A Visitor`s Guide - Chelmsford City Council

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Chelmsford
Borough Council accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions and
out of date information. The Council believes that all information was
correct at the time of going to print. This guide is produced as a public
service and inclusion does not constitute a specific recommendation by
the Council.
Chelmsford
A Visitor’s Guide
This publication is available in alternative formats
including Braille, large print, audiotape and other languages.
Please call 01245 606900 for more details.
January 2010
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
www.visitessex.com
Your guide to making the most of your
stay in the county town of Essex
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
Welcome to Chelmsford
Contents
Welcome to Chelmsford
What to do
3
4-29
Historical Chelmsford
4
Parks, Gardens and Countryside
9
Night life, Entertainment and Events
15
Shopping
20
Sport, Leisure and Recreation
24
Where to eat
30-31
Where to stay
32-36
Hotels
33
B&Bs and Guesthouses
35
Getting about
39
Useful information
40
Town Centre map
2
Chelmsford: A Visitor’s
shopping
Guide
This guide is designed give you an introduction to the borough, both its past and its present, and
to help you make the most of your visit. Packed with useful information from where to stay, what
to do and how to get around, we have tried to include as much information as possible.
All that is left for you to do is enjoy your visit and we hope to see you again soon!
Chelmsford is a constantly changing borough and in the interests of keeping the publication as
up to date as possible we have therefore had to leave out specific information about individual
shops, restaurants and accommodation rates.
37-40
Chelmsford Travel and Visitor Information Centre
Borough map
Welcome to Chelmsford, county town of Essex. With a rich
heritage, beautiful green spaces, first-class sporting, leisure and arts
facilities, shopping, dining and vibrant nightlife, there is definitely
something for everyone.
41
42-43
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
3
Historical Chelmsford
Chelmsford’s heritage dates back to Neolithic times, although it
wasn’t until the arrival of the Romans in 60 AD that a small town
began to grow. Chelmsford was then named Caesaromagus or
‘market-place of Caesar’, giving it the great honour of bearing
the name of Caesar – the only town in Britain to do so. After the
Romans left, Saxon farmers settled in the countryside around
the town, which was then known as Ceolmaer’s Ford.
Historical
Chelmsford
It wasn’t until the reign of King John that
the modern town as we know it began
to develop. The then Bishop of London,
William de Sainte-Mère-Eglise, was granted
the right to hold a weekly market on
Fridays at ‘Chelmersford in Essex’ by
King John. The market has continued to
operate for more than 800 years since, and
Chelmsford rapidly emerged as the county
town of Essex.
In the 19th century, Chelmsford’s modern
importance was secured as it became
established as a centre of industry and
commerce, with the best-known example
being the birthplace of broadcasting.
Guglielmo Marconi, the pioneer of radio,
built the world’s first radio factory in Hall
Street, Chelmsford in 1899, with a new
factory opening in 1912 in New Street.
On 15 June 1920, the first entertainment
radio broadcast was made from
Chelmsford, featuring Dame Nellie Melba
– a famous opera soprano of the time.
Hylands House
4
Chelmsford: A Visitor’s
shopping
Guide
Chelmsford’s long and rich history can be
explored further at Chelmsford Museum
in Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street. See
page 6 for more information.You can also
pick up a Museum Friend’s Chelmsford and
Moulsham historical walking guide from
the museum so you can discover more of
the town’s fascinating history on foot.
The blue plaque scheme
To commemorate and help identify famous
people and places that have shaped
Chelmsford’s history, a series of blue plaques
are displayed around the town. These include
the site of the Black Boy Inn at the corner
of the High Street and Springfield Road,
noted as a meeting place for such people as
Charles Dickens and the Duke of Wellington.
Guglielmo Marconi’s factory in New Street,
and author Oliver Goldsmith’s house at
Springfield Green are also commemorated.
A full list of blue plaques can be found on
Chelmsford Borough Council’s website at
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/blueplaques
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
5
Chelmsford
Cathedral
Chelmsford Cathedral
New Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1TY
Tel: 01245 294489
Email: office@chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk
Web: www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk
The second smallest Cathedral in England, this
15th century perpendicular Gothic church is
light, spacious and colourful with its own jewellike quality. Of special interest are the “Tree of
Life” painting,The Pietá – a bronze sculpture
and a woven Altar Frontal tracing the journeys
of St. Cedd. Educational visits and guided
tours are welcome by appointment. Open
daily. Admission free. Disabled access.
Chelmsford Museum & Essex
Regiment Museum
Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street,
Chelmsford, CM2 9AQ
Tel: 01245 605700
Email: museums@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums
A short walk from the town centre, situated
within the Green Flag Award winning
6
Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Historical
Chelmsford
Oaklands Park, the Chelmsford Museum and
the Essex Regiment Museum houses displays
of local and social history, archaeology and
costume, exhibits from the natural sciences
and collections of glass and coins.The “Story
of Chelmsford” exhibition charts the history of
the area from the Ice Age up to the present
day, while the “Bright Sparks” exhibition
explores Chelmsford’s impressive industrial
past. Especially popular are a Victorian kitchen,
a large brown bear and a live beehive. The
museum also has temporary exhibitions of
special interest.The Essex Regiment Museum
collections include mess silver, costumes,
medals, drums and a large archive of
photographs, letters and diaries that illustrate
the history of the Essex Regiment and its
soldiers since its formation in 1741. Included
within the exhibits are several Victoria Crosses.
The museum’s new, contemporary extension
was opened in January 2010. Admission is
free. Open: all year, Monday-Saturday &
Bank Holidays 10am-5pm, Sunday 2pm-5pm
(winter 1pm-4pm).
Essex Police Museum
Hylands House and Estate
Sandford Road, Springfield, Chelmsford,
CM2 6DN
Tel: 01245 457150
Email: museum@essex.pnn.police.uk
Web: www.essex.police.uk/museum
Hylands Park, Old London Road,
Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ
Tel: 01245 605500
Email: hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands
The museum, which is based at Police
Headquarters in Springfield, Chelmsford, holds
a collection relating to the history of the force
from 1840, including personnel, disciplinary
and other records, together with more
general documents and a large photographic
record. Open Wednesdays 1-4.30pm, and
the first Saturday of each month 10.30am4.30pm. No appointment necessary. For group
visits, daytime or evening, please contact the
museum c/o Essex Police Headquarters,
PO Box No 2, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex,
CM2 6DA or telephone 01245 457150.
Online booking form for visits available on
website.
Hylands House has long been regarded as one
of the “architectural ornaments of Essex” and
more recently as the “Jewel in Chelmsford’s
Crown”. The house was originally built in
1730. In 1797 Humphry Repton, one of
the most famous landscape gardeners and
architects of the day, was commissioned to
remodel the landscape and to advise on the
design of the House. At this stage the East
Wing was added. The appearance of the
house was substantially altered again in 1839,
when another storey and a porte-cochere
was added to allow coaches to draw up at the
front door.
Essex Record Office
Wharf Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6YT
Tel: 01245 244644
Email: ero.enquiry@essex.gov.uk
Web: www.essexcc.gov.uk/ero
The Essex Record Office collects and
preserves the written, oral and visual heritage
of the county, ensuring that it remains available
to both present and future generations.
Visitors can use the collections to research
family history, house history, community
history and local geography. Reader’s ticket
required. Electronic catalogue Seax can be
searched on website. Refreshments available.
The house suffered severe damage following
the death of the last private owner, Christine
Hanbury in 1962. Chelmsford Borough
Council bought the house in 1966 and
undertook a phased approach to the
restoration of the house and estate, bringing
it back to its former glory. The final phase of
restoration was completed with the opening
of the newly restored Stables Centre in April
2007. The block has been converted into
a new visitor centre, and includes a large
gift shop, a café, artist studios, information
and interpretation rooms, stabling for heavy
horses and a multi purpose room for
education use and hire.
Group visits and guided tours available.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
7
Shire Hall
Pleshey Castle
Parks, Gardens & Countryside
Pleshey
Tel: 01245 360239
The remains of this imposing motte and bailey
castle, built in the 12th century, dominate
the picturesque village of Pleshey. Its central
mound stands at 15m high and is 100m
across the base.The moat is crossed by a
14th or 15th-century bridge.The line of the
outermost defences can still be traced.The
castle is mentioned in Shakespeare’s play
Richard II. Good access to outer defences
and information board. Visits by appointment
only. Key for access to inner defences (charge
made) from 01245 360239.
Sandford Mill
Sandford Mill Road, Chelmer Village,
Chelmsford, CM2 6NY
Tel: 01245 475498
Email: sandfordmill@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums
and jury at the County Assizes which were
held in the Shire Hall for almost 200 years.
The building now houses the town’s
magistrates court and is also available for
hire for weddings, parties, conferences and
meetings.The main crown court complex for
Essex was opened in 1982 by the Lord Chief
Justice, Lord Lane, and is in New Street.
Stone Bridge
Moulsham Street/High Street, Chelmsford
The Sandford Mill former waterworks site
houses collections depicting Chelmsford’s
industrial heritage, including the famous Marconi
hut. Other industrial exhibits include milling and
brewing. Museum open on special “open days”
and for school visits.Telephone for details.
Built in 1784 across the River Can at the
bottom of the High Street, it is the third
bridge to be constructed on the spot since
1199. Maurice, Bishop of London and a
local landowner, foresaw the importance
of Chelmsford once the river was bridged.
During the 17th century, an armed guard was
placed on the bridge to prevent villagers from
nearby Moulsham bringing infected corpses
for burial in to the local parish churchyard.
Shire Hall
Stock Windmill
Tindal Square, Chelmsford, CM1 1EH
Tel: 01245 435824
Email: bob.pearson@essex.gov.uk
Website: www.theshirehall.co.uk
Mill Lane, Stock
Tel: 07717 867178
Email: graham.robinson@essex.gov.uk
Web: www.stock.org.uk
This imposing public building was built in 1791
by John Johnson, the County Surveyor. Three
plaques, situated high up on the east face of
the hall overlooking the High Street, represent
Wisdom, Justice and Mercy. These were
qualities to be borne in mind by judge
Early 19th century tower mill with late 19th
century machinery. Restored to working order.
Open April-September, second Sunday in each
month, 2pm-5pm. Admission is free. Prebooked groups welcome at all other times. Fee
for guided tours – please telephone for details.
8
Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
If you want to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the town
centre, Chelmsford has a wealth of superb parks, gardens, rural
villages and open spaces to explore and enjoy.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
9
Park, Gardens and
Countryside
Admirals Park and Tower
Gardens
Rainsford Road, Chelmsford, CM1 2PZ
Tel: 01245 605561 for sports bookings/
pitch enquiries or 01245 606496 for
general enquiries
Email: parksservices@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/parks
With some 660 hectares (1,631 acres) of
parks, many of which have been awarded
Green Flag status, there are plenty of
places to relax and unwind.Venture further
into the countryside and explore beautiful
villages such as Great Waltham and Writtle.
If nature is your thing, Hanningfield
Reservoir Visitor Centre is well worth
a visit, as is Lingwood Common, Blake’s
Wood and Galleywood Common.
With the Rivers Can and Chelmer flowing
through the borough, there are plenty
of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful
countryside from the water. There is also
an abundance of angling locations, including
fishing lakes and Hanningfield Reservoir.
Whether you prefer to explore the
area on two feet or two wheels,
there is an abundance of cycleways
and footpaths, including parts of the
Essex Way, to discover. For more
information on exploring Chelmsford by
bicycle or on foot, visit Essex
County Council’s website at
www.essex.gov.uk/cyclingandwalking.
For full details of the parks and green
spaces run by Chelmsford Borough
Council, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/
parks or pick up a parks leaflet at the
Chelmsford Travel & Visitor Information
Centre.
Named after local dignitary, Admiral Fortescue.
Includes formal gardens and a temple-like
structure which was the water conduit that
stood over the town’s pump in Tindal Square
from 1814 until 1852. Admirals Park,Tower
Gardens and adjoining West Park cover
approximately 30 hectares (74 acres). Facilities
include children’s play area, tennis courts,
cricket and football pitches, bowling green,
picnic tables, toilets and changing rooms.
Danbury, CM3 4AN
Tel: 01245 222350
Located on Woodhill Road, four miles east
of Chelmsford via the A414 and Sandon
Road. Part of the old Norman deer park
which includes ancient oak and chestnut trees,
woodland, ornamental and fishing lakes, as well
as picnic areas set in 41 acres.There are also
ornamental gardens and an 18th century ice
house. Open all year.
Danbury and Lingwood
Commons
Areas supporting a great variety of flora and
fauna, with nature trails.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Blake’s Wood, Little Baddow
Danbury Ridge Reserves
Located off Riffhams Chase, Little Baddow.
A secluded wood famous for its spring
bluebells, autumn fungi, ancient woods and
network of footpaths.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The Essex Wildlife Trust manages nearly
240 acres of nature reserves on Danbury
Ridge, a patchwork of woodland, common,
heathland, streams, bogs and farmland. Can
be reached from Fir Tree Lane, Little Baddow.
Central Park, Bell Meadow and
Sky Blue Pasture
Entrances: Parkway, New London Road
and Bell Mead, CM1 1JJ
Tel: See Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
Email: parksservices@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/parks
14.43 hectares (35 acres). Park facilities include
children’s play area, riverside walks, tennis
courts, lake fishing and skateboard ramps.
10 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Danbury Country Park
Galleywood Common
(Local Nature Reserve)
B1007, Stock Road, Galleywood
Situated about two miles south of
Chelmsford, this nature reserve’s 47 hectares
(116 acres) comprise lowland heath with
a wide range of grasses, woodland, gorse,
bracken, heather, heathlands, ponds and
bogs. Car parks, waymarked footpaths and
recreational woodland.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
11
Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor
Centre and Nature Reserve
Essex Wildlife Trust, Hawkswood Road,
Downham, Billericay, CM11 1WT
Tel: 01268 711001
Email: hanningfield@essexwt.org.uk
Web: www.essexwt.org.uk
Open daily 9am-5pm. This 100 acre mixed
woodland reserve has been managed by
Essex Wildlife Trust since 1992. The Nature
Reserve is a Special Site of Scientific interest,
and is nationally important for populations
of migrating wildfowl. Hanningfield Visitor
Centre has sustainable features incorporated
into its design and provides panoramic views
over the 870 acre reservoir, together with
other facilities including an education room,
room hire, light refreshments, and disabled
parking. There is also a shop providing a
range of giftware, cards, optics, books, guides,
maps, bird food and bird accessories. There is
a self-guided trail through the nature reserve
and several bird hides. The Visitor Centre also
runs guided walks, exhibitions, talks, fun days
and craft fairs for all the family. Admission is
by donation.
Hylands Park
Old London Road, Chelmsford,
CM2 8WQ
Tel: 01245 605500
Email: hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands
See entry for Hylands House and Estate on
page seven.
Marsh Farm Country Park
Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham
Ferrers, CM3 5WP
Tel: 01245 321552
Email: marshfarm@essex.gov.uk
Web: www.marshfarmcountrypark.co.uk
Marsh Farm is a working farm where children
can get close to farm animals including pigs,
cattle, sheep, chickens and other animals, and
can play safely in the adventure play areas.
There is also a country park within which you
can enjoy excellent coastal walks and superb
views of the River Crouch. Other facilities
include gift shop, corner shop, tearoom, indoor
and outdoor play areas and special events
throughout the year.
Paper Mill Lock,
Little Baddow
12 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Park, Gardens and
Countryside
Paper Mill Lock
North Hill, Little Baddow, CM3 4BS
Tel: 01245 225520
Email: info@papermilllock.co.uk
Web: www.papermilllock.co.uk
Take a cruise along the Chelmer and
Blackwater Navigation from Paper Mill Lock or
enjoy tea and cakes or a light lunch in the tea
room. Open daily from 10am throughout the
year. Barge hire available for groups. Row boats
and open canoes available for hire. Paper
Mill Lock is also the starting point for some
delightful canal-side and country walks. Free
admission and parking.
Blackwater Boats – Sandford
Lock
c/o Bumblebee Cottage, Boxted Road,
Colchester, CO4 5HF
Tel: 01206 853282
Email: ron.blackwaterboats@btinternet.com
Web: www.blackwaterboats.freeserve.co.uk
Blackwater Boats is based at Sandford Lock
in the hamlet of Brook End, two miles from
Chelmsford. Commercial barges had previously
carried coal, timber and grain along Chelmer
and Blackwater Navigation for over 200 years.
Today you can cruise this historic waterway,
and enjoy the beautiful scenery from aboard
The Blackwater Rose - a traditional narrowboat
which can carry up to 10 passengers and
crew for 45 minute trips or longer cruises
by arrangements.The boat is also available
for short trips. Enjoy the tranquil river and
surrounding wildlife while relaxing on board.
RHS Garden, Hyde Hall
Westerns Approach, Rettendon,
Chelmsford CM3 8ET
Tel: 01245 400256
Email: hydehall@rhs.org.uk
Web: www.rhs.org.uk
A visit to the 360 acre Hyde Hall estate is
unforgettable in any season and allows visitors
to immerse themselves in nature. Hyde Hall
is an inspirational garden with sweeping
panoramas, big open skies and far reaching
views, and combines environmental and
sustainable practices with the high standards
of horticulture for which the RHS gardens
are renowned. Highlights include an attractive
plantsman’s garden of eight acres including
woodland area, spring bulbs and ornamental
lily ponds with fish, a dry garden, Australian
and New Zealand Garden and Hilltop Garden.
Open all year from 10am, while closing time
varies between 6pm mid-summer and 4pm
mid-winter. On-site facilities include licensed
restaurant, plant centre, shop and library.
For entry prices, visit the Royal Horticultural
Society’s website or call the number above.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
13
Night Life, Entertainment & Events
Chelmsford town centre offers a vibrant nightlife, with
dozens of bars and clubs to choose from and a huge range of
entertainment and cultural events to enjoy.
Tropical Wings World of Wildlife
Saltcoats Park and Compass
Gardens
Entrances: Ferrers Road or Creekview
Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5LE
Tel: See Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
Email: parksservices@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/parks
10 hectares (24 acres). Park facilities include
children’s play area, skateboard park, fitness
track (trim trail), sports pavilion, football,
cricket and rugby pitches.
Tropical Wings World of Wildlife
Wickford Road, South Woodham Ferrers,
CM3 5QZ
Tel: 01245 425394
Email: enquiries@tropicalwings.co.uk
Web: www.tropicalwings.co.uk
This all-weather, all-day attraction for the
whole family boasts an amazing array of
creatures from around the world including
butterflies, reptiles, fish, birds and mammals.
Other attractions include Tractorland,
14 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
V Festival, Chelmsford
toddler play area, children’s assault course,
interactive animal encounters, feeding
presentations, video room, gift shop, farm
shop and tea rooms. Opening times vary.
Writtle College
Lordship Road, Writtle, Chelmsford,
CM1 3RR
Tel: 01245 424200
Email: info@writtle.ac.uk
Web: www.writtle.ac.uk
Writtle College is set in its own 220 hectare
estate, including woodland, wildflower
meadows, farm areas and landscaped
gardens. The gardens are open to the public
twice a year as part of the National Gardens
Scheme. For dates, contact the College or
visit its website. Writtle College Garden
Centre and Garden Tea Rooms are located
opposite the main college campus and are
open to the public seven days a week (with
the exception of the Garden Tea Rooms
which are closed on Mondays).
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
15
Night Life, Entertainment
& Events
With three theatres featuring a packed
programme of drama, music, dance, comedy,
amateur productions, children’s theatre
and film, and a cinema, there is plenty of
entertainment on offer for all ages.
Chelmsford hosts many exciting events
during the year. Highlights include the
V Festival, ESSEXstreetdiversions, the
3foot People Festival, The Fling festival and
the Chelmsford Beer Festival.
ESSEXstreetdiversions
For music lovers, there is something to suit
all tastes, whether it be enjoying a classical
music recital in the ornate surroundings
of Hylands House, or catching the hottest
rock and pop acts from around the world
at the V Festival in Hylands Park.
Chelmsford Theatres
Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG
Tel: 01245 606505
Email: boxoffice@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres
Chelmsford Civic Theatres are located in
Chelmsford’s very own West End, close to the
rail station.
The Civic Theatre is a 505-seat auditorium
that offers a varied programme of professional
and amateur arts and entertainment events
throughout the year. From classical drama and
a wide range of dance performances to an
eclectic musical programme and all time family
favourites, the Civic Theatre has something for
everyone! The Civic Theatre prides itself on
its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and ability
to appeal to one and all through a diverse
programme of high-quality theatre.There is
also a regular programme of signed, audio
described or captioned performances.
The Cramphorn Theatre (adjoining the
Civic) is an intimate studio theatre seating
up to 180, which presents a programme of
small-scale touring theatre, music productions
and dance, as well as being renowned for its
innovative, world film screenings and fantastic
programme of mainstream cinema.The
Cramphorn is also home to the ever-popular
lunchtime concerts – a regular programme
of music ranging from jazz to classical, which
is performed between 1pm and 2pm on
Wednesday lunchtimes.
16 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
The Civic Theatre
Odeon Cinema
Kings Head Walk, Chelmsford, CM2 6FH
Tel: 0871 2244007
Email: odeon.chelmsford@odeon.uk.com
Web: www.odeon.co.uk
Eight-screen cinema showing all the latest
blockbusters in the heart of Chelmsford town
centre, next to the Meadows Shopping Centre.
Old Court Theatre
233 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6AT
Tel: c/o Civic Theatre box office
01245 606505
Email: boxoffice@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.ctw.org.uk
Chelmsford Theatre Workshop stages 10
productions a year at the Old Court Theatre
and is one of the largest amateur theatre
companies in mid-Essex. Contact them
for details of their adventurous and varied
programme.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
17
Night Life, Entertainment
& Events
Bars and Clubs
Events
There are dozens of bars and clubs to
choose from in Chelmsford from mainstream
nightclubs to intimate venues for gigs of all
genres. For more information, the following
websites might be useful:
V Festival
www.beerintheevening.com
www.yell.com
The 3foot People Festival
Approximately 160,000 music fans flock to
Chelmsford every year for the V Festival - an
annual two-day music festival which takes place
in Hylands Park towards the end of August,
featuring some of the world’s biggest rock and
pop acts. For dates and ticket information, visit
the V Festival website at www.vfestival.com.
ESSEXstreetdiversions
This unique, free festival of international
outdoor performance is organised annually
by Chelmsford Borough Council. Full of
new surprises every year with professional
performance artists descending on Essex to
perform a rich variety of beautiful, bizarre and
absurd shows through the town centre. Dates
change annually so visit Chelmsford Borough
Council’s website at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/
streetdiversions or call 01245 606987 for the
latest information.
The Fling
The Fling is a playful festival of ‘assorted
amusements’, which takes place annually in July.
Suitable for those aged over 18, it is aimed at
an audience open to exploring unconventional
entertainment and curious activities. Past
Flings have included music, comedy, burlesque,
wordsmiths, cabaret, storytellers, silent disco,
food and bars. For the latest information on
the next Fling, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/
fling or call 01245 606987.
18 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Chelmsford Beer Festival
The 3foot People Festival
Chelmsford Beer Festival is organised
annually by the Chelmsford & Mid-Essex
branch of Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
The Festival is an opportunity for you to try
some of the thousands of different beers
that are available in the UK, including pale
ales, bitters, golden ales, stout, wheat and
specialty beers. In addition to the beer, there
is plenty of food, live music and children’s
entertainment to ensure a good time is had
by all. Venues and dates change annually so
for the latest information, visit
www.chelmsfordbeerfestival.org.uk.
The 3foot People Festival is the only largescale outdoor festival in the UK, exclusively
designed for children aged under five and
their carers.This annual festival which takes
place in July, features all kinds of arts and crafts
workshops, singing and dancing, a soft play
area, storytellers and a giant sand pit
providing little people with wonderment,
fun and learning. For more information
about The 3foot People Festival, visit
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot or call
01245 606986.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
19
Shopping
Shopping
Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone, treating
yourself or would just like to while away a pleasant afternoon for retail therapy, look no further than Chelmsford. With a huge
range of shopping facilities from High Street to boutique, there
is something to suit everyone’s taste and pocket. Packed with
the best in High Street names, two shopping arcades, a lively
market culture and more individual and exclusive shopping
streets tucked away here and there, the town centre is well
worth exploring. Beyond that, there are plenty more shopping
experiences to discover just a short walk, drive or bus ride away.
Each area has its own individual
atmosphere and range of shops
and this guide will hopefully
encourage you to explore them
all. If you haven’t got time to
experience it all, well there’s
always another day...
Fairtrade Town
In 2005, Chelmsford became the first
town in the Eastern Region to be awarded
Fairtrade Town status by the Fairtrade
Foundation. Chelmsford Borough Council
and various community organisations,
churches, schools and individuals across the
town, support the Chelmsford Fairtrade
Town Campaign by providing or selling
Fairtrade products.
High Street Market
Town Centre
The Fairtrade Foundation exists to improve
the position of poor and marginalised
producers in the developing world.The
Fairtrade label is the only independent
guarantee that producers in the developing
world get a better deal. For a product to
display the FAIRTRADE mark it must meet
international Fairtrade standards which are
set by an international certification body.
Chelmsford High Street
20 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
In 1199, a royal charter was passed
permitting a weekly market to be held
on Fridays at ‘Chelmersford in Essex’, and
over 800 years later, Chelmsford’s market
tradition is alive and well.While the town
centre boasts two shopping arcades – High
Chelmer and The Meadows - and the best in
High Street names, the indoor Retail Market
and the regular High Street markets and
Gourmet Food Fayres provide a refreshing
buzz and atmosphere all of their own.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
21
West End
Retail Market
Markets
Chelmsford Retail Market is over 800 years
old and is still thriving. Located beneath the
High Chelmer multi-story car park,
the market boasts over 100 stalls and kiosks
and is open five days a week (extended
to seven during Christmas). Stalls vary
throughout the week, so visit
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/market or call
01245 605717 for more information.
Continuing its vibrant market heritage,
Chelmsford High Street plays host to a
variety of regular and travelling markets.
Every Friday there is a Gourmet Food Fayre,
with local and regional stall holders selling
such delicacies as freshly baked goods, olives,
cheeses, game, sausages, fruit, confectionary
and Indian cuisine. Every Saturday there is a
High Street Market with food stall holders
being joined by crafts, jewellery and gifts.
Throughout the year, a variety of travelling
markets visit the town including Continental
and Christmas markets, bringing the sights,
sounds, tastes and smells of the world
with them. For more information about
Chelmsford’s High Street markets visit
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/foodmarkets or
call 01245 606811.
22 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
‘Theatreland’, bars, restaurants, hotels… no,
we’re not talking London – this is Chelmsford’s
very own West End. Home to the Civic and
Cramphorn Theatres, some of Chelmsford’s
best dining experiences, the County Hotel,
a variety of individual retail outlets and
Chelmsford’s new bus station, this area of
Chelmsford is undergoing a huge amount of
regeneration with entertainment and activity
on the rise.
Moulsham Street
Just off the High Street, Moulsham Street
presents some of both the oldest and
newest shopping experiences in Chelmsford.
Packed with individual shops, boutiques,
restaurants, bars and clubs, Moulsham Street
is a little bit more Carnaby Street or Notting
Hill. From party wear and jewellery to charity
shops, art supplies and interiors, this area of
Chelmsford’s town centre has an atmosphere
and buzz all of its own.
Baddow Road & Can Bridge Way
Shopping
Craft and Antiques
Centres
Dotted around the borough are a number
of hidden gems where you can discover
beautiful local crafts and antiques.
Battlesbridge Antiques Centre
Battlesbridge, Essex SS11 7RE
Tel: 01268 734005 or 0800 0741219
Web: www.battlesbridge.com
The county’s largest antiques centre with
over 80 dealers housed within five period
buildings. The Old Granary and Muggeridge
Farm are open seven days a week from
10am to 5.30pm. Cromwell House, The
Haybarn and The Bridgebarn are open
Tuesdays to Fridays from 10am to 4.30pm
and weekends from 10am to 4pm.
Just off the High Street, Baddow Road
and Can Bridge Way, is the place to find all
that is designer, individual and exclusive.
If Moulsham Street is Notting Hill then,
this area of Chelmsford is a little bit more
Bond Street.
Battlesbridge
Moulsham Mill
Parkway, Chelmsford CM2 7PX
Tel: 01245 608200
Web: www.moulshammill.co.uk
Housed within a Grade II Listed building,
over 20 craft businesses operate from the
converted flour mill, from hand made cards
and jewellery to furniture, art and gifts.
Baddow Antiques Centre
The Bringy, Church Street, Great Baddow,
Chelmsford CM2 7JW
Tel: 01245 476159
Web: www.baddowantiques.co.uk
One of the leading antiques centres in
Essex, with 20 dealers offering a wide
selection of antiques and collectables. There
are 300 Victorian brass and iron bedsteads
on show and restoration services are
available. Admission is free but advanced
booking is necessary. Opening times are
Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sundays
11am to 5pm.
Riverside & Chelmer Village
Retail Parks
A short drive or bus ride out of the town
centre takes you to two retail parks in
the borough - Riverside Retail Park and
Chelmer Village Retail Park, offering big
names from fashion to furniture.
Baddow Road
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
23
Sport, Leisure & Recreation
Whether you like watching or playing, Chelmsford has a huge
variety of first-class sport and leisure facilities to choose from.
Enjoy a traditional game of cricket at the
Ford County Cricket Ground, home of
Essex County Cricket Club, or shout from
the stands at a Chelmsford City football
match. Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre
offers the only ice skating rink in Essex,
home to the Chelmsford Chieftains Ice
Hockey team, while South Woodham
Ferrers Leisure Centre offers an awardwinning swimming pool and climbing wall.
You could even relax with a round or two
at one of Chelmsford’s golf courses or
take a swing at the Pitch & Putt.
Chelmsford also has a huge variety of
sports clubs, including angling, athletics,
boxing, canoeing, martial arts, roller-skating
and sailing. Keep fit at one of the borough’s
numerous public and private gyms or
unwind and relax at a day spa.
Essex
County
Cricket
In the surrounding countryside and villages,
there are plenty of other activities to keep
you on the go, including kayaking at Paper
Mill Lock, horse-riding, hiking, clay-pigeon
shooting and cycling.
Riverside Ice and
Leisure Centre
24 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
25
Sport, Leisure &
Recreation
Sports grounds and
leisure centres
Dovedale Sports Centre
Vicarage Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0JQ
Tel: 01245 605685
Email: dovedale@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/dovedale
Chelmer Park
Beehive Lane, Galleywood
Tel: 01245 606496
Email: parksservices@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/parks
Home of Chelmsford’s Hockey Club and
Cricket Club, the park provides a range of
quality sports facilities including a floodlit
artificial pitch, football, hockey and cricket
pitches, tennis courts, netball, five-a-side football.
Chelmsford City Football Club
Tel: 01245 290959
Email: chelmsfordcityfc@yahoo.co.uk
Web: www.chelmsfordcityfootballclub.co.uk
Based at Chelmsford Sport & Athletics
Centre, Chelmsford City Football Club is a
professional team and play a range of fixtures
throughout the season. Facilities include a
clubhouse, which is available for hire for
private events and functions.
Chelmsford Chieftains Ice
Hockey
c/o Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre,
Victoria Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1FG
Email: info@chelmsfordchieftains.co.uk
Web: www.chelmsfordchieftains.co.uk
Playing at the Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre,
Chelmsford’s very own ice hockey team,
26 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Dual-use centre, sharing its facilities with
Chelmsford College. Centre includes fivecourt sports hall, multi-use studio, Excel
fitness suite room and three squash courts.
Essex County Cricket Club
Chelmsford City FC
the Chelmsford Chieftains, play a variety of
action-packed ice hockey fixtures throughout
the ice hockey season. Fixtures are played on
Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Chelmsford Sport & Athletics
Centre
Salerno Way, Chelmsford, CM1 2EH
Tel: 01245 605666
Email: csac@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/csac
Modern athletics and community sports
centre including outdoor eight-lane
synthetic floodlit track and field facilities,
indoor athletics facility (including a 60 metre
sprint straight with long, triple and high jump
and pole vault facilities), Excel fitness suite
and weights area, four-court sports hall and
multi-use activity/meeting room. The centre
is also home to Chelmsford Athletics Club
and Chelmsford City FC.
Ford County Ground, New Writtle Street,
Chelmsford, CM2 0PG
Tel: 01245 252420
Email: administration.essex@ecb.co.uk
Web: www.essexcricket.org.uk
Frequent matches, some under floodlight,
played during the season. The ground is
close to the town centre within short
walking distance of the bus and railway
stations.
courts, Excel Fitness Suite, Excel Studio One
(spinning and circuits), six-court sports hall,
multi-use activity room, meeting room, health
suite, licensed bar and restaurant.
South Woodham Ferrers
Leisure Centre
Trinity Square, South Woodham Ferrers,
CM3 5JU
Tel: 01245 605600
Email: swflc@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/swflc
Modern dual-use sports centre sharing its
facilities with the William de Ferrers School.
Facilities include indoor four-court sports
hall, two gymnasiums, Excel fitness suite,
25m six-lane state-of-the-art swimming
pool (with moveable floor and submersible
boom), indoor climbing wall, multi-use
activity room, floodlit Astroturf pitch and
four-court multi-use games area.
Riverside Ice and Leisure
Centre
Victoria Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1FG
Tel: 01245 615050
Email: riverside@chelmsford.gov.uk
Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/riverside
The Council’s main leisure centre with a 33
metre indoor main pool (with 60 metre
flume ride and triple diving platform),
20 metre indoor learner pool, free-form
outdoor heated pool, Essex’s only ice rink,
Kool Kids children’s soft play area, two squash
Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
27
Leisure Attractions
Chelmsford Miniature Railway
Ten-pin
Meteor Way (opposite Pitch & Putt off
Waterhouse Lane), Chelmsford CM1 2RL
Tel: 07971 051215
Web: www.chelmsford-miniature-railway.
org.uk
16-18 Tattersall Way, Widford Industrial
Estate, Chelmsford, CM1 3UB
Tel: 0871 8732450
Web: www.tenpin.co.uk
The Chelmsford Society of Model Engineers
Miniature Railway offers ride to the public
on their two tracks every Sunday from
the end of April to the end of September,
2-5pm, for a small fee. To check operating
times, it is advisable to call before visiting.
Free car parking. Light refreshments
available.
Sport, Leisure &
Recreation
Chelmsford Golf Club
Widford Road, Chelmsford CM2 9AP
Tel: 01245 256483
Web: www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk
Ten-pin bowling, with shoe hire and
refreshments, located on the Widford
Industrial Estate on the south side of
Chelmsford.
Gyms, Fitness Centres
and Spas
Club Woodham
Baron Road, South Woodham Ferrers
CM3 5XQ
Tel: 01245 329882
Web: www.clubwoodham.co.uk
Fitness First
Globe House, New Street,
Chelmsford CM1 1TA
Tel: 0844 5712840
Web: www.fitnessfirst.co.uk
Greenwoods Hotel, Spa and
Retreat
18 holes.
Reflections Spa
West Hanningfield Road,
Great Baddow CM2 8HR
Tel: 01245 476333
Web: www.reflectionsspa.co.uk
Springhealth Leisure Club
Brian Close, Gloucester Avenue,
Chelmsford CM2 9DZ
Tel: 01245 494596
Web: www.springhealth.net
Virgin Active
New Writtle Street, Chelmsford
CM2 0RR
Tel: 01245 396060
Web: www.virginactive.co.uk
See Greenwoods Hotel entry on page 34.
Kavala Day Spa
Dukes Walk, Duke Street,
Chelmsford CM1 1GZ
Tel: 01245 287979
Web: www.kavalabeauty.co.uk
Nuffield Fitness & Wellbeing
Centre
Unit 6, Riverside Retail Park,
38 Victoria Road, Chelmsford CM1 1AN
Tel: 0845 241 3833
Web: www.nuffieldhealth.com
28 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Golf Clubs
Channels Golf Club
Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham
CM3 3PT
Tel: 01245 440005
Web: www.channelsgolf.co.uk
Set in 300 acres of parkland, comprises an 18
hole and a nine hole course. 14th Century
clubhouse and Brasserie restaurant.
Crondon Park Golf & Country
Club
Stock Road, Stock CM4 9DP
Tel: 01277 841115
Web: www.crondon.com
Par 72 Championship golf course and nine
hole par three course. Clubhouse.
Hylands Golf Complex
Main Road, Margaretting, Ingatestone
CM4 0ET
Tel: 01277 356016
Web: www.hylands-gc.com
18 and nine hole courses. Driving range and
mini golf.
Regiment Way Golf Centre
Back Lane, Little Waltham CM3 3PR
Tel: 01245 362210
Web: www.regimentway.co.uk
Nine hole course.
West Park Pitch and Putt
Waterhouse Lane, Chelmsford CM1 2RY
Tel: 01245 257682
18 holes and crazy golf.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
29
Where to eat
Chelmsford has an enormous array of places to eat and drink,
from country pubs to cosmopolitan bars, restaurants and cafes.
The town centre also offers a vibrant nightlife, with dozens of
bars and clubs to choose from.
Where to eat
There are over 100 places to eat in the
town centre alone, offering the best of
British, to cuisines from all around the world.
Whether it’s three-course à la carte dining at
a riverside restaurant you’re after, a Sunday
roast and a pint at a thatched country pub or
a quick snack on the hoof, there is something
to suit everyone’s tastes.
If you enjoy making your own delicacies,
Chelmsford boasts a huge range of local
specialist food producers and suppliers.
Scattered around the borough, a wide variety
of farm shops and traditional butchers
and bakers can be found, while closer to
town, the High Street Farmers Markets,
Continental Markets and Gourmet Food
Fayres offer local and national delicacies
including game, olives, seafood, fruit and
vegetables, patisserie, speciality sausages and
hand made confectionary.
For more information about where to eat
the following websites may be helpful:
www.visitessex.com
www.essexrestaurants.com
www.toptable.com
www.beerintheevening.com
www.yell.com
30 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
31
Where to stay
Chelmsford has a broad range of accommodation to choose
from, from luxury country house hotels and spas to cosy little
B&Bs. For more information about rates and offers, we suggest
you contact the accommodation providers directly.
Where to stay
Hotels
Best Western Atlantic Hotel
AA 3 star
New Street, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1PP
Tel: 01245 268168 Fax: 01245 268169
Email: info@atlantichotel.co.uk
Website: www.atlantichotel.co.uk
Close to Chelmsford train station and
within walking distance to the town centre.
59 ensuite bedrooms. Ground floor rooms
available. Breakfast available. Central Heating.
Restaurant. Evening meals by arrangement.
Special diets catered for. Tea and coffee
making facilities, TV, hairdryer and telephone
in rooms. Babies and children welcome.
Cots and high chairs available. Residents
lounge. Complimentary use of Fitness First
gym. Free parking. Credit cards accepted.
County Hotel
AA 3 star
Visit Britain 3 star
29 Rainsford Road, Chelmsford, Essex
CM1 2PZ
Tel: 01245 455700 Fax: 01245 492762
Email: reservations@countyhotelgroup.
co.uk
Website: www.countyhotelchelmsford.
co.uk
town centre. 50 ensuite bedrooms. Disabled
friendly rooms and toilets available. Ground
level entry and lift to first floor. Breakfast
available. Restaurant. Special diets catered
for. Central Heating. Tea and coffee making
facilities, TV, hairdryer and telephone in
rooms. Free WiFi throughout. Babies and
children welcome. Cot and highchairs
available. Baby sitting facilities available to
pre-book. Residents lounge. Parking. Credit
cards accepted. Guide dogs only.
Pontlands Park Country Hotel
AA 3 star
West Hanningfield Road, Great Baddow,
Chelmsford, Essex CM2 8HR
Tel: 01245 467444
Email: sales@pontlandsparkhotel.co.uk
Website: www.heritageleisure.co.uk
Beautiful three star hotel set in parkland just
moments from the A12. 35 ensuite rooms,
some with four poster beds. Disabled
rooms available as well as ramps where
required. Breakfast available. Restaurant.
Special diets catered for. Central heating.
Tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer
and telephone in rooms. Babies and children
welcome. Cot and highchair available.
Garden. Swimming pool. Parking. Credit
cards accepted.
Five minutes from Chelmsford’s bus and
train stations and ten minutes from the
32 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
33
Where to stay
Best Western Ivy Hill
Greenwoods Spa & Retreat
AA 3 star
Writtle Road, Margaretting, Chelmsford,
Essex CM1 0EH
Tel: 01277 353040
Email: sales@ivyhillhotel.co.uk
Website: www.heritageleisure.co.uk
AA 4 star
Stock Road, Stock, Essex CM4 9BE
Tel: 01277 829990 Fax: 01277 829899
Email: reservations@greenwoodshotel.
co.uk
Website: www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk
Beautiful hotel moments from the A12.
33 ensuite bedrooms, all of which have
been recently refurbished. Disabled and
ground floor rooms available as well as
ramps where required. Breakfast available.
Restaurant. Special diets catered for. Tea and
coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer and
telephone in rooms. Babies and children
welcome. Cot and highchair available.
Garden. Parking. Credit cards accepted.
39 rooms. Full English and continental
breakfast available. Lift. Central heating.
Restaurant. Evening meals by arrangement.
Special diets catered for. Tea and coffee
making facilities, TV, hairdryer and
telephones in rooms. Laundry facilities.
Residents lounge. Garden. Swimming pool,
spa and gym. Parking. Ground floor room
available. Disabled access and disabled
bedroom available. Credit cards accepted.
The Oakland Hotel
Boswell House Hotel
AA 2 star
2-6 Reeves Way, South Woodham Ferrers,
Essex CM3 SXF
Tel: 01245 322811 Fax: 01245 329201
Email: info@theoaklandhotel.co.uk
Website: www.theoaklandhotel.co.uk
Visit Britain 2 star
118 Springfield Road, Chelmsford,
Essex CM2 6LF
Tel: 01245 287587 Fax: 01245 287587
Email: boswell118@aol.com
Website: www.boswellhousehotel.co.uk
Located in the centre of South Woodham
Ferrers. 36 ensuite rooms. Four poster
beds in some rooms. Tea and coffee making
facilities, TV, hairdryer and telephone in
rooms. Breakfast available. Central Heating.
Restaurant. Babies and children welcome.
Cot and highchair available. Parking. Credit
cards accepted.
Victorian townhouse situated in the
town centre, close to the Essex Record
Office, cathedral and shopping centres.
12 bedrooms all ensuite. Visit Britain
mobility one grading. Ground floor and
family rooms available. Breakfast available.
Central heating. Restaurant. Evening meals
by arrangement.
34 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Special diets catered for. Tea and coffee
making facilities, TV and hairdryer in rooms.
Telephone. Free internet access. Babies and
children welcome. Cot, highchair and baby
sitting facilities available. Laundry facilities.
Residents lounge/bar. Free parking. Visit
Britain National Breakfast Award 2009.
Miami Hotel
Visit Britain 3 star
Princes Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 9AJ
Tel: 01245 269603
Email: sales@miamihotel.co.uk
Website: www.miamihotel.co.uk
Budget Hotels
Premier Inn Boreham
Visit Britain Accredited
Main Road, Boreham, Chelmsford,
Essex CM3 3HJ
Tel: 01245 398300 Fax: 08709 906395
Email: diane.mctague@whitbread.com
Website: www.premierinn.com
Close to the A12 and main roads into
Chelmsford. 80 ensuite bedrooms. Disabled
and ground floor rooms available. Breakfast
available. Lift. Central Heating. Restaurant.
Evening meals by arrangement. Special diets
catered for. Tea and coffee making facilities,
TV, hairdryer and telephone in rooms.
Babies and children welcome. High chairs
available. Parking. Credit cards accepted.
Premier Inn Springfield
Visit Britain Accredited
Chelmsford Service Area, Colchester Road,
Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 5PY
Tel: 0870 241 8000 Fax: 0870 241 9000
Website: www.premierinn.com
Travelodge
AA Budget
Army & Navy, 128-136 Parkway,
Chelmsford, Essex CM2 7PU
Tel: 0871 984 6379 Fax: 01245 356892
Website: www.travelodge.co.uk
Guest
Accommodation /
Bed & Breakfast
Channel’s Lodge
Visit Britain 4 star
Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham,
Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3PT
Tel: 01245 441547
Email: info@channelslodge.co.uk
Website: www.channelslodge.co.uk
Channel’s Serviced Apartments
Visit Britain 4 star
43 Baddow Road, Chelmsford, Essex
CM2 0DD
Tel: 01245 441547
Website:
www.chelmsfordservicedapartments.co.uk
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
35
Bury Farm
Sherwood
Visit Britain 4 star
Bury Farm, Pleshey, Chelmsford, Essex
CM3 1HB
Tel: 01245 237234
Email: anne@oates.u-net.com
Website: www.burybarncottage.co.uk
Visit Britain 3 star
Cedar Avenue West, Chelmsford,
Essex CM1 2XA
Tel: 01245 257981 Fax: 01245 257981
Email: jeremy.salter@btclick.com
Homecroft
Visit Britain 3 star
Southend Road, Great Baddow,
Chelmsford, Essex CM2 7AD
Tel: 01245 475070
Email: jesse@pryke.fsbusiness.co.uk
36 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Three bedrooms. Three non-ensuite
bathrooms. Breakfast available. Central
heating. Tea and coffee making facilities and
TV in rooms. Parking. Secure cycle storage
available.
Getting about
Situated in the heart of Essex just 30 miles north east of London,
Chelmsford is easy to get to by plane, train and car. Once you’re
here, getting about could not be easier.
Wards Farm
Visit Britain 2 star
Loves Green, Highwood Road, Highwood,
Essex CM1 3QJ
Tel: 01245 248812 Fax: 01245 248812
Email: alsnbrtn@aol.com
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
37
By car:
Chelmsford is within a 15 minute drive
of junction 28 of the M25 giving excellent
access to the national road network. The
A12, which links London with the east
coast of England, is within easy reach.
There are over 5000 parking spaces
available in Chelmsford’s many car parks.
By bus:
If you prefer to leave the car behind,
Chelmsford’s Park and Ride site at the
A12/A414 road junction provides quick
and easy access into Chelmsford town
centre. First Bus operates an extensive
service around the area. For more
information on services contact 0870
6082608 or call into the Travel & Visitor
Information Centre at the bus station
on Duke Street. National Express also
provides coach services to the rest of the
UK and Europe. For more information call
01245 283400 or 01245 263859. There
are also seven public transport information
kiosks located around the town, including
outside the train station and inside County
Hall.
By rail:
Chelmsford has excellent rail links with
London and the rest of the East of
England. Up to six trains an hour connect
Chelmsford to London Liverpool Street
with a journey time of about 35 minutes.
In 2012, Chelmsford will be only 25
minutes from the London Olympic Games
site. Chelmsford rail station is located a
five minute walk from the town centre.
For more information on rail services call
National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950.
By air:
London’s fastest growing airport, Stansted,
is within 30 minutes of Chelmsford. From
38 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
the airport, Chelmsford can be reached by
the regular X30 Bus Service, by taxi or by
road on the A120 and A130.
By sea:
The east coast port of Harwich is about
one hour from Chelmsford. The Channel
Tunnel and Channel ports can be reached
within about an hour and a half.
Cycling:
Cycling is one of the most convenient
ways of getting around, and Chelmsford
has over 30km of designated cycle routes
to explore. To pick up a free cycle map,
either pop into the Chelmsford Travel &
Visitor Information Centre at the bus
station, call Essex County Council on
01245 437238 or visit
www.essex.gov.uk/cyclingandwalking.
Taxis:
There are approximately eight taxi ranks
around Chelmsford. Location maps are
available free, at the Travel & Visitor
Information Centre or call Chelmsford
Borough Council on 01245 606606. Taxi
phone numbers are available at one of
seven touch screen transport information
kiosks located around the town.
Shopmobility
Two Shopmobility branches operate
in Chelmsford town centre. These can
be found on Market Road near the
Cathedral, and in the Meadows
Shopping Centre car park, opposite the
Odeon cinema. For more information
about these services, visit
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/shopmobility
or www.meadowsshopmobility.org.uk,
or call 01245 615800 or 01245 357 097.
Getting about
Chelmsford Travel & Visitor
Information Centre
Situated in Chelmsford Bus Station
on Duke Street, the Chelmsford Travel
& Visitor Information Centre should
be your first port of call for help and
advice on transportation and things to
see and do in Chelmsford and beyond.
The Centre’s wide range of services include:
 B
us ticket sales and bus timetable
information
 National Express coach bookings
 Accommodation information and bookings
 Information on places to visit and other
events and attractions
 Local guides and maps
 Information on the East of England and
London
 Local souvenirs
Chelmsford Travel & Visitor
Information Centre
8 Dukes Walk, Duke Street,
Chelmsford CM1 1GZ
Chelmsford Bus Station
Visitor Information
Tel: 01245 283400
Travel and Ticket Information
Tel: 01245 263859
Email: chelmsfordvisitor.information@
firstgroup.com
Opening times:
Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm.
Saturday 9am – 1pm.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
39
Borough Map
Useful information
Braintree, Halstead
& Sudbury
40 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Chelmsford Travel & Visitor Information
Centre 01245 283400
National Rail Enquiries
08457 484950
Traveline
0871 200 2233
A1
3
2
A1
A
8
60
13
0
Writtle
4
A41
Harlow
& M11
A1
11
Hylands Park
Highwood
A12
A12
Boreham
Boreham
Interchange
Little
Baddow
A414
Danbury
Maldon
Sandon
Bicknacre
Galleywood
Margaretting
Brentwood
M25 & London
4
Great
Baddow
Colchester, Ipswich
& Harwich
East Hanningfield
West
Woodham
Hanningfield
Ferrers
Rettendon
A132
30
www.traveline.org.uk
Public transport information.
A10
Chelmsford Borough Council
01245 606606
Essex County Council
0845 743 0430
Chignall
Smealy
Chignall
St James
CHELMSFORD
Roxwell
www.firstgroup.com
Information about local bus services in the
borough.
Phone Directory
Little
Waltham
A1
www.visitbritain.com
The official tourist information website for
the whole of Britain.
Bishop’s
Stortford
0
2
www.visiteastofengland.com
The official tourist information website for
the East of England and the six counties that
make it up.
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Information and journey planner for rail
services across the UK.
Good
Easter
Howe
Street
Pleshey
Great Waltham
13
A1
www.visitessex.com
The official tourist information website
for Essex, which includes a wealth of
information on where to stay, what to see,
where to eat and what’s on not just in
Chelmsford, but across the whole of Essex.
www.theaa.com/traffic-news
Up to date information on the UK roads
including delays and traffic jams.
A
13
www.essex.gov.uk
Essex County Council’s website containing
a whole host of community and local
information about Essex.
Ford End
Great
Leighs
A
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
Chelmsford Borough Council’s website
containing a whole host of community and
local information about Chelmsford.
North End
www.metoffice.gov.uk
Weather information and forecasts for the
whole of the UK.
A4
14
Websites
1
Gt Dunmow, Stansted
M11 & Cambridge
Stock
Ramsden
Heath
Downham
Runwell
A132
Wickford
South
Woodham
Ferrers
Burnham
on Crouch
Battlesbridge
Southend on Sea
& Basildon
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
41
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42 Chelmsford: A Visitor’s Guide
Lo
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Visitor Information
Map and print by Silvermaze - www.silvermaze.co.uk
Copyright Chelmsford Borough Council / Silvermaze
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