The 10 Best Free Things to do in Braintree, England

Whether you're an adventurer at heart or just want to relax and unwind in Essex's beautiful countryside, Great Notley Country Park offers the perfect day out for all the family. Covering 100 acres of open space the park is home to Sky Ropes, the fun, family friendly high ropes adventure course as well as Essex’s longest kid’s play trail. Jump, swing, slide, crawl and climb your way around 1.2km of fun including giant see-saws, swing scales, a climbing forest, rope climbers, slides, forts and a large sand play area. (Please note our waterplay and climbing forest are currently out of action). Looking for something a bit quieter? The park also offers some lovely areas to explore and enjoy nature including a fishing lake and wildflower meadows. It’s popular for a wide range of activities including birdwatching, walking, cycling, fishing, horse riding, football, picnics and kite-flying. The park is also a great place to base yourselves to head off and explore the Flitch Way.

The Onley is nestled in the idyllic village of Stisted, Essex. Located on the site of The Black Lion, which burnt down in the early part of the 19th century, before being rebuilt as The Onley Arms by Mr Onley. Re-Opened June 2016 after an extensive refurbishment transforming the former 19th century Public Inn into an open and more inviting space, with stylish and contemporary finishes whilst still retaining a nod to its past. The welcoming atmosphere and well equipped bar provides a delightful setting for all family occasions, private areas for meetings, as well as a Sports bar area for watching all the major sporting events! The outside patio area offers covered tables & chairs for a wonderful alfresco dining experience no matter what the British weather throws at us! Our four well-appointed stylish bedrooms all have ensuite with walk in showers, tea/coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi, so you can always be sure of an enjoyable and relaxing stay. Stisted retains its lovely rural village feel yet it remains readily accessible from Braintree, Colchester, Chelmsford and Halstead. Whilst the village remains centred around the All Saints Church the village has grown considerably with amenities including the Braintree Golf Club, which is regarded as one of the best in Essex. Stisted also remains a favourite location for Ramblers with beautiful walks through the Bluebell Wood and along the River Blackwater.

Set in beautiful Essex countryside, the carefully preserved farm buildings at Blake House Craft Centre are centered around a courtyard, which was previously the Blake House farmyard. Wander around the fine variety of shops in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where there really is something for everyone; from a basket of flowers to ballet shoes, from dolls houses to decorations for your home and from antiques to elegant fabrics, you can treat yourself or find the perfect gift. Enjoy a slice of cake in our tea rooms, housed in an 17th century listed corn barn, then challenge friends to a round of crazy golf on our 9 hole minigolf course. Let the kids use up some energy in our play area and make sure you don’t miss our latest maize maze challenge! The Original Great Maze brings you an aMAZing new adventure each summer, so come and get lost for a great day out for all the family!

Step inside a stylish world of outlet shopping… Discover Braintree Village, an outlet shopping village in the heart of Essex, where over 80 premium aspirational brands such as Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren, Reiss, BOSS and Kate Spade New York can be found at great value, outlet prices. With the combination of fashion, homeware and accessories, restaurants and ever-changing experiences, Braintree Village is a destination that creates unexpected moments of surprise. Easily accessible by various modes of transport, Braintree Village can be reached by train directly from London Liverpool Street. The shopping village is also served by the main roads of the M11 and A120, with FREE car parking for up to 6 hours you can enjoy a day full of shopping and experiences. Coming from further afar? Braintree Village is situated under 40 minutes from both London Stansted Airport and London Southend Airport. Come and take a fresh look at Braintree Village.