News from the Visit Essex team!

With spooky season nearly behind us, it’s time to start thinking about – dare we say it – Christmas! In the coming weeks streets will become illuminated with lights and Christmas trees will be popping up on every corner. There are lots of exciting seasonal events coming up across the county, so don’t be a Scrooge and start planning your festive celebrations now!

The Visit Essex Team

Brunch spots in Essex not to be missed!

There’s no better way to start your day than with delicious food, aromatic coffee and the company of your family and friends! Enjoy a catch up before the chaos of the festive season at one of our top brunch spots…

Located within 12 acres of parkland in Bishop’s Stortford, Thremhall Park offers an idyllic breakfast spot with a dog-friendly outdoor space.
Head to Fordham for a delightful breakfast at The Coffee Shed, part of the award-winning The Three Horseshoes pub in Fordham.
You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Clover Café at RHS Garden Hyde Hall with many of your favourites on the menu.
In the picturesque town of Saffron Walden you will find the quaint family-run Blossom Bites Café and Tearooms, perfect for families.
If you’re looking for breakfast with a view, try the Café at Hanningfield Nature Discovery Park. Why not enjoy a wander around the park before heading home?
If breakfast at home is more your thing, you’ll find everything you need at Blackwells Farm and Produce Shop.

Discover more.

No matter your age everyone loves a pantomime, oh yes you do!

It’s officially time to start booking your tickets to a Christmas pantomime – and gosh, do we have quite the line up for you to choose from! Essex is the home to many wonderful theatres who put on festive productions perfect for the whole family each year.

Experience the magic of Christmas with Elf: The Musical at Charter Hall in Colchester, Jack and the Beanstalk at Cliffs Pavillion in Southend, The New Adventures of Peter Pan at the Mercury Theatre, Snow White at Chelmsford Theatre and more.

Take a look at our latest blog to find a panto that tickles your fancy.
Book now to avoid disappointment!

Dates for your diary: Get ahead with your holiday shopping!

’Tis the season to meander through stalls of homemade goods and unique gifts, with the aroma of mulled wine and mince pies wafting their way towards you. Attending at least one Christmas market is a non-negotiable when the festive season hits – here’s some of our favourites for your diary…

17 November: Benton Hall Christmas Market, Witham

23 November: Braintree Christmas Street Market

23 – 24 November: Christmas at Markshall, Coggeshall

28 November: Maldon High Street

30 November – 1 December: Museum of Power’s Christmas Fair

1 December: Rochford Christmas Festival

7 December: Chelmsford Cathedral Christmas Market

Find a Christmas market near you.

Christmas party – sorted!

Looking to enjoy a festive get together with friends and family, or celebrate a year of hard work with your colleagues? Now’s the time to start thinking about your Christmas party plans. We’ve put together a list of the best Christmas meals out and events taking place in Essex. From three-course Christmas dinners to festive afternoon teas, interactive experiences and epic team-building challenges with a festive twist, of course!

Take a look.

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