Museums & places of interest

Set in the stunning grounds of Bedfords Park, an historic parkland site of 215 acres, owned and managed by the London Borough of Havering. The nature reserve affords fantastic views over London and into Kent.

There is a shop and café, with indoor and outdoor seating. Proceeds go towards Essex Wildlife Trust, supporting conservation efforts in the county.

There are events... Read more

There is so much to explore at Hylands House & Park. The house is open on certain days of the year free of charge (see website for details). You can explore the parkland and the stables area where there is also a monthly farmers market. There is a fabulous adventure playground which can be accessed via the park entrance (use sat nav CM2 8FS for the park car park)
Note car parks are no longer... Read more

The Naze Tower is an historic 86ft landmark and unique visitor attraction situated on an attractive stretch of coastline at Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex. Over eight floors it houses an art gallery with three exhibitions a year, a museum on the Tower and Naze, tea rooms and a roof viewing platform with spectacular panoramic views. The best way to experience the Tower is to visit - hope to see you soon!

The Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre is housed within Magazine No.5 the only survivor of five gunpowder magazines, and now a Grade 1 listed building. It is right by the Thames towpath with views over the River Thames.

The magazines remained in use throughout the 19th and 20th century until 1962, when the land was purchased from the M.O.D by Thurrock Council. Four of the five magazines... Read more

Our Heritage Centre is aimed at educating all and preserving the memory of those who served at Suttons Farm and RAF Hornchurch.

We have put together themed rooms to walk you though the past of the historic WW1 and WW2 airfield in Hornchurch.

These are: the Battle of Britain, Local Heroes & WAAFs, Home Front, Officers Mess, Suttons Farm/World War 1, 1941 - 1945 World War... Read more

Rainham Hall is a charming Queen Anne house with 3-acre community garden. Just two minutes\' walk from Rainham Station, there is also the Hayloft event space. The Hall exhibition has an admission fee. The Gardens are free to enter. Please check our website for opening times, events and exhibitions. Anyone living in RM13 postcode area can attend the exhibition in the Hall for free if they bring proof of postcode along during our opening times. We have family activities at Easter, Christmas and during the summer holidays.

UPDATE: PLANNING TO REOPEN IN FEBRUARY 2021. Open for School Holiday Events, Special Events & Open Days. Check website for dates. The Royal Gunpowder Mills is a great place for families to spend days out exploring the secret history of gunpowder, explosives and rocket propellants through our engaging interactive Exhibitions, Science Shows and Children's Activities. Includes Mad Lab, Rocket Vault, The Armoury, Mini and Narrow Gauge Railway, Playgroud, Woodland walk, exhibitions and more.

Valence House was voted by the Guardian as one of the 50 best free things to do in London. The only surviving manor house in Dagenham, it dates back to Medieval times and is still partially surrounded by a moat.As well as exploring the museum, you can discover the tranquil herb garden and Dig for Victory plot, or research local and family history in the Archives and Local Studies Centre. We also offer a year-round programme of events for all the family.