Oaklands Park: a thriving green space in the grounds of a Chelmsford landmark

Covering 5 acres, and providing an abundance of green space and recreation, Oaklands Park is a must visit. The space was first opened as a public park in 1930 and has continued to be a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

Oaklands Park has achieved both Green Flag and Green Heritage status which only accentuates the prominence of this green space. There is an open grass area surrounded by tended gardens such as the Echo Garden and the traditional ornamental gardens which bring colour and a diversity of plant species.

Whether you’re visiting on your own, with a friend, or family, there is plenty for everyone. The wooden play areas with their range of equipment offer lots of fun and playtime for children. Discover the treasures of The Museum of Chelmsford, where you can see inside a live bee hive. Once it’s time to unwind and take in some refreshments, the open grass areas both in front and to the rear of the fabulous museum are perfect for a family picnic.

Tennis courts are also in the grounds and available for hire if you or your family want to practise your rallies! The areas within the park are great for recreation too, whether you want to take your dog for a walk, run some laps of the grounds, or bring a ball and bat to get a family game of rounders going.

We can’t forget the fantastic café facilities that are on offer at The Hive. A family run business, The Hive is a popular stop, offering a wide range of breakfast, lunch and snack options alongside their refreshing drinks menu. A slice of homemade Victoria Sponge cake with a tea or coffee could be just the ticket this summer after exploring.

What is already a fantastic day out is made even better with the Museum of Chelmsford. Offering lots of learning opportunities, and an in depth look into the history of Chelmsford, it’s not to be missed! From the Great Baddow Hoard, to the Cabinet of Curiosities, there’s a host of interesting information that keeps both kids and adults entertained.

If you haven’t visited Oaklands Park yet then this is your sign to do so. We are thrilled that this green space is loved by so many residents and visitors alike and a lot of hard work goes into the maintenance from both rangers and parks volunteers which shows its value to the Chelmsford community.

Article by: Issy Lyons (Marketing Officer, Events and Corporate)

Looking for more information before your visit?

• Find Oaklands park visitor information here
• Watch our short park of the month reel on Instagram here
• Discover what’s on at the Museum of Chelmsford here
• Check out the Hive café here
• Hire a tennis court, find tennis coaching sessions or look up tournaments via the Lawn Tennis Association here
• Find out more about the Chelmsford Beekeepers here

Art in the Park

• You can find two of the Buzz in the City trail sculptures at Oaklands Park till 9 September 2025
• Come and see the Space to Thrive photo competition finalists gallery till 2 September 2025.
• Murphy’s Army Purple Poppy statue and bench in commemoration of animals lost in service.