Day trips Essex | Things to do summer 2026
Summer is one of the best times of year to explore Essex. If you are looking for day trips in Essex or things to do summer 2026, then take a look at our local guide below!
From colourful art trails and seaside airshows to music festivals, outdoor attractions and picturesque coastal walks, there is no shortage of events and activities to enjoy across the county. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out close to home or planning a summer adventure with friends and family, Essex offers something for everyone.
One of the many benefits of living at Burnham Waters is having easy access to some of the county's most popular destinations and events. From the beautiful Dengie Peninsula to bustling market towns and award-winning beaches, there are countless opportunities to make the most of the warmer months.
Here is our guide to some of the best things to do summer 2026 in Essex.
Visit the Essex coastline
Essex boasts over 350 miles of coastline, making it the perfect destination for summer days by the sea.
The county's coastline offers a huge variety of experiences, from traditional seaside resorts to peaceful estuary walks and charming waterside towns. Clacton-on-Sea remains one of the county's most popular destinations, with its sandy beaches, iconic pier and family-friendly atmosphere.
For those seeking something a little quieter, Brightlingsea, Mersea Island and our very own Burnham-on-Crouch all provide beautiful waterside settings where visitors can enjoy scenic walks, sailing activity and excellent local food and drink.
What’s on in Essex this summer – a few of our favourite events
Langford & Ulting Country Fayre & Classic Car Show: Sunday 5th July 2026
Hosted at the Museum of Power, this event aims to replicate a traditional country fayre with exhibits of agriculture and horticulture, arts and crafts by local crafters and artists, classic cars, entertainment and activities.
Food and refreshments will be available throughout the day and there will be multiple demonstrations and stalls to enjoy.
The Royal Corinthian Yacht Club
If you are looking for things to do in Essex and you are keen to make the most of the water, local yacht club, the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club offers a full range of water sports and social events, with something for everyone.
Summer Regatta: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th July 2026
A packed few days of fleet racing and fun with sunset socials, special menus and music entertainment.
Enjoy the Clacton Airshow: 27th and 28th August
The Clacton Airshow 2026 takes place on 27th and 28th August, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Essex coast each year. The event combines spectacular aerial displays with family entertainment, exhibitions and food stalls along the seafront.
The 2026 event has already confirmed the return of the world-famous Red Arrows, who will perform on both days. Visitors can also expect a variety of military, historic and civilian aircraft displays, creating an unforgettable spectacle over the sea.
The Thursday evening Twilight Display is traditionally one of the event's most popular features, combining illuminated aircraft, lasers and pyrotechnics as daylight fades.
Burnham Week: Saturday 29th August – Sunday 5th September 2026
Searching for things to do in Essex on the water? Then Burnham Week is not to be missed. Burnham Week is a popular annual sailing event, held in Burnham-on-Crouch every August.
Commonly known as the East Coast's most challenging and friendly regatta, there are over 20 categories to enter, from dinghies and cruisers to Dragons and Gig racing.
Spectators can gather along the riverfront or on nearby hills to get a good view of the action, while enjoying a festival atmosphere. There are multiple food and drink vendors, offering a variety of produce as well as music, and other entertainment.
The yacht clubs will be open, serving refreshments and visitors are welcome to enjoy snacks and drinks while watching the sailing from the riverside balconies. You can also enjoy meals and drinks at the many pubs along the Quay and in the High Street.
Discover Essex's gardens and countryside
Summer is the ideal time to explore Essex's beautiful countryside.
The county is home to a wide range of historic estates, gardens and nature reserves, many of which are at their best during the warmer months. RHS Garden Hyde Hall near Chelmsford is a particular favourite, offering stunning seasonal planting, panoramic views and a packed programme of summer events.
Nature lovers may also enjoy visiting the Essex Wildlife Trust reserves located throughout the county, where coastal habitats, woodlands and wetlands provide opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife.
In fact, just 15 minutes from Burnham Waters is Blue House Farm, part of the Essex Wildlife Trust. If you’re a nature and wildlife lover looking for things to do in Burnham-on-Crouch, this is for you! From beautiful walking routes, plants and shrubberies to bird hides and grazing animals, there is so much to see on your visit.
The Dengie Peninsula itself offers some of Essex's most beautiful landscapes, with peaceful walking routes, nature reserves and panoramic coastal views all within easy reach of Burnham Waters.
Attend a summer music festival
Essex has become an increasingly popular destination for outdoor music events, with several festivals taking place throughout the summer.
One event returning in 2026 is the Essex Summer Fest, which takes place on 11th and 12th July. Designed as a family-friendly event, the festival features live music, entertainment and activities suitable for all ages.
Later in the summer, music lovers can head to Chelmsford's Central Park, where the Chelmsford Summer Series returns with a programme of outdoor concerts. Performances scheduled for August include appearances from the Sugababes, Annie Mac and Melanie C, creating a lively end-of-summer atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Whether your tastes lean towards pop, classical music or tribute performances, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live entertainment outdoors this summer.
Explore Colchester's history and culture
Colchester offers an excellent destination for a summer day trip.
Visitors can explore the impressive Colchester Castle, discover the town's Roman heritage and browse a variety of museums, galleries and cultural attractions. The town centre also offers a wide range of shops, cafés and restaurants, making it easy to spend a full day exploring.
Nearby attractions such as Firstsite and The Minories provide opportunities to enjoy contemporary art exhibitions, while Colchester's parks and open spaces are perfect for relaxing during warmer weather.
Make the most of outdoor dining
One of the simple pleasures of summer is enjoying food and drink outdoors, and Essex offers plenty of opportunities to do just that.
From waterside pubs and seafood restaurants to country inns and vineyard cafés, the county's food scene continues to grow in popularity.
Burnham-on-Crouch is particularly well known for its riverside dining options. Whether you are stopping for a coffee overlooking the marina, enjoying lunch with friends or watching the sunset over the River Crouch, the town offers a wonderful setting.
Enjoy summer living at Burnham Waters
At Burnham Waters, one of the greatest advantages of life in our growing community is having so many wonderful attractions and events on the doorstep.
Whether you choose to enjoy a day at the seaside, visit a summer festival or simply relax along the River Crouch, there are countless ways to enjoy the season.
With beautiful surroundings, a thriving local community and easy access to some of Essex's best destinations, Burnham Waters provides the perfect base from which to experience everything summer 2026 has to offer.
So why not make the most of the longer days, warmer weather and exciting calendar of events? Your next great Essex adventure could be just around the corner.
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