As National Picnic Week (14-21 June) approaches, Visit Essex is inviting locals to embrace the great outdoors with the Big Essex Picnic. This delightful initiative encourages residents to support local attractions and food producers by enjoying picnics across the county's stunning landscapes.
Wild Adventures Await
Join the Essex Wildlife Trust for a picnic and explore their discovery centres. Whether you're fossil hunting at Walton-on-the-Naze, birdwatching at Abberton Reservoir, or strolling by the estuary at Fingringhoe Wick or Tollesbury Marshes, nature lovers are in for a treat. Other participating parks include Lee Valley Regional Park and Epping Forest. For thrill-seekers, Go Ape! Chelmsford offers a unique picnic experience with high ropes fun—just remember to pack a banana or two!
Iconic Picnic Spots
For picturesque picnics, head to Brightlingsea Harbour, Hedingham Castle, Hylands Estate, the Museum of Chelmsford, Chelmsford Cathedral, or the Gibberd Garden in Harlow. These iconic locations offer the perfect backdrop for alfresco dining with local produce.
Vineyard Vistas
Savour a glass of wine at Saffron Grange vineyard near Saffron Walden or New Hall vineyard near Chelmsford. Both venues welcome picnickers and provide the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon among the vines.
Seaside Strolls
Join the Sunshine Coast’s six-mile picnic walk from Walton to Frinton on 24th June. Bring your own picnic and enjoy the scenic Greensward at Frinton.
Summer-Long Picnics
Dedham Vale vineyard offers wine tasting tours paired with specially prepared picnics. Tiptree tearooms provide takeaway cream teas, ideal for picnics and special occasions. Down Hall and Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester offer delightful picnic menus in their beautiful grounds.
Cultural Delights
Experience the Essex Summer Opera Festival at Layer Marney from 17-22 June, or join the St Osyth Priory Picnic on 29 September for a day of live music, art, and community spirit.
Councillor Mark Durham, Chair of Visit Essex, encourages everyone to embrace the picnic spirit, support local producers, and enjoy Essex’s outstanding attractions. With Hedingham and Chambers buses on hand, getting to these picnic spots has never been easier.
Image: Unsplash
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