Admirals Park and Tower Gardens, Chelmsford
A historic and tranquil green oasis in Chelmsford, blending Victorian gardens, riverside walks, and family-friendly recreation.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens form a serene and expansive green oasis in the heart of Chelmsford, Essex. Spanning over 16 hectares, these adjoining parks offer beautifully maintained flower beds, riverside walks along the River Can, sports facilities including tennis courts and a bowling green, and multiple children’s play areas. The parks are a blend of Victorian landscape heritage and natural wildlife habitats, perfect for leisurely strolls, family picnics, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
A brief summary to Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
- 2LY, Admirals Walk, Chelmsford, CM1 2XS, GB
- +441245606606
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Tower Gardens early in the morning to enjoy the flower beds in soft light and avoid crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the spacious picnic areas near the ornamental gardens.
- Explore the riverside paths for peaceful walks and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Make use of the sports facilities like tennis courts and bowling green if you want an active visit.
- Check out the Witchcraft Executions Memorial to connect with Chelmsford’s unique local history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Chelmsford Station, which has direct services from London Liverpool Street and other Essex towns. From the station, catch bus number 45 or 47 towards Central Park. Alight at the Central Park stop, then walk approximately 5 minutes to Admirals Park and Tower Gardens. Total travel time ranges from 30 to 50 minutes depending on connections. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5.
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Car
Drive via the A12 and exit onto the A414 towards Chelmsford city centre. Follow signs for Central Park leading to Admirals Walk. On-site parking is available but limited, so early arrival is recommended. Nearby council car parks offer additional options, with charges around £1.50 to £3.00 per hour. Travel time from Chelmsford outskirts is about 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
From Chelmsford city centre, enjoy a pleasant 20 to 30-minute walk south along Duke Street and Victoria Road to Admirals Walk. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, with clear signage to the park entrance.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
A Historic Green Sanctuary in Chelmsford
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens are integral parts of Chelmsford’s rich landscape heritage, tracing back to Victorian times. Together, they cover approximately 16.5 hectares, bordered to the south by the River Can and to the north by Rainsford Road and Bundicks Hill. Admirals Park’s boundary has remained largely unchanged over the decades, preserving its historic charm. Tower Gardens, accessible mainly from Roxwell Road, features mid-20th century boundary walls and a pavilion, reflecting the park’s evolution through time.Floral Beauty and Riverside Tranquility
Tower Gardens is renowned for its beautifully designed flower beds and mature trees, creating a picturesque setting ideal for peaceful walks and photography. The parks’ flora changes with each season, offering a vibrant palette of colors year-round. The River Can flows gently along the southern edge, with well-maintained riverside paths that invite visitors to enjoy tranquil strolls, wildlife spotting, and dog walking. Cool-down spots along the river provide refreshing respites during warmer months.Recreational Facilities and Family-Friendly Amenities
Both parks cater to active visitors with a variety of sports facilities. Admirals Park and Tower Gardens include tennis courts, a traditional bowling green, football and cricket pitches, and a pitch and putt golf course. Several well-equipped children’s playgrounds accommodate different age groups, from toddlers to teens. Ample picnic areas with seating encourage families and groups to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The network of accessible footpaths and cycleways makes exploring easy and enjoyable for all abilities.Ecological and Cultural Significance
Designated as a Local Nature Reserve, Admirals Park and Tower Gardens play an important role in protecting local wildlife habitats within an urban setting. The parks support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to Chelmsford’s green infrastructure. A poignant historical feature within the park is the Witchcraft Executions Memorial, which commemorates a significant and somber chapter of local history, adding depth to the visitor experience.Connectivity and Urban Integration
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens are seamlessly linked to Chelmsford’s Central Park, expanding green space and recreational opportunities. This connection allows for extended walks and access to additional amenities such as cafes and playgrounds. The parks’ proximity to Chelmsford city centre makes them easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car, with parking available on-site and nearby council car parks.Year-Round Appeal and Visitor Experience
Open daily with no admission fee, Admirals Park and Tower Gardens welcome visitors throughout the year. Seasonal changes bring varied natural beauty, from spring wild violets in wooded areas to vibrant summer blooms and autumn foliage. The parks provide a peaceful retreat from urban life, whether for a quiet moment by the river, active sports, or family outings. Their well-maintained landscapes and facilities ensure a comfortable and engaging visit for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
4.6 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Laindon War Memorial
18.5 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Finchingfield Post Mill
25.7 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
27.1 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Nigel’s Gate
27.8 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
28.1 km
Discover local history and celestial wonders at Southend Central Museum & Planetarium, a must-visit attraction in Southend-on-Sea.
Wayfinding Stone
28.4 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Southend Pier and Railway
29.2 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
National Trust - Copt Hall Marshes
29.3 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Copt Hall Marshes, a serene nature reserve in Little Wigborough, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
29.4 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
Southchurch Hall
29.4 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
East Anglian Railway Museum
29.5 km
Discover the enchanting history of rail travel at the East Anglian Railway Museum, a captivating destination for tourists in Colchester.
Sealife Adventure
29.7 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Hedingham Castle
30.0 km
Explore the stunning Hedingham Castle, a medieval gem steeped in history, surrounded by beautiful gardens, and perfect for romantic weddings.
Southchurch Park
30.1 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Central Park
1.0 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
Chelmsford Cathedral
1.3 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
High Chelmer Shopping Centre
1.4 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant indoor shopping centre with over 80 stores, diverse dining, and convenient parking all under one roof.
Bond Street Chelmsford
1.6 km
A vibrant modern shopping and leisure precinct in Chelmsford, blending retail, dining, and riverside charm.
Meadows Shopping Centre
1.6 km
A vibrant community hub in Chelmsford offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly leisure in the heart of the city.
Chelmsford Museum
1.9 km
Explore Chelmsford’s rich history through immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities in the heart of Oaklands Park.
The Essex Regiment Museum
1.9 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the Essex Regiment amidst the tranquil beauty of Oaklands Park in Chelmsford.
Essex Police Museum
2.5 km
Explore Essex’s policing history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum in Chelmsford.
Hylands Park
2.7 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Hylands House
3.3 km
Historic Grade II* listed mansion and expansive parkland offering luxurious weddings, elegant events, and stunning Essex countryside views.
Danbury Country Park
7.7 km
Historic lakes, ancient woodlands, and vibrant meadows converge in this tranquil Grade II listed country park near Chelmsford.
Ingatestone Hall
9.7 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
The Rayleigh Arms
10.8 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Mountnessing Windmill
11.3 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
11.5 km
A 365-acre hilltop garden showcasing innovative design, diverse plantings, and panoramic Essex countryside views.
Essential places to dine
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
0.7 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
The New London
1.5 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Acanteen
1.6 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
1.6 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
1.6 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
1.7 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Russells Restaurant
4.1 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
4.1 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
5.8 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Bartellas Restaurant
5.9 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Galvin Green Man
7.5 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Hoop at Stock
8.3 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Vita Bella
9.6 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
The Square & Compasses
10.1 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Castle - Great Leighs
10.4 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riverside Retail Park
1.7 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Emporium Maldon
15.6 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
The Curiosity Shop
16.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
George Yard Shopping Centre
16.9 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
17.0 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
17.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
17.0 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Factory Shops
19.9 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
22.9 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Gifts for All Home Decor
23.2 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Blush Boutique Essex
24.1 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
La Luna Boutique
25.2 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
25.9 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Latham Street
25.9 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
A Touch Too Wild
26.2 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ale House
1.0 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
The Orange Tree
1.4 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Voodoo Keller Bar
1.4 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
1.6 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Be At One - Chelmsford
1.6 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Bootmaker
1.6 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
1.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
Fox & Hounds
2.4 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
6.0 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Bear Inn - Stock
8.4 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
10.6 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
11.8 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Harry's Bar
12.7 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
13.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
The Queen Victoria Public House
14.8 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tantalize
1.6 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
1.7 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Popworld - Chelmsford
1.7 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
The Loft Basildon
18.9 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
24.0 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Lounge Jazz Club
24.5 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Moonraker Club
27.6 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
28.1 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
28.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
28.9 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
28.9 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
29.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Faces NightClub
32.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
34.1 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
34.5 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Local Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly