What’s on Summer 2023

Adventure Island Island Fest

Saturday 17 June: 11.00am until close www.adventureisland.co.uk/events

The day will include performances and displays from local talent including bands, singers, dancers, actors, artists, comedians and fashion designers. Raising money for Southend Hospital Charitable Foundation. Price: The park is free admission, only pay to go on the rides. Suitable for all ages.

Fairytale Weekend

Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July: 11.00am until close (both days)

In a land not so far away, join us for a magical weekend. Our favourite fairy-tale friends come to visit. Join us for treasure hunts, themed entertainment, tattoos, face paint and our best dressed competition to win some fantastic prizes. Price: The park is free admission, only pay to go on the rides. Suitable for all ages. www.adventureisland.co.uk/events

Adventure PRIDE

Saturday 15 July: 11.00am until close www.adventureisland.co.uk/events

Here at Adventure Island, we take pride in our inclusivity and diversity within the workforce and offer a safe place for our LGBTQ+ employees. Join us to celebrate Adventure PRIDE, alongside Southend PRIDE, with activities and performances throughout the day. Price: The park is free admission, only pay to go on the rides. Suitable for all ages.

Brentwood Art Trail

Saturday 3 to Sunday 25 June www.brentwoodarttrail.co.uk

The annual Brentwood Art Trail is a great way to enjoy the artwork of talented local artists, exhibiting in June in a wide variety of venues in the borough. Visit pop-up galleries and attend creative workshops and events in Brentwood, Ingatestone and Shenfield as part of this trail. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages.

Beacon Hill Fort and Harwich Redoubt

Napoleonic Weekend

Saturday 19 and Sunday 2 August www.beaconhillfort.org.uk and www.harwich-society.co.uk

A weekend of Napoleonic military re-enactment of British and French troops, including Kings Own German, The Buffs and 95th Rifles, combining troop movement, skirmishes and living history displays at both the Harwich Beacon Hill Fort and The Redoubt. Suitable for all, be mindful of loud noises for those with sensitive hearing.

Brightlingsea 2023 Carnival, Regatta and Fun Fair

Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 July: 10.00am to 6.00pm www.brightlingsearegatta.com

The Brightlingsea Regatta, Carnival and Fun Fair are joining forces again for a weekend of family fun where maritime heritage meets vibrant festivities, offering exciting boat races, colourful parades and an action-packed fun fair to help create cherished memories for visitors by the seaside. Price: Free (pay for rides). Suitable for all ages, family friendly.

Chelmsford Theatre

The Mousetrap: 70th Anniversary Tour

Monday 3 July to Saturday 8 July

This thrilling West End production of Agatha Christie’s genredefining murder mystery comes to Chelmsford. The world’s longestrunning play has kept millions of people on the edge of their seats. Price: See website. Suitable for ages seven-years-old plus. www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Tuesday 25 July to Thursday 27 July

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages. www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

Colchester Castle Park Theatre A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Wednesday 28 June to Saturday 22 July: 7.00pm

A real crowd pleaser and a firm favourite with open air theatre companies all over the world, Colchester looks to be no different with a unique, dark magical twist on the Bard’s comedy. Don’t miss this theatrical treat under the stars. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages. www.castleparktheatre.co.uk

Colchester Castle

Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games

Saturday 15 July to

Sunday 14 January 2024

Join us this summer for our spectacular new exhibition and discover what a day at the Roman Games would have looked and felt like. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages. www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/ events/gladiators

Colchester Siege Spectacular

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August

Re-enacting and commemorating the epic Siege of Colchester in 1648, the English Civil War Society presents a wonderful free weekend of living history, pageantry and excitement across the city centre. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages. www.visitcolchester.com/ whats-on/colchester-siegespectacular-p1861921

Colchester City Council

Guided tours for the Colchester City Status Year of Celebration

Ten Saturday afternoons from May to September

Led by guides, explore the new city’s long and fascinating history. From the Iron Age through the Roman period to the Victorian age and into the modern world. Tours last up to two hours and may involve muddy footpaths, walking across fields and along busy roads. www.visitcolchester.com

Colchester Zoo

Zoobilee half term

Saturday 27 May to Sunday 4 June www.colchester-zoo.com/event/ zoobilee-half-term

Throughout the May half term, we’re hosting a variety of fun activities daily in celebration of turning 60. Our Zoobilee week is bursting at the seams like our party balloons and is packed with mystical shows from Magic Iain, Samba Dancers, and Marimba Music from Otto and The Mutapa Calling. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages.

Wild Vibe Wonderland

Saturday 22 July to Sunday 3 September

To make this summer extra zoo-rific for our 60th birthday, we’ve teamed up with Jammy Creative Studios to provide you with a full six weeks of entertainment as they bring an exclusive Wild Vibe Wonderland to us here at Colchester Zoo. Price: See website. Suitable for all ages. www.colchester-zoo.com/ event/summer-at-the-zoo-wildvibe-wonderland

Cuckoo Farm Studios

Benham Gallery Exhibitions and Day Workshops

From May to December www.cuckoofarmstudios.org.uk

Various times and dates. Check the website for more details.

Down Hall Hotel, Spa and Estate

Jazz Brunch

Sunday 4 June, Sunday 2 July, Sunday 6 August, Sunday 3 September www.downhall.co.uk/upcomingevents/jazz-brunch

Join us for brunch out on our beautiful terrace, sipping delicious cocktails while listening to the sounds of jazz. Add some atmosphere to your Sunday get together, whether you have a special occasion to celebrate or you just want some quality time with your friends. Price: £35. Suitable for all ages.

Live from the Lawn

Friday 2, Friday 16 and Friday 30 June, Friday 14 and Friday 28 July, Friday 11 and Friday 25 August www.downhall.co.uk/upcomingevents/live-from-the-lawn

Join us on alternate Friday evenings to enjoy the sounds of summer live from our lawn at Down Hall Hotel. Ibiza nights, Sax night, Mowtown and more. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages.

Wimbledon Afternoon Tea

Monday 3 to Sunday 16 July

Join us for one our most popular themed afternoon teas of the year. Our Wimbledon inspired tea will serve up a winner. Price: £40 per adult. Suitable for all ages. www.downhall.co.uk/upcomingevents/wimbledon-afternoon-tea

Essex Book Festival

Thursday 1 June to Thursday 1 July 2023

The Essex Book Festival will feature 250 artists in 100 events across 40 venues suitable for a variety of ages. Find out more and book tickets. www.essexbookfestival.org.uk

Essex Record Office Presents

The Mystery of Humphry Repton’s Harwich Coach

Tuesday 6 June: 10.30am to 12.00pm

Join speaker James Bettley for this talk began as a response to a tweet asking whether anyone could identify the house shown in the watercolour by Humphry Repton known as ‘The Harwich Coach’. Price: from £6.00. Suitable for all ages. www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/eropresents-190189

The Essex Special Constables

Tuesday 4 July: 10.30am to 12.00pm www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/eropresents-190189

Speaker Alan Cook investigates the creation of special constables in Essex, charting the rise of specials within the county, their links with the magistracy and demonstrates the important role they played whenever there was a threat to the peace. Price: from £6.00. Suitable for all ages.

Epping Forest District Museum

The Tiger Who Came to Tea Exhibition

27 May to 2 September

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm

This exhibition tells the story of one of Britain’s best-loved picture books. Explore our interactive exhibition, facsimile artwork, immerse yourselves in the world of ‘Sophie’ and enjoy a cup of tea with the Tiger. Suitable for all ages. Price: Free. www.eppingforestdc. gov.uk/museum

Firstsite

Big Women exhibition

Now to Sunday 18 June: Closed Mondays www.firstsite.uk/event/big-women

Curated by one of Britain’s most significant contemporary artists – Sarah Lucas – and featuring the work of over twenty high-profile female artists, the Big Women exhibition includes a variety of works that will make you think, laugh and reflect on the role women play in the creative world. All ages welcome, however adult guidance advised. Price: Free.

@background_bob and his amazing friends…back again!

Tuesday to Sundays until 8 October

Essex artist @background_bob returns to Firstsite for his third energetic and uplifting exhibition.‘Back again!’ features over 270 collaborative artworks created by @background_bob with leading international street and graffiti artists including Mr. Doodle, Shepard Fairey and Wrdsmith and other big names such as Grayson Perry, Ed Sheeran and Phill Jupitus and a range of artists and contributors from around the world. Price: Free. www.firstsite.uk/event/backgroundbob-back-again

Festivals

See pages 12 and 13.

Frinton Summer Festival

Tuesday July 11 to Saturday August 19

Enjoy a performing arts festival showcasing high-quality theatre in partnership with the local community. This special event is for everyone – from residents of all ages in Frinton, Colchester, Tendring, Suffolk and beyond. Experience the magic of performing arts. Group bookings available. Age suitability varies, please see each show or event to find out more. www.frintonsummertheatre org/box-office

Frinton Summer Theatre

Now until Sunday 13 August www.frintonsummertheatre.org

A range of plays and performances are taking place at Frinton Theatre including ‘The Kings Speech’, ‘Barefoot in the Park’ and ‘The Ladykillers’ to name but a few. See Frinton Summer Theatre’s website for ticket prices and dates.

Focal Point Gallery

See page 5

Folk and Bespoke Artisan Market and Craft Fair

Variety of dates throughout the summer www.folkandbespoke.com

An artisan, bespoke, hand curated and handmade craft fair and market at various venues. Suitable for everyone.

Green Island Gardens

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Open: Air Theatre Production

Friday 23 June: 6.30pm www.quantumtheatre.co.uk/amidsummer-night-s-dream

Quantum Theatres present ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. Shakespeare’s classic comedy of love and intrigue, magic and mayhem comes to Green Island Gardens where fairies are abroad and nothing is as it seems. Price: Adults £15, children £10. Family tickets available see website for more. Suitable for all ages.

Summer Fayre

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July: 10.00am to 4.00pm

A perfect way to spend a summers day with our open-air fayre, featuring local arts, crafts and produce from all around Essex. Enjoy the gardens at a discounted price and the sights and scents of giant tree lilies, agapanthus and many other summer flowers. Price: £7. Suitable for all ages. www.greenislandgardens.co.uk/ special-events

Wind in the Willows: Open Air Theatre Production

Friday 11 and Sunday 13

August: 2.00pm www.quantumtheatre.co.uk/windin-the-willows

Join Mole, Ratty and Badger at Green Island Gardens on their mad-cap adventures in this heart-warming tale of friendship, mishap and mayhem in Quantum Theatre’s new adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s family favourite. Price: Adults £15, children £10. Family tickets available see website for more. Suitable for all ages.

Harwich Festival of the Arts

Thursday 22 June to Sunday 2 July

Annual combined arts festival set across various venues in Harwich featuring local and international acts and artists. Raising money for several charities including MIND and Musicians Supporting the Homeless. Suitable for all ages. Price: £5. www.harwichfestival.com

Hylands Estate Adventure Cinema

Friday 16 to Sunday 18 June

The UK’s biggest outdoor cinema comes to Hylands Park. Enjoy films in the stunning park grounds this June like: Elvis, The Greatest Showman, Mamma Mia!, Encanto and Top Gun Maverick. Picnics and drinks are welcome and hot food and snacks will be available to purchase. Price: £9.50 to £21.50 per person. Suitable for all the family. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ adventure-cinema

Open Estate Days

Sunday 18 June, Sunday 16 July, Sunday 20 August: 10.00am to 3.00pm www.hylandsestate.co.uk/ explore/openestate

Discover more about the history of Hylands House at the monthly exhibition in the library. Join our free guided tour. Street food, gifts and children’s activities. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages.

Foodies Festival

Friday 23 to Sunday 25 June www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ foodies-festival

The UK’s biggest touring celebrity food and music festival series returns to Hylands Park. The threeday event features live cooking demonstrations from top chefs drawn from the ranks of MasterChef, Great British Bake Off and Great British Menu, plus local Michelinstarred chefs. Chart-topping headliners include Sophie EllisBextor and Five. Plus, family-friendly areas. Price: £3.00 - £38.00. Suitable for all ages.

Prom Spectacular organised by Bel Events

Saturday 5 August: 3.30pm to 10.30pm www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events/ proms-spectacular

The grounds at Hylands Park provide the perfect setting in which to enjoy a picnic concert while appreciating four and half hours of wonderful entertainment. It starts with one of the best swing singers in the country. Then all your favourite proms’ pieces will be played, including Nessun Dorma, the Sailor’s Hornpipe, Land of Hope and Glory, Rule Britannia and Jerusalem. Price: £17.00 - £55.00. Suitable for all ages.

Romeo and Juliet

Wednesday 9 August: 7.00pm www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events/ open-air-theatre-romeo-and-juliet Art, Glass and Jewellery Classes

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men invite you to join them this summer for the timeless and classic love story, Romeo and Juliet. With a history stretching back to William Shakespeare himself they present this great play as he first saw it, in the open air, with an all-male cast and Elizabethan costumes, music and dance. Bring a chair and a picnic and refreshments will be available. Price: £10.00 - £18.00. Suitable for all ages.

Running throughout the summer www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ nicky-gayle www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ mona-marnell www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ tanya-krackowizer

Jane Stewart artist

Mapping the Colne, Brightlingsea

Now throughout the summer www.janestewartartist.com www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/janestewartartist-33959372163

A series of walking art and creative workshops and talks along the banks of the River Colne, from source to estuary. Combination of art activities and history. Suitable for all ages.

Jaywick Martello Tower

ARKADE Exhibition

Thursday 1 June to Sunday 9 July

Inspired by our relationship with the ocean and nostalgic memories of seafront arcades, this interactive artwork by INSTAR invites you to experience a playful illumination of imagery which questions what the future holds for us and for our neighbour, the sea. Artwork created by local people and school pupils will also feature in this exhibition. Price: £1 Adult, children free. Suitable for all ages. www.we-are-instar.co.uk

Creative Net

Wednesdays 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Free workshops on the first Wednesday of every month. www.explore-essex.com

Martello Towers of England Exhibition

Thursday 20 July to Sunday 20 August

Writer Daniel Flavey spent a summer visiting all the Martello towers in England and will be exhibiting his findings for this special exhibition at Jaywick Martello Tower. Price: £1 adults, children free. Suitable for all ages. www.explore-essex.com

Summer Holidays Workshops

Sunday 23 July, Saturday 29, Sunday 6 August, Saturday 12 August, Sunday 20 August, Saturday 26 August: 11.00am to 3.00pm

Join us at Jaywick Martello Tower for a summer of crafting. During the school holidays we will be hosting a series of drop-in family workshops to keep the kids entertained. Price: £1 adults, children free (tower admission). Suitable for: Children and families. www.explore-essex.com

Layer Marney Tower

Essex Summer Opera Festival: The Elixir of Love

Thursday 22 June: 7.00pm, Saturday 24: 6.00pm and Sunday 25 June: 3.00pm www.layermarneytower.co.uk/ events/essex-opera-the-elixir-of-love

The second Essex Summer Opera Festival offers the Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love created by Wild Arts. Performed in the Opera Barn at Layer Marney Tower, fully staged in costume, sung in English by a stunning cast from major opera houses, directed by Guido MartinBrandis, and with chamber orchestra conducted by Orlando Jopling. Price: Tickets from £25.

Mercury Theatre

Zog

Friday 16 to Sunday 18 June (times vary) www.mercurytheatre. co.uk/event/zog

The smash-hit stage adaptation from Freckle Productions is back and promises to be bigger, brighter and more roar-some than ever before. With lively songs, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages. Price: £16.50. Suitable for ages threeyears-old plus.

Unbelievable

Friday 28 July to Saturday 26 August (timings vary) www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/event/ unbelievable

Derren Brown’s one-man shows have won two Olivier Awards and played to sold out houses on tour across the UK, in the West End and on Broadway. Now, with his longtime collaborators Andy Nyman and Andrew O’Connor, Derren* has created a new show starring a multi-talented cast of seven who will perform magic like you have never seen. Be among the first to see the world premiere of this theatrical experience. (*Derren Brown will not be appearing live in this show). Price: £15-£34. Suitable for ages nineyears-old plus.

For the full programme of events at the Mercury visit: www.mercurytheatre. co.uk/whats-on

Milsom Hotels and Restaurants

Talbooth House and Spa

The Art Trail: Now to Tuesday 31 October

Accommodation package with museum access to include Gainsborough’s House and Munnings Museum. Price: From £440 per person (based on two sharing).

Suitable for all ages. www.milsomhotels.com/art-trail-ofgainsborough-munnings-constable Museum of Power

All events start at 10.00am and finish at 4.00pm

Book at: www.museumofpower.org.uk

Essex Faery Fayre

Sunday 11 June

A day of faery mischief and fun for all the family. Competition at the end of the day for best Faery Royal Court and Royal Dog. Price: Adults £8. Concessions: £7. Children £5 (five to 15-years-old). Under-fives free.

Model Exhibition

Sunday 2 July

Celebrating different types of models from vintage to the present day. Price: Adults £8. Concessions: £7. Children £5 (five to 15-years-old). Under-fives free.

Langford Country Fayre and Classic Car Show

Sunday 23 July

A day for all the family. Exhibitions of agricultural machinery, horticulture, craft stalls and demonstrations. Dog show. Array of classic cars, tractors and motorbikes. Price: Adults £8. Concessions: £7. Children £5 (five to 15-years-old). Under-fives free.

Parndon Mill Studios

Time, Traces and Transformation

Now to Sunday 25 June

This exhibition brings together six multi-disciplinary artists, Caryl Beach, Mary Down, Jonathan Emmerson, Marian Hall, Declan Hoare and Sally Tyrie, who met at Digswell Arts Studios in Hertfordshire. Each artist embraces and responds to the theme of Time, Traces and Transformation. With an emphasis on printmaking. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages. www.parndonmill.co.uk

A sixties celebration

“Flower Power”

Thursday 29 June to Sunday 6 August

This exhibition is a celebration of the 1960’s and showcases a diverse range of creative responses from the membership of the Eastern Region Textiles Forum. This was the decade of pop art, psychedelic print, vibrant colour, The Beatles and Twiggy. Pop art peaking in the 1960’s began as a revolt against mainstream approaches to art and culture. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages. www.parndonmill.co.uk

Hinterland

Thursday 10 August to Sunday 17 September

This exhibition combines letter carving by Simon Langsdale with drawings and paintings by Jane Bottery which are influenced by the natural world and local landscapes. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages. www.parndonmill.co.uk

Riverside Leisure Centre

Get In! kids

Monday 3 April to Friday 14 April inclusive

Discover great value school holiday camps, courses and fun activities, perfect for kids of all ages. With locations across four leisure centres in Chelmsford and South Woodham Ferrers, activities include swimming, ice skating, athletics and more. With early booking and sibling discounts, childcare voucher payments, early drop off and late pick up, they’re ideal for working parents. Suitable for ages 0 to 16-years-old. Price: Individual activities from £5; mini and city camps from £14.50 for a half day or £17 for a whole day. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/getin

Rayleigh Town Museum

Local Churches Exhibition

Saturday 3 June to end of July: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Suitable for all ages. Price: Free entry. www.rayleightownmuseum.co.uk

Rayleigh Castle and Medieval Exhibition

Wednesday 2 August to early September

Brass rubbing (50p). Children’s activities, including quizzes, craft and dressing up. Price: Free. www.rayleightownmuseum.co.uk

Saffron Hall

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) with Benjamin Grosvenor

Friday 2 June: 7.30pm

The CBSO returns under conductor Riccardo Minasi for a captivating evening of music including Chopin’s Piano Concerto No.2 performed by Benjamin Grosvenor and Mozart’s magnificent ‘Jupiter’ Symphony. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website. www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/cbso-with-benjamin-grosvenor

Black Dyke Band

Saturday 3 June: 7.30pm www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/black-dyke-band-2

With its roots in the 19th century, the Black Dyke Band has taken the tradition of brass band playing into the 21st with a mix of classic band tunes, jazz, pop and film scores, all delivered with the camaraderie and sense of fun that makes these musicians so special. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Saturday 17 June: 7.30pm

For sixty years Ladysmith Black Mambazo have sung powerful, uplifting songs that emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website. www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/ladysmith-black-mambazo-3

Keith Brymer Jones Live: Life, Clay and Everything

Sunday 18 June: 4.00pm www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/keith-brymer-jones-live-lifeclay-and-everything

Spend a hilarious and uplifting evening with renowned British designer, bestselling author and Great Pottery Throw Down judge, Keith Brymer Jones, as he shares stories of life in front of and behind the potter’s wheel. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website.

Young Artist Coffee Concert: George Harliono

Sunday 25 June: 4.00pm www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/george-harliono

Prodigiously talented young pianist George Harliono grew up near Saffron Walden and he returns to bring us a programme full of delights. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website.

National Youth Orchestra

Friday 4 August: 7.00pm www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/ view/national-youth-orchestra-2

Bold, brilliant, brave: Join us as hundreds of teenagers redefine what it means to be an ‘orchestral musician’ with a spirited performance from the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. Suitable for: This event is not recommended for children under seven-years-old. Price: See website.

Southend Museums

Anglo-Saxon Weekend

Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 August: 11.00am to 4.00pm

Join us to explore the daily life of the Anglo-Saxons at a living history camp. Have the chance to witness a battle re-enactment, take part in Anglo-Saxon themed crafts and activities and get hands on with archaeological excavation. Open to all ages. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Price: £6.50 for children and £8 for adults. Recommended five-years-old plus due to the nature of activities. www.Southendmuseums.co.uk

Signals

Signals (Colchester), run a wealth of workshops for children of various ages, from Stop Motion animation, to Video Game Making and Autism friendly sessions and camps. See the website for school holiday times. www.signals.org.uk/whats-on

Summer holidays workshops: Game Academy

Monday 31 July to Friday 4 August: 10.00am to 3.00pm

A week of workshops and masterclasses covering all areas of game development, including artwork, sound design, game design plus inspiring talks from industry professionals. Over the course of a week, you’ll form small teams to work collaboratively and make your own video game – submitting them to the BAFTA Young Game Price: £25. Suitable for ages 15-years-old plus. www.signals.org.uk/whats-on

Robot Making

Wednesday 9 August and Thursday 10 August: 10.00am to 3.00pm

Design, code and build your own robot. Learn how to program motors with code and build a robot using microbit computers. You’ll experiment with making musical robots and even a remote-control car. Price: £80. Suitable for ages 11-years-old plus. www.signals.org.uk/whats-on

Animation in a Day

Friday 11 August: 10.00am to 3.00pm

Create your own mini animated movie with a range of animation techniques, from digital to stop motion – all in one day. Price: £40. Suitable for ages nine-years-old plus. www.signals.org.uk/whats-on

Talliston House and Gardens

The Magician’s Apprentice Storytelling Evening

Friday 28 July: 7.00pm to 10.30.pm

Join storyteller and author Sally Pomme Clayton in this intimate, enchanting performance exploring the secret world of the magician and discovering true magic in the mundane world. Price: £24.99. Suitable for ages 14-years-old plus. www.talliston.com/sallypomme-clayton

Tuffon Hall Vineyard

Vineyard Tour and Tastings

Saturday 3 and Sunday 11 June, Saturday 1 and Friday 14 July, Sunday 13 August

Take a stroll through our vineyard set in the beautiful north Essex countryside. You’ll learn about growing grapes and producing award-winning wine in England. We’ll talk you through the lifecycle of a vine and just what it takes to get from harvest to bottle. The tour concludes in our magnificent 16th century threshing barn where you’ll sample our three award-winning wines and one of our gins. Price: £20 per person. Suitable for ages 18-years-old plus. www.tuffonhall.co.uk

Thaxted Festival

Friday 16 June to Sunday 9 July www.thaxtedfestival.co.uk

Twenty events over four weekends and rich in cultural delights. From classical and opera, to jazz and folk - there really is something for everyone including workshops and a family friendly concert. Price: See website for ticket details. Suitable for all ages.

The Art of Frinton

Pet Shop

Saturday 29 July to Friday 1 September

A group exhibition, including a wall of children’s work, which looks at the varied and exciting ways artists depict our animal companions. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings. Price: Free. Suitable for all ages. www.facebook.com/theartoffrinton

Topsail Charters

Blues Cruise

Sunday 11 June: 6.00pm to 8.00pm www.top-sail.co.uk/product/ blues-cruise

Step aboard a vintage sailing barge ‘Thistle’ at Maldon quay for a relaxed two-hour early evening sail with Blues musician Ben Tyzack – a soulful rootsy performance including slide guitar and vocals. Includes light nibbles. Price: £50. Suitable for all ages but no concessions.

Smooth Music Cruise

Sunday 25 June: 4.30pm to 6.30pm www.top-sail.co.uk/product/ smooth-music-cruise

Step aboard vintage sailing barge ‘Hydrogen’, at Maldon quay, for a relaxed two-hour early evening sail with mezzo singer Evangeline Brown. Her rich mezzo voice and song choices are similar to Catherine Jenkins. Includes canapes. Price: £50. Suitable for all ages but no concessions.

University Centre Colchester, School of Visual and Performing Arts

Graduate Art Exhibition 2023

Saturday 10 June 10.00am to 1.00pm, Monday 12 June: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Open to the public. No tickets needed. Free of charge. Suitable for all ages.

Wivenhoe House Hotel

Dinner with Elton John Rocket Man (tribute)

Friday 16 June: 7.00pm

Join us at Wivenhoe House for an Elton John Rocket Man tribute night. You will enjoy a welcome drink, a two-course set menu and an evening full of Elton’s classics, performed by the amazing and world-renowned Andy Cosbie. Price: £55 per person. Suitable for adults. www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk/event/ dinner-with-elton-john-rocket-mancolchester-essex

Writtle Sunflowers at Pooty Pools Farm

Sunflowers and Wildflowers

End of July to mid-August

Make some memories whilst picking your own bunch of beautiful sunflowers and wildflowers to brighten your home. Enjoy a picnic or refreshments from our catering van and relax in our field whilst the kids breath some fresh air. Run by the Metson family as part of our family farm, this is our 21st year of opening our sunflower field to the public. Price: Children £2.00, adults £6.00. Suitable for all ages.

Fish Friday

The last Friday of every month

Back by popular demand, the brasserie at Wivenhoe House is bringing back its famous Fish Friday. Includes a glass of prosecco on arrival, fruits de mer, fish soup, a choice of main and a choice of dessert. Price: £55 per person. Suitable for all ages. www.wivenhoehouse. co.uk/food-drink/ www.writtlesunflowers.weebly.com Discover www.explore-essex.com/

Listings provided by the Essex Cultural Network and Visit Essex members.

Find out more about Visit Essex and sign-up to become a member: www.visitessex.com/industry-andpress/become-a-member