Heathrow Airport 1 hr 31
Colchester Zoo (30 min)
Zoo in 60 acres of parkland with lots of animals plus interactive feeding times, plus play areas. Alderford Water Mill (7 min) National Trust - Melford Hall (30 min)
Tudor manor house once owned by the family of Beatrix Potter, with a tearoom and extensive gardens. Marks Hall Estate (20 min)
Geographically themed landscaped gardens with an arboretum and lakes, plus wood walks and play area. Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens (10 min) Gainsborough's House (22 min)
Museum covering Gainsborough's early portraiture and landscapes, later works, furniture and effects. Cressing Temple Barns (15 min)
Timber-framed barns, orchards and a Tudor walled garden on a medieval Knights Templar estate. Layer Marney Tower (33 min)
Historic gatehouse with tea rooms in former stables, flower gardens open for picnicking and a farm. Hedingham Castle (11 min)
Vast country estate with a well-preserved Norman fortress, picnic areas, a cafe and a gift shop. Colne Valley Railway (12 min)
Vintage steam/diesel train rides on restored Victorian line, plus working signal box and mini track. East Anglian Railway Museum (20 min)
Original Victorian buildings housing railway memorabilia, plus a functioning restoration workshop. Clare Castle Country Park Trust (23 min)
Riverside park with various historical structures, including castle remains, plus ponds & paths. Great Notley Country Park (17 min)
Public parkland with horse riding, cycling paths and a large wooden climbing area, plus a bistro. | 
