As we move into Autumn,I’ve moved to a monthly roundup of my favourite things to do in Essex this September. With the weather traditionally holding out for another month or so, there is still a great range of outdoor family events on offer. You may not need those boots, scarf and hats yet (I hope!).
As I’ve moved away from the weekly update during the winter months, I’ve still focused on those days out during the weekends. Hopefully, you can find some time to enjoy. Remember to let me know if you do try any of my suggested things to do in Essex this month.
Things to Do in Essex This September
Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 September – See programme for timings
Chelmsford Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days (HODs) are England’s largest and most popular voluntary cultural event. They celebrate all our fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to events and interesting properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission.
A list of events can be downloaded from this page, and further information is available on the website below.
More Info – https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/
Saturday 10 September – 10am gates open with battle re-enactment from 3pm
Battle Re-enactment at Ashdon
Famous Regia-Anglorum warriors will re-enact the Battle of Assandun between the Vikings and the Anglo-Saxons at Walton’s Park, Ashdon.
With A Living History Encampment – see how the Anglo-Saxons lived, what they ate and you can even talk to a Viking. Watch the battle with mounted warriors, cheer on your side, come dressed as an Anglo-Saxon or a Viking and get involved in the fun!
More Info – http://www.battleofassandun.org/
Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 September – 10am to 5pm
Essex Country Show at Barleylands
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Essex Country show brings together the very best of rural Essex. See the action in the Main Arena with the return of the car crashing Monster trucks. You can also check out the Steam Engine Parade, watch amazing Bird of Prey Displays and cheer on the 4-legged runners in the Sheep Racing.
As well as a packed programme of displays, demonstrations and shows, with everything from working heavy horses to Newfoundland dog rescue, there’ll be the normal attractions; including steam engines, vintage vehicles, modern machinery, craft marquees, food stalls, vintage funfair rides and more.
More Info – http://www.barleylands.co.uk/essex-country-show/
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – 8am to 6pm
The Duxford Air Show at IWM Duxford
Note – tickets must be booked in advance.
Experience the speed, power and agility of historic and contemporary fighter aircraft as they dominate the skies over IWM Duxford at The Duxford Air Show. In commemoration of the 80th anniversary, a Spitfires formation will take place on both days, comprised of twelve Supermarine Spitfires, including four rare Mark I Spitfires.
Sunday 11 September – 10.30am to 3.30pm
Land of the Giants Cycle Ride at Lee Valley Park Farm
Join a leisurely circular cycle ride venturing around River Lee Country Park’s Sculpture Trail and discover the giants which live there. Visit sculptures such as the Stag Beetles as they battle for a mate on an oak log and the Giants Chair. On the route, visitors can see if they can find all 15 sculptures before relaxing with a well-deserved picnic break.
More Info – https://www.visitleevalley.org.uk/en/content/cms/whatson/land-of-the-giants-cycle-ride/
Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September – 10am to 5pm
Fly In at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, near Maldon
A great family day out at this 100th Anniversary Commemoration Vintage Flying Event. The skies above Stow Maries will once again play host to the sounds of roaring aircraft as the WW1 aerodrome will take visitors back in time to the heady days of classic aviation.
Visitors can enjoy displays from the Blue Falcons Gymnastic Team and a wide variety of stalls with live music. Where children can take part in lawn games and a bear trail.
More Info – http://www.stowmaries.org.uk/calendar/60/18-100th-Anniversary-Commemoration-Vintage-Flying-Event
Saturday 17 September – 11am to 6pm
Maldon Regatta at Hythe Quay
As in previous years, there will be two races, the first race starting at 0800. The second, the Parade of Sail Race, will start from Osea at 1230. The Hythe quay has now been repaired, so the land-based stalls etc. will be back on the quay this year, with the crew party and the prize giving in the Sail Lofts Boatyard. There will be a band outside the Queens Head pub for the evening entertainment.
More Info – http://www.maldonregatta.co.uk/index.htm
Saturday 17 September – 9.30am to 9.30pm
Starlight Safari Night at Colchester Zoo
Enjoy a magical twilight spectacular at Colchester Zoo with an extended opening until 9.30pm and a timetable packed with special feeds, displays and training session. See website for full programme details.
Sunday 18 September – 10.30 to 4.30pm
Essex Classic Vehicle Show at Castle Park, Colchester
Perfect for car and motorbike lovers alike the Essex Classic Vehicle Show will see around 200 classic vehicles in attendance. There will also be a family fun day with local stalls and entertainment
More Info – http://www.headwayessex.org.uk/headway-events/classic-vehicle-show
Friday 23 to Monday 26 September – various times
Segway Events at Hainault Forest Country Park
The Segway Rally is set within the grounds of Hainault Park and allows you to try out your Segway skills on a variety of terrains. Booking recommended in advance.
More Info – http://www.segwayevents.co.uk/
Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 September – 11am to 5pm
Apple Festival at Audley End House
A full weekend, celebrating all things apple at Audley End. From bobbing and weaving to trapping and tasting, there are lots to do for all the family. Will you be the bobbing champion? A local folk band playing traditional tunes throughout the weekend.
More Info – http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/apple-festival-Aud-24-09-2016/
Saturday 24 September – Daytime from 9am, evening procession from 7pm
Burnham Carnival at Burnham-on-Crouch
Burnham-on-Crouch Carnival is one of the most successful carnivals in the South East This is mainly due to the wonderful Tableaux and fancy dresses in the Grand Illuminated procession. The procession of floats, including the Queen and her court, will depart from Tesco’s roundabout.
More Info – http://www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk/events/
Sunday 25 September – 10am to 12noon
Family Fun Day at Maldon Promenade Park
Mobile fun park for children and family’s, attractions will included inflatables and rides.
More Info – http://www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk/thedms.aspx?dms=3&feature=1027&venue=0241208
Still Looking for Things to Do in Essex during September?
If you are still in need of some inspiration, why not have a look at our previous blog on 15 Free Family Days Out in Essex.
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Also, if you are running an event that you’d like us to include going forward – then do just drop us an email via our contact page.
