Essex Tourist Guide Blog

According to VisitBritain’s latest tourism outlook for 2026, more UK travellers are prioritising shorter breaks focused on wellbeing, nature and meaningful experiences rather than packed sightseeing schedules. The trend reflects a growing desire to return home feeling refreshed rather than needing another weekend to recover.

Award-winning Smoke & Fire Festival (S&F) — the UK’s largest BBQ and outdoor cooking festival — celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, marking a decade of showcasing the art of cooking with fire. Returning to one of its most loved locations, Promenade Park, Maldon (Essex) on 15–16 August 2026, this year’s festival promises a weekend packed with firsts, favourites, and unforgettable food experiences.

As part of their 70^th anniversary year, Perrywood Garden Centres is bringing back their most-loved Christmas themes from across the years—each with a fresh new twist for 2025. Within Perrywood Christmas: The Greatest Hits, visitors can expect a nostalgic trip down memory lane with plenty of upcycled and familiar elements.

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Previously absent from many lists of desirable places to live in and around London, Waltham Forest is beginning to turn heads for its pretty high street, diverse communities, and excellent links to Central London and beyond.

Hedingham Castle is delighted to announce the return of its beloved Snowdrop Walks for 2025, offering visitors a chance to witness the beauty of nature awakening across the historic estate. This enchanting experience takes place on select dates in February, beginning Sunday 9th February, inviting families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts to explore the beautiful scenery.

At the Garden Centre Association annual awards gala, Perrywood Tiptree was placed 1st in the Garden Centre Association’s Top 100 League Table. This makes them only one of ten 'Garden Centres of Excellence' in the whole of the UK.

THIS YEAR a new death-defying circus is touring in the United Kingdom, celebrating 256 years of circus performances with the ultimate show to remember.

The Garden Centre Association (GCA) Conference saw Perrywood named 2^nd in the Top 100 UK Garden Centre League Table, making it one of only ten ‘Garden Centres of Excellence' in the whole of the UK - and the best in the South.

Hedingham Castle is pleased to announce the 2024 dates for their much-anticipated Snowdrop Walks, offering visitors a chance to witness the awakening of nature on the historic estate. The enchanting display will take place on selected dates throughout February and into March, starting from Sunday 11th February, providing a captivating experience for families, nature enthusiasts and history lovers alike.