Between London And Colchester Is A City Known As 'The Birthplace Of Radio' With Gardens, Shops, And Clubs

Between its charming countryside attractions and extensive coastline which runs for hundreds of miles, the English county of Essex on London's northeast border has a lot to offer visitors. But if you want to immerse yourself in the county's heritage and entertainment scene, its cities — particularly Chelmsford – are hard to beat. It provides visitors with a jam-packed itinerary thanks to its gardens, shops, clubs, and historical landmarks such as Chelmsford Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. 

In the late 19th century, the city became known as "the birthplace of the radio" thanks to the opening of the world's first radio equipment factory. Guglielmo Marconi, an Italian-born physics and electricity enthusiast who furthered his research in England, opened the factory and eventually patented a "system of telegraphy using Hertzian Waves," according to Essex Life. Today, you can learn more about Marconi's contributions to wireless communication and the city at the Museum of Chelmsford. Its permanent exhibit includes archaeological finds from the Ice Age, plus interactive displays exploring local history to 2012. It also hosts talks, tours, and workshops. 

Another big perk to Chelmsford is its strategic location, which makes it a convenient day trip destination and base for exploring the rest of the region. London is just a half-hour train ride away with Greater Anglia, and Chelmsford serves as a midway point between the capital and Colchester, which is 20 minutes or so away by train. That said, the nearest major entryway for fliers remains London Stansted Airport (STN). Chelmsford is exceptionally walkable, so leave your car behind and make the most of its well-developed public transportation system.

Once you've figured out the best time to visit England for optimal weather, you can move on to more outdoorsy attractions. RHS Garden Hyde Hall is a must-see for nature lovers, featuring drought-resistant plants, shrubs that shine best in winter, and a ring of vegetation divided into species from Europe, Asia, North, and South America. Other parts worth exploring include a learning center, a meadow, and a reservoir with a bird hide. 

To enjoy more of the city's greenery, you can stop by Boleyn Gardens next. The space features the usual flower displays, ponds, and local wildlife, as well as a collection of oversized chess pieces made of oak and a maze suited to all ages. The site has also been recognized with a Green Flag Award because it's so well managed, and because it's believed King Henry VIII visited, it boasts historical interest as well. 

Those who want to take things up a notch and also choose a hotel with beautiful grounds surrounded by trees can stay at Pontlands Park. The family-run hotel gives visitors access to a restaurant, hot tub, and indoor and outdoor pools. The mature gardens around it add to the peaceful, picturesque feel. Up for a day trip? Nearby Colchester is always an option. Situated between Chelmsford and Ipswich, it's England's oldest city, and rich with scenic trails.

Out of the hundreds of stores and several malls found in Chelmsford, you can start your spree at High Chelmer shopping center. You'll find clothing, homeware, and dining options such as Banana Tree, which serves Southeast Asian cuisine, and the Turkish restaurant Turquoise. The multi-story parking lot makes it easy to find a spot, but keep in mind that payment is only by card. 

Want to stick to some smaller gems instead? Then visit The Farm Shop, an independent business that sells keto and low-carb salads, sandwiches, and preserves to take back home. Next, stop by Gaia, a family-run store specializing in silver and gold jewelry. Team members are also happy to design custom-made pieces.

Later on, explore Chelmsford's bars and clubs, starting with Bar&Beyond. Boasting a capacity of 800, it stays open until 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors compliment its lively atmosphere, music, and drink deals. Want to switch things up? Boom Battle Bar offers axe throwing, beer pong, pool, ping pong, shuffleboard, karaoke, and augmented reality darts. If you've still got space in the itinerary, cover the 10 miles to Maldon next. It's a coastal gem with tasty eats, fun shops, and a historic town center.