Exciting days out in Essex for the kids
It’s getting to that time of year again when the weather starts turning against us and that winter lethargy starts to take over. You may be feeling utterly uninspired, when it comes to thinking about new ways to spend a day out with the kids. However, if you live in the Essex area, there’s plenty to do! Here is a round-up of some of our favourite, exciting days out, to inject some adventure into those uneventful, winter days.
Don’t be deceived by Audley End House’s humble name; it’s a 17th century Jacobean palace, which is now one-third of its original size (but no less glamorous). Inside, you will even find an especially unique natural history collection, amassed by the Braybooke family over the generations. Find out how such a magnificent building kept running and visit the amazing, organic kitchen garden. It’s a great place for a gentle walk through the ‘Capability Brown’ landscaped grounds, and there is a children’s play area too.
Colchester Zoo has a lot to offer the whole family. In 60 acres of parkland, you can find 270 species, as well as adventure play areas. With more than 50 daily displays, you’ll be lucky if you can see everything in just one day! Don’t worry; with multiple catering outlets, they’ve got enough food to keep you soldiering on. Top tip: keep an eye out for special events, run throughout the year.
If you prefer all things underwater than those on land, Sea Life Adventure Aquarium is a great day out. Some of the fascinating animals on show include: moon jellyfish, turtles, rays, and sharks. Get closer by popping into the ‘head holes’, to immerse yourself in this underwater experience. Displays are arranged from floor-to-ceiling, to make you feel as if you’re travelling through a sea tunnel!
Brentwood Park Ski and Snowboard Centre
Dry slope skiing and snowboarding has never been so happily situated – located in more than 54 acres of scenic woodland, the Brentwood Park Ski and Snowboard Centre offers slopes to brush up on your winter sports skills. New to skiing and snowboarding? There are plenty of lessons on offer, to suit all ages and abilities.
If you’re looking to take part in adventure sports, Stubbers has a massive itinerary of activities for a great day out. Some of the many options include: mountain boarding, archery, rock climbing, quad biking, and kayaking. This is a wonderful way to get exercise, learn a new skill and have fun! Check out their website for a full listing of what Stubbers has to offer.
Mayhem Paintball is serious about creating varied and interesting environments. Unlock your inner shooter with their Call of Duty themed map, or opt for laser tag, if you want to avoid the post-paintballing bruises. You’re in safe hands with Mayhem Paintball, as their staff members are all experts who play at a professional level, so they can easily advise you on kit and safety (as well as show you a few moves).
Lakeside Karting has fantastic facilities for go-karting, including a massive race track and spectator areas for relaxing, if you’re not taking part. You can get refreshments from the Pitstop Diner and cheer on your friends, as they take each other on in Lakeside Karting’s fast-paced course.
Possibly the only ancient, royal hunting ground left reasonably intact, Hatfield is extremely old, and some trees have been there for 1,200 years! This is a wonderful opportunity to walk back in time and experience what a forest would have looked like in the medieval ages. Fallow deer still live in this woodland and the area is home to more than 3,500 species. Hatfield is a must for keen walkers.
If you have a family of thrill-seekers, Adventure Island has a wide assortment of rides, including amusements for very young children. Depending on your adrenaline threshold, Adventure Island provides bands to indicate which rides you can stomach, blue being the most hair-raising.
Do you love horses but you’ve never really learned how to ride one before? Colmar Farm Riding School can give you a crash course in riding a pony and they also cater for children with disabilities. Even if you already have experience in horse riding, Colmar Farm can take your skills to the next level. You’ll be surprised at how active this day out can be, but even if you feel a tad saddle sore, it’ll certainly be worth it!
