Events for 8 June
Activities
The days are getting warmer and summer is just around the corner, so we think it’s time for some games on the back lawn! Go Ape will be joining us up at the house with team games for you to take part in. And if you’re up for more monkeying around, head into the Terrace Room for a themed paper craft activity that’s perfect for little ones.
Inside the house, our latest exhibition in the Library explores the story of the Pryor family, who owned the estate from 1858 to 1904. Arthur Pryor was a prominent local figure, serving as a Justice of the Peace, Deputy Lieutenant of Essex, and High Sheriff.
Storyteller Mike Dodsworth returns with his popular story sessions. You’ll find him in the Drawing Room at 10.30am 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm in the Drawing Room.
If you are coming down for a tour of Hylands House with one of our volunteers, these start promptly at 10.30am and 1pm. You can also view the film about the restoration of the house throughout the day in the Banqueting Room.
Food & Craft Market
Following a successful start in February, Essex Foodies Market will continue to offer a fantastic range of local food and drinks vendors, alongside crafty items.
The market provides a regular platform for small, independent and local traders to sell their products and promote their brand. It first started as Writtle Foodies in October 2023 following the discontinuation of Writtle Farmer’s Market earlier that summer. Initially based at Writtle Village Green, the market quickly thrived and became well-known locally for its delicious fare and high-quality handmade products from diverse traders.
The Stables
Our resident artists throw open their studio doors and welcome you to see into their working spaces – explore upstairs as well as downstairs!
Hot Box Live provide the tunes with live music inside The Stables courtyard. Pop by to enjoy the sounds of Rachel Brooks from 11am and Levinson from 1pm.
Browse items #MadeAtHylands in the Artist Shop and uncover treasures in the Friends of Hylands House second-hand bookshop.
Visit the Stables Information Point and pick up your handset to explore the Pleasure Gardens in a brand-new way! Our Hylands History & Gardens multimedia tour will be available for you to hire or scan the QR code and listen along with our new tour about the Estate and how it came to be.
Our popular café The Deli will be open at The Stables all day!
Parking & Getting Here
During our Open Estate Days, parking charges are in effect. If you are a Chelmsford resident, you qualify for a discount on these charges. We recommend downloading the MiPermit app for faster and more convenient payment. Find out more and how to register as a resident here.
We expect the day to be very busy, so if you are able, please consider alternative ways of travelling here. View our sustainable routes leaflet for more information.