Be a-mazed by Saffron Walden
If you love to lose yourself, quite literally, this delightful Essex town will be right up your street. It's got three very different outdoor mazes. Tucked away in the backstreets at Bridge End Garden is the Hedge Maze, alongside a collection of spectacular gardens. The ancient Turf Maze on the Common is the largest of its kind in the world, while the Jubilee Garden Labyrinth at the bandstand is built with contrasting paving blocks.
Animal fossils, toys and a miniature railway
Saffron Walden Museum is very hands-on. Play old games, see mummy cases, stroke a preserved fox and meet Wallace the Lion. Outside, the grass meadow is perfect for summer picnics. Another must-see for families is stately home Audley End, with its exquisite interiors, landscaped Capability Brown gardens and a children's play park. Be sure to hop aboard the miniature railway, and don't miss the enchanted fairy walk.
Evening entertainment sorted
You won't be short of things to do at night here. Saffron Hall holds great value concerts in its 740-seat auditorium, while Saffron Screen is an independent cinema showing films you don't get at your local multiplex. Great transport links mean Cambridge and London are within easy reach if you prefer ramped up city nightlife. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Saffron Walden? Travelodge Cambridge Fourwentways is close by, and a 30-minute drive from Stansted Airport. Travelodge Haverhill is less than 10 miles from Saffron.