Roadtrip from Chelmsford to Horsham: Museums, Parks and Landmarks to Visit
Are you planning a road trip from Chelmsford to Horsham? If so, you're in for a treat as there are several fascinating museums, beautiful parks, and landmarks to visit along the way. Here are our top five picks:
Fun Fact
Did you know that the distance between Chelmsford and Horsham is just under 90 miles? While it might seem like a long distance, this scenic route can easily be enjoyed in a day trip.
Sevenoaks, Kent
Located about halfway between Chelmsford and Horsham is Sevenoaks in Kent. This historic town is known for its charming architecture and scenic countryside. It's also home to several historic landmarks, including Knole House, a stunning 15th-century mansion with sprawling parklands.
Length of the Trip
Typically, the journey from Chelmsford to Horsham takes around two hours by car, depending on the traffic. However, we recommend taking your time and making a day of it, allowing plenty of time to experience all of the incredible sights along the way.
Top Five Places to Visit
- Hatfield House Located just off the A1 and a short drive from Chelmsford, Hatfield House is an absolute must-visit on this road trip. The stunning Jacobean house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, a park and a woodland trail.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the chance to see the Rainbow Portrait of Queen Elizabeth 1, a unique and iconic painting that depicts the queen wearing a rainbow dress.
- Bluebell Railway If you're a fan of trains, be sure to make a stop at the Bluebell Railway. The heritage railway takes you on a scenic journey between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead, with opportunities to explore restored steam engines, vintage railway carriages and an extensive museum collection.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Try to book a ride on the 'Golden Arrow' luxury train, which features 1920s opulence and a delicious meal.
- Hever Castle Nestled in the countryside of Edenbridge, Hever Castle is one of the most beautiful castles and gardens in England. It was home to Anne Boleyn, and today, visitors can explore the castle's interior while enjoying the stunning gardens, water mazes and much more.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Visit in summer to see the castle's famous Hever Rose Garden.
- Ashdown Forest If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the town and cities, Ashdown Forest is a perfect destination for a peaceful rest. This preserve is known for its scenic walking trails, ancient and open heathlands and wildlife like deer, birds and insects.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Keep an eye out for the Winnie The Pooh Bridge, a wooden bridge that inspired the creation of A.A. Milne's beloved children's characters.
- Wakehurst Set in the heart of Sussex countryside, Wakehurst is a stunning botanic garden, most famous for the Millennium Seed Bank. Wakehurst has many areas to explore and a variety of gardens and landscaped grounds.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss The Mansion, Wakehurst's grand 16th-century mansion.
Conclusion
This scenic route between Chelmsford and Horsham offers a wealth of amazing sights and experiences to anyone who decides to embark upon it. Whether you prefer historic houses, museums, parks or botanical gardens, there's something on this list that will suit everyone's tastes. All in all, we recommend taking this drive slowly and enjoying all that it has to offer. Depending on how much time you're able to allocate for the trip, make sure you create enough time to take in all of these incredible destinations.