GREATER Anglia is encouraging people to get out and explore Essex by train this month with a range of discounts.

To make it easier and even more convenient to travel by train, Greater Anglia has several great value fares available such as discounted Advance tickets, Ranger tickets, GroupSave, Duo, and the Family & Friends Railcard.

You can save a small fortune on parking when you travel by train and avoid queues of traffic in the county’s tourist hot spots.

Here are some of the events happening in Essex in April which are accessible by train:

Hylands Estate Open Day

On 13 April, take the 351 bus from Ingatestone station and head to Hylands Estate for its Open Day. From 10:00 to 15:00 discover more about the history of Hylands House thanks to guided tours and exhibitions. You will be able to enjoy a fantastic selection of food, drinks, and crafts delivered by the Essex Foodies Market, and a live music programme in the courtyard. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join the event. Entry is free. More information at: https://www.essextouristguide.co.uk/essex-events-calendar/hylands-estate-open-day-4.

Easter Eggstravagnza!

Celebrate Easter with a day full of family fun at the pier in Clacton. Throughout April, from 9:30 to 22:00, you will have the opportunity to meet and take a picture with the Easter Bunny, as well as participate in a variety of Easter egg hunts. To take part in the seaside Easter egg hunt, all you need to do is collect an egg hunt map from the ticket box. The hunt is suitable for all ages and each egg found can be exchanged for delightful Easter-themed prizes. The Golden Egg Hunt offers a daily chance to win a free annual pass to the pier with unlimited access to rides and attractions. All you need to do is find a special Golden Egg hidden somewhere on the pier. More information at: https://www.clactonpier.co.uk/events/easter-eggstravagnza/.

Free Fireworks!

On 20 April, Clacton Pier is set to light up the skies! Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the first time, the dazzling display offers an unmissable evening of entertainment. In collaboration with Dynamic Fireworks, the town has organised a breathtaking display, using special low-noise fireworks for younger guests and those sensitive to loud sounds. Entry is free for everyone, and we suggest you go to the pier to take in the show. More information at https://www.clactonpier.co.uk/events/freefireworks/.

Greater Anglia’s Commercial and Customer Services Director, Martin Moran, said:

“Travelling by train is cheaper than you think, and with our price promise and no booking fees, you are guaranteed to get the lowest price when you book through our website.

“Our region has so much to offer and whether it’s a trip to the city or coast, shopping or sightseeing, we are giving people more money to spend on having a great time by helping them save money on their train fare.”

Greater Anglia also offers a range of Advance fares that offer customers savings of between 60 and 70% on the standard walk-up prices, plus 2FOR1 on entry to many top attractions in London and East Anglia.

The train operator also has a range of great value fares which are available all year round, including Duo, for two people travelling together, GroupSave for people travelling in a group of three or more, a special London evening out fare for those staying overnight in the capital and a Club 50 discount for those aged 50 and over.

For the best value fares, passengers should book in advance and the earlier customers book, the more they can save.

For more information on these and other offers visit www.greateranglia.co.uk/offers/

For more information on ticket fares and timetables visit www.greateranglia.co.uk.