lunches, teas and cakes in The Tea Room in the old stable.
Lee Valley Regional Park, Enfield
Lee Valley’s vast park is home to two beautful gardens, Myddelton Gardens, lifelong home of botonist EA Bowles and the tranquil Waltham Abbey Gardens. The Park has much to offer groups, whether your interests are visiting
Harwich Seal Watching
farms, or partaking in more strenuous activities of white water rafting, horse riding and ice skating.
Museum of Power, Maldon
Housed in a former water pumping station, the Museum has a fascinating collection of power related exhibits. Group visits include a guided tour, demonstration of “Marshall”(triple expansion engine) and refreshments.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford
Set in the heart of rural Essex, and enjoying stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, RHS Hyde Hall is one of the Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
finest gardens in the East of England and is a haven of peace and tranquillity.
Royal Gunpowder Mills
Set in a stunning natural landscape shaped by 300 years of explosive innovation, this unique destination offers a captivating journey through the science and history of gunpowder, propellants, and rocketsperfect for group visits and adult explorers.
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Nr Maldon
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is the largest known surviving group of RFC buildings on a WWI aerodrome. Guided tours will bring the historical aircraft and buildings to life. Itineraries allow time for refreshments in the Airmen’s Mess Cafe and to browse the gift shop.
Topsail Charters, Maldon
Thames Sailing Barges were common during the 19th century, however, today only a few remain but we are lucky enough in Essex to have a small fleet which welcome groups of up to 50 for sailings along the Blackwater from Maldon to Suffolk, or down the Thames from London Bridge.
ACCOMMODATION FOR GROUPS
Essex has over 5,000 bed spaces across the county, and being close to London with great road links, it’s the perfect short break or holiday destination for groups.
For those smaller groups looking for a bit of luxury, the Talbooth Hotel & Spa, Dedham, Wivenhoe House Hotel, Colchester or Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend will allow you to indulge, offering a high quality service set in beautiful locations.
If you prefer more contemporary accommodation Delta Hotels by Marriott Waltham Abbey and our Holiday Inn’s located in Colchester, Southend and Brentwood, are the perfect choice. The Brentwood location is ideal for a lunch stop near the M25.
Ever popular hotels for groups include the Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester, easily accessible via the A12 which runs through the county; Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa nestled in Constable Country offering the opportunity for golf, relaxation and spa treatments or the Park Inn by Radisson Palace, Southend, overlooking the world’s longest pleasure pier.
For an exclusive, adults-only escape, Potters Resorts Five Lakes, stands out the UK’s only fully inclusive destination. Perfect choice for a stress-free group getaway.
Wivenhoe House
Park Inn by Radisson Palace
Delta Hotels, Colchester
GETTING HERE
Essex is easily accessible from all over the UK and Europe, and is well served by major roads including the M25 (Junction 28), M11 (Junction 8), and the A12, which runs through the heart of the county.
There are mainline rail links into London Liverpool Street (35 minutes from the city of Chelmsford) plus four international gateways: London Stansted and London Southend Airport, Harwich International Port and London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury.
London Stansted Airport, on the Essex/Hertfordshire border, offer flights to and from more than 195 destinations in over 36 countries, while Southend Airport is an up and coming hub with flights to and from Europe, as well as existing services to Jersey and Ireland. A train station at the airport also connects directly to Stratford in 45 minutes and London Liverpool Street in 55 minutes.
Harwich International Port, to the east of the county, is 70 miles from London. There are regular crossings to and from the Hook of Holland with Stena Line. The London Cruise Terminal at Tilbury is also a major gateway to Essex and the City, with the M25 only seven miles away and a drive-time of 25 minutes into central London.
National Express coaches connect over 1,000 destinations throughout the UK. A regular shuttle bus service runs from London Liverpool Street and London Victoria directly to London Stansted Airport. Essex is ideally placed for domestic and international business travellers and getting here has never been easier.
COACH PARKING
Most major towns/villages in Essex have “drop-off” points, however some also have dedicated coach parking areas.
Brentwood
King George’s Playing Field, CM14 5AE
Chelmsford
Riverside Car & Coach Park CM1 1FG
Drop off/pickup point outside Railway Station in Victoria Road
Clacton
Coach drop off/pickup point along the seafront adjacent to the Gardens near the Pier.
Martello Car & Coach Park CO15 1BN
For further information on Tendring coach parking visit tendringdc.uk
Colchester
Drop Off / Pick Up on Colchester High Street (Postcode: CO1 1TH). Perfect for visiting Colchester Castle.
Drop Off / Pick up on East Hill (Postcode CO1 1UE). Perfect for visiting Firstsite.
Coach parking at Sheepen Road Lorry Park (Postcode CO3 3LE).
Visit Colchester group incentive scheme enables you to reserve a spot and park for free. For more information go to visitcolchester.com/groups
Epping
Drop off your passengers at the Loughton Leisure Centre (IG10 1SZ) which is a 4-minute walk from the Loughton High Street/Town Centre . Free parking in the coach bay may be arranged with prior approval from Epping Forest District Council’s Leisure and Parking Team. Requests for parking should be made to parking@eppingforestdc.gov.uk and is subject to availability.
Maldon
Pick-up/drop-off outside All Saints Church, High Street.
Promenade Park CM9 5QS Car & Coach Parking
Saffron Walden
Swan Meadow Car & Coach Park (pay & display) 6 coach spaces CB10 1DA
Drop-off point nearer the town centre on Common Hill
For further information contact the Tourist Information Centre 01799 524002
Southend-on-Sea
The coach park within Eastern Esplanade Car Park (formerly the Gas Works) on the seafront (SS1 2AQ) can accommodate up to 40 coaches.
For further information and coach driver offers go to visitsouthend.co.uk
Waltham Abbey
Three spaces for coach parking at Abbey Gardens (within the Abbey grounds) EN9 1XQ. Pay & Display.
Drop off/pick up on Quaker Lane. For further information the Tourist Information Centre on 01992 660336.
