Twixmas Activities in Essex 2024

Those few days between Christmas and New Years Eve can feel longer than the whole year put together! To help the time past and make the most of the festive season, we’re here to help you find things to do in Essex this Twixmas.

Boxing Day Meal Out

After all your hard work cooking for the family on Christmas Day, you deserve to treat yourself to a Boxing Day meal out in Essex! Head to The Rayleigh Arms in Terling, a beautifully restored Georgian pub and proud recipient of the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award 2024. Their festive menu features traditional turkey with all the trimmings alongside delicious classics like pan-fried seabass and hearty vegetarian chili. Alternatively, head to the Stoke-by-Nayland Resort for a delicious three-course Boxing Day Carvery Lunch. At just £42.95 per person and £20 per child, you won’t want to miss out! Friends and family who are visiting can also stay overnight in one of their 80 beautiful rooms.

Winter Walks in Essex

After indulging over Christmas, a breath of fresh air might be just what you need! We are blessed with some wonderful walks in Essex, with its 350 miles of coastline that offer the perfect setting for a rejuvenating beach walk—ideal for lifting your spirits and burning off extra energy. You can also explore charming market towns and villages, such as Maldon with its scenic promenade, or Finchingfield, known for its picturesque duck pond. Markshall is always a wonderful day out for the whole family - explore the world-class Arboretum and unique landscape that stretches over 2,350 acres. Kids will love Percy's Play & Picnic Paddock, and don't forget to grab a bite to eat at the Orchard Kitchen Cafe. For something wilder, grab your wellies and venture into the ancient beauty of Epping Forest, rich in history and teeming with local wildlife. For more winter walks, read our blog!

Shop the Boxing Day Sales

Head out shopping in Essex and snag some fantastic deals! Starting on 26th December, the post-Christmas sales are the perfect excuse for a little retail therapy. Essex boasts plenty of shopping destinations, including Lakeside Shopping Centre, where you’ll find over 250 stores featuring top brands like Nike, Carvela, Calvin Klein, and Jo Malone. Their Christmas Destination at Lakeside attraction is open until 5th January - enjoy ice skating, rides, and great food and drink! For more great finds, head to Chelmsford, home to a mix of popular High Street brands. After a successful shopping spree, unwind at Tiptree Tea Rooms on Bond Street. Treat yourself to a delicious Goats Cheese and Tiptree Honey Roasted Vegetable panini or a sticky slice of cake — perfect for restoring your energy!

Lose Yourself in History, Culture & Music

If you’re looking for things to do in Essex this December that involves a bit of history and culture, then there’s plenty of activities for you to choose from. In the north of the county, Brightlingsea Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into regional history. Open on weekends, it showcases artefacts and stories spanning World War I, shipbuilding, oysters, and fishing. For those interested in genealogy, the Essex Records Office in Chelmsford is a treasure trove for tracing your family tree! Art enthusiasts will love Firstsite in Colchester, an international gallery and creative community hub – don’t miss their screenings of the Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker until 27th December. For a lively evening, head to Chelmsford Theatre Studio for Christmas Jazz: After Party. With a live band led by Larry, Zak, and the crew, the event promises a nightclub-style atmosphere and an unforgettable night out, running from 27th to 29th December.

Still time for a Panto!

Whether pantomimes make you cheer, boo, or hiss, Essex has plenty to offer this festive season. At the Mercury Theatre in Colchester, The New Adventures of Peter Pan promises laughter, stunning sets, and dazzling costumes. The Mercury is a fully accessible venue, ensuring everyone can enjoy the show. Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion presents Jack and the Beanstalk, with TV personality Rylan Clark taking the stage as The Spirit of the Beans. Meanwhile, at Charter Hall in Colchester, Jake Quickenden—former X Factor contestant and winner of Dancing on Ice 2018—stars as Buddy in Buddy the Elf: The Musical. For a more enchanting experience, The Owl Who Came for Christmas at Southend’s Palace Theatre offers a heartwarming tale of love, kindness, and festive magic. Based on the beloved book, this colourful production combines songs and puppetry as it follows Rosie’s journey to find her way back to the forest. Perfect for audiences aged one and up, it’s a delightful treat for young families.

Discover more things to do in Essex this December over on our What’s On page.