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Listed: The best budget-friendly days out in Essex this summer

CASH may be a little tight, but with summer and the school holidays on the way that shouldn't mean you can't make plans; so here are some of the best budget-friendly days out in Essex you can enjoy this summer. Whether it's a family outing, a date night; or you just want to get out of the four walls and enjoy the sun these ideas should make for great trips without straining your wallet too much. The Echo has compiled a list of ideas and venues for a day out, with a range of options from enjoying Essex's natural beauty to attractions to keep the kids occupied, here you go: Southend beaches East Beach - Southend is famous for it's beaches and a visit doesn't cost a penny. (Image: Dawn Poulton) Southend and the surrounding towns are renowned for their beaches, and what could be more fitting for a summer day than a trip to the beach. Whether it's a day on the beach with the family or a lazy day with your partner or friends, Southend's beaches are a staple of residents and visitors with the added benefit they are completely free, pack a picnic and a great thrifty day out is there for the taking. In a five-star review of Shoebury East Beach, one of three beaches in Southend to receive the prestigious Blue Flag award for quality, one TripAdvisor user said: 'The view is always one that induces a feeling of calm and well being, a Cafe has recently reopened and it is nice now to enjoy a coffee as well as sit and enjoy this wonderful space 'It is around a 15-minute drive from Southend, has a car park or the Number 9 bus from Rayleigh will take you direct to the Beach.' Historic Sites Hadleigh Castle - Essex's historic sites make for a great trip. (Image: Kevin Cocksedge) South Essex is dotted with historic sites which are a budget-friendly option for a day out to explore as well as catch some breathtaking views along the way. Many of these sites are free to visit or charge a token fee to contribute to the upkeep, ranging from ancient castles like Hadleigh Castle to more recent historical sites such as the Tilbury Coalhouse Fort. Hadleigh Castle near Leigh has a 12km circular trail through Hadleigh Country Park with some stunning views over the estuary, as well as of course the incredible remains of the 11th century castle. Keith on TripAdvisor said: 'A very worthwhile hike from southend pier to Hadleigh Castle. 'The castle is set in a beautiful part of the country with amazing views. It doesn't take much to imagine what it looked like back in the day. 'You can literally enjoy the spectacular views, enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll around the grounds of this historic site.' Nature reserves Canvey marsh - Essex is home to many nature reserves brimming with wildlife (Image: Newsquest) There are a number of beautiful nature reserves tucked away across south Essex, including Hadleigh Country Park, Wat Tyler, Canvey Marsh and Shoebury Ranges. Essex is home to some remarkable wildlife, with rare birds unknown in the UK being spotted by eagle-eyed ramblers as well as tranquil scenery; this is the perfect money-saving way to unwind. One TripAdvisor user said: 'I don't think I've seen a prettier country park than this. The barns and cottages within the park are just so pretty while the children's playground is just amazing. 'I even came home with a very nice hedgehog house made in the reclaimed wood shop. All in all I loved it and can't wait to visit again.' Southend seafront Sealife Adventure - Southend seafront has a great selection of reasonably priced attractions. (Image: TripAdvisor) The seafront is in many ways the heart of Southend, but like so many attractions that are close by, how often do we actually visit? You can comfortably enjoy a day on Southend Pier, in some of the many cafes and pubs as well as of course the beach without breaking the bank. There also attractions for the kids, with the Adventure Island theme Park and its attractions like the Sealife Centre which offers an annual pass from £20 per person, which is a steal to visit as many times as you'd like in 12 months as well as acting as a discount for their food vendors and rides. Hannah on TripAdvisor said: 'We had a great visit here today. The whole place was bright, clean and had a friendly feel. 'We joined a dinosaur talk which was brilliant and informative. The food was reasonably priced and there was a lot more to do than we initially believed.' Animal sanctuaries Barleylands - Essex has a range of cute animal sanctuaries for an economical day out. (Image: TripAdvisor) Essex is home to many animal sanctuaries and farms which are a great and budget-friendly way to spend a family day out. Many of Essex's animal sanctuaries feature petting zoos with reasonably priced feed for the animals, as well as play areas and rolling fields which make ideal spots for a picnic. In a Trip Advisor review of Hasty's Adventure farm said: 'Really great day out with our 4 year old grandson, so many good activities from animals to go karts, all the animals are well cared for pens are a great size and clean and tidy. 'It was well priced at under £60 for 5 of us and we managed to stay most of the day and the little shop at the end wasn't over-priced either so came away with some goodies.'