Paw Patch Great Bromley

Great Bromley's paw print landmark sits quietly on the Essex landscape, a bit of an oddity that catches you off guard if you're driving through. It's exactly what it sounds like - a giant paw print marking the village, the kind of thing that makes you do a double-take and wonder how it came to be here of all places.

The landmark itself is modest rather than grandiose. You won't spend hours here, but it's a decent photo stop if you're touring the area around Colchester. Kids tend to find it amusing - there's something about enormous animal-shaped things that appeals to them, even when the execution is straightforward. Dog lovers especially get a kick out of it.

There's no admission charge that we're aware of, and access appears unrestricted, so it costs nothing to have a look. Allow ten minutes maximum unless you're the type who likes to sit and sketch or contemplate village quirks. The real value is as part of a wider wander through Essex rather than a destination trip on its own.

If you're basing yourselves at one of the nearby holiday parks - Weeley Bridge or Strangers are both within four miles - it makes for a quick detour between activities. Pair it with a proper explore of the wider Colchester area and you've got something worthwhile. Honestly though, don't expect to be blown away. Go for the novelty factor and the excuse to stretch your legs in a rural Essex village.