Hello Spring! Mother’s Day Ideas, Snowdrop Walks and Romantic Getaways

Spring is in the air! As we say goodbye to winter, we are excited to share our suggestions on where to see snowdrops, ways to spoil Mum this Mother’s Day and ideas to keep the spark alive, now Valentine’s Day has passed.

The Visit Essex Team

 

 

Treat your loved ones this Mother’s Day…

Every mother deserves to be spoilt on Mother’s Day – luckily, there are some amazing events taking place across Essex so you can do exactly that.

• Spend the day at Audley End & Mum goes free at Audley End Miniature Railway
• Place your bets and soak up the atmosphere at Chelmsford City Racecourse
• Unleash your creative side at Firstsite
• Indulge in a delicious three course lunch at Marygreen Manor
• Get potty about pottery at Braintree Museum
• Enjoy a production and afternoon tea at the Mercury Theatre

Find more inspiration here – from unique activtives, days out and places to eat that will wow!

 

 

See Spring bloom in Essex…

Snowdrop season takes place each year between January and March, and these beautiful white flowers can be found blooming in several spots across Essex.

Welcome the beginning of spring with a visit to Markshall, visit the magnificant Winter Garden at RHS Garden Hyde Hall or enjoy the Spring Bulbs Spectacular at Warley Place in Brentwood, just a stones throw away from London. The beautiful Beth Chatto Gardens is abundant with snowdrops this time of year and the Snowdrop Walks at Hedingham Castle offers the perfect way to see their magnificant display of snowdrops. Take a trip to the Gibberd Garden in Harlow to to really immerse yourself in the wonder and beauty of both nature and art.

Read more in our latest blog.

 

 

February is the month of love!

Why stop celebrating the one you love just because Valentine’s Day is over. Show your partner how much you love them by planning a romantic weekend break in Essex…

• Looking for a peaceful countryside retreat for you and your partner? The idyllic Great Sampford B&B is ideal for a quiet romantic weekend away. Take a tour around nearby Bardfield Vineyard during your stay.
• If your taste is more on the eclectic side, and a countryside staycation isn’t your thing, then head to the exciting town of Epping for an intimate stay at the Funky Monk Hotel.
• Overlooking one of the many hidden lakes in Colne Valley, Kingfishers Nest is a tranquil cabin surrounded by beautiful woodland, perfect for a romantic break for two.

Find out more.

 

 

Congratulations to our Tourism Champions…

The East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 were held last Thursday at Snape Maltings in  Suffolk. The competition champions the very best tourism and hospitality businesses, celebrating quality, innovation and best practice. We are delighted that a number of our Essex businesses won awards on the night;

• Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award – Colchester Zoo
• Pub of the Year – The Three Horseshoes
• Large Hotel of the Year – Wivenhoe House Hotel
• New Tourism Business of the Year – Potters Resorts Five Lakes Golf Club

Now’s your chance to visit some of the best places in Essex. What are you waiting for?

 

 

In the spotlight: Rural Uttlesford

Found in the north west corner of Essex, Uttlesford is centred around the historic market towns of Saffron Walden, Great Dunmow and Thaxted. Explore quintessentially English villages brimming with chocolate box thatched cottages, take in splendid market towns, visit castles and country houses and explore the rolling countryside on foot via a network of footpaths – perfect for walking enthusiasts looking for a rural weekend away or for those looking to explore closer to home.

If you’re planning a trip to Essex, or you’re a local and looking for some new ideas for days out, check out our latest blog for things to do in Uttlesford. Make it Essex!

 

 

Last chance: Have your say!

Visit Essex are working on a new project in Colchester to identify ways to encourage locals and visitors to cycle more and create itineraries in the area. We really value your input and would love to hear what needs improving and what else would encourage you to cycle.

Please complete this short survey which closes tomorrrow, Friday 23 February.

Complete the survey.

 

Follow our blog for the latest news and events…

 

 

Congratulations on your engagement! Let the planning begin… 

Essex has many wonderful wedding venues to choose from, from coastal locations to beautiful countryside barns.

Read more.

 

 

Forget the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary… 

Essex, bursting with hidden gems and vibrant character, offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be unearthed.

Read more.