Chelmsford, Essex, is situated in the northeast of London. Whether you are planning to go for coach trips or wander the place on your own, below are a few attractions that you should visit when in Chelmsford.
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Hylands Estate
In 1966, the Chelmsford City Council stepped in to save this Neoclassical estate from falling into disrepair. Today, the grounds of the house are used for various events, including festivals, children’s days, and markets.
The restoration work on Hylands House lasted up to 2005. Since then, it has been opened for usage in both public gatherings and as a venue for luxurious weddings.
Chelmsford Cathedral
In 1914, when the Chelmsford Diocese was established, the Church of St. Mary was elevated to the role of the city’s cathedral.
This church was consecrated around the beginning of the 13th century. It was rebuilt in the 1400s to 1500s. In the 19th century, some repairs needed to be made to the nave and chancel. The place is rich in history that it’s worth a visit.
Chelmsford Museum
Chelmsford, Essex’s county town, boasts an excellent town museum. The museum is at the Oakland House, a Victorian estate that once belonged to the business magnate Charles Pertwee. It also features a unique neo-Romanesque campanile, which is also quite remarkable.
Central Park
This park is located in the heart of Chelmsford. The park also hugs the windy banks of the River Can. The park includes a natural preserve, pastures, meadows, and a massive lake with swans and geese.
There’s also a garden dedicated to the memory of those who served in the military.
Essex Police Museum
This museum is situated at Essex Police Headquarters, next to Chelmsford Prison. The museum takes you on a trip through more than 150 years of law enforcement and justice in the county of Essex.
Many displays take visitors back in time to the Victorian era and the 20th century.
Shire Hall
The neoclassical courthouse known as the Shire Hall was finished in 1791. It is widely considered the most attractive secular architecture in Chelmsford.
Take some time to admire the pediment and the four Ionic columns found on New Street. You can find the three bas-reliefs symbolizing Mercy, Wisdom, and Justice in the spaces between the columns.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
This Royal Horticultural Society garden is a must-see, especially during the summers.
It’s easy to get lost in wonder due to the seemingly endless delights such as a courtyard garden, herbaceous borders, and a garden with cactuses and succulents. There are also water features like the ornamental lake.
Ingatestone Hall
This Tudor house is 5 miles from Chelmsford and still belongs to Sir William Petre’s family. William Petre served as Secretary of State for all of the Tudor monarchs, beginning with Henry VIII and continuing through Elizabeth I.
Tudor houses are distinguished by their complex and elongated chimney pots.
Jump Street
Jump Street, a trampoline park east of Chelmsford, is notable for its ingenuity and size. This large warehouse is covered in trampolines for energy-intensive yet safe enjoyment for youngsters and adults.
Civic Theatre
Chelmsford’s largest theatre, the Civic Centre, was refitted in 2016. It now offers a seating capacity of 504. Chelmsford’s Civic Theatre also offers activity days and kid-friendly shows during school breaks.
Wrapping It All Up
Chelmsford, Essex, is a unique place with plenty to offer for locals and tourists. The tourist attractions above are only a few of the many spots to visit. In fact, it’s easy to get lost in the options. Hence, it may be best to opt for south east coaches to make your trip as convenient as possible.
