Treetop Challenge
Our most popular high ropes course with epic zip lines. Adventurers need to be aged 10 and 1.4m tall.
- 1-3 hours
- From £34
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Fun Things to Do in Essex: Your Ultimate Guide
Published on: 20/03/2024
Looking for a green escape and a breath of fresh air just outside of London? Whether you’re after a cultural day out, a fun event or an outdoor high ropes adventure, Chelmsford has everything you need.
There are so many fun things to do in Chelmsford, from high ropes adventures to cultural excursions and natural explorations. You’ll be spoilt for choice and entertained for hours in this ultimate daycation destination.
Adventurous Things to do in Essex
Go Ape Chelmsford
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure at one of Go Ape’s newest locations, in Hylands Park!
Go Ape Chelmsford features three high ropes experiences for everyone over 1m tall! From high velocity ziplines to free-fall Tarzan Swing and tricky tree top obstacles, our courses push you outside of your comfort zone and create unforgettable experiences.
Book now, for the hottest adventure in town, providing challenging outdoor experiences for everyone from 4 years to 94.
Explore Hylands Estate
Photo Credit: Adam Crowe
Hylands Estate is a prestigious Grade II listed public park encompassing 574 acres of historic parkland including recreational ancient woodland, grassland, lakes, ponds and gardens. There is a beautifully restored Neo-Classical villa house within the grounds as well as an award-winning accessible adventure playground for children. The Stables houses a café, second hand bookshop, information point, and resident artist studios.
Hylands Estate also hosts a range of seasonal events both within the House and the Park, including festivals, shows and arts events.
Mystery Treasure Trails
Chelmsford is home to the exciting Mystery Treasure Trails, a unique outdoor activity that combines adventure, problem-solving, and sightseeing. Embark on a self-guided treasure hunt through the city, following clues and solving mysteries along the way. It's a great way to explore Chelmsford while testing your detective skills.
Natural Things to do in Essex
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
Photo Credit: Daniel Bridge, RHS
Take a deep breath of flower-scented air at the beautiful RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Chelmsford, Essex. This 365-acre site is one of the finest gardens in the East of England with stunning panoramic views. It’s a drop of tranquillity with a diverse mix of garden styles from traditional to modern. There is free parking, a cafe, restaurant, children's play area, gift shop, and garden centre.
Enjoy the River Chelmer
Photo Credit: Chelmsford City Council
The winding River Chelmer runs through Chelmsford and is a peaceful spot for walkers, cyclists, and anglers. The river begins at Chelmsford and stretches 14 miles to the tidal estuary at Heybridge Basin. Formerly a canal, it was used for transporting coal, corn and timber until the 1970s and the pathway is steeped in history.
There is an easy 6.1-km circular (1.5hour) trail which is great for hiking, running, and walking. You can even canoe, paddleboard or go angling on the River Chelmer, though certain activities do require licenses.
Historical and Cultural Things to do in Essex
Chelmsford Museum
Photo credit: Chelmsford City Council
Located in the heart of the beautiful Oaklands Park, Chelmsford Museum brings the city’s history to life from the Stone Age to the present day. Discover mammoth remains, medieval treasures, Victorian Artefacts, 20th-century fashion and more through a range of fascinating and interactive displays.
The museum also features an extensive collection of objects by Chelmsford native and one of the UK’s most revered artists, Sir Grayson Perry
Chelmsford Cathedral
Photo Credit: Jennifer Fage
Built in the C11th, Chelmsford Cathedral is a stunning gothic cathedral. Set among lush grounds, the cathedral is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Take a free tour, attend an event or relax in the stunning gardens.
Fun fact, there are two organs in the cathedral, which are linked together so that they can be played at the same time.
Chelmsford Theatre
Photo credit: Aaron Crowe
Only a short walk from Chelmsford train and bus station in the city centre, Chelmsford Theatre hosts everything from comedy shows to live gigs and touring productions. The venue boasts two auditoriums, multiple pre-show and interval bars, as well as a dedicated daytime café.’ Find out What’s On now.
The theatre is also surrounded by a mix of restaurants and bars perfect for either before or after shows.
Grab a drink and a bite to eat
Photo Credit: Jennifer Fage
A classic historic English city, there’s a relative buffet of culinary cuisines in Chelmsford! From traditional pubs and alehouses to quirky independent restaurants and high-end dining, there’s something for everyone.
