Attractions

Beeleigh Abbey Gardens cover three acres of land surrounding the historical Beeleigh Abbey, which was founded in 1180 and is currently privately owned by Christopher and Cathering Foyle.

These picturesque gardens, which are situated on the banks of the River Chelmer, are believed to date back to the 13th century.  The main sections of the gardens have not changed over 200 years, except a water feature which was introduced around 100 years ago.

A visit to these enchanting gardens is both relaxing and inspiring. Whether you are a garden enthusiast or simply wish to take a leisurely stroll around a wonderfully historical setting, then this is the place to visit!

Colchester Zoo is a magical day out for all the family where both adults and children alike will be amazed by this incredible zoo park that is set amongst 60 acres of parkland. 

There is so much to see and do that will keep the whole family entertained and with over 260 species to observe and engage with you will not be left disappointed!

Visitors can observe sea lions swimming around in one of Europe's largest underwater tunnels, take a train ride into deepest Africa to view some well know wild animals, hold creepy crawlies and reptiles and personally feed elephants and giraffes.

The Combined Military Services Museum is home to a range of exhibits that display genuine artefacts from Britain's military history for both enjoyment and educational purposes.

The museum is a recently modified 6,000 square foot building that displays weaponry and warfare from the middle ages to the present day.

The exhibits portray the lifestyles of British troops and the equipment and weaponry used in everyday combat. There are also artefacts from covert operations and items of national importance that cannot be observed in any other military museum.

Heybridge Basin is a picturesque destination situated on the sea lock that merges the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation and Blackwater Estuary providing a popular spot for those who like the outdoors. 

Visitors can take part in a range of activities, including sailing, fishing, canal trips, wildlife spotting and much more. And for those who like walking there are many nature trails and picturesque walks along the sea wall to nearby towns such as Maldon, Goldhanger and Beeleigh.

There are two traditional pubs situated at Heybridge Basin overlooking the Blackwater Estuary both are family friendly and feature extensive outdoor areas.

The Maeldune Heritage Centre is situated within the old tower of St Peter's Church on Market Hill, which houses a collection of historical artefacts, works of art and photography.

The main feature of the Maeldune Centre is the famous Maldon Embroidery. Designed by Humphrey Spender, the 42 foot long embroidery commemorates the 1000th anniversary of the Battle of Maldon.

Many art exhibitions and works of art created by local artists can often be found on display at the historical centre, as well as photographic archives by Maldon Society, including over 3,000 digital images of the Maldon District through history.

The Maldon District Museum also known as 'The Museum in the Park' is situated by the main gates of the Promenade Park.

The Edwardian building, formally the Park Keeper's Lodge displays a range of artefacts that demonstrate the social, industrial and domestic history of Maldon from the last two centuries and beyond.

The museum houses exhibits that are unchangeable from year to year as well as special annual displays.  The 2012 special exhibitions included 'Maldon through the Lens' and the Queens Diamond Jubilee.

Maldon Moot Hall is a Grade I listed building in the heart of Maldon High Street, dating back to the 15th century and houses many artefacts and historical features.

The Moot Hall was built by Sir Robert D'Arcy as a private residence for his family. Sir Robert D'Arcy and his wife, heiress Alice Fitz Langley built their mansion in the centre of Maldon Town, and built it from brick on a street of timber buildings to signify their wealth in the town.

The Moot Hall has had many uses throughout its history, including being used as the Borough Council Chamber until 1974.  Today the museum houses many artefacts and historical features.

Marsh Farm Country Park is a working farm set across vast acres of countryside in South Woodham Ferrers.

Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of farm animals, including chickens, pigs, sheep, ponies and goats, as well as having the opportunity to hold and feed a range of small animals in the pet barn.

There are a variety of daily and seasonal demonstrations where visitors can observe farm rangers milking cows, shearing sheep and grooming horses.  Farm rangers also offer tractor and trailer rides throughout the day taking you on a tour of the farm.

The Museum of Power is located at the old Steam Pumping Station in Langford, which was built in the 1920's to supply water to district of Southend. The pumping station was replaced in 1963 and the original boilers, chimney and two engines were scrapped.

Today the museum houses displays that illustrate power, from the wind and water mill, to nuclear and solar energy.  

Some of the highlights include a former boiler house, which has a reconstructed Edwardian belt-driven workshop rescued from East London and a 7¼ gauge railway, which offers steam and diesel railway, rides around the museum.

Northey Island is a peaceful retreat located on the Blackwater Estuary just 2 miles from the town of Maldon. The only access to the island is via a causeway that is covered daily by the tide.

The Island is owned by the National Trust, and is of high interest to wildlife enthusiasts. The island consists of salt marshes and tidal creeks that provide a nutritious feeding ground for a variety of wildlife, including Brent geese and Shelduck. A range of birds also breed here making it an excellent spot for bird watchers!

There are also a range of outdoor activities visitors can engage in such as dinghy sailing, windsurfing, canoeing & kayacking, bird-watching, cycling and nature walks.

The remains of St Giles' Hospital, a medieval leper hospital can be found along Spital Road, approximately 20 minutes' walk from Maldon High Street.

It is believed that the hospital was founded in the 12th century by Henry II to help ease the suffering of those with leprosy and is only one of ten remaining medieval hospitals recorded in the county.

In 1481 St Giles' Hospital and the Monastery at Beeleigh Abbey were closed under the ruling of Henry VIII and the dissolution of the Monasteries.  Mr Thomas of Beeleigh Abbey later bought the ruins of St Giles' in 1925 and restoration of the building took place in 1927.  All that remains of the building today are ruins of the Chancel and Transepts of the Chapel.

St Mary's Church is situated next to Maldon's Hythe Quay. This historical church is believed to have been built during Saxon times and still has many original features, including its 14th century tower, which was used as a beacon that would navigate sailors returning from sea.  This was later replaced by a white shingle spire in 1730 and although no longer in use, still remains a focal point for the town.

The Hythe Quay is a popular location for both residents and visitors alike. Why not begin your discovery of this historical port with a boat trip on the Blackwater Estuary or simply relax and unwind in one of the traditional waterfront pubs whilst you watch the Thames Sailing Barges glide along the river. Whatever your reason for visiting the Hythe Quay you are sure to be amazed at the beauty of this picturesque quayside.