We are lucky in Maldon to be surrounded by blissful countryside with pubs, restaurants and scenic walks a plenty.

However, you may not realise there are many other great ways to enjoy time with friends, family, partners and to get the kids excited too!

Here's some of our favourite ways to find fun in the district:

1. The Escape Rooms, White Horse Lane, Maldon

Halstead Gazette: Photo: Maldon Escape RoomsPhoto: Maldon Escape Rooms

The Escape Room craze arrived in Maldon in 2018, and ever since it has been a firm favourite among the community.

In teams ranging from just two to ten, you have just 60 minutes to solve the murder mysteryand stop the deadly Hollywood actress, Ruby Rose from striking again or Rob The Bank, reclaiming the family gold.

Both experiences are filled with puzzles and riddles that you must solve in order to make good your escape.

The Escape Rooms are suitable for children eight and older.

To select your experience, click here.

2. Outdoor Cinema at Promenade Park, Maldon

Halstead Gazette:

With summer just around the corner, Essex Alfresco Cinema is back and set to bring film fun for all the family.

The biggest blockbusters of the year and a few classics will be on the big screen, within leafy Promenade Park.

From June until September, you can take your pick of; Grease, Dirty Dancing, Mamma Mia! Magic Mike XXL, The Greatest Showman, Bohemian Rhapsody, Mary Poppins Returns and A Star is Born.

This festive season, those willing to brave the cold can even enjoy Will Ferrell's Christmas cracker, Elf.

To find out more, click here.

3. Thursday nights at Sk8ters, Park Drive, Maldon (18+)

Halstead Gazette: Photo: Madison HeightsPhoto: Madison Heights

While throughout the week children are welcome to skate away on Maldon's roller rink, Thursdays from 7pm are a chance for the adults to have their turn.

The indoor rink at Madison Heights has been a hidden gem in Maldon since 2012, and it is ideal for an alternative night out with your mates.

Lights will be flashing, music will be playing and there is a full bar at the rink, just don't have too much or you could be swept off your skates.

Sk8ters is ideal for skaters from beginner and experience, so just enjoy yourself!

For more, click here.

4. Pirates Bay Adventure Golf, Promenade Park, Maldon

Halstead Gazette: Photo: Pirates Bay Adventure GolfPhoto: Pirates Bay Adventure Golf

If you are looking for somewhere to accommodate a large party, or if you want something different to do with your partner, this spot could be just what you're looking for.

The Florida style 19-hole crazy golf course is open every day from 10am to 9pm, stacked full of fun obstructions including; waterfalls, fountains, cannons firing and water explosions.

With all this happening around you, you best 'keep your eye on the ball'.

Pirates Bay has also been designed to ensure wheelchair users are also able to enjoy the course.

To find out more, click here.

5. White Elm Petting Farm, White Elm Road, Bicknacre

Halstead Gazette: Real Easter bunnies at Centrale

The perfect place for children, this petting farm boasts more than 100 animals your little ones will be amazed by.

Pygmy Goats, Alpacas, Sheep, Rabbits, Fallow Deer, Miniature Ponies and Miniatures Donkeys are just some of the adorable creatures they will meet, feed and pet at the centre.

The only exception is the pigs, who White Elm warn are liable to nipping any fingers that could come close.

An indoor and outdoor soft play area are also available for the little ones to enjoy.

For more, click here.

6. Seal boat trips from the quay, Burnham

Halstead Gazette:

Another opportunity for family fun, seal watching is a wonder that you can rarely experience in the UK.

Scotland is often the best place to spot them but you can in fact take a boat from Burnham Quay straight to Essex' seal hotspot.

For £25 per adult or £10 per under 12, you will be ferried straight to Wallasea Island to spot the beautiful animals as they swim freely.

Parties up to 12 people can even book out the whole boat for a complete family experience.

To find out more, click here.