Your invite to explore some of the best group attractions in South Essex

Visit Essex invite you on our next group travel organisers’ familiarisation trip taking place on Tuesday 11th March 2025.

Book now for this amazing fam trip giving an insight to the wonders of South Essex.

Itinerary

09.30 – 10.30: Car parking, registration and tour of Ingatestone Hall, CM4 9NR

Leave your car here for coach pick up and drop off at the end of the tour

Ingatestone Hall is a Grade I listed 16th-century manor house in Essex built by Sir William Petre. Over the years, the house has passed through the hands of fifteen generations of the Petre family who continue to own and occupy it today.

The Hall stands in open countryside, one mile from the village of Ingatestone and substantially retains its original Tudor form and appearance with its mullioned windows, high chimneys, crow-step gables and oak-panelled rooms and is surrounded by ten acres of enclosed gardens comprising of extensive lawns, walled garden and stew pond.

11.15 – 12.15: Myddelton House Gardens Bulls Cross, Enfield EN2 9HG

Myddelton House Gardens is the hidden gem in the crown of North London gardens. The life-long home of E A Bowles was salvaged from disrepair with a Heritage Lottery Fund in 2011 and restored to tell the story of the famous botanist’s life and gardening style.

Each season brings with it magic and wonder. In winter and in spring its grounds are carpeted with Snowdrops and Crocuses, and drapes of Wisteria flowers take centre stage. In the summer the kitchen garden offers bountiful yields and colourful cut flower beds and autumn brings red, orange and golden hues.

13:00– 13.45: Lunch at Holiday Inn Brentwood CM14 5NF

Situated just off the A12/M25 this hotel is an ideal base for groups. With 149 bedrooms, double, twin and DDA, plus swimming pool, fitness centre and coach parking. It also offers a Marco Pierre White New York Italian restaurant.

14.15 – 15.15: Epping Ongar Railway CM5 9BN

Step back in time and experience the romance of travel in bygone times as you pass through picturesque countryside, beautiful forest, and historic towns. As the longest heritage railway in Essex and the closest to London, Epping Ongar Railway is the only heritage line that runs on a former part of the tube network!

16:00: Arrive back Ingatestone Hall

Please note: sensible walking shoes are advised.

Book your space today for just £20

cheryl.owen@essex.gov.uk