Explore 574 acres of historic parkland with a Neo-Classical villa, adventure playground, formal gardens, and seasonal events suitable for all ages.

Hylands Estate is a prestigious Grade II* listed public park encompassing 574 acres of beautifully restored historic parkland in Essex. The centrepiece is Hylands House, an elegant Neo-Classical villa available for public visits on select days, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich heritage through architecture and design. The estate features formal Victorian gardens, ancient woodlands, grassland, ponds, and lakes that are freely accessible for exploration and leisurely walks. Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the year. The award-winning accessible children's Adventure Playground provides outdoor play opportunities for younger visitors, while Go Ape offers high ropes courses for more adventurous participants. The Stables house The Deli café (serving fresh sandwiches, salads, and homemade cakes), a second-hand bookshop, and resident artist studios where visitors can purchase unique handmade pieces or participate in creative workshops. Hylands Estate hosts a diverse calendar of seasonal events, markets, and activities throughout the house and park, including monthly Open Estate Days on the second Sunday featuring the Essex Foodies Market. A complimentary multimedia tour shares the estate's history and gardens. The venue is dog-friendly and pushchair-friendly, making it welcoming for families with young children and pets. With free entry to the parklands and multiple indoor and outdoor attractions, Hylands Estate caters to visitors of all ages from 0-94.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

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Magdalena Carvall

2 months ago

Beautiful house, beautiful grounds. Went there for the second time to see Garden show. It was so worth it. Lovely displays, well organised venue. Hope to go back next year 😃

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Gavin Darby

2 months ago

Venue for the national garden show. Busy, but catering for the numbers (unless you are a lady queueing for the toilet!). Huge parking area. Lots of plants for sale along various others sellers. Excellent day out

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Eddie Rogers

2 months ago

A beautiful house based in Chelmsford which dates back to 1728. The rooms on the ground floor are stunning with amazing attention to detail especially the ceilings. Sadly the upper floors were closed to the public. The grounds are very big over 500 acres. The deli serves hot meals and snacks and the house offers bookings for events. There are 2 car parks run by the council and fees apply. Overall a great day out and worth a visit.

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Elkin Ali

2 months ago

Attended as a wedding venue. Lovely grounds. Lovely building. Lovely weather. Clean, bright, airy and quiet. Really nice.

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Michael Gray

4 months ago

Hylands House, bought and beautifully restored by Chelmsford City Council, is now a popular wedding venue and conference centre. The extensive Repton-designed parkland is open every day - pay and display car park - and the House is open free on charge on the second Sunday of the month.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026