The Royal Horticultural Society's Hyde Hall has a variety of stunning, seasonal gardens. There is a Global Growth Vegetable Garden showcasing unique and interesting varieties grown at Hyde Hall. This family friendly garden is free for under 5s and has great seasonal children's events. In February 2025 the Essex Guess How Much I Love You Trail was launched at RHS Hyde Hall. You can check out our Ultimate Guide - Everything You Need to Know About the RHS Guess How Much I Love You Trail . Where is RHS Hyde Hall? 📍RHS Hyde Hall Creephedge Lane Rettendon Chelmsford Essex CM3 8ET 🅿️ Where to park for RHS Hyde Hall Free parking in large car park, admission charges apply Adventure Playground at RHS Hyde Hall RHS Hyde Hall Opening Times 1st March to 31st October Monday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm (Last entry to garden 5pm) 1st November to 28th February Monday – Sunday : 10am – 4pm (Last entry to garden 3pm) Closed Christmas Day Admission Costs at RHS Hyde Hall Adults £17.45 incl Gift Aid, £15.85 excl Gift Aid Children 5-16 years £8.75 incl Gift Aid £7.95 excl Gift Aid Tickets available to book via the RHS Website   Adventure Playground at RHS Hyde Hall Children will love the playground, with its large tree house, climbing frame and the dinosaur and Hungry Caterpillar structures. There are regular events throughout the year. Playground at RHS Hyde Hall Essex Accessibility at Hyde Hall Accessible parking, toilets, mobility scooters and wheelchairs available to hire, gardens and buildings accessible however the gardens contain sloping areas - full accessibility guide Cafe at Hyde Hall The food options are Hyde Hall are great! There are two Cafes - Gardners Rest (located on Hilltop) and Clover Cafe. Both serve hot and cold food and drink. There are good options for children. The coffee is good! Alternative milks available. Picnics welcome. There are plenty of benches and a designated picnic area with plenty of picnic tables. Toilets Baby Change and Accessible Toilets Available. Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ✅ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ✅ 🚻 Toilets ✅ baby change and accessible toilets ♿ Accessible ✅ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ❌ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Last Updated February 2025

In January 2025 Wings Cafe Announced its Closure - thanks for the memories Wings! What makes this place really special is that you can see planes and helicopters landing and taking off from the playground and cafe outside seating area. You actually drive along the runway to reach the cafe and playground.⁣ If you want to see more about Wings Cafe - you can check out the Wings Cafe Reel on Instagram - Watch the Wings Cafe Reel on the Parks of Essex Instagram Page Where is Wings Cafe? 📍 Wings Cafe North Weald Airfield⁣ Wings Cafe⁣ CM16 6HR⁣ ⁣ 🅿️ Parking  - Where to park at Northlands Park There is a car park with free parking This playground has FREE PARKING Find over 50 playgrounds and parks with Free Parking HERE Wings Cafe Opening Times Wings Cafe is open every day from 9am until 4pm. For any changes check the Wings Cafe Facebook Page   What aircraft will you see at Wings Cafe? We saw private planes, the police helicopter, air ambulance and fire engines whilst we were there! Menu at Wings Cafe This playground is part of a cafe, so there is a large selection of food and drink. Chose from all day breakfasts, burgers, paninis, jacket potatoes, hot drinks, cold drinks, cakes and lollies. Everything was reasonably priced, served quickly and the coffee was good.⁣ Plenty of tables inside and outside.⁣ High chairs available.⁣ Play Area at Wings Cafe This play area is enclosed next to the cafe.⁣ There are wooden play structures. Each piece of equipment has a variety of slides, climbing walls/ropes, monkey bars, low level bench seating and swings. There are also two enclosed trampolines.⁣ Toilets at Wings Cafe There are no toilets available at the cafe. There is a toilet block a two minute walk away⁣, which is a bit of an inconvenience. NO accessible toilet. NO baby change ⁣ 10 Popular Days Out Posts Take a trip on a UNICORN at this Park - The Magical Unicorn Lake Compairing the TWO Essex Gruffalo Trails Mersea Island with Children! The Best Playgrounds and Play Areas on Mersea Island Top 10 Playgrounds in Southend-on-Sea Visit this Park with a FREE FARM The Burnham Ferry: Wallasea Island to Burnham-on-Crouch The Best Woodland Playgrounds in Essex The Essex Peter Rabbit Trail The Longest Play Trail in Essex Everything you need to know about the Stick Man Trail Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ✅ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ✅ ♿ Accessible ❌ no accessible parking, facilitates, limited accessible play equipment 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ✅ ⏰ Spend 1 hour Updated May 2024

Essex has a brand new Stick Man Trail, based on the Julia Donaldson classic tale! You can find the newest Stick Man Adventure Trail at Thames Chase Forest Centre ,  Upminster. Thames Chase is a Forestry England Site. The Forestry England Stick Man Trail opened in February 2025. You can find Stick Man trails at Forestry England sites all over the UK , i ncluding High Lodge Thetford Forest, Jeskyns Community Woodland in Kent and Delamere Forest. Click Here to find your nearest Forestry England Stick Man Trail . As with all Forestry England Trails, this trail provides lots of information about trees and wildlife, as well as being fun for children. Essex is now home to two Stick Man trails! The Stick Man sculpture character trail  at Weald Country Park was renovated in summer 2023. We love visiting the Stick Man Trail at Weald Country Park but are very excited by the newest Stick Man offering! The Thames Chase Stick Man Adventure Trail consists of several interactive boards with tasks to complete to get Stick Man back to his family tree. This is not a sculpture trail. Unlike the previous Zog Trail , there is no associated App. Here everything you need to know about the Stick Man Forest Adventure Trail... Where is the NEW Stick Man Trail? You can find the Stick Man Trail at Thames Chase Forest Centre , Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS. Google Maps link   The visitor centre is open from 10am-5pm weekdays and weekends and 10am-4pm in the winter. The trail starts next to the overflow car park. How much is Parking at the Stick Man Trail? Parking costs £2 all day. Payment machine takes cash, or you can pay on card at the visitor centre. How much does the Stick Man Trail cost? You do not have to pay to complete the Trail. However Stick Man Activity packs are available, which increases the experience. Activity packs cost £4 from the Forest Centre. The packs contain a kraft bag to colour in, a Stick Man lanyard, adventure stamp stickers, adventure passport cards, a pencil and crayon and a pipe cleaner to make your own Stick Man.  Stick Man Activity Pack - Forestry England Image How long is the Stick Man Trail? The Thames Chase Stick Man Trail is half a mile long. Is the Stick Man Trail accessible and is the Stick Man Trail buggy friendly? The trail is well sign posted and the trail grounding is a mix of predominantly gravel pathways but may be muddy in paces. The trail is mainly flat and therefore passable for wheelchair users or with a sturdy buggy. What age is it the Stick Man Trail suitable for? Gruffalo lovers of all ages but the Forestry England state the trail is aimed at children aged 3 - 9 years old. What facilities are at the Stick Man Trail? The Forest Centre has a staffed visitor centre, toilets (including accessible and baby change facilities), a small shop and inside seating area. There is also a tearoom at the Thames Chase Forest Centre. The cafe is open fro 10am to 4pm (3pm in the winter season). Is there a playground at the Stick Man Trail? There is a playground located close the Forest Centre. The NEW inclusive play areas opens on 16th February 2025! If you are looking for an inclusive playground check out our guide: The Best Inclusive and Accessible Playgrounds in Essex More Trails If your child is a Stick Man super fan, we also recommend the Stick Man Trail at Weald Country Park . There is also several play areas and friendly deer to feed at Weald Country Park. If you love a character trail, you can check out the  Essex Peter Rabbit Trail  and a Wind in the Willows Trail ,  both at Essex Wildlife Trust sites.

2025 Guide HERE 2024 Find out what is happening this February in Essex! January is finally over and we are keeping our fingers crossed for a dry February half term in Essex. We have put together a list of family friendly events at parks across Essex throughout February and February Half Term. From trails to stargazing there is plenty happening in Essex this month. Don't forget Essex also has a brand new Gruffalo Trail! All the details HERE. Abberton Reservoir, CO2 0EU   Stargazing (17th) We can teach you about the constellations and how to recognise them and answer any questions you may have about astronomy. Adults £6, children £4. Explorers & Adventurers (23rd) use compasses to find our way around, hunt for dinosaur bones, look under logs for creepy crawlies and even explore who is in the depths of the pond £7 Chelmsford Museum (Oaklands Park) CM2 9AQ Art Week (19th - 25th) Drop in to the Wells Suite on the first floor at Chelmsford Museum and create your own scrap art book using the same mediums at the artists on display. Drop in FREE Charter Hall ( Colchester Castle Park ) , CO1 1YH Inflatable Fun Day (25th) Charter Hall will be transformed into a colossal indoor inflatable arena, towering slides big bouncy castles and challenging assault courses. From £9. Why not visit Castle Park a short walk away afterwards! Daws Hall Nature Reserve, CO8 5EX Holiday Activities (21st) Minibeast hunting, pond dipping with a picnic and marshmallows by the fire at Lunchtime. £8 per child SHOP OUR FAVOURITES Great Notley Country Park, CM77 7FS Sky Ropes (17th - 25th) The two-level high ropes course - Sky Ropes and Sky Ropes Junior. £13 per person Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT   Bird Box Building (19th) build a bird box to help the feathered friends in your garden! £10 Hyde Hall, CM3 8ET World on your Windowsill (17th - 25th) Creative craft activities, planting herby characters, and an interactive storytelling walk. Get your face painted and enjoy the seasonal garden trail. Admission applies, extra cost for some activities Hylands Park, CM2 8FS Hylands Estate Open Day (18th) Hylands House and Estate opens its doors to reveal the secrets behind its history. Explore the gardens. Storytelling and children’s activities. FREE Langdon, SS16 6EJ   Woodland Storytime (23r d ) An exciting trail hunting for characters, listen to the story around the log circle and then choose which activities you want to join in with, including; exploring tracks and footprints, natural art. £7 Fingringhoe Wick, CO5 7DN   Snowy Pawprints Trail (17th - 25th) Exploring the reserve to test your detective skills - can you work out whose paw prints are whose!? Drop in. £3 The Naze, CO14 8LE   Family Fossil Discovery (20th) learn about The Naze geology and where to find fossils before heading out on a group fossil hunt £4 Bird Feeders and Brilliant Birds Trail (22 nd) Create your own bird feeder to take home then follow the trail around the Naze and see how many winter birds you can find. Drop in £7 Roding Valley Meadows Nature Reserve, IG7 6DP Bird Feeder and Nature Walk (19th) make bird feeders, grab some binoculars and head out on a bird/nature walk £7 Scotts of Southend, SS4 1LQ Meet Farm Animals  (22nd - 24th) M eet and learn about lots of farmyard friends. Take photos with them and ask our animal experts questions. Booking required, £3.50 Thames Chase, RM14 3NS Mon ster Making (23rd) E ach child will make, paint and take home their very own monster face, made from all natural materials. Call 01708 642970 to book. Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex

EDIT: The Zog Trail is NOW CLOSED The latest trails at Thames Chase will be posted on the page - All the Info about Thames Chase Forest Centre Comparing the Gruffalo Trail at Thorndon Country Park to the NEW Gruffalo Party Trail at Thames Chase. A brand new Gruffalo Trail has opened in Essex! At the end of January 2024 the Forestry England Gruffalo Party Trail opened at Thames Chase Forest Centre, Upminster. The trail celebrates 25 years of The Gruffalo story by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. If you want the full details on the newest Gruffalo Trail, you can check out our comprehensive guide to the NEW Gruffalo Trail HERE. How does the Gruffalo Party trail at Thames Chase, Upminster compare to the Gruffalo Sculpture Trail at Thorndon Country Park in Brentwood... Gruffalo Sculpture Trail - Thorndon Country Park , The Avenue, Warley, Brentwood, CM13 3RZ Gruffalo Party Trail - Thames Chase Forest Centre , Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS Sculpture Trail vs Activity Boards The main difference between the trails is that the Thorndon trail is a series of Gruffalo sculptures. You can find all the classic Gruffalo characters from the Julia Donaldson story. The sculptures are substantial and the attention to detail is brilliant. There are no sculptures at the Thames Chase trail. The trail at Thames Chase consists of several activity boards. The boards have pictures of the Gruffalo and characters. The boards have educational prompts and activities for children to complete and learn about the forest. There are also brass rubbings throughout the trail, which is a nice touch. The trail is suited to a younger audience. Forestry England recommend age 3-9 years. Unlike the previous Zog Trail at Thames Chase, there is not an App associated with the trail. Setting The Thorndon trail is set within woodland. The Thames Chase trail is a series of pathways through some open fields. Both trails are muddy! Cost Both trails are free.  At Thorndon you can buy a trail map from the visitor centre. Last time we visited it cost 50p.  At Thames Chase you can buy an activity pack for £4 from the visitor. The pack contains an activity booklet, pen and crayon, stickers, a headband and sew on patch. It is not essiential to buy but does increase the experience. If you do not wish to buy the pack, the trail starts at the overflow car park (not the one closest to the visitor centre) Parking Thorndon -  Up to 1 hour £2.50, Up to 2 hours £3.80, Up to 4 hours £5.10, All day £6.30   Thames Chase - £2 all day  Trail length Both trails take around 30 minutes to complete.  Accesible/Buggy Friendly The Thorndon trail is set within woodland pathways. The trail seems to always be muddy (even in good weather). There are also inclines within the woodland. Therefore, the Thorndon trail is not wheelchair accessible. It is passable with a very sturdy outdoor buggy only. The Thames Chase trail is on pathways, which are mainly flat. Although it is still very muddy, it is more wheelchair accessible and passable with buggies. Facilities  There are visitor centres at both Thorndon and Thames Chase. There are shops contained within both visitor centres. There are cafes at both sites and also toilets at both sites. What else is there to do there The Thorndon trail is set in beautiful woodlands. There is so much space to explore. There are plenty of dens to discover. There is no playground. The Thames Chase Trail ends close to the playground and visitor centre. The enclosed playground is small.  There is a large climbing frame with slide, a separate climbing frame, baby swings and a nest swing. There is also a climbing structure with seats underneath. The playground is suitable for children up to junior age. Which trail? These trails are very different! Ultimately it is up to you which you think your family will enjoy more and find more engaging. My children remain captivated by the Gruffalo Trail at Thorndon, even though we've visited more times than we can count. Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex

EDIT: The Gruffalo Party Trail is NOW CLOSED The latest trails at Thames Chase will be posted on the page - All the Info about Thames Chase Forest Centre Essex has a brand new Gruffalo Trail, based on the Julia Donaldson classic tale! The trail celebrates the Gruffalo's 25th Birthday! The trail consists of several games and activities to teach you about the forest. Search for party favourites to celebrate the Gruffalo's birthday! The trail consists of several interactive boards with tasks to complete. This is not a sculpture trail. Unlike the previous Zog trail, there is no associated App. You can find the newest Essex Gruffalo Party Trail at Thames Chase Forest Centre. You can find Gruffalo Party trails at Forestry England sites all over the UK , including Thetford Forest, Jeskyns Community Woodland in Kent and Delamere Forest. The new Forestry England trail replaces the previous Zog Trail. Here is what you need to know about the Ess ex Gruffalo Party Trail... Where is the Gruffalo Party Trail? Thames Chase Forest Centre , Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS Opening hours: 10am-5pm weekdays and weekend (10-4pm in the winter) Google Maps link   How much is Parking at the Gruffalo Party Trail? Parking costs £2 all day. Payment machine takes cash, or you can pay on card at the visitor centre. SHOP GRUFFALO FAVOURITES What facilities are at the Gruffalo Party? The Forest Centre has a staffed visitor centre, toilets (including accessible and baby change facilities), a small shop and inside seating area. There is also a tearoom at the Thames Chase Forest Centre. The cafe is open fro 10am to 4pm (3pm in the winter season). Is there a playground at the Gruffalo Party Trail? There is a small playground located close the Forest Centre. There is a large climbing frame with slide, a separate climbing frame, baby swings and a nest swing. There is also a climbing structure with seats underneath. The playground is suitable for children up to junior age. How much does the Gruffalo Party Trail cost? You do not have to pay to complete the Trail. However Gruffalo Activity packs are available, which increases the experience. Activity packs cost £4 from the Forest Centre. The packs contain a kraft bag to colour in, party headband to wear, party trail activity leaflet, stickers, pencil and crayon and keepsake sew-on Gruffalo Party patch Is the Gruffalo Party Trail accessible and is the Gruffalo Party Trail buggy friendly? The trail is well sign posted and the trail grounding is a mix of predominantly gravel pathways. The trail is mainly flat and therefore passable for wheelchair users or with a sturdy buggy. What age is it the Gruffalo Party Trail suitable for? Gruffalo lovers of all ages but the Forestry England state the trail is aimed at children aged 3 - 9 years old. How long does the Gruffalo Party Trail take to complete? The trail is 1/2 a mile long. The trail takes 30 to 45 minute to complete. More Trails If you love a Julia Donaldson character trail, you can check out the Essex Stick Man Trail!     There is also an Essex Peter Rabbit Trail  and a Wind in the Willows Trail ,  both at Essex Wildlife Trust sites. Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex

EDIT: The Zog Trail is NOW CLOSED The latest trails at Thames Chase will be posted on the page - All the Info about Thames Chase Forest Centre The Zog Trail based on the wonderful Julia Donaldson story. Everything you need to know about the Essex Zog Trail at Thames Chase, Upminster. The Essex Zog Trail opened in February 2023. You can find Zog trails at Forestry England sites all over the UK , here is what you need to know about the Essex Zog Trail. Watch the Zog Trail Reel on the Parks of Essex Instagram Page Where is the Zog Trail in Essex? Thames Chase Forest Centre , Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS Opening hours: 10am-5pm weekdays and weekend (10-4pm in the winter) Google Maps link How much is Parking at the Zog Trail? Parking costs £1 all day until March, when the charge rises to £2 for the entire day. Payment machine takes cash, or you can pay on card at the visitor centre. What facilities are at the Zog Trail? The Forest Centre has a staffed visitor centre, toilets (including accessible and baby change facilities), a small shop and inside seating area. There is also a tearoom at the Thames Chase Forest Centre. The cafe is open fro 10am to 4pm (3pm in the winter season). Is there a playground at the Zog Trail? There is a small playground located close the Forest Centre. There is a large climbing frame with slide, a separate climbing frame, baby swings and a nest swing. There is also a climbing structure with seats underneath. The playground is suitable for children up to junior age. How much does the Zog Trail cost? You do not have to pay to complete the Zog Trail. The first marker is at the overflow car park. However Zog Activity packs are available, which increases the experience. Activity packs cost £4 from the Forest Centre. The packs contain a small activity booklet which can be completed with the clues on the trail. There are some glasses, again needed to spot the letters marked out on the trail. There are also some Zog stickers, Zog wings and string and a crayon for the brass rubbing at the end of the trail. Is there a Zog App? There is a new ‘Zog: A Forest Adventure’ App by magic light. The App used augmented reality to really enhance the trail, I really recommend it. There are several markers along the trail. Point your phone at the markers to access the augmented reality tasks. The idea is to complete the challenges to win Zog's gold stars. It was really great seeing Zog appear. Before you go, download the App HERE Is the Zog Trail accessible and is the Zog trail buggy friendly? The trail is well sign posted and the trail grounding is a mix of predominantly gravel pathways. The trail is mainly flat and therefore passable for wheelchair users or with a sturdy buggy. What age is it the Zog Trail suitable for? Zog lovers of all ages! The new App makes it interesting for older children too. How long does the Zog Trail take to complete? The trail takes at least 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. A great addition to our brilliant Essex Parks! I definitely recommend giving the Zog Trail a go. More Trails If you love a Julia Donaldson character trail, you can check out the Essex Stick Man Trail! There is also an Essex Peter Rabbit Trail and a Wind in the Willows Trail , both at Essex Wildlife Trust sites. . Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex

A visit to Burnham-on-Crouch is a great family friendly day out in Essex. There are plenty of things for children to do in Burnham-on-Crouch including several beach themed play areas. An additional play area was added to the area in 2024. The new Riverside play area features more accessible play equipment. The new riverside park play area was opened in September 2024. There are also some great family friendly walks in Burnham-on-Crouch. There are beautiful riverside walks along the River Crouch at Riverside Park, Burnham-on-Crouch Country Park. The Saltmarsh Trail (a 75 mile trail through Essex where the Maldon District meets the sea ) passes through Burnham-on-Crouch. It is a great spot for bird watching! It is lovely to pass the beautiful boats quayside and at Burnham-on-Sea Marina. Did you know you can take the Burnham Ferry over to Wallasea Island  during the Spring/Summer season? The departure spot is only a leisurely 10 minute walk away. Where is Riverside Park Playground Burnham-on-Crouch 📍Riverside Park Playground Millfields Burnham-on-Crouch CM0 8HS Google Maps Link   (The play areas surround the Dengie Hundred Sports Centre) 🅿️ Parking - Where to park Riverside Park Playground Burnham-on-Crouch Burnham Riverside Car Park - CM0 8HS Free car parking (although some recent reviews suggest parking charges have been put in place) Riverside Park Play Areas There two playgrounds are next to each other, separated by a small wooden bridge which crosses a stream. Both playgrounds are enclosed and have picnic benches inside them. The playground closest to the water is more suitable for toddlers to preschool age. There are baby swings, a seesaw and spinning equipment. There is a boat-themed climbing frame with a slide which is in the sand. There is also a sand table with a scoop. The playground nearer to the road is suitable for older children. Several climbing frames differ in ability. There are swings, a zip wire wooden balancing equipment and a large sandpit. The newest play area is suitable for children aged from primary to junior age. The play equipment is more accessible than the other play areas. Play equipment includes a ramp frame, swings including a tandem swing, climb on equipment including brightly coloured raised animals. There is a floor level trampoline and roundabout. Skatepark at Riverside Park There is a great skatepark at Riverside Park in Burnham-on-Crouch. Toilets at Riverside Park, Burnham-on-Crouch There are two toilets in Burnham Country Park near to Burnham Sports Centre. There is also a public toilet in the centre of Burnham High Street, at the junction with Doctors Lane (on the Quay next to the Star Public House). Where to eat and drink in Burnham-on-Crouch There are no catering facilities in Riverside Park. However, there are also lots of cafes and pubs in the High Street a short walk away. Burnham Ferry The  Burnham Ferry  runs from Burnham over to Wallasea Island  during the Spring/Summer season. The departure/pick up point is only a short ten minute walk away from the playground at Riverside Park. The route from Riverside Park playground to the Burnham ferry landing spot passes through town, where there are lots of great cafes and restaurants. The Burhnam Ferry reopens for the 2025 on 1st April 2025. Check out our post: Everything you need to know about the Burnham Ferry . Other playgrounds close to Riverside Park Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by!   Promenade Park Maldon Oak Tree Meadow, Heybridge   Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks   Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible - ✅ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ❌ ⏰ 1 hour+ Post last updated January 2025.

The Fisher Field playground in Braintree is a brightly coloured play area situated in a residential area. The playground is enclosed and has lots of space inside. There is also surrounding play fields with a football goal. Where is the Fisher Field Play Area 📍 Fisher Field Play Area Braintree Essex CM7 9TA Google Maps Link   🅿️ Parking  - Where to park Fisher Field Play Area On Street parking in surrounding streets This is residential area - please park considerably Play Equipment at Fisher Field Playground This playground in Braintree has swings (including baby swings and a nets swing) two climbing frames, a roundabout, seesaw, balancing equipment including a balance board Are there toilets at Fisher Field Playground? No toilet facilities. Is there a cafe at Fisher Field Playground? No catering facilities. There is a Co-op supermarket 5 minutes walk away from his play area. Other playgrounds close to Fisher Field Playground? Parks in Braintree: John Barr Playground Rayne Park Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens Great Notley Country Park Brain Valley Park Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by!   Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible ❌ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ✅ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Last Updated January 2025

Are you looking at things to do in Essex with children this festive period? Whether you are after a recommendation for a Christmas Day walk, a Boxing Day stroll, a walk to bring in the New Year or fancy heading out in Essex throughout twixmas, we have plenty of great festive trails in Essex. Check out these Christmas Trails and family friendly walks across Essex for Christmas 2024. We also have a guide to Free and Low Cost Christmas Events in Essex . The Essex Guide features deer feeding, Christmas Lights Switch On, Christmas Markets in Essex, Festive wreath making and a Santa Fun Run. Trails Animal Mysteries Trail 📍 Cudmore Grove 📍 Belhus Woods 📍 Danbury Country Park 📍 Great Notley Country Park 📍 Cressing Temple Barns 📍 Hadleigh Country Park 📍 Thorndon Country Park 📍 Weald Country Park 1st December - 5th January The FREE Animals Mysteries Trail is running through the festive period, including Christmas Day. The festive trail can be found at many great Essex Country Parks including Weald Country Park and Danbury Country Park. Pick up or download a free Animal Mysteries Trail map. Find and count the winter animals hiding in the park. Wrap up warm and enjoy the fresh air. This great family trail will keep little legs moving on your festive walk. Langdon Christmas Trail 📍Langdon Nature Discovery Park Lower Dunton Road, Basildon, SS16 6EJ 14th - 30th December Pick up a map from inside the Nature Discovery Centre and venture outside to complete the Christmas Trail. Once you've completed It head back to the centre to collect a prize! £4 per child. No booking required. Langdon Nature Discovery Centre is open every day 10am - 4pm, (Christmas Eve 10am - 2pm) and closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The Fairytale Christmas Trail 📍Lathcoats Farm, Beehive Lane, Galleywood, CM2 8LX Collect your activity booklet from the farm shop and then follow the trail as you discover Christmas fairy tales, find the hidden letters on route and use the puzzles to help you figure out the secret word before collecting your prize from the farm shop. Prices from £5 per participant. A ticket is required for any child participating in the trail - this includes an activity booklet, pencil and a Christmas treat as well as access to the trail. Adults and those not participating in the trail do not require a ticket. Lathcoats is open throughout the festive period, closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Sunday 29th December. New Years Day Ranger Walk 📍 High Woods Country Park Join the High Woods Country Park Range for a 3 mile walk, followed by a warming cup of mulled wine and mince pie. Blow away the cobwebs and start the new year by embracing the great outdoors! £6 per walker, pay on the day - no pre-booking required. Christmas Walks There are lots of great places to head for festive family friendly walks in Essex. Walk the 1.33 miles of Southend-on-Sea Pier Southend Pier is the longest pier in Europe, stretching 1.33m in length. You can either walk the length of Southend-on-Sea pier, or catch the pier train. There is also a Christmas walking trail  running at Southend Pier from 1st to 24th December. The pier is open every day fro m 10.15am until 6pm. Last entry to he pier is one hour before closing. You can buy your tickets on the day of your visit from the till points at the Visitor Information Centre or the Pier Walkway entrance. The train leaves every 30 minutes. If you have a wait, there is a small playground close by - Three Shells Playground. There are several beachside playgrounds in Southend-on-Sea . At the end of the Pier you can find the RNLI Station, a cafe and restaurant. We have previously spotted seals at the end of Southend-on-Sea pier so make sure you keep an eye out! Heybridge Basin Why not take a stroll along the canal path at Heybridge Basin. Start your walk at the Daisy Meadow car park. The canal is home to a variety of boats and lots of wildlife. There is also a small playground area . There are two pubs at Heybridge Basin, The Ship and The Jolly Sailor. There is also the Lock Tea Room (a Tiptree Tearoom). overlooking the River Blackwater Hockley Woods Hockley Woods is home to acres of beautiful ancient Woodland. The woods are great for climbing trees and listening to the birds. There is also a good sized Childrens play area , toilets and a great Essex pub nearby for a post walk tipple - The Bull Hockley . Belfairs Woods Belfairs Woods are a brilliant Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve. There is plenty of amazing ancient woodland to explore! Children will love the woodland adventure playground, den building and splashing in the stream within the woods. The nature reserve is also home to a visitor centre with toilets and cafe. There is a great Essex a country pub within the grounds of Belafairs too. Great Notley Country Park There is plenty to explore at Great Notley Country Park, which consists of over 100 acres of open space. Great Notley Country Park is also home to a great play trail . The trail is a 1.2km loop with various pieces of play equipment and playgrounds along the route. This festive period you can find animal mysteries trial markers also along the route. The pathways are paved and mostly flat on the trail. Wallasea Island If you are looking for somewhere quiet for your walk, head to RSPB Wallasea Island. The nature reserve is a magical landscape of marshland, lagoons, ditches and sea. You can walk along the seawalls to see the saltmarsh, mudflats and lagoons. There are several walking trails. No dogs permitted other than on the Allfleets Marsh Trail (public footpath), which runs from car park for 3 km along full length of northern seawall. Burnham-on-Crouch On the other side of the water from Wallasea Island you can find beautiful Burnham-on-Crouch. Did you know you can catch the Burnham Ferry between Wallasea Island and Burnham on Crouch in the summer months? There are beautiful riverside walks along the River Crouch at Riverside Park. There are also plenty of impressive boats to spot at Burnham Marina. There is plenty for children to do in Burnham-on-Crouch. including a beach themed playground and an orienteering course. Family Friendly places to explore on Bikes and Scooters If your child has received a new scooter or bike this Christmas, check out our guide to The Best Places to Scooter and Cycle across Essex , featuring lots of skate parks in Essex. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for supporting Parks of Essex in 2024.

Guide: The Best Inclusive Parks and Playgrounds in Essex Inclusive play equipment gives all children opportunities to play and learn. Inclusive play equipment may include accessible play equipment and sensory play equipment that will stimulate SEN children's senses In this Inclusive and Accessible Playgrounds in Essex Guide you can find out about accessible parking and changing places facilities. This Guide to SEN playgrounds features inclusiveb playgrounds in Colchester, Chelmsford, Walton-on-the-Naze, Brentwood, Basildon and Harlow. This post features the following playgrounds in Essex (click to scroll to the playground): Wat Tyler Country Park King Georges Country Park Bath House Meadow Playground Pets Corner Playground Hylands Park Stanway Lakelands Centre Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea 📍 Wat Tyler Country Park Pitsea Hall Lane Pitsea Basildon SS16 4UH Wat Tyler Country Park in Pitsea, Basildon has one of the best children's play parks in Essex. The play area underwent huge refurbishment and the inclusive play area opened in summer 2024. The play area is suitable for children of all ages and has inclusive play equipment. Wat Tyler Country Park also has fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting and great trails. Inclusive Play Area at Wat Tyler Country Park Inclusive play equipment at Wat Tyler Country Park includes ramps, a variety of swings (including ability swing), floor trampoline and floor level roundabout. There is also sensory and musical equipment. The playground flooring is mainly smooth and flat. Other play equipment includes a variety of climbing frames for toddlers and also older children. There are also spinning, balancing and climb on equipment. There is also a sizeable sandpit area with sand diggers, although this is not accessible. The play area is enclosed. However, this is a large play area and it does get busy. Parking There is Free Parking at Wat Tyler Country Park. The Car Park is a one minute walk from the Wat Tyler Centre and a two minute walk to the playground. There are Blue Badge parking spaces within the car park closest to the adventure playground. Toilets There is a changing place facility at Wat Tyler Country Park located opposite the Wat Tyler Centre. There are also accessible toilets inside the Wat Tyler Centre. Other Things to do at Wat Tyler Country Park Wat Tyler Country Park has lots of wildlife, trails and regular school holiday events for children. Find Out More... King George's Playing Fields, Brentwood 📍 King George's Playing Field Ingrave Road Brentwood CM14 5AE There is so much to do at the King George's Park in Brentwood. A highlight is the great playground, which also has brilliant accessible play equipment. Other attractions include crazy golf, a seasonable splash park, soft play and skateboard park. There is also a sensory garden within the park grounds. The playground at King Georges Park is excellent. There are several separate play areas to suit children of all ages, including an enclosed toddler play area. The equipment is brightly coloured and in good condition. The flooring is mainly a mix of concrete and spongy tiles. Inclusive Play Area at King Georges Playing Fields Inclusive play equipment at King Georges Park Brentwood includes a variety of swings including an ability swing. There are ramp accessible frames and floor trampolines. There are several sensory and musical boards. Other playground equipment at King Georges Park includes climbing frames, climbing equipment, ride on equipment, sensory boards, merry-go-rounds and balancing equipment. For older children there is a zipwire. There is a large linked climbing frame with a variety of challenging climbs. The play area is enclosed. However, this is a large play area and it does get busy. Parking There are several car parks at King Georges Playing Fields. The Rugby Club, Golf Club and Overflow car parks are accessed via Ingrave Road. The Hartwood Road car park is accessed by Hartwood Road. King Georges Playing Fields Car Park CM13 2AH  There are 6 Blue Badge parking spaces at this car park. Parking charges: 30 mins - Free (one free parking session per vehicle, per day), 1 hour - £1.50, 2 hours - £2.50, 3 hours - £3.50, 4 hours - £4.50, 5 hours - £5.50, 6 hours - £7.00, 24 hours until close - £9.00 For more information on where to park at King Georges Park, check out the Brentwood Council website . Toilets There is a changing places accessible toilet in the Hartwood Pavillion. There are also accessible toilets and baby change toilets close to the playground. Other Things to do at King Georges Playing Fields Other attractions at King Georges Playing Fields include crazy golf, seasonable splash park, soft play and skateboard park. There is also a sensory garden within the park grounds. Find Out More... Bath House Meadow Playground 📍 The Bath House Meadow Playground⁣ Walton on the Naze⁣ CO14 8PZ⁣ If you are visiting Walton-on-the-Naze make sure you stop at the best playground in Walton-on-the-Naze - Bath House Meadow. This great playground also has fantastic inclusive play equipment. This accessible play equipment has a unique, beach/pirate themed. Inclusive Play Area at Bath Meadow Playground Inclusive play equipment at Bath Meadow Playground includes a ramp to the main boat frame. There is also a floor level trampoline and floor level roundabout. There is great sensory musical equipment including winding musical equipment, mirrors and a musical ship wheel at this playground in Walton-on-the-Naze. ⁣The playground is suitable for all ages. The playground has so much to offer; slides at different levels, swings, long swings, a trampoline, sand pit and sand digger and even a surf board! ⁣The enclosed playground is fenced off and there are benches. Parking There is no specific car parking for Bath House Meadow Playground. Ther e is on street parking on next to beach⁣ on Hall Lane. Parking is available at Coronation Car Park (1st April to 30th Sept). Coronation Car Park can be found on⁣ Prince's Esplanade⁣, Walton on the Naze⁣, CO14 8PT⁣ (Charges Apply). There is a further car park at Walton on the Naze Lifestyles Leisure Centre⁣. The Leisure Centre car park can be found on Prince's Esplanade⁣, Walton on the Naze⁣, CO14 8PZ⁣ (Charges Apply). Toilets The cl osest public toilets are next to the beach and Kino Amusements, five minutes walk away. These toilets are not accessible and do not have baby change. Other Things to do at Bath House Meadow Playground Walton-on-the-Naze beach! This playground is located close to the beach. It is a short drive from The Naze Nature Discovery Centre , an Essex Wildlife Trust visitor centre. The Naze is a great spot for fossil hunting, we've found fossilised shark teeth before! Find Out More... Pets Corner Playground 📍Town Park Harlow CM20 2QG The Pets' Corner Playground can be found at Harlow Town Park. We love this playground because it is suitable for children of all ages and most importantly it is one of the most inclusive play areas in Essex. Inclusive Play Area at Pets Corner Town Park The play area at Pets Corner has an accessible frame with lots of musical equipment and educational areas. There is an accessible roundabout. There is also an accessible play house. There is also a section of the play area with a farm theme. There is a climbing frame with slide, accessible seesaw, climb on tractor and sensory boards. There is a large climbing frame with a variety of climbs and steps. It has three slides of differing heights. There is a large, rope bridge and mound with a tunnel underneath. There is spinning equipment, musical equipment and sensory boards. The entire playground is enclosed. Parking Closest car park School Lane Car Park, CM20 2QB Free parking for 2 hours on Saturday and Sunday. 2+ hours £1.25 Monday - Friday Up to 1 hour FREE, 1 - 5 hours £1.10, 5+ hours £6.20 4 Blue Badge parking spaces Toilets There are toilets at Town Park including baby change and changing places toilets. Other Things to do at Town Park Harlow Pets' Corner Playground is also located close to Pets' Corner Farm. You can click here for more information about visiting the FREE farm at Pets' Corner in Town Park . Harlow Town Park has several beautiful, unique gardens (including a sensory garden), seasonal splash parks, nature reserves and a wonderful bandstand. Find Out More... Hylands Park 📍Hylands Park Chelmsford CM2 8FS There is a great, castle themed adventure playground at Hylands Park, which is in the Hylands House Estate. There are three separate areas, each with play equipment for a different age range. The play areas are close together, so this is a good playground if you have children of different ages/abilities. Inclusive Play Area at Hylands Park The highlight of the playground at Hylands Park is the large, wooden castle fort. The fort is accessed by ramps, making it accessible for wheelchair users. There are also sensory boards. Elsewhwere is the playground, t here is also a smaller climbing frame and also ride on animals for smaller children. There are a variety of swings including tyre swings and nest swings. Parking Writtle Car Park - 1 hour - £3.35, All day - £5 MiPermit Code 744026 Parking charges apply between 9am and 6pm. Chelmsford residents are entitled to a discount, Click here  for more information. If you are a Blue Badge holder, you can park for free all day when displaying a valid Blue Badge. Toilets There are toilets at Hylands Park. There are located next to the car park and include baby change and accessible toilet facilities. Other Things to do at Hylands Hylands House is an impressive Grade II listed building. Hylands House open day every third Sunday of the month. Entry to Hylands House is free and there are free guided tours. There are various events at Hylands House throughout the year including the Enlightened Lights Trail at Hylands House, Adventure Outdoor Cinema showings and the Foodies Festivals. Hylands Park is home to the only Go Ape location in Essex. Find Out More... Stanway Lakelands Centre 📍Stanway Lakelands Centre 2 Western Approach Stanway Colchester CO3 8DX The Stanway Lakelands Community Centre has great faculties including a cafe, inclusive playground, sensory room and full Changing Places facility. Inclusive Play Area at Stanway Lakelands Centre? This inclusive playground has lots to offer! There is a large sandpit with a wooden climbing frame running through it. The climbing frame has slides, various climbs and a ramp.  There is also a floor trampoline. There is sensory and musical play equipment. Other equipment includes swings, ride on equipment and roundabout. This playground is NOT enclosed and close to the car park. Parking There is a car park with free car parking at Stanway Lakelands Centre Toilets There is a changing places toilet at the Stanway Lakelands Centre. What else is there to do at Stanway Lakelands Centre There are regular school holiday events at the Stanway Centre. There is also a FREE Sensory Room at Stanway Lakelands Centre. The s mall sensory room with lights and bubbles is available to drop into inside the centre, no pre-booking required. There is a cafe inside the leisure centre. Find Out More... Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex Last Updated January 2025

The Southend-on-Sea, Essex Playground Guide Southend-on-Sea has to be one of the most kid friendly towns in Essex! There is so much to do in sunny Southend. There are lots of brilliant attractions including Adventure Island, Sealife Adventure, Adventure Inside and Southend Museum and Planetarium. There are also lots of great FREE things to do in Southend-on-Sea. There are over 7 miles of beaches to explore and of course many fantastic playgrounds. This Southend Playground Guide features playgrounds across Southend - you will find the best playgrounds in Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea, Shoebury and surrounding areas. If you are specifically looking for playgrounds close to the beach in Southend, check out the Southend-on-Sea Beach Playground Guide below. The Beach Playground Guide lists 7 beachside playgrounds in Southend. You can find out all the important information including parking in Southend, playground equipment and amenities. This Southend Playground Guide features the following playgrounds (click to scroll to the playground): The Forum Playground Shoebury Common Playground Priory Park Belfairs Woods Southchurch Park Leigh Library Gardens Chalkwell Park Bonchurch Park Blenheim Park Shoebury Park The Forum Playground 📍 The Forum Elmer Avenue Southend-on-Sea SS1 1NS The Foum Playground The Forum Playground was newly built in July 2023. The playground is located in central Southend City centre, outside of The Forum (Southend Central Library and University of Essex) and Focal Point Gallery. The City Centre location also means it is close to plenty of restaurants, takeaways, grocery stores and shops. The playground has a beach/ship theme. There is a large ship with various climbs, poles and a slide. There is also a beach hut/house with can be climbed. There is plenty of balancing equipment including boxes and bridges. There is also a nest swing. The playground in enclosed. Unfortunately there is no accessible play equipment. Read More... Shoebury Common Playground 📍Shoebury Common Playground Shoeburyness SS3 9HQ Shoebury Common Playground This playground is located across from Shoebury Beach in the Thorpe Bay area of Southend. Unlike the bustling City Beach, the beach at Thorpe Bay has no attractions, making it a calmer and quieter Southend Beach alternative. The playground is great! It has a nautical theme, there are boats, ship climbing frames and sea creature climb on equipment. There are a variety of swings, interesting sensory equipment and games. The playground is enclosed and there are plenty of picnic benches inside the playground. Read More... Priory Park 📍 Victoria Avenue Southend-on-Sea SS2 6NB Walled Gardens Priory Park Priory Park is a great family favourite park. As well as a great playground there are also walled gardens, a bandstand (where there are often musical performances in the summer) a cafe, visitor centre and Prittlewell Priory. Southend Museums often run season events at Prittewell Priory. Playground at Priory Park The great thing about the playground at Priory Park is that the large, fenced off playground is suitable for children of all ages. There are large wooden climbing frames with slides, metal climbing structures, toddler climbing frames, sit on springy equipment, a merry-go-round, spinning play equipment, seesaw and lots of swings. The play area is spacious. There are benches inside the play area. This playground could do with a revamp but it still has lots of good quality equipment. Read More... Belfairs Woods 📍 Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre Eastwood Road North Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4LR Belfairs Woods are part of an Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve. There are plenty of woods to explore! Children will love den building and splashing in the stream within the woods. Belfairs Woodland Playground There is a large, linked wooden climbing frame structure set within the woods. The playground at Belfairs is located along the path between both car parks, close to the visitor centre. The climbing frame has a variety of climbs and ends with a slide.   It is most appropriate for child preschool age and older due to the height of the climbing frame. There is also some balancing equipment and a swing. Read More... If you are looking for a woodland playground, check out our Guide to The Best Woodland Playgrounds in Essex Southchurch Park 📍Southchurch Park Northumberland Crescent Thorpe Bay Southend-on-Sea SS1 2XB Southchurch Park is located only a stones throw away from Thorpe Bay Beach. The Park has several pitches and courts, a model boating lake, cafe and gardens. Southchurch Park The large playground has equipment for toddlers and big kids too. There are many different climbing frames, swings, a roundabout, climb on equipment and lots of spinning equipment. Read More... Leigh Library Gardens 📍Leigh Library Gardens Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2DA As the name suggests, these gardens and playground surround Leigh-on-Sea library. A sweet spot, just the highstreet with lovely views across the estuary. A perfect stop for littles when browsing the high streets many independent shops and restaurants. You can also cut through the park and down some pretty steep steps to Old Leigh. You can find more independent shops, great pubs and a little beach in Old Leigh. Leigh Library Gardens The small, metal, playground is fenced off. There are swings, a merry-go-round, climbing frame and balance apparatus. Most suitable for small children. A small playground (which definitely needs a repaint and revamp) but a great location. Heading away from the playground and towards the path down towards the estuary you can find this really cool slide and climbing ropes. A great opportunity for bigger kids to play too. There are also lots of excellent trees for climbing. ⁣⁣⁣ Read More... Chalkwell Park 📍 Chalkwell Park Westcliff-on-Sea Southend-on-Sea SS0 8NA Chalkwell park has two great play areas, catering to all ages. There are also beautiful gardens, lots of open space and the park is close to Chalkwell beach. Chalkwell Park There are two separate play areas at Chalkwell Park. The play area closest to London Road is suitable for school to junior aged children. There are swings, spinning equipment and a large slide accessed via a rocky path. The toddler play area has toddler climbing frames, baby swings, a larger metal bus climbing frame and connected climbing equipment. Read More... Bonchurch Park 📍 Bonchurch Recreation Ground Bonchurch Avenue Leigh-on-Sea Southend-on-Sea SS9 3AS Bonchurch Recreation Ground has great facilities for the local community. There is a playground, tennis courts, playground and lots of open space for picnics, dog walking or just to let off steam! Bonchurch Recreation Ground Bonchurch Park is an enclosed playground, but there is so much space to play inside the fences. The equipment is well spaced out. There is a metal climbing frame, swings (including baby swings), spinning, balancing and climbing low equipment and a larger more challenging climbing frame. There are also climbing rocks with nets. There are benches and picnic tables inside the play area. Read More... Blenheim Park 📍 Blenheim Park Blenheim Park Close Leigh-On-Sea South end-On-Sea SS9 4AR Blenheim Park is great for families. There is plenty of open space on the playing fields and a good playground. Blenheim Park Blenheim Park has a great playground. The majority of the playground equipment is aimed at toddlers and small children. There are metal climbing frames, balancing and crawling equipment, slides and a sit on tractor. The playground is enclosed. Read More... Shoebury Park 📍 Shoebury Park Elm Road⁣ Shoeburyness⁣ Southend-on-Sea⁣ SS3 9SF⁣ Shoebury Park is a brilliant Southend park with so many facilities - a playground, big skate ramp, playing fields, gardens and basketball courts. Shoebury Park is a great spot to feed the ducks. Plus free parking! Shoebury Park The playground has equipment suitable for children a variety of ages and is in excellent condition. The enclosed playground has a ship/pirate theme.⁣ Equipment includes climbing frames, balancing equipment, spinning equipment, slides, baby swings, ride on equipment, climbing walls, a zipwire and merry-go-round. There are picnic benches and benches inside the playground. Read More... Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex.  Over 100 parks and playgrounds are listed