Are you searching for the Best Places to Visit in Chelmsford? Are you thinking of a trip to Europe and wondering what to explore in Chelmsford? We’ve got you covered. Let Traveler Heavens assist you in experiencing the very best that Chelmsford can offer! If you’re planning to visit Chelmsford, we will provide you with an overview of the most famous sights to visit and assist you in finding the most memorable activities.
If you’re traveling to Chelmsford with your entire family, planning a romantic getaway with your partner, or visiting for business, we’ll help you create a memorable trip that will tick all the right boxes.
The places of interest in Chelmsford
Chelmsford is full of things to do and activities to enjoy. We will help you choose which hotel to choose in Chelmsford and make it easy for you to discover Chelmsford and the nearby regions with our guide on the best places to visit, where to go, what you should see, and when you should go.
Whatever the length of your stay, it’s simple to locate interesting places in Chelmsford to ensure that you enjoy your trip to the fullest and do not forget anything. Let the local knowledge go to us, and let the stress go.
If you’re planning a trip to Chelmsford, Why not look at our guides to popular attractions in the region? It is possible to browse through the list of activities, learn about the top attractions, and get assistance in organizing your journey details. Traveler Heavens will make it simple for you to explore the top attractions in Chelmsford.
Chelmsford attractions
Chelmsford is a place that has many things to offer If you’re looking to take part on the beach or put a spring into your step with a romantic evening or indulge yourself in an enjoyable winter getaway, There are many things to do within Chelmsford to keep your interest.
Traveler Heavens makes it simple to reserve your hotel, flight, and rental car ahead of time, making it a hassle-free journey and freeing you to discover the attractions of Chelmsford. Finding activities in Chelmsford isn’t easy. However, we’ll make it easier for you to organize your vacation.
Suppose you’re looking to be physically active. In that case, try the delicious cuisine of Chelmsford or get acquainted with the lively local culture, our guidebooks on Chelmsford places of interest will help you enjoy a memorable trip regardless of the season. Have a great time!
Essex Police Museum
Essex Police Museum is one of the best places to visit in Chelmsford. Essex Police Museum has a collection of photographs, items, and other objects that recount the story of the Essex Police Department from 1840 to the present.
You and the kids will learn about how crimes are detected and tales about the criminals. Take your photos before you try the simulation of a police station, and make sure that you swear to be honest! Also, you have the chance to dress in a costume, perfect for taking pictures.
This small museum has many details on the force that interests children and adults. You’ll be amazed at the variety of objects that are on display. The staff makes efforts to engage with you and is brimming with information. (Some of the volunteers serve as police officers!)
There’s also a written background of the most well-known murders during the last 150 years and images of uniforms and equipment employed by the forces in the past.
Open hours
Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
School Holidays
Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00
Pricing
Admission is free
Explore other attractions like Essex Police Museum by visiting our tickets to attractions section.
Hylands Estate
Hylands Estate is a classical villa built in the neoclassical architectural style, situated in Hylands park, which covers an incredibly vast area of 232 acres. Hylands Estate Hylands was purchased by a respected lawyer Sir John Comyns. The building was finished in 1730. The two-story red brick structure of the family home that is among the stunning tourist destinations in Chelmsford is a beautiful Queen Anne-style building.
The house hosts an annual exhibition that allows visitors to learn more about the past and culture of Hylands House. The collection of the royal residence is comprised of artworks and other items that are assembled inside the library. Outside the house on the left is a famous Farmer’s & Craft Market where you can purchase locally made handcrafted products.
Hylands Estate Highlights
- You can take a carriage ride through the massive estate of the house, with the carriage carried through the estate by Hawthorn Heavy Horses.
- Enjoy a stroll around the different stalls on display at the Farmers & Craft Market right in front of your house.
- Enjoy a cup of classic after-dinner tea inside the stunning Terrace room with stunning views.
- When you visit the Stables & Artist Studios, look around at the lively community of designers, artists, and makers.
- Don’t forget to spend time in The Adventure Castle with portcullis and a fantastic drawbridge entrance.
Chelmsford Museum
Chelmsford Museum is based in an exquisite 19th-century house that has been transformed into a museum that documents the past and the industrial heritage of Chelmsford, a city. It is housed within the Oaklands house, listed as some of the many unique places to go to in Chelmsford.
The museum houses more than 345 artworks by 112 artists. The house is decorated with Neo-Classical architectural elements and a few fascinating tales about the area in Moulsham Street, where it’s located.
The house is identifiable with its creamy white wooden walls, huge windows, a blue roof, and a vast garden outside. The museum’s vast collection contains archeological items dating back to Roman times as well as a biological collection of native wildlife.
The museum also has an extensive collection of fine art from local artists who work with local themes and aggressive and industrial artifacts.
The museum also has a unique collection of the Museum of the Essex Regiment and the Essex Yeomanry, which makes its military collection more significant because it includes the French Imperial Eagle captured in 1812.
Chelmsford Museum Highlights
- All visitors can visit the museum in the unique house for free. It is also accessible with ramps, slopes and elevators, and seating in the museum’s vicinity.
- Discover the style of Edwardian clothes, fashion accessories, costumes, and more.
- Admire the ceramic gallery that showcases works of Chelmsford ceramicists such as Edward Bingham, Joanna Constantin is, and internationally-acclaimed Bog Washington
- Discover the culture and history of the city in various education programs. There are various fun games for kids to play and memories to remember.
- Enjoy the delicious food at The Hive Coffee Cafe, and then enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the rose gardens in Oaklands Park.
Audley End House
Explore the stables in operation, visit formal gardens and explore the local background in one of the best instances of Jacobean architecture in Britain. The lavish lifestyles of Britain’s wealthy Earls and lords have been preserved in the time of the beautifully preserved Audley End House and Gardens.
Enjoy these formal grounds, see horses at the stables on the estate or visit the residences of the former owners. There are plenty of activities specifically designed for youngsters. A day exploring the landscape at Audley End House will be ideal for the entire family.
Audley End House and Gardens was once the residence that belonged to Sir Thomas Audley. He received the estate from Henry VIII. Even though it’s no longer the manor of the grand scale that it was in the sixteenth century, Audley End House remains one of the finest models in Jacobean architectural style in Britain.
Take a stroll through the various rooms to discover the fascinating history and architecture that the home has. The rooms reflect the different preferences of the various residents in Audley End, ranging from the neoclassical design in rooms like the Robert Adam Rooms to the 18th-century Gothic influences of the church.
In the garden, walk among these hedges in the formal parterre, or go to the organic vegetable garden. Together with milking, vineyard, and the orchard home, the garden was an integral part of the life of the Audley End House’s inhabitants.
Play with your children in the theme play area and dress in traditional costumes in the stables. They’ll enjoy meeting the local horses while exploring the interactive exhibit housed in the stables.
Audley End House is just 1 mile (1.2 kilometers) to the west of Saffron Walden, and free parking is available on the premises.
Train and bus stations are just a short stroll from home. The English Heritage website provides up-to-date information regarding opening hours and admission costs. In the summer, there are events, such as “Meet the Staff,” where you will watch costumed characters perform tasks that workers were expected to perform during the Victorian period.
Layer Marney Tower
Book Layer Marney Tower is one of the best places to visit in Chelmsford. Take a trip to the tallest Tudor gatehouse in England to discover an enchanting knot garden with a farm, a Wildlife Walk, and five centuries’ worth of historical significance.
Take a climb to the top of the Layer Marney Tower, and gaze out over the Essex countryside and at the River Blackwater. Explore the building’s 500-year-old heritage and look at the historical artifacts. On a day with sunshine, take a stroll through the gardens or go on your time on Wildlife Walk to see cattle and other birds.
Then, enjoy tea in the charming room that overlooks the Blackwater Estuary. Henry of Marney, one of the initial Lords of Marney and a close friend to Henry, the first Lord of Marney and a friend to King Henry VIII, commissioned the Layer Marney Tower. Construction began in 1520.
Henry’s demise and the demise of his heir shortly after made it clear that the structure did not get completed according to the original plans. However, the tower’s 80-foot (24-meter) building is now the highest Tudor Gate in England. It is now an exclusive home, a tourist attraction for families, and an event venue.
Begin by looking at the essential elements of the Tudor design in the tower, including tiny arched windows and two circular towers. After that, climb up to the top. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the plain Essex countryside.
When you return, you can go to the History Room with information about the families who lived there and a replica of the original layout. Also, make sure you visit the Victorian-inspired gardens, which include a variety of roses and a knot garden, distinguished by its formal style.
Kids can play with sheep and goats and observe highland cattle along the Wildlife Walk or at the farm. In the tearoom, you can enjoy refreshments and snacks while kids play in the play areas.
Layer Marney Tower is open only in the afternoon and on certain days.
Check the site for the timetable. In July and August, the days of opening are Monday through Thursday. Admission is charged. The tower is situated 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of Colchester. It is recommended to drive there. However, you could also catch a public bus to Colchester and walk to the final section from Smythe’s Green, which takes around 20 minutes.
Shire Hall
The historical Shire Hall is an impressive Georgian structure with courts. The grand assembly is a classic style Portland stone facade that dominates the Chelmsford city center. The Hall, designed for John Johnson in 1792, was designed to fulfill the function of providing a venue for the meeting of the council as well as other civic gatherings would be offered.
The Hall is listed as the best among the most popular tourist spots for visiting Chelmsford the Shire Hall also is home to a great collection of art. The most well-known artwork in the Hall is a highly intricate model depicting the Vestal Virgin, as well as a variety of panels dating from the late 18th century.
The design of the Hall is asymmetrical frontage, with five bays connected by one another by Tindal Square with four ionic columns supporting the pediments. The first floor is adorned with a big pediment clock and a collection of cravings representing justice, wisdom, and mercy.
Highlights from the shire hall
- Explore the vast arcades of Georgian-style Shire Hall, built in Chelmsford town center’s center. Chelmsford downtown.
- Admire the various artworks in the Hall, such as the statue of the Vestal Virgin and the various panels dating from the 18th century designed by the well-known creator John Bacon.
- You’ll want to take advantage of shopping in the street shops, which include a mixture of local shops, independent shops, and spaces for community gatherings around the Hall.
- See the city’s political culture in the Hall, which symbolizes the transition in the nation’s political structure from an era of monarchy to democratic government.
Riverside Leisure Centre
The latest lighting and sound effects combine a vibrant disco-style atmosphere for fun at Riverside’s skating arena. Additionally, they offer public skating and age-restricted sessions with traditional lighting so that everybody will find a session that suits their needs! It’s a sport for families that develops confidence and skill and builds bonds of friendship when you assist them in getting up and running. It’s also beneficial to people who like roller skating and employing the same muscles.
It’s also home to Chelmsford Chieftains, the regional Chelmsford Chieftains Ice Hockey Team, and the location for their usually entertaining home games. Go Chieftans!
It is common to see an ice-themed show that is put on instead of skating publicly during the Xmas period. It’s a must for children interested in becoming skaters or dancers or just like a good show. Who doesn’t?!
They also host birthday parties, but it’s important to remember the food items, host taught lessons, and other things that hint at the event are priced as additions, making it an actual discount for groups! If you want to throw a fantastic party, it’s best if it’s added to other events that have more traditional elements to the celebration! Check out the calendar; There are plenty of options nearby!
- Swimming Pool
- Soft Play
- Children’s Term Time Activities and Holiday Courses and Camps
Hours of operation
- Monday to Friday 06:00 – 22:00
- Saturday and Sunday 6:00 – 19:00
Last Entry
- 30 minutes before the time that attraction closes
Pricing
- Prices differ based on the different activities. Please visit the website www.chelmsford.gov.uk/leisure-centres/ or call the centers directly on 01245 615050.
- Discover other attractions like Riverside Leisure Centre by visiting our tickets for attractions section.
Colchester Arts Centre
Colchester Arts Centre is one of the best places to visit in Chelmsford. Look at Colchester’s best entertainment venue, located in a church dating to the 13th century. Get ready for a fun night at The Colchester Arts Centre, where many of the UK’s top comedians have appeared.
Look through the schedule for the various scheduled music events, and you’ll find something that will suit your preferences. Participate in a community event such as Frock Swaps, Knitathon, or a tea, and meet the people who live there. While there, discover some of the stories of the building, and marvel at its architectural style, which is more than 800 years ago.
The Colchester Arts Centre opened in 1980 inside what was once St. Mary at The Walls Church. The first recorded documentation of the building dates from 1206. It is notable because it was where 23 martyrs were sentenced to death during Mary I, known as “Bloody Mary.” It has been reported that this is where the nursery rhyme for children Humpty Dumpty originated because Humpty Dumpty was what the locals called the vast cannon on site, although this isn’t proven.
Today, the church serves as the city’s most popular alternative entertainment venue, hosting performances and events almost every day of the year. If you are in Colchester for just a few days, you’ll discover an event you enjoy on the city’s calendar. The comedy fans could be looking forward to a great time since some of the best British comedians, such as Eddie Izzard, Jo Brand, and Bill Bailey, have performed at the center.
Music lovers will be well-cared for, too, with regular rock, folk, and other genre nights being held in the center. If you have young kids, take your children to a storytelling program or visit the children’s entertainment. If you’d want to meet new people living in the region, Join one of the community activities like a breakfast tea or a craft class.
Colchester Arts Centre is located in central Colchester on Church Street. The center’s website has a complete schedule of events, with prices and times. Be aware that there’s no parking on the street directly in front. The closest car park is just a short walk away and is charged.
Colchester Zoo
Feed giraffes and elephants. Observe a falconry show and even meet the terrifying Komodo dragons. It’s one of the U.K.’s top Zoos. Colchester Zoo is bound to be a hit with families. Enjoy watching how the Patagonian sea lions on your head while you walk in the underwater passageway.
Enjoy a ride on the Madagascar Road train that passes through the lemur enclosure. Don’t skip the daily feedings of the animals as well as the impressive falconry demonstrations. The Zoo opened its doors in 1963 and is acknowledged as one of the U.K.’s top attractions for wildlife. It covers 60 acres (24 acres). The Zoo is large enough to hold 260 species of animals. It is possible to spend one whole day.
Begin at your first stop at the Kingdom of the Wild exhibit, home to rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roaming freely across the open plains. In the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to feed the giraffes and the elephants in the adjacent Elephant Kingdom. See other wild animals in the Tiger Taiga area, like the rare Amur Tigers.
Continue to the Walking Giants area, where three of the four most giant tortoises are a sight to behold. Make sure you visit Playa Patagonia too. The exhibit takes you across an eight-foot (24-meter) translucent glass tube and gazes at the majestic sea lions that swim above you.
You can also visit the Wilds of Asia exhibit, where some of the sights are the hornbills, red pandas, and gibbons. Admire the vibrant koi, and then have laughter while watching the playful Otters. In the vicinity, you will also spot Komodo dragons. These massive reptiles are at risk by extinct within the natural world.
Review the timetable and choose which of the 40 daily shows you’d like to see. In addition to the giraffe and elephant feeding, you can watch penguins, orangutans, and tigers eat lunch. Several food establishments around the Zoo serve various drinks and meals in case you want to have refreshments on your own.
Colchester Zoo is situated just 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of Colchester town center. There is no charge for parking, and buses run to the Zoo regularly. The Zoo is open all year round, and there is a fee for admission, part of which is used for wildlife conservation.
Ingatestone Hall
Ingatestone Hall is one of the best places to visit in Chelmsford. The most stunning architecture and place you can visit is Chelmsford The construction dates to 1556. The manor was purchased from William Petre, who commissioned the building of the house, which his family still lives in the present. Following the Reformation movement, when England began to transform into a Protestant nation, The Petre family was a refuge for the numerous Cathedral church bishops.
The home built in the English architectural style is characterized by the typical Tudor features such as the stepped gables, an oval staircase, and elaborate chimney pots. The plan of its architectural design comprises the three wings (northeast, south and north) and a vast hall developed for the house by William Petre, owner of the house.
The interior of the building is just as impressive as the exterior in red-bond brick. The 29-meter gallery in the eastern section of the building houses more than 40 pictures from family members of the Petre family. The Stone hall was constructed using Oak Panels. It replaces the old Great Hall, which has crumbled over time.
Ingatestone Hall Highlights
- Ingatestone Hall is a historical museum built in 1556 and was the residence of the Petre family.
- You can also lease Ingatestone Hall for rent. Ingatestone Hall’s architecture and the venue’s beauty make it ideal for events like receptions, weddings, seminars and plays, film locations, and more.
- Take a tour of the garden, the building, and the courtyard at no cost.
- Enter The Ingatestone Hall and admire its beauty, just as Queen Elizabeth I had referred to the halls as “a beautiful location’ while she was at the hall in 1561.
- Explore the vast gallery in the house and take an eye on the portrait artworks by family members of the Petre family.
Conclusion
All destinations are awesome! According to my opinion, Hylands Estate is the best to start. I hope you have enjoyed our list of Best Places to Visit in Chelmsford.
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