Danbury Country Park: A Historic Essex Haven of Nature and Heritage
Historic lakes, ancient woodlands, and vibrant meadows converge in this tranquil Grade II listed country park near Chelmsford.
Danbury Country Park is a 45-acre Grade II listed park and garden in Chelmsford, Essex, featuring historic lakes, ancient woodland, wildflower meadows, and formal gardens. Set on the site of the 13th-century Danbury Palace, it offers accessible walking paths, abundant wildlife, and picnic spots ideal for families and nature lovers. Open daily from 8am to dusk, this tranquil country park blends heritage and natural beauty in a peaceful setting.
A brief summary to Danbury Country Park
- Country Park, Woodhill Rd, Chelmsford, Danbury, CM3 4AW, GB
- +441245222350
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife like deer and mallards.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many seating areas around the lakes and gardens.
- Check the park’s event calendar for seasonal activities such as the October Spooky Trail.
- Wear comfortable shoes as paths vary from formal lawns to woodland trails.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Chelmsford city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via A414. On-site parking is available with fees ranging from £3.00 for up to one hour to £6.30 for all day. Parking can be limited on busy days, so plan accordingly.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Chelmsford to Danbury village with a journey time of around 30-40 minutes. From the village, the park is a 15-minute walk along Woodhill Road. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Danbury village, the park is accessible by a 15-20 minute walk on mostly flat and well-maintained paths, suitable for families and casual walkers.
Danbury Country Park 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 Danbury Country Park
Historic Roots and Landscape Heritage
Danbury Country Park occupies 45 acres of land steeped in history, once the grounds of the 13th-century Danbury Palace. The park's Grade II listing recognizes its significance as a heritage landscape combining formal gardens, ancient woodland, and historic lakes. The remnants of medieval deer parkland still influence the wildflower meadows, offering a glimpse into the area's past use and natural evolution.Natural Features and Wildlife Encounters
Visitors can explore diverse habitats including serene lakes, dappled ancient woodlands, and vibrant wildflower meadows. The park supports a variety of wildlife such as squirrels, ducks, and occasionally deer, enriching the experience for nature enthusiasts. Well-maintained paths wind through these settings, allowing peaceful walks and wildlife spotting in a tranquil environment.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Danbury Country Park is designed for accessibility and family-friendly enjoyment. The park features well-kept walking routes with seating areas scattered around the lakes and gardens, perfect for picnics and relaxation. Facilities include public toilets and water taps near the main lake. The park is open daily from 8am until dusk, welcoming visitors year-round including holidays.Seasonal Events and Community Engagement
The park hosts seasonal events such as the popular Spooky Trail during October half-term, which engages families and children in themed outdoor activities. Educational and recreational programs are regularly organized, fostering community involvement and encouraging visitors to connect with nature and local heritage.Setting and Surrounding Attractions
Situated in the village of Danbury near Chelmsford, the park offers a peaceful rural escape while being close to other Essex attractions like RHS Garden Hyde Hall and Weald Country Park. Its elevated position provides scenic views and a refreshing atmosphere away from urban bustle.Preservation and Accessibility
The park balances conservation with public enjoyment, maintaining its natural and historic features through careful management. Paths are accessible and suitable for families, with ample seating and picnic spots. Parking is available on-site with a tiered fee structure, supporting the park’s upkeep and visitor services.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
4.3 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
18.3 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
20.7 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Southend Pier and Railway
23.0 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Southchurch Hall
23.1 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.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
23.2 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
National Trust - Copt Hall Marshes
23.2 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.
Sealife Adventure
23.5 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southchurch Park
23.7 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
24.3 km
Experience family fun and educational adventures at Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park in Brentwood, where animals and amusement come together.
Southend Pier
24.9 km
Experience Southend Pier: The longest pleasure pier in the world, offering breathtaking views, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant seaside culture.
Mersea Island Museum
25.2 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Mersea Island at the captivating Mersea Island Museum, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
East Anglian Railway Museum
27.2 km
Discover the enchanting history of rail travel at the East Anglian Railway Museum, a captivating destination for tourists in Colchester.
Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove
28.3 km
Explore Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove, a historical landmark in Colchester rich in ancient heritage and serene natural beauty.
Hill Hall
28.4 km
Explore the enchanting Hill Hall, a heritage building in Epping, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking gardens, perfect for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Essex Police Museum
5.3 km
Explore Essex’s policing history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum in Chelmsford.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
5.5 km
A 365-acre hilltop garden showcasing innovative design, diverse plantings, and panoramic Essex countryside views.
Meadows Shopping Centre
6.1 km
A vibrant community hub in Chelmsford offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly leisure in the heart of the city.
Bond Street Chelmsford
6.1 km
A vibrant modern shopping and leisure precinct in Chelmsford, blending retail, dining, and riverside charm.
High Chelmer Shopping Centre
6.3 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant indoor shopping centre with over 80 stores, diverse dining, and convenient parking all under one roof.
Chelmsford Cathedral
6.4 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Chelmsford Museum
6.6 km
Explore Chelmsford’s rich history through immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities in the heart of Oaklands Park.
The Essex Regiment Museum
6.6 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the Essex Regiment amidst the tranquil beauty of Oaklands Park in Chelmsford.
Central Park
6.7 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
7.0 km
Explore the largest surviving WWI aerodrome with authentic buildings, replica aircraft, and immersive history near Chelmsford, Essex.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
7.7 km
A historic and tranquil green oasis in Chelmsford, blending Victorian gardens, riverside walks, and family-friendly recreation.
Tropical Wings Zoo
7.7 km
A vibrant family-friendly zoo with a magical butterfly house and engaging play areas for children of all ages.
The Museum of Power
7.9 km
Explore the power of steam and industrial heritage in a historic pumping station set amidst scenic Essex grounds.
Hylands House
8.4 km
Historic Grade II* listed mansion and expansive parkland offering luxurious weddings, elegant events, and stunning Essex countryside views.
Hylands Park
8.8 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Essential places to dine
Vita Bella
3.6 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Russells Restaurant
3.9 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Cosy Club
6.0 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
6.1 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
6.1 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
6.2 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
6.5 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
7.0 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Hoop at Stock
9.6 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Bartellas Restaurant
10.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
10.5 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
10.9 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
The Square & Compasses
11.3 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Galvin Green Man
12.3 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Castle - Great Leighs
12.9 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
6.0 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Emporium Maldon
8.6 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
The Factory Shops
14.7 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
George Yard Shopping Centre
18.2 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Gifts for All Home Decor
18.3 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
La Luna Boutique
19.6 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
The Lovely Shop
20.3 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Store Thirty3
20.3 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
20.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Emporium on the Quay
20.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
A Touch Too Wild
20.5 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
20.7 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
The Happy Sole
20.7 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
French Quarter
20.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
20.7 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
6.0 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
6.1 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
6.1 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Be At One - Chelmsford
6.1 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Voodoo Keller Bar
6.2 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 Orange Tree
6.6 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Ale House
6.7 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Fox & Hounds
6.8 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Queen Victoria Public House
7.7 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
The Bear Inn - Stock
9.8 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Fox and Goose
12.9 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
Harry's Bar
13.8 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
14.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
15.8 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
16.5 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
6.0 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
6.1 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
6.1 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
The Loft Basildon
17.8 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
18.1 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
21.7 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
21.8 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
22.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
22.7 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
22.7 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
23.0 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
30.0 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
30.5 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
30.9 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
34.9 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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