MARKSHALL Estate’s first event of the year has kicked off with plenty of families enjoying the return of the venue.

The Coggeshall arboretum has an exciting 2023 ahead, which has begun with its Fairy Trail.

Markshall marketing coordinator Becky Stone said: “Visitors can welcome the New Year at Markshall with a crisp winter’s walk around the lakes, spotting winter’s blooms and searching for wooden fairy doors hidden around the landscape.

Braintree and Witham Times: COME AND FIND ME: Wooden fairy doors are hidden on the trailCOME AND FIND ME: Wooden fairy doors are hidden on the trail (Image: Bryan Shaw)

Braintree and Witham Times: BALANCING ACT: Fun and games in the Wild Wood BALANCING ACT: Fun and games in the Wild Wood (Image: Bryan Shaw)

“The Fairy Doors Trail runs from Friday to Sunday until Sunday, February 19 and includes a prize on return to the visitor centre.

“During the Fairy Doors Trail’s first weekend, many families enjoyed spotting the doors in the landscape and of course had a look at Robin’s Grove to see if any early snowdrops are peeking through.

Braintree and Witham Times: NATURE WALK: A family looking at Robin’s BrookNATURE WALK: A family looking at Robin’s Brook (Image: Bryan Shaw)

“Soon this grove will become a carpet of white with thousands of snowdrops reminding us that the warmer weather is on its way.”

The new event comes after a successful 2022 for the venue, which was full of events for visitors.

Braintree and Witham Times: START OF SPRING: Markshall's snowdrops are beginning to peek throughSTART OF SPRING: Markshall's snowdrops are beginning to peek through (Image: Bryan Shaw)

Becky said: “In 2022, Markshall welcomed thousands of visitors to enjoy nature’s displays of colours, events and Orchard Kitchen treats.

“Last year was a significant year in the charity’s history as the trust celebrated the end of its 50th anniversary with several large events, including the return of the hugely anticipated sculpture exhibition.

Braintree and Witham Times: SCENIC WALKS: Visitors in the Asia geographic zone SCENIC WALKS: Visitors in the Asia geographic zone (Image: Bryan Shaw)

Braintree and Witham Times: FEATHERED FRIEND: Markshall's Percy PeacockFEATHERED FRIEND: Markshall's Percy Peacock (Image: Bryan Shaw)

“There were many more events throughout the year with a summer opera evening, the popular pumpkin trail and Christmas market to name a few.

“As well as a busy events programme, the charity announced the largest development in its history with a new attenuation lake and replica of the Himalayas in progress and now open for visitors to explore.”

Braintree and Witham Times: LET'S EXPLORE: Markshall has acres of woodland to enjoyLET'S EXPLORE: Markshall has acres of woodland to enjoy (Image: Bryan Shaw)

The estate also has plenty of projects in the pipeline for this year.

General manager Dave Finkle said: “The team are currently very busy working on new projects to ensure 2023 doesn’t disappoint.

Braintree and Witham Times: LOOKING ON: Two Friends of Markshall admire at the new Himalayas LOOKING ON: Two Friends of Markshall admire at the new Himalayas (Image: Bryan Shaw)

“We want to ensure Markshall is attractive for families to visit, with something for every generation to enjoy.

“Our improvements vary from major changes to subtle adjustments that all culminate to an improved affordable experience while making you smile and memories last.”