Valentines Mansion and Gardens
We explore historic Valentines Mansion and Gardens in Ilford, from its period rooms and walled gardens to the charming Gardener’s Cottage Café.
- Location
- Ilford, IG1 2ZN, Essex
- Visited
- 21 September 2026
Places
Places we've genuinely visited, photographed and remembered.
Layer Marney Tower
We revisit Layer Marney Tower, England's tallest Tudor gatehouse, exploring its historic rooms, gardens and rooftop views across the Essex countryside.
- Location
- CO5 9US, Colchester, Essex
- Visited
- 20 September 2026
Markshall Estate
A family day out at Markshall Estate, exploring its arboretum, gardens and woodland walks.
- Location
- Coggeshall, CO6 1TG
- Visited
- 19 September 2026
Hadleigh Castle
A walk from Hadleigh Country Park to the ruins of Hadleigh Castle, with views across the surrounding Essex countryside.
- Location
- Hadleigh, Benfleet, SS7 2AP
- Visited
- 15 August 2026
Shotley Marina
We visited Shotley Marina for its Harwich Haven views, walked part of the Suffolk Coastal Path and took the passenger ferry across to historic Harwich.
- Location
- Shotley Gate, Suffolk and Harwich, Essex, IP9 1QJ
- Visited
- 15 August 2026
Canvey Island, Essex
A family day out on Canvey Island, walking beside the Thames, visiting Labworth Beach Cafe and enjoying arcade amusements, crazy golf and children's rides.
- Location
- SS8 7DN
- Visited
- 12 August 2026
Twyford Lock
Riverside walk from historic Twyford Lock along the Stort Navigation, with wildflowers, shaded stretches and views of low-flying aircraft approaching Stansted.
- Location
- Bishop's Stortford CM22 7PA
- Visited
- 10 August 2026
Hadleigh Country Park
We visited Hadleigh Country Park to explore its walking and cycling trails, play areas and views across the Thames Estuary.
- Location
- Chapel Lane, Hadleigh, Benfleet, SS7 2PP
- Visited
- 8 August 2026