Hylands Open Estate Day 2026: Archery, Food Market and Family Fun at Hylands Estate Chelmsford

Hylands Open Estate Day Returns to Chelmsford This Sunday With Archery, Storytelling and Family Activities

Families across Essex are expected to head to Hylands Estate this weekend as the popular Hylands Open Estate Day returns on Sunday, May 10th.

The monthly event transforms the historic estate into a full day of family entertainment, outdoor activities, live music, markets and heritage experiences — all set within the grounds of one of Chelmsford’s most iconic locations.

Running from 10am until 3pm, visitors will be able to explore the beautiful grounds of Hylands House while taking part in a wide range of attractions designed for all ages.

Archery, Lawn Games and Children’s Activities

One of the headline attractions for the May event will be outdoor activities on the estate lawns, with Dovedale Sports Centre leading archery sessions and family-friendly ball games on the back lawn.

Children can also head inside the Terrace Room to create their own paper flower displays ahead of the upcoming National Flower Show at Hylands later in May.

Storytelling sessions from popular storyteller Mike Dodsworth are also planned throughout the day in the Drawing Room, with sessions taking place at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Organisers say the stories are especially aimed at younger visitors and families.

Explore Inside Hylands House

Visitors will also be able to step inside Hylands House free of charge during the event.

Guided tours are scheduled for 10.30am and 1pm, giving guests the opportunity to learn more about the estate’s history and the families who once lived there. This month’s exhibition focuses on the Gooch family, who lived at Hylands between 1905 and 1920 and became known for hosting major celebrations and society events at the estate.

Guests can also watch a short film about the restoration of Hylands House, which will be shown throughout the day inside the Banqueting Room.

Street Food, Live Music and Local Makers

Outside the house, Essex Foodies Market will once again bring a large street food and craft market to the estate grounds, featuring food stalls, drinks, handmade gifts and artisan traders.

The nearby Stables area will also be open, allowing visitors to browse the artist studios and meet local creatives, designers and makers based at the estate. Live music performances organised by Hot Box Live are scheduled throughout the afternoon in the courtyard.

Visitors can also stop at The Deli café and bakery pop-up, which will be serving refreshments throughout the event.

A Popular Chelmsford Day Out

Hylands Estate has become one of the busiest visitor attractions in Essex in recent years, hosting major festivals, outdoor cinema events, concerts and seasonal shows throughout the year.

The Open Estate Days are held on the second Sunday of each month and give residents the chance to experience the grounds, gardens and historic buildings in a more relaxed setting.

Organisers are advising visitors that the estate is expected to be busy and recommend using alternative travel options where possible. Parking charges will apply during the event.

Hylands Open Estate Day 2026 – Key Details

Date: Sunday, May 10, 2026
Time: 10am to 3pm
Location: Hylands Estate
Activities: Archery, lawn games, storytelling, guided tours, live music, food market, artists’ studios and family crafts
Admission: Estate access free, parking charges apply