Essex is a wonderful county located on the east coast of England. With a mix of coastal towns, attractions, wild countryside and bustling cities, you'll find plenty of options for your first date in Essex.
1. Essex Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Essex is full of beautiful parks, trails and nature spots to explore with a date. Start off with a stroll along the River Thames in Rainham for expansive views of the Thames Estuary and its surrounding wetlands. If you are looking for a more urban walk, a walk through Southend's iconic seafront is a great way to get to know one another. Other great parks and trails include Epping Forest, Hatfield Forest, Two Tree Island and Osea island for unspoilt views of Essex's countryside and coast.
2. Places for A Coffee Date in Essex
Essex has no shortage of cafes, pubs and restaurants that you can take your date for a coffee or hot drink. For a unique spot with a range of food and drink options, head to the University of Essex campus cafe in Colchester. For something a bit different, The Well Cafe in Chelmsford provides a space to enjoy a coffee whilst taking in art and music in its creative hub. In Southend-on-Sea, The Railway Tavern is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up in its cosy surrounds, or head to the delightful Garden Cafe at the Copped Hall Estate to take in its beautiful historic estate.
3. Essex Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Essex has a lot of amazing museums and galleries that you can explore with a date. Start off with a visit to the Colchester Castle for a fascinating insight into the history of Essex. Then, check out the Royal Gunpowder Mills in Waltham Abbey, which hosts many interesting exhibitions and interactive activities. For art lovers, the Fry Art Gallery in Saffron Walden boasts a collection of modern and contemporary art, or visit the Focal Point Gallery in Southend to discover cutting-edge exhibitions.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Essex
Essex has no shortage of live music and entertainment to share with your date. The Cliffs Pavilion in Southend-on-Sea hosts a wide range of shows and concerts, including comedy nights and performances from local and international bands. If you are looking for something a bit more low-key, The Railway Inn in Southend has regular acoustic music nights, or try the intimate Chinnery’s Bar in Southend for live music in a small venue.
5. Essex Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Essex has many pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from if you are looking for a place to have a drink or a meal on your first date. The Pierre Victoire in Colchester is a great spot for a fine-dining experience, with its menu of classic French dishes. Alternatively, try the Greyhound Pub in Earls Colne if you are looking for a more casual setting with an extensive menu of traditional pub dishes. Snooks Cocktail Bar in Southend offers a great selection of cocktails, wines and beers in a cosy atmosphere, or head to The Butchers Arms in Chelmsford for a classic pub atmosphere.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Essex
Essex offers plenty of other fun first date ideas to enjoy. Rowing is a great way to spend some time on the water together, whether you take a leisurely trip down the River Colne in Southend or explore the River Crouch in Burnham-on-Crouch. There are also plenty of escape rooms to choose from in Essex for couples looking for something a bit more adventurous. Or why not visit the Hylands Park in Chelmsford for a round of mini-golf? If you are feeling brave, why not try the Scream Land theme park in Southend-on-Sea? There is plenty to do and explore on a first date in Essex!
