Enjoy Essex

When it comes to visiting Essex, you’ll find there are many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. With a diverse range of attractions on offer, you won’t want to miss a thing!

With over 23 acres of historic gardens dating back to the 16th century, the Gardens of Eston Lodge in Great Dunmow are among the best places to observe the beauty of Essex. The splendid Italian gardens were designed by Harold Peto and feature a 100-foot balustraded pool and a spacious courtyard.

Taking pride in its appearance in a different fashion is Gallery Schomberg in Colchester. The gallery displays work by some of the UK’s leading artists – and features recent graduates, as well. To help celebrate the gallery’s 16th anniversary next summer, visit their upper galleries where a large selection of the artists’ work is on offer.

Keeping the creative flare going, head east of Colchester to Loughton. From 31 March to 1 April, the Loughton Festival will be taking place. Various venues will be celebrating Loughton’s rich cultural heritage, and you’ll get the opportunity to hear talks about some of the great writers and poets of Loughton and Epping Forest. Guest speakers include Peter Wilby, former editor of the New Statesman, and Stan Newens, former Epping and Harlow MP.

Another pleasing place to visit in Essex is Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden. Here, you can experience the splendour enjoyed by royalty and aristocracy in one of England’s grandest country homes. Admire the lavish interiors that reflect generations of style, and relax in the lovingly restored 19th-century parterre garden. You might also like to enjoy a tasty selection of food and refreshments in the restaurant. And if that’s not enough to tickle your taste buds, visit The Food Company in Marks Tey, where you’ll find a wide range of specialist foods and delicacies.

  Other south-east attractions to be experienced include Essex Wildlife Trust and Lee Valley Regional Park. To find out more visit the website listed below or ring Carol Jolly at Hidden Treasures.

t    01206 562878

•             www.hidden-treasures.co.uk