Things To Do in Essex This May Bank Holiday 2019
Struggling to find things to do this May bank holiday? We have a few ideas for you...
By Emily Mertens
May 23, 2019
Make the most of the sun during the last May bank holiday in Essex with these Exquisite top picks.
There are so many exciting things to do in Essex, from enjoying an indulgent gourmet meal, to chilling out in a stunningly-decorated beach hut. Take a look at these top spots in Essex to spend quality time with friends or family for the bank holiday.
For things to do with the kids in Essex, take a look at some of our family favourites.
We also have an exclusive offer for readers visiting Garrards in Leigh-on-Sea, enjoy 10% off your bill - read more below to find out how to redeem this offer.
Enjoy Fun Dining at The Royal Hotel, Southend-on-Sea
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: Treat yourself to a sublime dining atmosphere at The Royal Hotel in Southend-on-Sea. With historic surroundings, an array of food choices and a coastal location, this venue hosts the perfect day or evening out for families, friends and couples alike. Afternoon tea is also on the menu! For those who don't want the night to end, delve underground into the Dr Legba's basement cocktail bar for a range of decadent and unique tipples - the head mixologist is sure to make you a concoction to match your expectations.
Where: 1 High St, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1JE
When: Open throughout the bank holiday weekend
How much: Check the menu for food and drink prices
More info: theroyalhotelsouthend.com
Call: 01702 662579
Afternoon Tea at The Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: There aren't many places in Essex that boast coastal views along with a stunning afternoon tea - and that's what makes The Cliff's Pavilion so special. With shimmering Estuary views, delicate finger sandwiches, hot scones and an array of family-favourite sweet treats, an afternoon tea is the perfect way to spend this May bank holiday in Essex. And why not pair the British classic with a theatre or comedy show? Check out what's on at the Southend theatre on their website by clicking here.
Where: Station Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7RA
When: Between 2pm - 4pm, Tuesday - Sunday every week
How much: £16 per person
More info: southendtheatres.org.uk
Call: 01702 667621
Taste of Spring Offer at Galvin Green Man
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: Indulge in a succulent four-course 'taste of spring' menu in the best pub in Essex, Galvin Green Man. Using seasonal ingredients, the menu offers something for everyone, from smoked cod to pork rump - see the full menu here. This special offer includes the four courses, as well as a glass of Champagne, for £32. Enjoy the fine weather with an accompaniment of great food and a stunning location.
Where: Main Road, Howe Street, Great Waltham CM3 1BG
When: Available until June 21st
How much: £32 for four courses and Champagne
More info: galvingreenman.com
Call: 01245808136
10% Off Your Bill at Garrards, Leigh
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: Calling all burger-fanatics, Garrards in Leigh-on-Sea are the ultimate indulgent food spot to sort out all of those good food cravings. From juicy packed burgers, succulent bbq pork ribs and melt-in-the-mouth steak, this is the destination for meat-enthusiasts. Exquisite are offering guests 10% off the bill - all you have to do is print out this page: here, cut out the voucher and follow the instructions.
Where: 136 Broadway, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AA
When: 10% off voucher is valid until 14th June 2019
How much: Burgers start at £8.50, read the menu for more prices
More info: garrards.co
Call: 01702 662482
Enjoy Fish and Chips, Southend Pier
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: A few weeks ago, we revealed that after 14 years fish and chips have made a return to the menu at the end of Southend's famous pier - read the full article here. A walk down the longest pier in the world is a must-do for everyone in Essex, and now that you can enjoy a seaside favourite at the end of it makes it all that more enjoyable. For some of the best fish and chips in Essex, read our favourites.
Where: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EL
When: Open every day in season
How much: N/A
More info: echo-news.co.uk
Hire a Beach Hut, Mersea Island
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: Hiring a decorative beach hut on Mersea Island is a must-do for families in Essex, it provides a secluded area for a whole family to enjoy whilst taking in the wonders of the seaside in front of you (it's also a great photo opportunity). Exquisite are a huge fan of luxurious beach huts, we even compiled a list of the best in Essex to make it easier to choose!
Where: Mersea Island
When: Available to hire all day in season
How much: From £70 for Betty (pictured above)
More info: thelittlebeachhutcompany.co.uk
Head To Clacton Pavilion Water Park
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: Clacton Pavilion recently opened a brand new extensive water park, perfect for family trips this May half term and bank holiday - read our full story on the new water park here. With nice weather predicted for the weekend, what better thing to do in Essex this bank holiday than splash around with your little ones at the new park?
Where: Marine Parade West CO15 1QX Clacton-on-Sea
When: Open until September 2019
How much: All day pass: £9.99, 1-12 years: £6.99 per session, 0-12 months: Free
More info: clactonpavilion.co.uk/clacton-pavilion-family-fun-park
Barleylands Charity Food Fayre
THINGS TO DO IN ESSEX MAY BANK HOLIDAY: For families wanting a flavour explosion this May bank holiday, Barleylands are hosting the ultimate food festival. From juicy American burgers, classic fish and chips, Caribbean BBQ's and much more, there is plenty to choose from for all food lovers. Families can also enjoy a Slime Party. With all money raised going to St Lukes Hospice, there's no better event to attend in Essex this May bank holiday.
Where: Barleylands Farm Park, Barleylands Road, Billericay CM11 2UD
When: Sunday 26th May 2019
How much: Free Entry
More info: .barleylands.co.uk/events/
Featured Article Includes
Galvin Green Man
Chelmsford
Recently named Best Pub in Essex, Galvin Green Man is a return home for Essex-born Chris and Jeff Galvin. Set in 1.5 acres of riverside meadow amidst beautiful countryside with the river Chelmer as a companion, Green Man is one of the oldest pubs in Essex. The pub consists of two main parts – a dining room and a Great British pub. Working with local-sourced seasonal ingredients, the menu concentrates on classic pub dishes of the highest quality created by Galvin protégés while the bar serves craft ales with a strong emphasis on working in partnership with local craft brewers. Green Man hosts four private dining rooms, for up to 14 guests, in partnership with local businesses in the Chelmsford area.
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