What to do in Stow Maries

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo "Stow Maries" by Robert Edwards (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Robert Edwards (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Stow Maries" by Julieanne Savage (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Julieanne Savage (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Stow Maries" by Lynda Poulter (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Lynda Poulter (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. Thames River

London’s long and tumultuous history is written upon the face of the city, and the River Thames has watched it all. A 19th-century Member of Parliament, John Burns, said it best: “The Mississippi is muddy water, but the Thames is liquid history.” In modern-day London, history comes to life on the 70 wharves, which have remained in operation after centuries. As you make your way down the river’s dark waters, you will enjoy a unique snapshot of life in this dynamic but resolutely historical city.
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London featuring a city, a river or creek and heritage architecture

2. Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo is sure to delight families. Watch the Patagonian sea lions play above your head as you wander through an underwater tunnel. Take a ride on the Madagascar Road train through the lemur enclosure and don’t miss out on the daily animal feeding sessions and impressive falconry displays.
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Feeding time at the zoo for the giraffe 🦒

3. Adventure Island

Enjoy an affordable family day out in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Adventure Island. Brave one of the most thrilling rides in the UK or enjoy the view from the large ferris wheel at this amusement park that has been entertaining visitors for more than 30 years.
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Adventure Island featuring rides

4. Southend Pier

As the jewel in Southend-on-Sea’s crown, this landmark pier has been attracting visitors to the coast for more than a century. Protruding more than 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) into the Thames Estuary, the pier features a train service to take you to its end. Soak up the fresh sea air, meet local fishermen and take in the panoramic views of the estuary and town. With the pier’s award-winning entrance complex housing the Southend-on-Sea Visitor Information Centre, the pier is the perfect place to start your stay in the town.
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Southend Pier

5. Historic Dockyard Chatham

The Historic Dockyard of Chatham contains over 80 acres (32 hectares) of historically significant buildings, galleries and wartime ships. Its 400 years assisting the Royal Navy, from Tudor times to the 20th century, has given the Historic Dockyard a rich maritime heritage for visitors to discover.
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Historic Dockyard Chatham showing a marina and boating

What to do in Stow Maries

Popular places to visit

Leez Priory

Leez Priory

You can find out about the history of Great and Little Leighs with a stop at Leez Priory. Visit the cosy cafes or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Leez Priory
Chelmsford Cathedral

Chelmsford Cathedral

Chelmsford Cathedral is just one of the places to see in Chelmsford, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing area.

Chelmsford Cathedral
Admirals Park

Admirals Park

Admirals Park is just one of the places to see in Chelmsford, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Admirals Park
Admirals Park LNR

Admirals Park LNR

You can take time to visit Admirals Park LNR during your travels to Chelmsford. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Admirals Park LNR

Hylands House and Park

4/5(1 review)

Learn about the local history of Writtle when you take a trip to Hylands House and Park. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Hylands House and Park

Chelmsford City Racecourse

3/5(7 reviews)

You can take time to visit Chelmsford City Racecourse during your travels to Great and Little Leighs. Visit the top-notch restaurants or cosy cafes in this walkable area.

Chelmsford City Racecourse

Bond Street

During your trip to Chelmsford, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Bond Street. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.

Bond Street

Palace of Beaulieu

Explore the campus of Palace of Beaulieu during your trip to Boreham. Savour the lively bars and top-notch restaurants while in town.

Palace of Beaulieu

Writtle University College

Walk around the campus at Writtle University College during your stay in Writtle.

Writtle University College

Day trip destinations from Stow Maries

Chelmsford

Chelmsford

Photo "South Woodham Ferrers" by Glyn Baker (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original

South Woodham Ferrers

Frequently asked questions

Is Stow Maries worth visiting?
Stow Maries offers a unique mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or regional cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Stow Maries?
When you've checked off popular attractions like Palace of Beaulieu and Marsh Farm Country Park, spend the rest of your day exploring Stow Maries's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Stow Maries?
Don't go home without checking out Palace of Beaulieu, rated the top tourist attraction in Stow Maries.
Is three days enough to stay in Stow Maries?
If you only want to enjoy the leading sights, three days is a good amount of time for a getaway in Stow Maries. Stay for a week or longer for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and explore some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Stow Maries with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Stow Maries with kids.

What to do in Stow Maries for adults?
Bond Street is one of the main things to do in Stow Maries. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Stow Maries?
In Stow Maries, Marsh Farm Country Park is a top spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to learn about the best free things to do in Stow Maries.