Things to do in Essex with kids


Explore the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of Essex, a county brimming with captivating attractions. Begin your adventure with a stroll along the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, offering stunning sea views and family-friendly amusements.

Immerse yourself in history at the medieval splendor of Colchester Castle, Britain's largest Norman keep. Discover the tranquil beauty of Epping Forest, perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Explore the charming villages of Dedham and Constable Country, immortalized in the paintings of John Constable. And for seaside fun, head to the vibrant resort town of Clacton-on-Sea, with its golden beaches and bustling promenade.

59 listings


Chelmsford Cathedral
Attraction
Free

Chelmsford Cathedral

Discover a place of tranquility and history. Marvel at stunning architecture, beautiful stained glass, and immerse in spiritual reflection.

Activity

Blue Owl

Pottery Painting Studio & Coffee Shop.

Attraction
From £1

The Gibberd Garden

Created by Sir Frederick Gibberd (1908-1984) and planned as a series of enticing spaces, every turn reveals a new vista or work of art.

Small Monsters Soft Play
Activity
From £4.50

Small Monsters Soft Play

Small Monsters is a heated indoor adventure play area providing safe, secure and clean adventure for children up to the age six accompanied by parents.

Monkey Madness Basildon
Activity
Adults £2.50

Monkey Madness Basildon

Basildons premier party venue and soft play centre for children of all ages.

The Cressing Temple Barns
Attraction
Free

The Cressing Temple Barns

Given to the Knights Templar in 1137, its Grade I-listed barley and wheat barns are among the oldest timber barns and Templar buildings in England.

Attraction
Free

Hinterland Exhibition

In this exhibition, Simon Langsdale and Jane Bottery bring together letter carving, lettering, painting and drawing.

Go Bananas
Activity
Adults £3

Go Bananas

More than just soft play.

Attraction
Free

Firstsite

Winner of the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2021, Firstsite is an art gallery and creative community space, open all year round, for free, for everyone.

Attraction
Free

Martello Bay Beach

Martello Beach or is a Sandy beach located near Clacton on Sea in Essex.

Topgolf Chigwell
Activity
Adults £6

Topgolf Chigwell

The premier entertainment and event venue in Chigwell with fun point-scoring golf games for all skill levels, upscale bar food and drinks, music and more!

Activity
From £1.50

Go Bananas Indoor

The biggest play centre in Colchester! Parties and Events.