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Discover historic houses in Essex and MORE
If you’re a history buff who plans on holidaying in Essex, you’re lucky that the Tudor period saw the rise of many great historic houses in Essex built by nobility and wealthy traders, so come and discover more!
Audley End House and Garden
There’s plenty to choose from, including Ingatestone Hall, the 16th-century home of Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs. Or there’s Layer Marney Tower, boasting the tallest Tudor gatehouse in England, and Audley End House and Gardens, a grand Jacobean mansion built to entertain kings. But that’s not it, there are many other houses, gardens, and castles in Essex to witness history today, including Colchester Castle, which isn’t far from Mersea Island Holiday Park. You’re in for plenty of visual and historical treats during your next Essex holiday, so what are you waiting for?
Historic houses and stately homes in Essex
Let’s begin with a range of historic houses in Essex, alongside stately homes that you just can’t miss during your next holiday – perfect for the whole family!
Ingatestone Hall
1. Ingatestone Hall
Ingatestone Hall, a 16th-century mansion built by Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs, remains occupied by his descendants. Just a mile from Ingatestone village, the Hall retains its original Tudor features, including mullioned windows and high chimneys, and is set amidst 10 acres of gardens with lawns, a walled garden, and a stew pond. Plus, you can discover tours, led by Lord Petre or his son Dominic – and what makes this even better is that tea, coffee, and homemade cakes are included.
Location: Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex, CM4 9NR
2. Layer Marney Tower
Henry Marney was Henry VIII’s Lord Privy Seal, and he built Layer Marney Tower to showcase his wealth and power – you’ll see just how grand this location is once you visit. The Tower, England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse, overlooks the Essex landscape with views of the River Blackwater. There are plenty of events throughout the year, including Tower Tours, so you can spend a fun-filled day out here during your holiday – just a 25-35-minute drive from Mersea Island Holiday Park!
Location: Layer Marney, Nr. Colchester, Essex, C05 9US
3. Christopher Jones House
Christopher Jones, Captain of the Mayflower, once lived on King's Head Street in Harwich. His restored house, featuring many original elements and an augmented reality experience, is open to visitors by request. To explore this, you can follow the Harwich Maritime Trail, join a guided tour with the Harwich Society, take in the displays, exhibitions, and much more at one of the best historic houses in Essex – Christopher Jones House.
Location: Kings Head Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3EE
4. The Moot Hall
The Moot Hall in Maldon is a unique Grade I listed heritage building dating back to around 1420. Originally part of Sir Robert D’arcy's manor house, the brick-built tower now consists of three floors with two-foot-thick walls and a lead roof. Over its 600-year history, it has undergone periods of dereliction and extensive restoration. Though the original mansion was likely much larger, the Tower is the only surviving portion and is still a stunning sight to behold, especially as it’s a popular wedding destination! A holiday and wedding in one?! Plus, you can go on tours where you can see the prisoners’ names scratched on the brick walls, climb the unique brick spiral, and much more!
Location: High Street, Maldon, Essex, CM9 5PF
5. The Dutch Cottage
When in Rayleigh, don't miss the opportunity to visit The Dutch Cottage, an octagonal building on Crown Hill believed to date back to the 18th century. Named for its association with 17th-century Dutch immigrants who built coastal sea walls, its shape is both rare and practical. The cottage's history is shrouded in mystery and controversy. While a plaque above the door states '1621', experts suggest it was likely built around 1740, sparking much debate about its true origins and purpose. Come and visit one of the most mysterious historic houses in Essex, but remember to enquire first!
Location: The Mill Arts & Events Centre, Bellingham Lane, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 7EF
6. Hylands Estate
Hylands Estate is a prestigious Grade II* listed public park spanning 574 acres of historic parkland, featuring the beautifully restored Neo-Classical villa, Hylands House. Available for hire for various celebrations and business events, Hylands House is also open to the public on certain days. The Stables offer amenities such as a café and information point, alongside much more. The estate includes formal Victorian Gardens, ancient woodlands, an award-winning accessible children’s Adventure Playground, and family-friendly events, so the kids are sure to have an amazing time! With a variety of seasonal events too, Hylands Estate offers a perfect destination for exploration and enjoyment!
Location: London Rd, Writtle, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ
The most beautiful gardens in Essex
If you’re a nature fiend, then you might want to visit the best gardens in Essex – remember to bring your cameras, so you can capture the pure beauty of Essex!
Beth Chatto’s Plants & Gardens
7. Audley End House and Garden
Discover Audley End House & Gardens, Essex's hidden treasure, where you can explore life both above and below stairs in this grand mansion if you book. Uncover the unique natural history collection of the Braybrooke family and learn about their story. You can visit the resident horses in the stable block and stroll through the Organic Kitchen Garden, home to over 120 varieties of apples, 60 kinds of tomatoes, and more. On your visit you can also enjoy the parterre gardens, 'Capability' Brown landscaped parkland, and a children's play area, making Audley End House & Gardens a perfect family day out – even with your dog (on a lead).
Location: Audley End, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF
8. Hyde Hall Garden
Located in rural Essex, RHS Garden Hyde Hall offers breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside and is one of the East of England's premier gardens. Spanning 365 acres, this tranquil site features both traditional and modern garden styles. Highlights include the Dry Garden with its array of drought-resistant plants and the Global Growth Vegetable Garden displaying vegetables from across the globe. There are plenty of amenities to enjoy such as free parking, a cafe, restaurant, children's play area, gift shop, and garden centre – what more could you want?
Location: Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 8ET
9. Beth Chatto’s Plants & Gardens
Explore the acclaimed gardens of Beth Chatto OBE VMH, one of the country’s most influential gardeners. Beth pioneered ecological and sustainable planting principles, and by doing so collaborated with her team to transform 7.5 acres into diverse informal gardens including the Gravel, Water, Reservoir, Woodland, and Scree Gardens, so why not plan your visit? By showcasing sustainable planting in tough conditions, the gardens have inspired gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike. You’ll also find an extensive nursery offering over 2,000 varieties of mainly herbaceous plants and bulbs, along with a gift shop and tearoom serving locally sourced refreshments – the perfect combination!
Location: Elmstead Market, Colchester, Essex, CO7 7DB
10. Markshall Estate
Experience this stunning conservation landscape in the heart of Essex and explore over 1,000 years of history, ancient woodlands, and a world-class Arboretum featuring plants from around the globe. Discover the power of nature and Markshall Estate’s role in protecting it for the future. They even have a dog field that you can book and there are plenty of other things to do, including a variety of events to keep everyone on holiday happy at one of the best gardens in Essex!
Location: Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1TG
The best castles in Essex
Last but certainly not least, let’s take a look at some of the best castles in Essex where you and the kids can pretend to be royalty for the day! It’s only right…
Colchester Castle
11. Colchester Castle
This list would not be perfect if Colchester Castle wasn’t on it! Colchester Castle is one of England's most significant heritage sites and the largest Norman Keep in Europe, standing on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. Home to the Castle Museum, it boasts archaeological collections of international acclaim, covering 2,500 years of history. Perfect for a family day out, just under a 30-minute drive from Mersea Island Holiday Park, it features interactive displays, hands-on activities, and much more. Who’s going to be the tour guide in your family with the Ancient Colchester App for a self-guided walking tour of the castle's history?
Location: Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ
12. Hedingham Castle
Hedingham Castle, the most iconic building in Essex, was built 900 years ago and features an ancient motte and bailey with a Norman keep. Visitors can explore the castle's rich history and stunning grounds, perfect for picnics with a loved one, adventures, and events for all. Highlights include the best-preserved keep in the country and the widest Norman arch in Western Europe. The grounds offer year-round beauty, making it a photographer's dream – and even if you aren’t great at taking photos, trust us when we say the surroundings will automatically make you look like a pro!
Location: Halstead, Essex, CO9 3DJ
13. Pleshey Castle
The impressive remains of this 12th-century motte and bailey castle dominate the charming village of Pleshey. This historical site, with its significant medieval architecture, offers visitors a glimpse into the past, so you can learn about the history within one of the best castles in Essex. While the Pleshey Castle grounds are open to the public by appointment only, those who arrange a visit will find themselves immersed in the picturesque surroundings and rich history of this notable landmark.
Location: Pleshey, Chelmsford, CM3
Historic houses, gardens, and castles in Essex – you’ve got it all!
With this top-tier list, you’ve got everything you need to complete your next holiday in Essex. Whether you want to visit castles in Essex, historic houses, gardens, or a combination of all three, you are definitely in for a treat. History is never boring with these fantastic places to visit, plus it’s even more interactive for the kids. So, what’s left to do? Book your holiday, all of the places you want to visit, and get packing…