Snow is falling, children are playing – and two care homes in Colchester are opening their doors to help combat loneliness in the community this... more >

Silversprings Care Home, Tenpenny Hill, Thorrington, Colchester CO7 8JG

Tue 19 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Basildon)

Christmas Meeting and Tomex Quiz. Meeting of Basildon Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit. Membership subscription plus £1 attendance fee..... more >

The Place (Pitsea Leisure Centre), Northlands Pavement, Pitsea SS13 3DU

Tue 19 Dec 23

Discover Clubs and Organisations in Essex

The Jazz Duo Get Festive!

Laura Wyatt & Darrel Mayhead With Laura Wyatt on vocals and Darrel Mayhead on guitar, The Jazz Duo return to get you feeling festive as the final... more >

Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester CO2 7AT

Sun 17 Dec 23

Now That's What I Call A Christmas Brunch..... with EAST 17!!

Looking for the perfect Christmas Office Party, Christmas Girls Day Out or just an excuse to celebrate Christmas.....here it is ..... more >

The Merchant, 125-127 High St, Brentwood CM14 4RX

Sat 16 Dec 23

Farmer Christmas event

Visit winter Wellgate to see our special Santa as Farmer Christmas, meet the animals, join the farmer elves in the toy workshop, collect your elves... more >

Wellgate Community Farm Collier Row Road Romford RM5 2ER

Sat 16 Dec 23

Christmas Market & Craft Fair

An event for all the family, Over 25 stalls showcasing Local Artisans, Makers & Small Businesses. Free Entry, Disabled Access & Dog Friendly... more >

St Laurence Church Hall, Corbet’s Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB

Sat 16 Dec 23

Chelmsford Singers Christmas Concert Dec 17th

Feeling Christmassy? The Chelmsford Singers, ably conducted by James Davy and accompanied by Sam Bristow, will be presenting their Christmas concert..... more >

St Michael’s Church, Galleywood, Chelmsford CM2 8PW

Sat 16 Dec 23

A Christmas Concert

Come and join us for our Christmas Concert when you will be entertained by members of Chelmsford Male Voice Choir and members of Trinity Music and... more >

Trinity Methodist Church, Rainsford Road, Chelmsford CM1 2XB

Fri 15 Dec 23

A Not-So-Silent Night

When disaster strikes and Santa loses all memory of Christmas, the story must be retold…! Headgate favourites Miles of Music rekindle the meaning of..... more >

Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester CO2 7AT

Fri 15 Dec 23

Designer Pop Up For Charity

Christmas shopping sorted! Don’t miss out on Havens Hospices' exclusive 2-day Designer Pop-up store with all profits going to charity... more >

31 High Street Brentwood Essex CM14 4BX

Fri 15 Dec 23

Epping, Essex Xmas Party for Single & Couples 35s-60s+ - Fri 15 Dec

EPPING, ESSEX OVER 35s CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR SINGLES & COUPLES - FRI 15 DEC Join us for a lively and festive evening at Theydon Bois Golf Club!... more >

Theydon Bois Golf Club, Theydon Road, Epping CM16 4EH

Fri 15 Dec 23

Loughton Astronomical Society

Dr Martin Braddock: The Rise, Fall and Renaissance of Artificial Gravity. The Loughton Astronomical Society is the home of all things astronomical in..... more >

Scout Hall, Loughton Lane next to the Cricket Club. CM16 7EJ

Thu 14 Dec 23

Army Benevolent Fund Essex Christmas Concert 2023

The Army Benevolent Fund’s Essex Committee are delighted to host the annual much-loved Essex Christmas Concert... more >

St Botolph’s Church St Botolph’s Street Colchester CO2 7EE

Wed 13 Dec 23

The Christmas Tales

When a girl receives a book for Christmas, rather than the latest iPhone, her initial horror turns to wonder as the stories come to life and whisk... more >

Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester CO2 7AT

Tue 12 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Chelmsford)

My Favourite Items (Members). Meeting of Chelmsford & District Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit... more >

Christ Church United Reform Church, 164 New London Road, Chelmsford CM2 0AW

Tue 12 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Epping Forest)

Details and date/time of this meeting were not available at the time of writing. Please contact society before travelling... more >

The Dining Hall, Roding Valley High School, Alderton Hill (entry from Brook Road), Loughton IG10 3JA

Tue 12 Dec 23

The Arts Society Havering - A Tudor Christmas by Siobham Clarke

We might assume that our modern Christmas owes much to the Victorians. In fact, many of our favourite Christmas traditions date back much further... more >

New Windmill Hall Upminster Essex RM12 6LX

Tue 12 Dec 23

Tony Stockwell - Psychic Medium

The popular star of TV’s 6ixth Sense, Street Psychic, Psychic Private Eyes and Psychic Academy, Tony Stockwell demonstrates his belief that those who... more >

Palace Theatre SS0 9LA

Tue 12 Dec 23

Clacton-on-Sea care home opens its doors for a merry good time

Snow is falling, children are playing – and a Clacton-on-Sea care home is opening its doors to help combat loneliness in the community this festive... more >

Haven Lodge Care Home, Reckitts Cl, Holland Rd, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 6HB

Tue 12 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Rayleigh)

Christmas Social & Competition. Meeting of Rayleigh & District Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit... more >

Parish Rooms, Rectory Garth, Hockley Road, Rayleigh SS6 8BA

Mon 11 Dec 23

Ingatestone Christmas Market

The event is organised and run by Rotary Club of Ingatestone and Ingatestone & Fryerning Community Association CIO As well as holding an event for... more >

Ingatestone & Fryerning Community Centre, 7 High Street Ingatestone Essex CM4 9ED

Sun 10 Dec 23

Santa's Grotto as part of The Highams Park Christmas Fayre

KIDS COME AND VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO As part of... more >

At the Signal Walk by Tesco Superstore by the ’UP’ escalator 405 Larkshall Road, Highams Park, London E4 9EF

Sun 10 Dec 23

Essex Retro Football Show

Calling all football fans! The Essex Retro Football Show returns to Loughton in December for a Christmas special edition... more >

The Loughton Club, 8 Station Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 4NX

Sun 10 Dec 23

Essex Police Band Christmas Concert

A Christmas Concert by Essex Police Band, featuring Dance Projection dancers, GW Primary School and the Village Choir. Licensed bar. more >

Great Waltham Church, The Village, Great Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 1AR

Sat 9 Dec 23

Christmas Tree Festival

Great Waltham village's annual Christmas Tree Festival set in the heart of the village in the beautiful church... more >

Great Waltham Church, The Village, Great Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 1AR

Sat 9 Dec 23

Enchanted Christmas Forest Community Trail

THE ELVES HAVE LOST THE PRESENTS, what are we going to do??? Tickets are NOW ON SALE for the Rookery View Hall Enchanted Christmas Forest event..... more >

Rookery View Hall. Watlington Road, Benfleet , Essex , SS7 5dt SS7 5DT

Sat 9 Dec 23

Craft Fair

Lots of stalls with wonderful gifts and presents to suit everyone from babies to grandparents. Free admission. Family Friendly. Disabled access... more >

Tendring District Scout Centre, Valley Road, Clacton on Sea, Essex CO15 6NA

Sat 9 Dec 23

My Dancing Day

The main focus of this programme is on Mary and Jesus - Mary in the form of the Magnificat and Jesus as spoken through his own... more >

The Abbey Church, Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey EN9 1DG

Sat 9 Dec 23

Tina Turner Tribute Night - Witham

Tina Turner Tribute Night, Witham Town Football Club Come and join us for another fantastic evening of live entertainment featuring Sass Brown as... more >

Spa Rd, Witham, Essex United Kingdom CM8 1UN

Sat 9 Dec 23

Vivaldi Four Seasons at Christmas

Enjoy an outstanding musical evening in the run-up to Christmas with a performance of Vivaldi's timeless classic, The Four Seasons, in the... more >

Chelmsford Cathedral, New Street CM1 1EH

Fri 8 Dec 23

Chigwell, Essex 35s-60s+ Xmas Party for Singles & Couples - Fri 8 Dec

Join us for a fun-filled evening at the CHIGWELL, Essex 35s to 60s Plus Christmas Party for Singles & Couples on Friday, December 8th!... more >

Chigwell Hall, 159 High Road, Chigwell IG7 6BD

Fri 8 Dec 23

AstroKyds - Junior section of the Loughton Astronomical Society

Each month starts with all the news about Space and Astronomy.: We always have a Christmas Quiz and some gentle games.... more >

St Mary’s Church Hall, Coppice Row/Piercing Hill crossroads CM16 7ER

Fri 8 Dec 23

Loughton Astronomical Society

LAS Members: Christmas Quiz hosted by Ken Harrison. The Loughton Astronomical Society is the home of all things astronomical in West Essex... more >

Scout Hall, Loughton Lane next to the Cricket Club. CM16 7EJ

Thu 7 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Witham)

Christmas Social & a few pages display. Meeting of Witham Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit. Membership subscription payable for continued..... more >

Spring Lodge Community Centre, Powers Hall End, Witham CM8 2HE

Thu 7 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Clacton)

Pre-Christmas Buffet. Meeting of Clacton Philatelic Society. All philatelists welcome to visit. Membership subscription payable for continued..... more >

Clacton Indoor Bowls Club, Valley Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 6NA

Wed 6 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Benfleet)

Christmas Social & Member’s Displays. Meeting of Benfleet & District Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit... more >

Jubilee Hall, St Barnabas Church, Church Road, Hadleigh, Benfleet SS7 2EJ

Wed 6 Dec 23

Barn dance club

We are the Grand Ceilidh Club. Come and dance with us at our barn dance with live music every Wednesday in Southend. more >

Royal Naval Association, 73-79 East Street, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6LQ

Wed 6 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Basildon)

Subject to be advised. Meeting of Basildon Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit. Membership subscription plus £1 attendance fee payable for..... more >

The Place (Pitsea Leisure Centre), Northlands Pavement, Pitsea SS13 3DU

Mon 4 Dec 23

Stamp Club Meeting (Frinton)

Christmas Celebrations. Meeting of Frinton & District Philatelic Society. All welcome to visit. Membership subscription payable for continued..... more >

Room 5, Frinton Community Centre, Soken House, The Triangle, Frinton-on-Sea CO13 0AU

Mon 4 Dec 23

Christmas with The Bel Canto Sopranos

The Bel Canto Sopranos are back with a festive afternoon filled with stunning Christmas songs, well known Christmas carols and an added bit of... more >

The Public Hall Witham, Collingwood Road, Witham CM8 2DY

Sun 3 Dec 23

Santa Fun Run 5k

This year we are aiming high with our Santa Fun Run by asking our supporters to raise enough to fund our Festive season... more >

Central Park, Chelmsford CM2 0RW

Sun 3 Dec 23

Santa Fun Run 2023

Put on your festive fancy dress and join hundreds of Santas in Chelmsford’s Central Park for Farleigh Hospice’s annual Santa Fun Run... more >

Central Park, Chelmsford CM2 0RW

Sun 3 Dec 23

Christmas Tree Festival - 100 Years Celebration

Upminster Methodist Choir will be hosting their Christmas Tree Festival to celebrate their 100th Year... more >

2 Hall Lane, Upminster RM14 1AE

Sun 3 Dec 23

Carols Through Time - The Telling & Colchester Early Music

Candlelit concert of traditional & medieval carols from around Europe featuring a potent mix of all-time favourites and magical unknown gems, as... more >

Saint Andrew’s Church, Church Lane, Marks Tey, Colchester CO6 1LW

Sun 3 Dec 23

Santa Fun Run 2023

The Santa Fun Run, now in its 14th consecutive year, is the ideal way to kick off your festive season and get fit at the same time, with friends,... more >

Colchester Castle Park High Street Colchester Essex CO1 1UG

Sun 3 Dec 23

Christmas Fair & Tree Festival

Christmas Tree Festival Saturday 2nd December 11am-4pm There will be Santa's Grotto, Gifts, Food, Games, Dressing Up, Jewellery, Crafts &... more >

Christ Church URC 164 New London Road, Chelmsford CM2 0AW

Sat 2 Dec 23

With Christmas on the Horizon

A concert of Seasonal music by the New Essex Choir more >

Holy Trinity Church, Mossford Green, Barkingside IG6 2BX

Sat 2 Dec 23

Vulcan Restoration Trust Christmas Event & Buffet

We are delighted to welcome as guest speaker at our 2023 Christmas Event & Buffer aviation historian Dr Tony Redding... more >

Hawkwell Village Hall, Hockley SS5 4EH

Sat 2 Dec 23

Epping Christmas Market

Come along to our Christmas Market this Saturday. There's lots going on with entertainment, food, gifts, crafts, Santa (at the Fire Station),..... more >

High Street Epping CM16

Sat 2 Dec 23

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Things to do around Essex

Essex, a county in the East of England, offers a diverse range of activities for a memorable day out. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or family-friendly adventures, there's something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best things to do in Essex:

1. Colchester Zoo:
- Colchester Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. With over 270 species set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes, it's constantly developing and has won many awards for its conservation work. Explore enclosures like the walk-through butterfly enclosure and the Rainbow Lorikeet area. Don't miss the state-of-the-art "Bears of the Rising Sun" enclosure housing sun bears Jo Jo and Srey Ya. Encounter Komodo Dragons, white rhinos, giraffes, and more at the "Kingdom of the Wild" exhibit¹.

2. Tours of Colchester:
- Join historical tours of Colchester, Britain's oldest recorded town. Explore its rich heritage, including Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and charming streets. Visit the Colchester Castle, a Norman keep with fascinating exhibits. Don't miss the historic walking tours and outdoor escape games.

3. Explore Southend-on-Sea:
- Head to Southend-on-Sea for a classic British seaside experience. Enjoy the sandy beaches, stroll along the promenade, and visit the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world. Explore Adventure Island amusement park and try the thrilling rides.

4. Discover Green Island Gardens:
- Green Island Gardens in Ardleigh is a hidden gem. Explore the enchanting gardens, featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and tranquil ponds. It's a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle.

5. Partyman World of Play:
- If you're with kids, visit Partyman World of Play in Basildon. This indoor play center offers slides, ball pits, and climbing frames. It's perfect for a fun-filled family day out.

6. Bridge End Garden in Saffron Walden:
- Bridge End Garden in Saffron Walden is a restored Victorian garden. Admire the colorful flowerbeds, ornamental hedges, and historic features. It's a tranquil spot for a leisurely walk.

7. Imperial Bird of Prey Academy:
- Experience the thrill of falconry at the Imperial Bird of Prey Academy in Billericay. Get up close to majestic birds of prey and learn about their behavior and conservation. Enjoy flying displays and photo opportunities.

8. Go Bananas:
- For active fun, visit Go Bananas in Colchester. This indoor soft play center has slides, climbing frames, and a separate area for toddlers. It's a great option for families with young children.

9. Thames & Medway Estuary Helicopter Tour:
- Take to the skies on a helicopter tour from Southend-on-Sea. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Thames and Medway Estuary, spotting landmarks from above. It's a unique way to explore the coastline.

10. Historic Walking Tour of Colchester:
- Join a guided walking tour of historic Colchester. Learn about its Roman past, medieval architecture, and fascinating stories. Combine it with a visit to the local farmers' market for a complete experience.

Remember to check opening hours and any booking requirements for these attractions. Whether you're interested in wildlife, history, or family fun, Essex promises an enjoyable and diverse day out!