Chelmsford hotels

Hotels in Chelmsford

Part of Essex's commuter belt for London, Chelmsford is a modern and energetic city with strong links to pop culture. It only became a city in 2012, to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Things to see and do in Chelmsford

As a modern and vibrant city, Chelmsford offers plenty of activities for all ages. Many of the local parks have special play areas for the kids. Catch a film at the local Odeon cinema or discover the area's history at the Chelmsford Museum.

Most cities in the UK have a cathedral, and Chelmsford is no exception. The original Church of St Mary the Virgin is estimated to have been built at the same time as the town, around 800 years ago. Most of the cathedral's interior was refurbished in 1983, with the stained glass windows also installed in the 20th century.

If you visit during the summer, you can take part in the annual festival ‘The Fling'. It's specifically for adults, with burlesque shows and unconventional theatre performances. Younger kids get their own event – the 3foot People Festival, also held in summer.

Places to eat

With two shopping centres, a bustling high street and rapidly developing city centre, Chelmsford certainly isn't short of restaurants. The high street is pedestrianized, so take your time wandering up and down to see what's on offer.

Jamie's Italian has a branch in the city, as do Prezzo, Zizzi, Giraffe and Loch Fyne. If you fancy something else, there are several Indian and Thai restaurants, gastropubs, noodle bars and a Greek taverna.

Celebrity spotting

Chelmsford has been used several times as the backdrop for TV show The Only Way Is Essex. Try the VIP experience at Evoke nightclub, a popular haunt for TOWIE stars. The CTZN club is another important venue, serving food during the day.

You'll also see blue plaques around the city. These have been put up in recognition of other famous people from Chelmsford. One plaque, for example, is dedicated to Guglielmo Marconi – the father of wireless – as the first wireless radio factory in the world was established in the city.

When a celeb's in town, Chelmsford hotels are likely to be busier – or at least a little more crowded in the lobby. Book early to avoid disappointment!