Local Attractions
There are plenty of unique and interesting Essex attractions to discover when you stay at The White Hart. Visit the nearby towns of Colchester and Braintree, take a distillery tour and tasting at the English Spirit Distillery, brush up on your Magna Carta history at Hedingham Castle and more.
English Spirit Master Distilleries
Less than a mile from The White Hart, our friends at the English Spirit Distillery distil the UK’s widest variety of spirits and liqueurs under one roof, including World’s Best Vodka, Gin, Rum and more. You can book a tour and tasting experience at the distillery for £20 per person, and you’ll spot some of their products behind the bar at The White Hart too!
Colne Valley Railway
Whether you’re a train enthusiast or not, the Colne Valley Railway is an Essex attraction not to be missed. Take a ride on the fully restored demonstration train. Book a driving experience on your choice of steam, diesel or HST train. There’s a miniature railway you can try out too, and a model railway to discover.
Colchester Zoo
A must visit Essex attraction if you’ve got little ones in tow (and even if you haven’t!) Colchester Zoo is set over 60 acres of parkland and lakes and has over 155 species to spot. For a unique experience, why not book to be a zookeeper for a day, shadow a keeper or enrol in the kids zoo academy?
Markshall Estate
The estate spans over 2,350 acres of land and boasts species of tree from all over the world in the world-class arboretum, a magnificent walled garden and more. Take a stroll in the ancient woodland, explore the incredible plant life and then refuel with tea and cake in Honey’s Tearoom. If you’re visiting this Essex attraction with children, they will love den building in the woods and play areas.
Hedingham Castle
This Essex attraction is one of the best-preserved Norman keeps in England and famed for being the location where King John was forced to sign the Magna Carta by rebel barons. Retrace the footsteps the rebels took from Caste Clare with this walking route.
Find out more
For more information on Essex attractions, go to the Visit Essex website