Discover the best things to do in Sewardstone, Essex
Local attractions near the Bakers Arms
Whether it’s a fleeting visit or a longer getaway that brings you to this area of Essex, you’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do in Sewardstone. From beautiful parklands to iconic historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and explore.The best part? All of our favourite attractions are just a short drive from the Bakers Arms. So take a look and you’ll be sure to find something that piques your interest, before joining us for a delicious meal at our charming countryside pub.
Lee Valley Regional Park
Lee Valley Regional Park truly has it all when it comes to outdoor adventure, local history and peaceful escapes in the heart of the countryside. Spanning 10,000 acres and stretching 26 miles from London, through to Essex, and ending in Hertfordshire, this vast park is a haven for exploration.
Offering award-winning sports and leisure facilities, wildlife reserves, heritage sites and scenic gardens, as one of the top things to do in Essex the park promises a visit that’ll be as rewarding as it is memorable.
And if you need a place to recoup afterwards, nothing beats a hearty pub meal and a few refreshing drinks. Luckily, the Bakers Arms is right on the outskirts of the park and one of the very best pubs near Lee Valley Park.
Royal Gunpowder Mills
A place of special scientific interest, the Royal Gunpowder Mills is one of the most popular things to do in Waltham Abbey, with 21 historically significant buildings to take in. Set across 175 acres of parkland, it has a rich legacy dating back to the 17th century, when it played a key role in creating explosives – but we’ll leave that story for the site to tell.
Today, the grounds are open to the public and visitors can explore the meadows, marshes and wildlife in all their glory. There’s even an annual schedule of art workshops and events, if the weather calls for a day indoors.
Whatever you decide to do, this beautiful country park has plenty of attractions to suit all ages, in all conditions.
Waltham Abbey Gardens
Steeped in history and natural beauty, Waltham Abbey Gardens is an award-winning site within the grounds of the old abbey. A nature lover’s dream, the gardens feature diverse wildlife, woodlands, fruit trees and plant specimens, with each season bringing its own charm.
Wander scenic trails to explore centuries of history or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside and retreat to the Rose Garden. Or, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, visit the Cornmill Meadows Dragonfly Sanctuary – a site of special scientific interest and home to half of Britain's native dragonfly species.
Open from May to September, this is easily one of the best things to do in Waltham Abbey.
Epping Forest District Museum
This hidden gem brings the story of the Epping Forest District to life through its collection of over 50,000 objects, including art, photos, documents and archaeology. With six galleries of changing exhibitions, to multiple annual events and activities, Epping Forest District Museum will keep you entertained for hours – and it’s free to enter too.
The onsite shop also has a great selection of gifts and souvenirs, perfect for a keepsake in memory of the day. And whatever you do, don’t forget to admire the building’s stunning Tudor architecture by taking a fresh air stroll in the museum’s beautiful garden. As far as things to do in Sewardstone go, it should be top of your list.
Wildlife Discovery Centre
Overlooking Seventy Acres Lake, this centre offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of River Lee Country Park from a five-metre-high viewing tower. You’ll be able to learn about the history of the valley, explore the habitats, and discover the many bird species that call the park home.
There are plenty of activities to keep you engaged, from spotting wildlife amongst the reeds to looking in the park’s wildlife drawers to see the fascinating finds. Live camera feeds also bring you up close and personal to the park’s wildlife, offering a rare glimpse of their daily lives.
The Wildlife Discovery Centre is open daily, so be sure to add this to the top of your list of things to do in Essex.