Fun Birthday Ideas In Essex

Live music paired with quirky cocktails? Pop-up cinemas in gorgeous outdoor locations? Whatever your idea of a great celebration, we've got it covered. From bustling restaurants with private dining rooms all the way to alternative craft beer bars, here's our guide to fun birthday ideas in Essex.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 11th June 2025




TGI Fridays Basildon

If you're searching for a relaxed, welcoming restaurant to celebrate your birthday in, then head to TGI Fridays in either Basildon or Braintree. This US-inspired spot is filled with colourful decor and always has a great atmosphere, and they even offer two-for-one cocktails on a daily basis.

There's all sorts to choose from on their menu, and at a pretty affordable price too. Think cheese and bacon-loaded potato skins, glazed beef burgers, sesame chicken strips and much more, with a birthday cake-themed sundae for afterwards.

Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford

🌸 Kids Under 12 Eat For £1 on Sunday's ❤️ and 1 other offer

From bottomless brunches and afternoon teas to 2 for 1 cocktails all day, every day, Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford is a fun location for your birthday antics. To raise a few glasses and have fuss-free grub without breaking the bank for your celebrations, this is the place to head.

What's more, Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford invites you to brunch alfresco in effortless style. Think burrata-topped Detroit toast, crisp prosecco, and a sunny table with your besties - because two hours of indulgence is the only way to start the weekend. Find further locations in Colchester, Southend on Sea and Romford.

Zebrano Brentwood

If you're looking to celebrate your birthday in a restaurant that's as good-looking as you (you're welcome), then book dinner at Zebrano in Brentwood. Hire the lounge for a private affair seating up to 35 guests, or dine in a small group casually. Tuck into sushi rolls and soft shell tacos, then wash it down with creative cocktails. 

Après Bar Hull

If you're searching for ways to celebrate a birthday in Essex this summer, check out what The Spritz Social has in store. Nestled in the heart of Chelmsford, the pop-up bar will have you playing ping pong, snapping pictures and sipping on thirst-quenching cocktails. 

Garage Brunch™

Get ready to groove and shake your special day away as Garage Brunch comes to Essex for the first time. Taking over a secret location, tickets to this all-day party include a two-course meal as well as an hour of free-flowing cocktails and a whole lotta' live entertainment.

MooMoo Southend

The ultimate late-night venue for all your birthday clubbing needs, MooMoo Southend is the perfect place to let loose on your big day. Choose between two rooms of music - the 70s to 90s Fever Room, playing all the retro classics and featuring a colour-changing dance floor and glitter balls, or the RnB haven of the Boutique Room.

CJ’s Bowling

Looking for something a little different to do on your birthday? Then head to CJ's Bowling in Hockley, where they've got retro lanes lit up in funky neon colours, as well as snooker, pool and augmented reality dartboards - which start from just £18.95 for 30 minutes and includes up to six people. Topping it all off? A mouthwatering menu of hotdogs topped with grilled onions, beef or spicy bean burgers, red Thai curry and much more.

BCK YRD Golf

In need of some fun-packed plans for that special birthday celebration? Be sure to head to BCK YRD Golf on Springfield Road. This top-notch party bar is home to two 10-hole courses, alongside a plethora of alcoholic slushies and games. Think escape rooms or BB gun ranges.