Clacton-on-Sea
Essex is home to the longest shoreline of any county in England. With 350 miles of coastline, there are plenty of great spots to explore. One of these is Clacton-on-Sea, the largest town on the Essex Sunshine Coast. As well as all the traditional seaside pleasures, the town boasts a pleasure pier, arcades, a golf course, seafront walks and water sports. This is a great place to bring the family for a long weekend break. While you’re here, check out the Princes and the West Cliff Theatres, known for their tribute nights, variety shows, comedy, musicals and dance acts.
Colchester Castle
Colchester Castle is a fantastic day out. This Norman castle dates back to the 11th century, and today it’s one of England’s most important heritage sites. There is plenty to do at the castle, from building a Norman archway to steering a Roman chariot. Tour guides lead you down into the Roman vaults and up to the castle roof for some panoramic views. You can also come face to face with some of the most historical finds in Britain, from Celtic coins, to Roman mosaics, to war armour.
East Anglian Railway Museum
A great day out for all ages, the East Anglian Railway Museum celebrates the life of railways in the Eastern Counties. If you’ve ever wanted to see steam trains, diesel locomotives and vintage carriages up close, then this is your chance. If you visit on a Living History day, you’ll get the chance to see trains running and re-enactors showing you what life was like back in the 19th and early 20th centuries. While you’re here, have a go at the Escape Room and see if you can solve puzzles and clues to salvage a top secret file.
Mersea Island
If you’re looking for a proper getaway, head to Mersea Island. This island off the coast of Essex may only be eight miles square, but it isn’t short of things to see and do. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal location for watersports, and many visitors come here to try their hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing. If you love seafood, then Mersea Island is the place to be. You’ll find restaurants and pubs dotted along the beachfront that serve fresh catch from local waters, with oysters being the main feature. There are also country walks, a museum, a vineyard and a brewery that you can visit.
Lee Valley White Water Centre
From kayaking to stand up paddling, there’s something for everyone at Lee Valley. The centre was used as a venue for the London 2012 Olympics, and boasts a wide range of water sports for the whole family. Compete against your mates at the Water Wipeout obstacle course, or tackle white water rafting on the Olympic Course. For something more exhilarating, try hydrospeeding and rodeo rafting. If you’re not a fan of the water, then have a go at Disc Golf or visit the Lee Valley Park Farms.