Living Guide
September 2026
Essex Spirits Company Distillery
Founded in 2020, this local distillery offers a range of services that allow you to get involved. One of the most popular options is their tasting tours. On these tours you will be taken into the production room, where you will learn how their spirits are made. You’ll also get to taste a range of their products, including gin and vodka!
If you fancy something a little more personal, Essex Spirits Co offers the option to make your own spirit. With this package you are given the option to make your own vodka, gin, or rum. From here you will taste around 40 ingredients which can then be used in your drink of choice. Essex Spirits Co definitely provide some of the most unique activities to do in Chelmsford.
Escape Rooms
With an increasing popularity in escape rooms, Chelmsford has a large selection of different ones. Escape rooms are a great team-building exercise, although if you prefer a smaller crowd they will still work really well.
So, what are the best escape rooms in Chelmsford?
Chelmsford Escape Rooms are recognised as one of the best in Chelmsford! With a range of rooms available there is bound to be something for you. One of their most popular rooms is called ‘The Governor’. Teams of up to 8 people can play and you will be given 60 minutes to get out of a prison cell.
Another great option in the area is Escape Live. Some of their most popular rooms include ‘escape the jungle’ and ‘sword in the throne’. Every room is ranked on a difficulty rating from one to five. So, if you fancy a challenge why not choose five rating, however if you fancy a more relaxed experience a lower number might be a better option.
If you’re looking for a fun activity in Chelmsford no matter your age, an Escape room is a great choice.
Call of The Wild Zoo
For those animal lovers, Call of the Wild Zoo might be the perfect place for you. This zoo is home to a wide array of animals, from zebras and flamingos to armadillos and crocodiles.
Another benefit of the zoo is their prices, making it an affordable day out for all. You can view their prices here.
The zoo also offers animal experience packages, including a ‘keeper for the day experience’ and ‘reptile experiences.’
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
Fête is located in the centre of the city, serving brunch, lunch and weekend small plates. With menus changing all the time, they use seasonal ingredients to create unique seasonal dishes. For our vegetarian and vegan residents, don’t worry, there are plenty of options!
Another great part about this eatery is that they are happy to host your furry friend too. As long as they are well behaved, Fête will have no problem welcoming your dog, making them one of the best restaurants in Chelmsford.
The Blue Strawberry Bistro
Located on the outskirts of Chelmsford, this charming bistro offers classic French dishes with a modern twist, all prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The bistro boasts a captivating ambiance, with exposed beams and candlelit tables creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. This makes it the perfect location for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
You’ll be spoiled with choice by their extensive menu options, including a Sunday lunch menu, children’s menu, and a lunch & dinner menu.
The Pig & Whistle
Nestled in a charming 16th-century building in the countryside, The Pig & Whistle boasts a romantic and intimate setting. Their focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on seasonal dishes.
Here, you’ll find a menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing the best Essex produce at its peak. Expect innovative and well-crafted dishes alongside a carefully curated wine list.
Their fixed price menus are super popular, costing up to £24 for two courses or £30 for three. They even offer 10% off these menus on certain days, so be sure to plan your trip!
Bck Yrd Golf
If you’re looking for a fun and competitive night out, Bck Yrd Golf is definitely the spot. They combine a 10-hole crazy golf course with a lively bar, and one of the best parts is they are open late!
While you wait for your game to start you can grab a drink and even enjoy a game of pool. Their large seating area is the perfect place to do some trash talking before your game starts. And if you’re feeling peckish they do have a small snack menu too.
The Ale House
If you don’t fancy your luck at golf and prefer something a bit more relaxed, The Ale House might be a better option.
Housed inside railway arches, they serve a large selection of drinks including beer, wine, and spirits. If you’re not the biggest drinker, they also offer low and no alcohol options. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for a hot summer’s day, don’t worry there are parasols if you need them!
The Ale house doesn’t serve hot food, however they don’t mind you bringing your own. So, if you’re looking to have a relaxed night in a good atmosphere, why not pay them a visit.
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