Heathrow Airport 1 hr 46
Gainsborough's House (11 min)
Museum covering Gainsborough's early portraiture and landscapes, later works, furniture and effects. Flatford Mill (34 min)
Early-1700s riverside mill once owned by family of artist John Constable & used in his paintings. Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens (30 min)
Renowned gardener's creative, themed gardens with woodland and water areas, plant shop and tearoom. Colchester Zoo (20 min)
Zoo in 60 acres of parkland with lots of animals plus interactive feeding times, plus play areas. Colchester Castle Park (24 min)
Lush, expansive park and gardens hosting varied programme of shows, music concerts and festivals. East Anglian Railway Museum (8 min)
Original Victorian buildings housing railway memorabilia, plus a functioning restoration workshop. Firstsite (25 min)
Eclectic contemporary art from new and emerging creatives among free galleries, plus films and cafe. Clare Castle Country Park Trust (31 min)
Riverside park with various historical structures, including castle remains, plus ponds & paths. Colchester Castle (24 min)
Stately castle completed in 1100, featuring interactive exhibits, a jail & landscaped gardens. Marks Hall Estate (20 min)
Geographically themed landscaped gardens with an arboretum and lakes, plus wood walks and play area. Dedham Vale (19 min)
Scenic rural area of farms, woodland & quaint villages, with walking & cycling paths. Kentwell Hall (25 min)
Red brick stately home hosting historical re-enactments and events with parkland, gardens and farm. National Trust - Melford Hall (21 min)
Tudor manor house once owned by the family of Beatrix Potter, with a tearoom and extensive gardens. Layer Marney Tower (26 min)
Historic gatehouse with tea rooms in former stables, flower gardens open for picnicking and a farm. Hedingham Castle (24 min)
Vast country estate with a well-preserved Norman fortress, picnic areas, a cafe and a gift shop. | 
