Things To Do
in Harlow
Harlow is a town located in Essex, England. It is a planned town that was built after World War II to alleviate housing shortages in London. The town features a variety of modern amenities, including shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities.
Harlow is well-connected to London by both road and rail, making it a popular commuter town for residents working in the city.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in Harlow Town Park. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the fresh air as you explore the gardens.
Visit the playground or the boating lake in the park for some fun activities. Grab a bite at a nearby café to refuel.
Wrap up your day with a peaceful picnic in the park as the sun sets. Enjoy the tranquility and relaxation in this green oasis.
Discover contemporary art at the Gibberd Gallery, showcasing works by local and international artists. Take your time to appreciate the diverse exhibitions.
Join a guided tour or participate in a workshop to engage more deeply with the world of art. The gallery's educational programs are enriching and insightful.
Head to a local restaurant for dinner and discuss your favorite pieces from the gallery. Reflect on the evening over a glass of wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good transport links to London and other nearby cities
- Affordable housing compared to central London
- A variety of parks and green spaces for outdoor activities
- A growing community with various local amenities and services
- Access to shopping centers and entertainment options
- Limited nightlife and cultural options compared to larger cities
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Some areas may feel less vibrant or less developed
- Weather can be variable and affects outdoor activities
- Potential for overcrowding as the population increases
Best Activities in Harlow
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a stroll along the Harlow Sculpture Trail and admire the outdoor art installations.
Enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or explore the beautiful landscapes and wildlife in Harlow Town Park.
Visit the Gibberd Garden, a peaceful and picturesque place with a variety of flowers, plants, and architectural features.
Tours
Uncover the best of Harlow with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Harlow
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful natural scenery and great photo opportunities.
Features lovely gardens, lakes, and open spaces ideal for photography.
Historic area with charming buildings and architecture perfect for capturing unique shots.
Food in Harlow
Harlow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional East London dish, jellied eels are a must-try for those looking to experience authentic local cuisine. They can be found at The Jellied Eel stall in Harlow Market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Must-Try!
Harlow boasts excellent fish and chip shops, offering classic British comfort food. The Dolphin Fish Bar and Restaurant is a popular spot to savor this iconic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Harlow better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harlow Market is a vibrant hub of local food offerings, including fresh produce, baked goods, and street food stalls. Visitors can indulge in an array of global cuisines while soaking in the lively market atmosphere.
For a wide selection of street food from various cultures, The Street Food Collective hosts regular events and markets in Harlow, providing an opportunity to sample an assortment of culinary delights from around the world.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Harlow, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to someone during conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is highly valued in Harlow, so it's important to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
Using polite language and showing respect for others, including addressing people with their titles and last names until invited to use their first names, is a key cultural norm in Harlow.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Harlow with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Harlow
Ensure a smooth experience
In Harlow, United Kingdom, tipping is not expected but is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. It is common to leave a 10-15% tip for good service, but this is not mandatory.
Payment in Harlow, United Kingdom is commonly done using credit/debit cards, contactless payment, or cash. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment is widely used. Cash is also accepted in most places.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Harlow.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Harlow, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a wonderful time to explore the town's parks and outdoor attractions.
Summer brings warmer weather and longer days, making it perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the green spaces around Harlow. The town hosts various events and festivals during this time.
Autumn in Harlow is characterized by beautiful foliage and a cozy atmosphere. It's an ideal time for scenic walks and enjoying the fall colors in the surrounding countryside.
Winter in Harlow can be chilly, but the town has a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, light displays, and seasonal events. It's a charming time to experience the holiday spirit in town.
Harlow at Night
Hiking in Harlow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers various outdoor activities, including hiking trails suitable for all levels.
A large ancient forest located a short drive from Harlow, with numerous well-marked hiking paths.
A small, scenic woodland area perfect for a leisurely hike amidst nature.
Features beautiful walking trails, with a variety of landscapes including woodlands and open fields.
Provides a tranquil setting with several trails to explore the local wildlife and heritage.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Harlow through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Harlow by plane.
London Stansted Airport is located approximately 20 miles northeast of Harlow and is one of the major airports serving London, primarily for low-cost carriers.
London Luton Airport is situated about 30 miles northwest of Harlow and serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
London Heathrow Airport is located around 40 miles west of Harlow and is the busiest airport in the UK, offering a wide range of international flights.
London City Airport is approximately 25 miles south of Harlow and mainly serves business travelers, offering flights primarily to European destinations.
London Gatwick Airport is about 50 miles south of Harlow and is one of the major airports in London, serving a wide range of international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Harlow, making up a significant portion of the population.
Includes Irish, Gypsy or Irish Traveller, and other White backgrounds.
A category that includes Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian ethnicities.
Comprises individuals from Black or African backgrounds, including Caribbean descent.
Individuals identifying as belonging to more than one ethnic group.
Includes any other ethnic backgrounds not specified above, such as Arab.
The Soul of Harlow
Discover the essence of Harlow through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in Harlow, with numerous local clubs and leagues for different ages.
Rugby union is popular in Harlow, with several clubs offering coaching and competitive play.
A traditional summer sport with local cricket clubs providing opportunities for players of all skill levels.
Increasingly popular, with local teams and youth programs promoting the sport in schools and communities.
Harlow has active athletics clubs that cater to various age groups, focusing on track and field events.
Tennis is enjoyed recreationally and competitively, with several courts and clubs available in the area.
Swimming is a popular activity in Harlow, with facilities offering lessons and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harlow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Harlow offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options ranging from hearty plant-based burgers to creative vegetable-centric dishes. Notable venues include The Courtyard Cafe and Veggie D'Light.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at several eateries in Harlow, such as The Lunch Box, which features a variety of gluten-free sandwiches and snacks.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Harlow with these cultural adventures.
