Promenade Park, Maldon: Essex’s Premier Waterside Family Playground
Essex’s largest waterside park blending family fun, scenic riverside walks, and year-round events in the heart of Maldon.
Promenade Park in Maldon is Essex’s largest waterside park, offering a vibrant mix of family-friendly attractions including a splash park, adventure playgrounds, ornamental lake, and riverside walks. Open year-round, it blends natural beauty with recreational facilities like sports courts, BMX and skate parks, and seasonal beach huts, making it a lively hub for events and outdoor fun along the Blackwater Estuary.
A brief summary to Promenade Park
- Park Dr, Maldon, CM9 5JQ, GB
- +441621854477
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during warmer months to enjoy the splash park and rent beach huts for a full day of waterside fun.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many dedicated picnic areas surrounded by gardens and riverside views.
- Check the event calendar before your visit to catch concerts, theatrical productions, or family activity days.
- Use public transport via bus routes 31, 331, 332, 333, 75, 95, or 288 for easy access and to avoid parking fees.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland walks, ornamental lake area, and riverside paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes including 31, 331, 332, 333, 75, 95, and 288 serve Maldon with stops near Promenade Park. Travel times vary from 20 to 50 minutes depending on origin. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend and evening services. Fares typically range from £2 to £5.
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Car
Driving to Promenade Park is straightforward via the A414 and local roads. Pay and display parking is available on site with designated disabled spaces. Parking fees vary but expect around £2–£5 for a few hours. Coach parking and drop-off points are provided. Traffic can be busy during events.
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Walking
For visitors staying in central Maldon, walking to Promenade Park takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes along mostly flat, paved routes suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The terrain is easy and accessible.
Promenade 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Promenade Park
A Historic Haven on the Blackwater Estuary
Opened in 1895, Promenade Park was established to provide Maldon and its surrounding communities with a valuable public green space. Nestled between the historic high street and the scenic Blackwater Estuary, the park reflects Edwardian charm while serving as a dynamic recreational hub. Its origins as a riverside amenity have blossomed into a diverse landscape that invites visitors to enjoy peaceful riverside views, watch river activities, or simply relax amid nature.Family-Centric Attractions and Play Areas
The park is renowned for its extensive children’s facilities, including a large splash park active during warmer months, multiple sandpits, and the iconic Galleon play ship. Adventure playgrounds with aerial zip-wires and an aerial runway provide thrills for younger visitors. Additional features like a children’s maze, toddler water and sand play zones, and a petting zoo ensure engaging experiences for all ages. Model boating and crabbing lakes offer classic outdoor fun by the water.Active Recreation and Sporting Facilities
Promenade Park caters to sports enthusiasts with formal pitches for football, cricket, tennis, netball, and basketball. The skateboarding and BMX areas attract adrenaline seekers, while the permanent orienteering course invites exploration and fitness. Changing rooms and three separate toilet blocks, including accessible facilities and a Changing Places toilet, support comfort and inclusivity.Natural Beauty and Garden Spaces
Beyond the playgrounds and sports areas, the park features an ornamental lake with fountains and abundant wildlife. Visitors can stroll through public gardens boasting pergolas, shrub borders, and award-winning drought gardens with vibrant floral displays. Woodland walks and meadow grass areas provide tranquil escapes, complemented by the scenic riverside paths with panoramic estuary views.Events, Amenities, and Visitor Services
Promenade Park hosts a packed calendar of events year-round, including theatrical productions at the outdoor theatre, concerts, funfairs, markets, and children’s activity days. Six retail kiosks offer refreshments and snacks, while beach huts and deckchairs are available for hire during summer. Dedicated picnic areas with tables invite leisurely meals outdoors. Parking is pay and display, with designated disabled spaces and coach drop-off points.Accessibility and Transport Connections
The park is easily accessible via multiple bus routes serving Maldon, with the nearest stop located at the entrance on Mill Road. Well-maintained paths and facilities ensure ease of access for families and visitors with mobility needs. Admission to the park is free, though some attractions like the splash park have charges. The park’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
13.4 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.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
19.1 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove
21.6 km
Explore Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove, a historical landmark in Colchester rich in ancient heritage and serene natural beauty.
Barleylands Farm Park
21.6 km
Experience the charm of Barleylands Farm Park, where family fun meets educational adventures in the heart of the countryside.
Sealife Adventure
21.6 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southchurch Park
21.6 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Ingatestone Hall
21.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Cudmore Grove Country Park
22.4 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Cudmore Grove Country Park on Mersea Island, where nature, wildlife, and scenic views await every visitor.
National Trust - Bourne Mill
22.8 km
Explore the historic Bourne Mill in Colchester, a serene National Trust property showcasing stunning architecture and lush gardens.
East Anglian Railway Museum
22.8 km
Discover the enchanting history of rail travel at the East Anglian Railway Museum, a captivating destination for tourists in Colchester.
Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park
22.9 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park, a serene escape featuring diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.
St John's Abbey Gate
23.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of St John's Abbey Gate, a must-visit heritage site in Colchester.
Balkerne Gate
23.0 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Jumbo Water Tower
23.1 km
Explore the Jumbo Water Tower in Colchester, a splendid Victorian architectural marvel and historical landmark that showcases the city's rich heritage.
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
23.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of England’s first Augustinian priory, showcasing Norman architecture and Civil War history in the heart of Colchester.
Unmissable attractions to see
Combined Military Services Museum
1.2 km
Explore centuries of British military history through vast collections of weapons, uniforms, and espionage artifacts at Maldon's premier military museum.
Osea beach huts
2.8 km
Charming seaside beach huts perched on stilts at Osea Leisure Park, offering scenic estuary views and family-friendly coastal escapes.
The Museum of Power
3.5 km
Explore the power of steam and industrial heritage in a historic pumping station set amidst scenic Essex grounds.
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
7.4 km
Explore the largest surviving WWI aerodrome with authentic buildings, replica aircraft, and immersive history near Chelmsford, Essex.
Tiptree Heath
8.8 km
Explore Essex’s largest lowland heathland, home to rare heathers, diverse wildlife, and traditional grazing in a peaceful natural sanctuary.
Danbury Country Park
9.1 km
Historic lakes, ancient woodlands, and vibrant meadows converge in this tranquil Grade II listed country park near Chelmsford.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
10.1 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.
Monastery of Saint John the Baptist, Essex
10.1 km
A tranquil Orthodox monastic sanctuary in Essex, blending ancient Athonite spirituality with historic English heritage.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall
10.3 km
A 365-acre hilltop garden showcasing innovative design, diverse plantings, and panoramic Essex countryside views.
Tropical Wings Zoo
10.7 km
A vibrant family-friendly zoo with a magical butterfly house and engaging play areas for children of all ages.
Tollesbury Wick
11.7 km
Discover Tollesbury Wick, a vast Essex coastal marshland rich in wildlife, traditional grazing, and breathtaking seaside views.
The Rayleigh Arms
12.4 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Layer Marney Tower Weddings
13.1 km
Historic Tudor elegance meets picturesque gardens and modern amenities at Essex’s Layer Marney Tower, a unique wedding venue with timeless charm.
Essex Wildlife Trust
13.3 km
Explore the pioneering rewilding and coastal conservation at Abbotts Hall Farm, Essex Wildlife Trust’s 700-acre nature reserve on the Blackwater Estuary.
Cressing Temple Barns
13.8 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.
Essential places to dine
Vita Bella
10.2 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Russells Restaurant
13.0 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Cosy Club
14.7 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
The Square & Compasses
14.7 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
14.8 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
14.8 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
14.9 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
15.3 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
15.7 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Castle - Great Leighs
17.0 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
17.1 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Hoop at Stock
18.1 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Galvin Green Man
18.3 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
18.6 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
18.8 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Emporium Maldon
0.9 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
The Lovely Shop
14.0 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
14.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
Riverside Retail Park
14.6 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Factory Shops
16.4 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
18.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
George Yard Shopping Centre
19.6 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Happy Sole
19.6 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
La Luna Boutique
19.8 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Gifts for All Home Decor
19.8 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
20.0 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
Steptoe and Mum / Antique and Retro Boutique / With House Clearance Service
20.1 km
A cluttered, character-filled secondhand boutique in Southend-on-Sea, packed with vintage furniture, retro homewares, and quirky collectables.
No Potential
20.1 km
Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
Two Vintage
20.2 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Two Vintage, Southend-on-Sea’s curated clothing boutique.
Store Thirty3
20.5 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Queen Victoria Public House
1.5 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
8.1 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
14.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
14.8 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
The Bootmaker
14.9 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
14.9 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Voodoo Keller Bar
14.9 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
15.4 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
15.4 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
15.8 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Bear Inn - Stock
18.4 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
Saxon King
18.8 km
A cozy British pub in Southend-on-Sea blending historic charm with hearty classics and family-friendly warmth.
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd
19.8 km
Experience vibrant music nights and a welcoming vibe at Peggy’s Music Bar, Leigh-on-Sea’s hotspot for DJs and social fun.
The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen
20.0 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Westcliff-on-Sea offering hearty roasts, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Cocktail Kitchen
20.0 km
A lively cocktail bar and tapas spot in Leigh-on-Sea, famed for creative drinks, generous small plates, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
14.8 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
14.9 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
14.9 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
The Lounge Jazz Club
16.9 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
20.2 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
20.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Moonraker Club
20.8 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.
Foundation
21.2 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
21.2 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
21.4 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
22.9 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
23.3 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
The Loft Basildon
23.7 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
40.0 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
41.3 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
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly