What’s on in Essex near Osea this summer?

There’s so much to see and do in Essex this summer, and with a break at Osea Meadows, you’re only ever a short drive away from the action.

Colchester Zoo
Families love Colchester Zoo! It’s just a 30-minute drive from Osea and has been listed in the top two zoos in the UK by TripAdvisor! Colchester Zoo is home to over 260 species and is set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes. During your visit to Colchester Zoo, you will see many species from around the world and can learn more about them at the zoo’s ‘Daily Encounters’, which gives animal lovers the chance to see the animals being fed and learn a little more about the creatures. There’s also the chance to feed the giraffes and elephants, walk through a 24m glass tunnel and watch sealions glide overhead. New to the zoo is ‘Chimpanzee Lookout’, where you can view the zoo’s collection of chimps climbing to new heights! To find out more, visit www.colchester-zoo.com

Rize Festival
Many visitors to Essex have poured into Hylands Park over the years to experience the sights and sounds of the V Festival. This year the festival has been reborn as Rize and takes place on 17-18 August in Chelmsford. The festival boasts a stellar line-up, including: Liam Gallagher, James Bay, Manic Street Preachers, Stereophonics, Rita Ora and Rag ‘n’ Bone Man. To snap up tickets, visit www.rizefestival.co.uk

Days out a stone’s throw from Osea
The nearby market town of Maldon is a lovely place to wander along the promenade, view the old Thames sailing barges and shop in the array of independent boutiques and stores. However, the place has a wonderful vibe during Maldon Carnival Summer Fete on 21 July. Here you’ll find all the fun of the fair including: magicians, mini trampolines, bouncy castles, go karts, face painting, craft tent, psychic readings, live band, Glastonbabies, plus a licensed bar. The High Street also has a full carnival procession on 4 August. To discover more, visit www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk

Maldon Regatta
A real not-to-be-missed highlight of the summer season is the Maldon Regatta on 22 September at Hythe Quay, Maldon. This event is a major part of the local sailing club’s year. Smacks and old gaffers, traditional and modern yachts race up the Blackwater, from Mersea to Osea. A second race from Osea to Maldon happens later in the day – it’s a great day out for all the family!