Visit Essex: Fall in love with Essex! Eerie events & autumn fun.

As the weather starts to turn and the nights start to draw in, there is no place better to enjoy autumn than in Essex. With half term, Halloween and bonfire night upon us, check out what’s going on in Essex this October here.

Spooky season is creeping up on us!

There’s many great ghoulish events taking place in Essex this Halloween, from haunted hotel stays to themed afternoon teas and terror trails for the brave.

The popular Colchester Zoo Shriek Week is back from 26 October – 3 November.
Down Hall will be hosting A-Live From The Lawn, Halloween afternoon tea and an outdoor cinema.
Grab your torch and complete the twilight riddle trail at Saffron Walden Museum at Night on 31 October.
For nature lovers who want to join in on the Halloween spirit, book on to one of the Spooky Woodland Walks at Audley End House and Gardens.
Catch the killer at Little Easton Manor’s Murder Mystery Dinner.
Stay in the haunted bedroom at Talliston House & Gardens, if you dare!
The Brightworth’s School of Magic at Hedingham Castle will be opening their doors to young witches and wizards.
For thrilling rides, games and more, head down to Adventure Island in Southend.

For more frighteningly fantastic Halloween events read our latest blog.

Looking to pick the perfect pumpkin?

There’s plenty of places popping up across the county where you can pick your perfect pumpkin. Visit the spooktacular Pumpkin Patch at Cammas Hall Farm, fire the pumpkin canon at Hatter’s Farm or explore the Pumpkin Village at Marsh Farm.

For something a little different this autumn, why not enjoy the last few days of clear skies at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome or try your hand at creating a seasonal decoration at Cammas Hall Farm’s Autumn Wreath Making workshop – who says wreaths are just for Christmas?

Discover more autumn activities in Essex here.

Celebrate Essex on St Cedd’s Day, 26 October 2024

Essex Day or St Cedd’s Day – named after Essex’s patron saint – offers a unique opportunity to showcase our county’s rich heritage and diverse attractions.
Spend time visiting The Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, the oldest church in England built by St Cedd in 654AD, Chelmsford Cathedral which was dedicated to Saint Cedd in 1954 or simply explore the stunning countryside, stroll along the coastlines, or pay a visit to one of the Roman towns and cities.
This year we want to hear about what you think the #IconsofEssex are this Essex Day – these icons could be a person, place, or attraction. Tag us in a post on Instagram, X, or Facebook.

Find out more about Essex Day here.

A walk a day this autumn
October is an ideal time for walking, so why not take part in #Walktober? There are many wonderful walks in Essex that are beautiful during the autumn season.

Head to Epping Forest to feel the leaves crunch beneath your feet, or wrap up warm and head to one of the lovely coastal towns in Tendring to enjoy late sunrises and early sunsets. Highwoods Country Park in Colchester is a beautiful woodland walk perfect for the whole family, including the dog! Refuel after your walk with light refreshments and relax on one of the picnic benches whilst the kids enjoy the play area.
Looking for inspiration? We have a number of established walking trails for you to try across Essex. Take a look here.

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