Things To Do
in Harlow
Harlow is a purpose-built town in Essex, northeast of London that blends green spaces with a growing town centre. It boasts wide boulevards, welcoming parks, and notable architecture from the New Town era. Key sights include Harlow Town Park, the Gibberd Garden, and a lively town centre with markets and cultural venues.
It serves as an affordable base for exploring Essex and the broader southeast, with straightforward rail links to London and the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Harlow Town Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens. The morning sun illuminates the vibrant flower beds, creating a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. Don't forget to visit the nearby Harlow Museum to learn about the town's rich history and heritage.
After a delightful lunch at a local café, head over to the renowned St. Mary's Church, a remarkable structure with stunning architecture and history dating back to the 13th century. Spend your afternoon wandering through the nearby Old Harlow, where you can appreciate the charming traditional buildings and quaint shops. Take a moment to relax at the picturesque green spaces scattered throughout the area.
As evening falls, find yourself at the Harlow Playhouse, where you can catch a local performance or an exciting show. The vibrant atmosphere of the theater district is alive with energy, making it the perfect spot for a memorable night. After the show, enjoy a cozy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, indulging in local cuisine.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in the Harlow Town Park, embracing the serenity of the natural surroundings. The chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves make for a peaceful backdrop as you explore the various trails. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as you might spot squirrels, rabbits, and an array of birds.
Post-lunch, venture to the nearby Epping Forest for a more extensive nature excursion, where you can hike through ancient woodlands and discover diverse flora and fauna. Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the trees, soaking in the tranquility of this beautiful natural space. The afternoon light filtering through the leaves creates a magical atmosphere perfect for photography.
As dusk approaches, return to Harlow and unwind at the scenic Parndon Wood Nature Reserve. Take a peaceful walk along the trails, enjoying the calm and quiet of the evening. After your nature immersion, find a local pub for a traditional British dinner, rounding off your day with a hearty meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🚆One-way local transport fare | $3-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night | $40-75 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good value for money with straightforward transport links to London
- Plenty of green spaces and family-friendly attractions
- Nightlife options are more limited compared to larger cities
- Some services and venues may have limited hours outside peak season
Places to Visit in Harlow
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque garden with water features, sculptures, and varied plant life—great for long-lens and sunset shots.
Lakeside reflections and swans provide serene foregrounds for morning light photography.
A mix of modern architecture and lively street scenes ideal for candid and architectural shots.
A classic riverside vantage point for transport and nature photography, especially at golden hour.
Historic lanes and shopfronts with period charm—perfect for street photography.
Food in Harlow
Harlow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy battered fish paired with thick-cut chips, a standard pub favourite found in many chippies around town.
Must-Try!
Hearty steak pie with a rich gravy, typically served with mashed potato or vegetables at local pubs.
A traditional scone with clotted cream and jam, perfect for a mid-afternoon treat at cafés around Old Town.
Seasonal seafood options like white fish or prawns offered at seaside-influenced eateries in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly Market Square market offering fresh produce, bread, snacks, and occasional street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette emphasizes orderly queues, politeness, and apologies for minor inconveniences.
Allow people to finish speaking; keep a relaxed, friendly tone in conversations.
Raising voices is uncommon in quiet venues; tipping and thank-you after a meal are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Harlow
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, leaving around 10-15% in pubs and restaurants is typical.
Cards (contactless and chip-and-PIN) are widely accepted; cash is still useful in markets and smaller cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures; good for outdoor parks, riverside walks, and al-fresco dining. Expect occasional thunderstorms; carry a light layer and water.
Mild to cool with colorful foliage, excellent for photography in Gibberd Garden and along the Stort. Layers and a light rain jacket recommended.
Shorter days and cooler temperatures; indoor venues like theatres and cafés are good for shelter. Pack warm clothing and sturdy shoes for potential frost.
Flowers and fresh greenery return to parks and gardens; great for outdoor strolls and market visits. Rain is possible; bring a compact umbrella.
Harlow at Night
Hiking in Harlow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic paths along the River Stort offering countryside views and peaceful water features.
Extensive woodland and easy-to-challenging trails for hikers of all levels, a short drive from Harlow.
Airports
How to reach Harlow by plane.
Approximately 30-40 minutes by car or rail/taxi combination, offering access to many European destinations.
About 1-1.5 hours by road or rail, a major international hub with extensive long-haul options.
Around 45-90 minutes away depending on traffic, with regular European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are families and professionals who commute to London or other parts of Essex.
Growing presence of graduates and early-career workers attracted by affordable housing and transport links.
Nearby campuses and training centres attract students who contribute to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional matches; many parks host casual games and community clubs.
Seasonal games and training in local greens and grounds during spring and summer.
Amateur clubs and community teams practice and play in nearby parks and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harlow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian mains or sides; look for veggie burgers, quiches, and pastas, and ask about the day’s specials.