Top 10 Icons of Essex

We kicked off 2025 with our very first Icons of Essex Survey, in which we asked the public to vote for your favourite Essex Icon. We received over 1,600 entries, and the votes are now in. Read on to find out the Top 10 Icons of Essex!
 

10. The Gardens of Easton Lodge

These beautiful gardens found in Little Easton, Dunmow, have taken the number 10 spot in our survey. Ran and maintained by wonderful volunteers, their main season runs every year from April to October, but they are open in February for visitors to view the charming snowdrops. The gardens have a fascinating history, dating back over 400 years – the most renowned owner being the Countess of Warwick, known for being the mistress of Edward VII. She commissioned designer Harold Peto back in 1902 to create the elegant gardens, but after the house was demolished in 1950, the gardens were forgotten and neglected. Fast-forward to 1993, when the restoration project began to reinstate life into the abandoned grounds. Today, the 23 acres offer a peaceful charm for visitors, including homemade refreshments, craft activities for the youngsters, and wonderful open days.

9. Hedingham Castle

Coming in at number 9 on our Icons list, we have Hedingham Castle, just a short way from the city of Colchester. Hedingham Castle was built around 900 years ago, this is one of the best-preserved Norman keeps in England. Visitors will instantly be charmed by the unique beauty of the structure, as well as the formal gardens, woodlands, and beautiful lake surrounding it. An ideal place to explore, set up a picnic, and immerse yourself in history.  Their events calendar is abundant with exciting jousts, theatre productions, car shows, outdoor cinema screenings and much more! If you’re looking to tie the knot, Hedingham Castle is a popular wedding venue in Essex, as well as a great place to stay for your next visit to the county.

8. Layer Marney Tower

It wouldn’t be a list of Icons of Essex if we didn’t have the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in the UK now, would it? Layer Marney Tower lands its place at number 8, standing at 80 feet tall! Also located in the Colchester District, the tower stands by the river Blackwater with beautiful grounds, opening its gates to the public at selected times throughout the year. Construction of the tower was begun by a close friend of Henry VIII, Lord Henry Marney, in the 1520s. Today, the family-run venue hosts many events throughout the year included guided tours by the owners, lamb feeding in the spring, fetes and fairs, live music, theatre, and exciting re-enactments! If you’re looking to stay, book a weekend of glamping on the Layer Marney Tower grounds. The tower also makes for a breathtaking wedding venue.

7. Kevledon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker

The Secret Nuclear Bunker at Kelvedon Hatch has played a significant role in history, an impressive three times! The first being the role as an RAF ROTOR Station, before a brief stint as a civil defence centre – however, most of the time the bunker has been active as a Regional Government HQ. After the Cold War, the bunker was no longer required by the Government and was purchased in 1992 by the Parrish family in a closed bid public auction. Today, the bunker is a great attraction that hosts Nuclear High Ropes – the biggest high ropes course in Essex, as well as Nuclear Races and bunker tours. It is available for hiring for events and occasions, as well as for use as a filming location.

6. RHS Garden Hyde Hall

A tranquil escape just a short drive from the bustling city of Chelmsford, RHS Garden Hyde Hall is a fantastic day out for the family to reconnect with nature. Meander around the five different gardens. The Dry Garden is a stunning collection of drought-resistant plants, whilst the Hilltop Garden is a vibrant display of colour-themed herbaceous borders paired with lush green lawns. The Global Growth Vegetable Garden is a celebration of edible plants from around the world; Clover Hill has sweeping borders with radiant autumnal hues, and the Courtyard Gardens consist of a blend of traditional and contemporary design layouts. Make a day of it and stop by the Clover Café for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat, or enjoy a meal in the Gardeners Rest restaurant. Pop into the Garden Centre to browse their range of plants, tools and so much more! RHS Garden Hyde Hall host exciting events throughout the year, so don’t forget to check out what’s on before you go.

5. Colchester Zoo

The perfect day out for all ages, we’d be questioning the public if Colchester Zoo had not made this list! Home to around 180 species with beautiful habitats mimicking terrains and climates from across the globe. See enchanting elephants and gigantic giraffes in their Africa plain, Kingdom of the Wild, visit the Komodo Dragons in their humid home, walk through the Wallaby Walkout and see the creatures up close, and more. There are a number of Animal Encounters taking place throughout the day – watching a training session with the sea lions or feeding time with the wolves – so be sure to check the timetable before and during your visit! Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the outdoor seating areas or grab a bite on site from one of their many vendors.  Find something to take home and remember your day by in the Outpost Gift Shop before you head home. If you’re looking for a gift or birthday idea for a special someone, Colchester Zoo offers amazing experiences and animal adoptions.

4. Lakeside Shopping Centre

Shop till you drop at Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock. Whether you need new clothes, toys for the kids, appliances, or anything in between, there’s a shop for it at Lakeside! Browse top high street stores, designer brands, and electronics. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to grab a bite to eat – burgers, tacos, noodles, sushi, pizza – name a dish and you’ll find it in the food court! Lakeside isn’t just a place to shop and eat – there are some amazing activities and attractions to experience. Challenge your friend to axe throwing at Boom Battle Bar, a game of mini golf at Puttshack, or head to Nickelodeon Adventure during the school holidays for a memorable day out. The Upside Down House is an absolute must-do activity for some fun pics of the family! Alternatively, put your problem solving skills to the test at Escape Hunt, or burn off some energy at Flip Out. During the warmer months, why not book a Skuna Boat or take on the Aqua Park? 

3. Colchester Castle

The largest Norman Keep in Europe has made it to the top 3 Icons of Essex! Colchester Castle was built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, back when Colchester was the first Roman capital of Britain. The castle measures at 46m by 33.5m, and today houses a fantastic museum with international archaeological collections that span 2,500 years of history. The museum features amazing interactive displays and exhibits – visitors can truly immerse themselves in history by having a go at building a Norman archway or steering a Roman chariot! Colchester Castle Museum is a must visit for the entire family.

2. Barges at Topsail Charters

Our 2^nd greatest Icon of Essex as chosen by the public is the vintage sailing barges at Topsail Charters! Their sailing barges ‘Thistle’ (built in 1895) and ‘Hydrogen’ (built in 1906) were originally part of the East Coast’s traditional 2,000 cargo vessel fleet – today, only a handful remain. Join a public cruise or make a group booking for up to 50 people and choose from their selection of catered river cruises! Their Two Island River Cruise is a relaxing trip from Maldon Quay, past Northey Island, to Osea, and then back. Or, enjoy the Secrets of the Blackwater Day Sail exploring the river Blackwater. If you’re looking for a great experience, the Hands-on Day Sail is an opportunity to get stuck in with the crew, helping to set sail and take the wheel. Keep an eye out for the Cream Tea and Lunch cruises for special occasions!

1. Southend Pier & Railway

The public have spoken – our Top Icon of Essex 2025 is Southend Pier! Known as the longest pleasure pier in the world, Southend Pier stretches for 1.33 miles. Many locals and visitors have enjoyed the beautiful walk down the pier, taking in the coastal views, but if you’re not looking to get your steps in, then hop on board the charming Pier train! The train leave the Pier Head at quarter to and quarter past each hour until 15 minutes before close. Once you arrive at the end of the Pier, there’s plenty to enjoy! Take silly selfies at the Wacky Wall of Mirrors, snap a pic at the Signpost, or visit the RNLI Station. For fishing enthusiasts, bring your bait and rods along to fish from the Pier Stem or Pier Head – a wide range of fish can be caught from the Pier! If you’re feeling peckish or in the mood for a sweet treat, there are a range of food outlets on the Pier for you to enjoy, whether you’re in the mood for fish and chips or ice cream. The Tea with the Tide restaurant was once the set of Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast! 

Thank you to everyone who took part in our Icons of Essex Survey – are the results what you predicted? Check out the Top 50 Icons of Essex here.

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