Chelmsford
Chelmsford lies north east of London within its commuter belt, just 30 miles from the capital. It is in fact the county town of Essex, attracting commuters from the City and Docklands areas due to its 30-minute commute time. In 2012 it was granted city status itself to mark Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee.
In the city centre two shopping mall packed with household high street names are accompanied by exciting, quirky independent boutiques. There are also plenty of places to put your feet up and grab a bite to eat or enjoy a tea or coffee. Bars and pubs offer up something a little stronger alongside local craft beers. Impressive architecture gives the city its character – with grand stone buildings and Victorian and Tudor houses.
There are a number of outstanding attractions to enjoy during your visit – if cricket’s your thing, why not catch a game at the iconic County Ground, home to Essex’s County Cricket Club? If you love to learn more about bygone eras explore the area’s history at the Chelmsford Museum or the city’s magnificent cathedral. If you’re into fishing, the Fishing Lodge up at Hanningfield Reservoir – the UK’s premier ‘any fishing’ trout fishery offering activities for experienced and fledgling anglers.
On the outskirts of Chelmsford there’s plenty to see and do. RHS Garden Hyde Hall is famed nationwide for its gorgeous sweeping panoramas and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Meanwhile the beautiful Grade II listed Hylands House stands proud overlooking 500 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens. It’s also a venue for year-round events including concerts, festivals and crafts fairs. If you’re into horse racing, a visit to Chelmsford City Racecourse, UK’s newest – is well worth planning in. Built in 2008 it is one of just three floodlit courses in the country. Music fan? RiZE Festival comes to the city, one of the UK’s biggest summer music fests.