Mary Tudor

Mary Tudor's connection to Essex runs deeper than most visitors realise when they're touring the county. The Tudor princess - Henry VIII's sister - spent time at Westhorpe Hall near here, and that Essex link brings history buffs to Chelmsford and the surrounding area keen to trace her footsteps. What you're actually visiting depends on what survives and is accessible, as these sites aren't always clearly signposted tourist attractions.

The appeal is mainly for history types who want to understand the human side of the Tudors beyond the usual Tower of London stories. Mary Tudor lived a turbulent life - secretly marrying a man her brother disapproved of, facing exile, dealing with the weight of being a king's sister. East Essex has fragments of that story if you know where to look.

You'll want to check locally in Chelmsford first for opening arrangements, as access isn't always straightforward at historic properties. Allow a couple of hours maximum if you're combining it with other local exploring. The site works best as part of a broader history trail rather than a destination in itself.

If you're staying at The Courts Campsite or Hoe Mill Lock, both within easy reach, you've got proper countryside around you. Use a base like that to explore Chelmsford's centre and pick up the Tudor trail from there. It's worth a morning if history gets you going, but don't expect the managed experience of major heritage sites.