10 Ideas For Couples in Chelmsford

Chelmsford is an excellent city for couples to live and work in. As well as easy access to London and Norwich, this lively city has its own vibrant culture and is the perfect place for a day or evening out. Set in the beautiful Essex countryside, you’re also surrounded by pretty villages and some excellent walking.

Here are just a few of the places for couples to visit in Chelmsford.

Our guide for couples in Chelmsford

Chelmsford Museum

If you love to spend a day wandering around museums, Chelmsford is a good place to come. Head for Oaklands Park and Chelmsford Museum, which tells the story of the city’s long history, and includes the fascinating Essex Regiment Museum. As well as the free museums, Oaklands Park itself is a lovely spot, and the perfect place for a picnic lunch.

Chelmsford Cathedral

Staying with the cultural theme, make sure you visit Chelmsford’s medieval cathedral. It’s one of the smallest cathedrals in the country; however, both church and grounds are exquisite, and we love to spend time enjoying their tranquil beauty. Look out for the many 20th and 21st century works of art around the building.

Hylands Estate Gardens And Parkland

One of our favourite things about Chelmsford is how green the city is. The grounds of Hylands Estate comprise almost 575 acres of restored historic parklands, blending formal gardens, woods and vast grassy areas. Don’t miss the Victorian pleasure gardens and call into The Stables shop to buy your jar of Hylands Honey.

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RHS Garden Hyde Hall

If you enjoyed exploring the gardens at Hylands, you’ll love Hyde Hall. This stunning garden was first planted in the 1950s and is now home to a wide variety of plants and a mix of garden styles. Highlights include the Hilltop Garden with its gorgeous roses and the fascinating drought-resistant plants in the Dry Garden. The restaurant and cafe are both superb, and the garden centre is a must-visit.

Chelmsford Theatre

Planning an evening out in Chelmsford? Start by checking out what’s on at Chelmsford Theatre. The city’s cultural hub features a 500-seat auditorium and a smaller studio, which hosts emerging performers and exciting new material. From plays to pantomimes, comedy to classic cinema, the varied programme means there’s bound to be something that appeals. During the day, call into the Studio for one of their lunchtime concerts, along with a bite to eat.

Everyman Cinema

As well as the theatre, Chelmsford has two cinemas, the Odeon and the Everyman. Both are good; however for a special night out, we’d choose the latter because of its luxe decor as well as its six screens. Relax in one of the comfortable and cushioned sofas (upholstered in some gorgeous colours) with a cocktail in hand, waiting for your pizza to be brought to your seat. Divine decadence indeed.

Chelmsford City Racecourse

A day at the races? Chelmsford racecourse opened fairly recently in 2008 (the first new course in the UK since Taunton in 1927). The city has embraced the equestrian world and there’s now a popular programme of race meetings. Chelmsford City Racecourse also hosts events including live music (Justin Timberlake in 2025), with annual favourites such as Oktoberfest and a spectacular fireworks display.

High Chelmer Shopping Centre

Chelmsford has a nice mix of independent shops and high street stalwarts. Many shoppers head for High Chelmer Shopping Centre, a shopping mall in the centre of the city that hosts over 80 businesses. With shops, food and drink under one roof, it’s an especially appealing place on a rainy day! The city is also well-served by local produce and artisan craft shops.

Dining Out In Chelmsford

Like most of the UK’s smaller cities, Chelmsford is an excellent place for food and drink. You’ll find most cuisines here from Italian to Indian. Go to Mila Bar & Grill or Taz for Turkish food and TukTuk for a Pan Asian menu. The Hub Farm Shop is much-loved for British food and The Gardeners is also worth trying for pub grub. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, reserve a table for two at the Samphire Restaurant in the County Hotel.

Walks Near Chelmsford

In the heart of the gentle and verdant Essex countryside, there’s no shortage of rural walks around Chelmsford (many of them taking in traditional village pubs). As you stroll through ancient woodlands and lush meadows, it’s hard to believe that you could be in London in less than an hour.

The walk we’ve recommended here starts in the city’s lovely Central Park and takes you along the rivers Can and Chelmer to Sandford Mill. If you’re keen walkers or have an energetic dog to exercise, you’ll love Chelmsford’s surroundings and urban green spaces.

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Thinking of moving to Chelmsford?

Does the vibrant mix of culture, shopping and countryside appeal to you? At Hopkins Homes, we love this lively Essex city, too. Find out more about our new homes in Beaulieu, Chelmsford.