Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens: A Tranquil Urban Oasis
Discover peaceful walks, diverse trees, family fun, and a welcoming café in Braintree’s cherished green oasis.
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens is a charming 5-acre green space in Braintree, Essex, featuring beautifully landscaped formal gardens, over 250 labeled trees, a pond with water lilies, a playground, tennis courts, and a café. This peaceful urban retreat offers scenic walks, educational nature experiences, and family-friendly facilities, making it ideal for relaxation, recreation, and quiet reflection close to town.
A brief summary to Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
- 43 Bocking End, Braintree, CM7 9AE, GB
- +441376773066
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit the café for quality refreshments to complement your garden stroll.
- Take time to read the tree labels for an educational experience about local flora.
- Book the tennis courts in advance via email or phone to secure your playtime.
- Bring children to enjoy the playground’s swings and climbing frames.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the gardens’ natural beauty.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Braintree town center to Bocking End; journey times range from 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day. A single fare costs approximately £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the gardens entrance.
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Car
Driving to the gardens is convenient with on-street parking available nearby, though spaces can be limited during peak times. The journey from central Braintree takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Parking is free but with a one-hour maximum stay opposite the gardens.
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Walking
From Braintree town center, a pleasant 20-minute walk along mostly flat terrain leads to the gardens. The route is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, passing through residential areas and local shops.
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
A Serene Green Escape in the Heart of Braintree
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens spans approximately five acres of meticulously maintained formal gardens located at 43 Bocking End in Braintree, Essex. Despite its proximity to busy roads, the gardens provide a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can enjoy a calm and tranquil atmosphere. The space is designed to offer an urban respite, blending natural beauty with thoughtful landscaping that invites leisurely strolls and moments of quiet reflection.Diverse Flora and Educational Opportunities
The gardens boast an impressive collection of around 250 trees, each clearly labeled to enhance visitors' knowledge and appreciation of local and exotic species. This botanical diversity is a highlight, making the gardens a valuable resource for educational visits and nature enthusiasts. The presence of a pond filled with water lilies adds to the biodiversity and visual appeal, creating a focal point for both relaxation and wildlife observation.Family-Friendly Amenities and Recreational Facilities
Families are well catered for with a dedicated playground featuring swings and climbing structures, providing a safe and engaging environment for children. Additionally, tennis courts are available for hire at a reasonable rate, supporting active recreation. The gardens’ open spaces allow children to run freely and adults to enjoy casual sports or picnics, making it a versatile destination for all ages.The Café and Visitor Comfort
A welcoming café on-site offers quality food and drink options, enhancing the visitor experience by providing a place to rest and refresh. Friendly staff contribute to the warm atmosphere, ensuring guests feel comfortable and well looked after during their visit. Seating areas and paved walkways throughout the gardens provide accessibility and comfort for visitors wishing to linger.Community and Conservation Efforts
The gardens are locally managed and maintained with an emphasis on sustainability and ecological care. Efforts to preserve the natural environment and promote biodiversity are evident, supporting wildlife habitats within the urban setting. This commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that the gardens remain a treasured green space for future generations.Visiting Experience and Seasonal Appeal
Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, except for Christmas Day and certain event days, the gardens offer a flexible visit schedule suitable for various plans. The site’s moderate size allows visitors to spend from one to two hours exploring its features comfortably. Seasonal changes bring varied floral displays and wildlife activity, enriching the experience year-round. The gardens’ layout and amenities make it accessible and enjoyable in most weather conditions, providing a consistent retreat for locals and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finchingfield Post Mill
11.8 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
20.0 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.
Nigel’s Gate
23.1 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Balkerne Gate
23.3 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Middle Mill Weir
23.9 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Roman Theatre
23.9 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Natural History Museum
24.0 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Colchester War Memorial
24.0 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Laindon War Memorial
35.6 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
36.0 km
Experience family fun and educational adventures at Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park in Brentwood, where animals and amusement come together.
Hill Hall
36.1 km
Explore the enchanting Hill Hall, a heritage building in Epping, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking gardens, perfect for all ages.
Hadleigh Park
37.0 km
Experience the beauty and recreation of Hadleigh Park, a country park with BMX tracks, lakes, and historical landmarks, perfect for all ages.
Barnards Miniature Railway
37.9 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Hadleigh Castle
37.9 km
Discover Hadleigh Castle, a historical gem in Essex with breathtaking views and rich heritage, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Prittlewell Priory
38.1 km
Discover the rich history and tranquil beauty of Prittlewell Priory, a captivating museum and former monastery in Southend-on-Sea.
Unmissable attractions to see
Great Notley Country Park
3.4 km
Explore Essex’s largest play trail, thrilling Sky Ropes, and serene natural beauty at Great Notley Country Park’s 100-acre family-friendly haven.
Cressing Temple Barns
6.3 km
Explore 13th-century Templar barns and a Tudor walled garden in the Essex countryside – a peaceful, historic escape with free public access on non-event days.
Markshall Estate
8.2 km
Historic Markshall Estate: A millennium of heritage, nature, and stewardship in Essex’s tranquil gardens and arboretum.
The Rayleigh Arms
8.6 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
National Trust - Paycocke's House and Garden
9.0 km
Discover the exquisite Tudor craftsmanship and tranquil Arts and Crafts garden of Paycocke's House, a jewel of England’s wool trade heritage.
Coggeshall Museum
9.1 km
Discover the rich heritage of Coggeshall through its charming volunteer-run museum showcasing local history, crafts, and community stories.
National Trust - Grange Barn
9.1 km
Explore one of Europe's oldest timber-framed barns, a medieval marvel and vibrant cultural hub nestled in historic Coggeshall.
Finchingfield Guildhall
11.7 km
Explore centuries of village life in this beautifully restored 15th-century Guildhall, a living heritage gem in the heart of Finchingfield.
Finchingfield unesco world heritage bid
11.9 km
Explore the oldest windmill in Essex, perched above the picturesque village of Finchingfield, a timeless symbol of rural heritage and charm.
Hedingham Castle
12.5 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman keeps, steeped in history and set within stunning Essex gardens and grounds.
Talliston House & Gardens
13.8 km
Explore a magical 25-year transformation of an ordinary house into Britain’s most extraordinary home filled with stories, art, and global treasures.
East Anglian Railway Museum
14.8 km
Explore over 10 acres of railway heritage with vintage locomotives, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly events near Colchester.
Tiptree Heath
15.3 km
Explore Essex’s largest lowland heathland, home to rare heathers, diverse wildlife, and traditional grazing in a peaceful natural sanctuary.
The Gardens of Easton Lodge
16.2 km
Discover the restored Edwardian splendor and tranquil beauty of The Gardens of Easton Lodge, a historic 23-acre garden in Essex.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
16.2 km
Discover the rich heritage of Tiptree jams with a museum tour, traditional tea room delights, and a shop full of authentic preserves in charming Essex.
Essential places to dine
Castle - Great Leighs
7.2 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
The Square & Compasses
7.7 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Pig & Truffle
10.4 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Galvin Green Man
10.8 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
12.0 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
13.4 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
14.8 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
17.4 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
17.5 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Cosy Club
17.6 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
17.6 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
17.8 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
The New London
18.3 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Russells Restaurant
19.0 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Harvester Stanway Colchester
19.1 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
George Yard Shopping Centre
0.6 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Curiosity Shop
13.2 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.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
16.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Riverside Retail Park
17.0 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Emporium Maldon
19.1 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
Bestdays Vintage
23.7 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Rocks & Rubies
23.9 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
The Factory Shops
33.2 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
The Lovely Shop
33.8 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
34.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
34.2 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
34.2 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
34.2 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
Quirky Old Stuff
35.2 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
35.2 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Voodoo Keller Bar
17.4 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.
The Ale House
17.5 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
17.5 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
17.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Bootmaker
17.8 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
17.8 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Orange Tree
18.2 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Queen Victoria Public House
19.0 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Fox & Hounds
19.5 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
22.0 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
Three Wise Monkeys
23.9 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The Bear Inn - Stock
25.7 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
26.7 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
27.0 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
29.1 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
17.6 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
17.8 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.
Club Tantalize
17.8 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
23.4 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
23.8 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
The Loft Basildon
35.7 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
The Lounge Jazz Club
35.7 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
36.7 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
39.4 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
The Moonraker Club
39.6 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.
Just Vibez
39.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
40.3 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
40.3 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
40.5 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Flex Nightclub
41.6 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly