Easter Sunday falls on 20th April 2025 this year, with most schools in Essex
breaking up around Friday 4th April and going back to school straight after
the Easter weekend. As ever the is a huge amount of choice of activities
in Essex for over the Easter holidays, some of the Easter events are just
taking place on Easter weekend, but many attractions will be open with Easter
themed events and plenty going on to keep children busy across the whole of
the holidays. This post contains (mostly)
Essex based Easter Egg Hunts, trails, Easter themed hosted activities for
children and other events taking place in the Easter holidays
to help you keep your children entertained. I have added a map to the end of
the post to help you find which events are near you.
This post has been updated for 2025 based on what information has currently
been released. As most attractions have yet to release information I
have kept 2024 entries on the post as an indication of what might be
happening- these posts are marked as 2024.
If you live in Essex you might also find my guides to Essex section helpful for places to visit or
these ideas of what to do with children in Essex this Spring. If you are looking for Easter present ideas for children or adults check
out my
Chocolate Free Easter Gift Guide.
Here are the
places in Essex offering Kids Eat For Free (or £1) over the Easter holidays.
Easter Egg Hunts and Easter Holiday Activities for Children in Essex (and beyond) for 2025
Events range from free to £££, check the organisers website or Facebook page
to confirm age suitability and availability.
Last updated 10th February 2025
2024 Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Church Road, Layer-de-la Haye, Colchester, Essex, CO2
0EU
Last year there was an 'Eggcellent Easter trail' at Abberton Reservoir
where on completion of the Easter Trail children received a chocolate
prize (dairy free option available). Tickets were prebooked in advance
online and included pond dipping too. £7 per child.
All Things Alpaca, Lathcoats Farm, Beehive Lane, Galleywood, CM2 8LX
In April 2025 'All Things Alpaca' are running special 15 minute sessions
where you can get to meet and handle the baby animals on the farm. This
may include lambs, kids, chicks, ducklings, rabbits and guinea pigs
depending on what are available. Up to 4 people will be on each session.
£8 per person from age 2 upwards. Children up to 10 include a free adult
ticket per booking. You can also enjoy
Lathcoats farm
while there.
2024
Audley End House and Gardens, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF
In 2024 the 'Easter Adventure Quest' took place from Saturday 23rd March
to Sunday 14th April 10am to 5pm. Here guests hunted for eggs by solving
clues and then could claim a chocolate reward. Easter quest tickets cost
an additional £2 to the entry price which last year were: Adults £20.90,
Children £12.70 (Weekends and Bank Holiday) or Adults £18.10, children
weekdays £11.30. Under 5s entry- free and English Heritage members free
entry (but still need to pay for the quest).
Audley End Miniature Railway, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB
Open every day from the 5th to 21st April 2025 you can hop on the train at Audley End Miniature Railway. Take one of the trains into the woods to visit 'Shearlock Holmes- The Sheep Detective' and help to solve the case of the missing eggs. Throughout the train ride, you can test your "I spy" skills and look out for various things along the route. Then try to spot all of the animals, nests and eggs throughout the Easter Trail back in the Picnic Area. Once you complete the trail you’ve earned yourself a special sticker. Are you sharp-eyed enough to spot them all? There will be crafts available (aided by fairies) and a cheeky fox telling stories and playing interactive games.
Tickets prices coming soon but last year were: £18.50, children under 92cm are half price (£9.25) and under 1s free. Booking essential.
Open every day from the 5th to 21st April 2025 you can hop on the train at Audley End Miniature Railway. Take one of the trains into the woods to visit 'Shearlock Holmes- The Sheep Detective' and help to solve the case of the missing eggs. Throughout the train ride, you can test your "I spy" skills and look out for various things along the route. Then try to spot all of the animals, nests and eggs throughout the Easter Trail back in the Picnic Area. Once you complete the trail you’ve earned yourself a special sticker. Are you sharp-eyed enough to spot them all? There will be crafts available (aided by fairies) and a cheeky fox telling stories and playing interactive games.
Tickets prices coming soon but last year were: £18.50, children under 92cm are half price (£9.25) and under 1s free. Booking essential.
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Audley End Miniature Railway |
Barleylands,
Barleylands Road, Billericay CM11 2UD
Visit the farm park for Spring Easter fun including crafts and lamb
bottle feeding from 5th to 21st April 2025. Prebooking is
recommended and speeds up admission. When booking you need to choose a
time slot (although there is some flexibility when you arrive if it’s
before or after the time booked). Includes animal holding,
springtime crafts, lamb bottle feeding and the Skittleman the
Entertainer as well as normal activities including soft play and
animal displays.
Price for adults and children 2 years £15.73 a ticket, under 6 to
24 months £3.40. Save 15% by buying tickets in advance online.
Barnards Farm, West Horndon, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3FY
Take a ride on the Easter Express on the 19th and 20th
April. Take part in an Easter egg hunt while on a miniature
railway before collecting a chocolate egg back at the terminus. Online
prebooking required.
2024
Bedfords Park Nature Discovery Centre, Broxhill Road, Havering-atte-Bower, Essex, RM4 1QH
Last year they had an Easter trail with pond dipping and a craft activity.
Recommended for children 4 to 11. Advanced booking required £8 per child.
Keep an eye out on their website for activities.
2024
Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre,
Eastwood Road North, Leigh on Sea, SS9 4LR
Nothing announced for April 2025 but last year there were lots of
activities at Belfairs at Easter including a Family Wildlife Walk, a
minibeast hunt and Easter in the woods session.
In the past there have also been a self-led Easter Egg-splorer Trail at £3 a child, but it doesn't appear to be running this year.
In the past there have also been a self-led Easter Egg-splorer Trail at £3 a child, but it doesn't appear to be running this year.
2024 Bourne Mill, Bourne Road, Colchester, CO2 8RT
Bourne Mill usually run a National Trust egg trail around the grounds.
Last year guests could follow the trail around the mill and garden and
receive a chocolate egg (£3 per person) however details are yet to be
announced for 2025.
Boydells Dairy Farm,
Braintree Road, Braintree, CM7 4AQ
If the meaning of Easter for you is more about new life than chocolate, then
maybe take a visit to Boydells working farm as it reopens for the Easter
season. This farm is all about the animals and over the Easter holidays you
can expect to be able to hold chicks and rabbits, try milking cows and
feeding baby sheep. Open 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm from 4th April to 21st
April. Adults £7, Children £6.
Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8AG
There is fun for the whole family at Nicky Trix' Easter Egg-stravaganza magic show, taking place on 21st April 2-3.30pm, tickets cost between £14 and £16. Tickets available here.
There is fun for the whole family at Nicky Trix' Easter Egg-stravaganza magic show, taking place on 21st April 2-3.30pm, tickets cost between £14 and £16. Tickets available here.
2024
Call of The Wild Zoo, Wickford Rd, South Woodham Ferrers, Essex, CM3 5QZ
Last year Call of The Wild Zoo ran a range of Easter activities alongside
their normal offerings including an Easter trail and the opportunity to
meet baby animals. Peter Rabbit also made an appearance for meet and
greets throughout the day. We will update when 2025 details have
been released.
They also have Footgolf available for £6.00 per person if you fancy challenging your family to a game over the 6 acre, 9 hole footgolf course.
Capel Manor Gardens, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex EN1 4RQ
Easter activities are planned from Friday 18th April to Sunday 20th April
2025. The Easter trail runs 10am to 4pm (last entry 2pm). Look for the large
eggs across the garden and claim a treat at the end. Meet the Easter Bunny
and enjoy Easter crafts (colouring). There is also a mini zoo, picturesque
themed gardens and the fairy forest to explore. Face painting and bouncy
castle at an additional cost. Booking recommended to guarantee entry. Ticket prices don't seem to be available as of yet but last year entrance costs were: Adults £11, Children £8, under 2s free (plus booking fee). Read more in my review from our recent visit.
2024
Chelmsford Museum, Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, CM2 9AQ
Chelmsford Museum normally have activities on in the holidays. Last
year they ran a "Victorian Easter Cards" drop in. The museum is free
entry and will be open 10am until 4pm. It's worth following them
on Facebook for other events they announce in the Easter holidays.
On Good Friday (Friday 18th April) from 11am there is a Family Fun Day at the racecourse. Full details for this year are yet to be announced but in 2024 there was music, an Easter bunny trail, petting zoo, fame zone, Shetland pony races and more. Adult tickets from £20, under 18's are free with the standard ticket.
Over the Easter holidays there are several shows of interest including: Horrible Histories:Awful Egyptians and Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors (Friday 4th- Sunday 6th April) Ministry of Science Live 2025 (Monday 7th April) Mess (Friday 11th April) and Dinosaur World Live (Friday 18th- Sunday 20th April)
2024
Colchester Castle,
Castle Park, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TJ
Keep an eye out for 2025 updates as they have yet to be announced.
Last year there was a Spring Treasure trail. Solve clues and get a
prize at the end. Suitable for 4 years plus. The trail cost £5 in
addition to entry cost. They normally have some crafts and
games in the holidays too (included in ticket price).
Admission last year was £12.50 for adults, £6.95 for children.
Colchester Zoo's Easter holidays activities are running from 5th to 21st April 2025. Tickets are yet to be released but last year cost £22.50 (adults) and £18.50 (children) on the gate with a discount if bought online in advance.
2024
Copped Hall, Crown Hill (Upshire Road), Epping. Sat Nav postcode CM16 5HR
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Join the Easter egg
hunt and enjoy the spring flowers on Easter Sunday 31st March. Gates
open at 2pm and close at 4pm, car park closes at 5pm. Tickets £6 in
advance, £7 on the day (accompanied children under 16 are free), egg
hunt 50p per child. Children can see the Easter bunny and join in an
Easter egg hunt while adults can enjoy the Spring flowers. Follow the
clues and the trail of plastic eggs to win a little chocolate egg. There
will be tea/coffee and home-made cakes available until 4.30pm and the
Copped Hall shop and extensive second hand Bookshop will be open until
the same time.
Prebooking recommended.
Take part in this Easter Scavenger Hunt across the nature reserve on Wednesday 9th April 2025 11am to 1pm, see how many wildlife riddles you can answer correctly and win some Easter treats. For children aged between 4-11 years and all children must be accompanied by an adult. £3 per child 4 and over, under 4s free.
2024
Cromwell Manor, Pitsea, Basildon, SS16 4UH
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Enjoy the Easter
celebrations at Cromwell Manor on Friday 29th March, Sunday 30th
March and Monday 1st April. Receive an Easter Passport on arrival,
decode the Easter egg hunt, take part in some fun Easter games and
decorate some plant pots to take home. £9.50 per child, prebook
online.
Between the 18th-21st April 2025 the popular Day Out With Thomas event will be running at the railway museum. You can take unlimited train rides behind Thomas, Percy and Daisy. Meet Toby, Henrietta, Rusty, Dusty and Sir Topham Hatt. Also enjoy the miniature railway and train themed playground. Tickets cost £16.50 for children (2 to 17) and £20.90 for adults. Prebooking required. Read about our visit here.
2024
Epping Forest District Museum, 39-41 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL
There are normally Easter events on at the museum which are low cost
and don't need prebooking, however they have not announced any this
year, it's not clear if that's because they aren't doing anything or
because they haven't got round to promoting anything.
Free of charge and no need to book, just drop in at any time- they have two sessions- one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The Play in the Park team supply a range of sports equipment and arts and crafts activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Catch the Easter Express running between the 16th to 21st April at Epping Ongar Railway. The Easter egg hunt takes place around across both stations and the train ride making it probably the longest Easter Egg hunt in Essex and you will need to hop on and off their heritage steam and diesel trains to spot them all. Children need to keep an eye out the window while riding the trains. Get your clue sheet on arrival and spot all the eggs before heading to the shop to get a special Easter treat. There will be appearances by Bertie The Easter Bunny and face painting (additional cost).
Fares are yet to be announced but as a rough guide last year the tickets were: Adult £18; Child £10; Family (up to 2 adults and 3 children) £47. Under 3s free. Prebooking required.
On the 18th, 19th and 20th April 2025 there is an Easter event where you can complete a trail for an 'Easter prize' and then also make an Easter-themed craft out of natural materials. You need to prebook (£8 per child).
There are plenty of other bookable activities happening over the holidays too including Fingringhoe Nature Adventurers (9th April), Fingringhoe Pond Dipping (11th April) Fingringhoe Campfire, Creations and Adventures (14th April), Fingringhoe CBBC Deadly Scene Investigation Trail (16th April).
2024
Flatford, East Bergholt, Suffolk, CO7 6UL
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The National Trust
Easter Egg hunt is running from 16th, 23rd, 24, 29th to 31st March and
6th and 7th April between 10.30am and 3pm. The trail is across
countryside which gets muddy at times (so bring
wellies). Prices are £3 per trail which includes an Easter
trail sheet, pencil, bunny ears and Rainforest Alliance Certified
dairy or vegan and 'Free From' chocolate egg.
Admission of £5 per car also applicable (unless National Trust
members). Please note the cottage, shop and tea room aren't open every
day so check the website.
2024
Forty Hall, Forty Hill, Enfield, EN2 9HA
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Just outside of Essex borders, this year's Easter Egg Hunt is running between 11am and 3.30pm on Friday 29th March to Monday 1st April. You can book via the website for £3.50 per child or it's £4.50 on the door. Once they complete the hunt, they get a reward. Recommended for children 4 to 10.
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Just outside of Essex borders, this year's Easter Egg Hunt is running between 11am and 3.30pm on Friday 29th March to Monday 1st April. You can book via the website for £3.50 per child or it's £4.50 on the door. Once they complete the hunt, they get a reward. Recommended for children 4 to 10.
2024
Foxholes Farm, London Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7NT
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Located in the
heart of Hertfordshire, The Lambing Live event runs from 29th March to
14th April open from 10am, last entry at 2.30pm. Lots of ewes
are expected to give birth over the period so there is a good chance
you will see one giving birth or at least a newborn. You can also get
up close and feed some of the older residents in the farm park (but no
bottle-feeding lambs). £6.95 adults, £9.95 children, under 2’s are
free. Book online for guaranteed entry.
The monthly Hylands Estate open day is scheduled for Sunday 13th April 2025. Full details are yet to be announced but last year the house was open with Easter crafts, an egg scavenger hunt and story telling (free). Outside the House you can expect a range of food stands, live music in The Stables and explore the artists' studios. You can also prebook Afternoon Tea.
2024
Get To Know Animals, Forest Lodge Commercial Complex, Epping Rd, Epping, Essex,
CM16 5HW
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The mini zoo are
running its hands on animal experience sessions like they do most
holidays. There won't be lambs or chicks, but you might get to hold a
bunny and maybe a snake or bearded dragon. In the 1 hour experience
(which comes with zoo entry) you get to hold up to 10 animals and you
will learn lots about them too. I will confirm dates and booking
details when announced, book directly on their website at £25 per
person. You can
read about our recent visit here.
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No Easter Bunny, but there are real bunnies to see at Get To Know Animals |
The Gibberd Garden is open for an Easter Family Fun Day on Easter Monday (21st April 2025) from 2pm to 6pm. You can enjoy an egg trail and activities for children as well as the gardens to explore. Entry is £6 adults, £1 children, under 5s free, the Easter trail is an extra £1 and there is also face painting for £5.
2024
Go Bananas, 9-10 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, Colchester, CO1 1BX
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The soft play has
an Easter Party for 1 to 12 year olds on Friday 29th April from 5.30
to 7.30pm. Includes professional entertainer "The Only Way Is
Entertainment", Easter egg hunt, dancing, soft play, games and crafts.
£15 per child, £3 per adult.
Book online.
This farm shop and cafe has an egg hunt (with a small Easter treat to take home), animal handling (including holding a chick, pet the calf and miniature pigs and stroke a bunny and guinea pig), bottle feeding a calf, crafts, Easter bunny, plant a sunflower seed and photo opportunities at their Easter event running 29th and 30th March and 5th to 19th April 2025. 10.30 to 3pm. £12.50 per child, accompanying adults £5.50 (under 1s free).
2024
Hadleigh Castle Rotary, The White House Gardens, Kiln Road, Benfleet, SS7 1TF
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Hadleigh Castle
Rotary have an Easter Fun Day on Monday 1st April between 10am and 4pm
in the gardens of Carers Choice offices. Entry to the Easter market is
free, but you need to prebook Easter egg Hunt places for children at
£5 per child (book here). There will be Easter themed activities, photo ops with the
Easter bunny and more.
2024
Hadleigh Farm Estate, The Hub, Chapel Lane, Hadleigh, SS7 2PP
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: There are free
Easter holiday activities for families on 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th and
11th April between 10am and Midday at the Hub Cafe in Hadleigh Park
run by the Salvation Army. Further details to be announced,
check their Facebook for updates.
Hainault Forest,
Hainault Forest Country Park, Romford Road, Chigwell, IG7 4QN
Hainault Forest have run Easter themed events in previous years however
nothing has been advertised yet. It's still a lovely place to visit
through with a playground, free farm (only a handful of animals,
donations encouraged), lovely cafe, land train, workshops and plenty of
woodland to explore.Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Hawkswood Road, Downham, Billericay CM11 1WT
An Easter-themed adventure trail with crafts and outdoor exploration, suitable for children over 4. Tickets must be booked in advance and cost £12.94 per child, excluding booking fee.
2024
Hanningfield Waterside Park, Giffords Lane, South Hanningfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 8HX
In previous years there was an Easter Egg Hunt at the Waterside Park. It
looks like this might not be running, but we will update this post if
and when anything is announced. This is a great place to spot
birds and there is a good play area too (and plenty of parking).
Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse
Square, Harlow CM20 1LS
Harlow Ballet Association present an Easter performance of Peter Pan from 17th to 20th April. Performance at 14:30 or 19:30. They describe it is an "enchanting storytelling through the elegance of ballet, beautiful scenery, fabulous costumes, original music scores and a superbly rehearsed performance."
Headgate Theatre,
14 Chapel Street North, Colchester, C02 7AT
Headgate Theatre have a 4 day musical theatre workshop running from Monday 14th to Thursday 17th April 9:30am-4pm for children aged between 9 and 14 where they will explore different adaptations of A Midsummer Night's Dream. £100 for the week, early booking recommended.
Harlow Ballet Association present an Easter performance of Peter Pan from 17th to 20th April. Performance at 14:30 or 19:30. They describe it is an "enchanting storytelling through the elegance of ballet, beautiful scenery, fabulous costumes, original music scores and a superbly rehearsed performance."
2024
Harlow The Water Gardens,
Essex, CM20 1AN
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: There is a meet
and greet at the outdoor shopping centre with Alice in Wonderland on
Saturday 30th March between 12 and 4pm. If you pre register you can
get an Easter Egg too.
2024
The Harvey Centre,
Harlow, CM20 1AP
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: On Saturday 30th
March there is an Easter Party at The Harvey Centre. There will be
free activities and games. There are two parties one at 11am and one
at 2pm. There is also a Town Centre Easter Egg Hunt where you can get
a sweet treat, there is also a chance to see the Easter Bunny between
12.30 and 1pm and 1.30 and 2pm. Both activities are free and don't
need prebooking.
2024 Hassenbrook Academy, Hassenbrook Road, Stanford-Le-Hope,
Thurrock, SS17 0NS
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Party Monsters have a BIG Easter Party for all the family on Wednesday 10th
April. There are 2 sessions starting at : 10.30am and 2pm. Includes
magic show, puppet show, bubbles, balloons, snow, sensory play,
bouncy castles and more. Tickets £5 for infants, £12.50 for 2 to 16
year olds and £4 for adults plus booking fees.
2024
Hasty's Adventure Farm, West Road, Clacton, CO15 1AG
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The Easter Trail
is running Friday 29th March to Friday 12th April. Find the wooden
eggs around the farm, write down where you found them and get a
chocolate egg or sticker on your way out. Included in the cost of farm
entry. 2024 prices appear to be £10.95 per person when bought in
advance.
Headgate Theatre have a 4 day musical theatre workshop running from Monday 14th to Thursday 17th April 9:30am-4pm for children aged between 9 and 14 where they will explore different adaptations of A Midsummer Night's Dream. £100 for the week, early booking recommended.
On Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April (10am to 4pm) Hedingham Castle have a Medieval Spring Joust. Step back in time to enjoy displays of Falconry, musicians, archery and more. Gates open at 10 am and the Jousts will take place at roughly midday and 3pm. Adults £21.50, 4-16 year olds £16.00, under 4's free. There are also family tickets available which provide savings.
2024
Herts & Essex Community Farm, Fold Croft, Harlow, Essex CM20 1SE
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: There is an Easter
Fun Day with an Egg Hunt on Saturday 30th March 12 until 2pm. There will
also be games, food and refreshments on offer. £3 per child with prizes
for all, adults free. Just turn up and take part.
Hobbycraft (Various
locations including Basildon, Chelmsford, Colchester, Harlow and
Loughton-Epping Forest)
Most Hobbycraft stores run craft sessions in store and in the run up to Easter there are various Easter themed crafts sessions you can book including: Easter bonnet making (£10), Easter Egg Character Workshop (£6) and Easter clay animal making (£6). These start in early March and need to be booked online via ClassBento. If you are struggling to return search results select 'Spring and Easter Crafts' as craft type and make sure you put dates in (even when I know classes are listed I find it difficult to make them show up).
Most Hobbycraft stores run craft sessions in store and in the run up to Easter there are various Easter themed crafts sessions you can book including: Easter bonnet making (£10), Easter Egg Character Workshop (£6) and Easter clay animal making (£6). These start in early March and need to be booked online via ClassBento. If you are struggling to return search results select 'Spring and Easter Crafts' as craft type and make sure you put dates in (even when I know classes are listed I find it difficult to make them show up).
2024
Hollytrees Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1UG
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Hollytrees Museum
invites you to meet the servants of Hollytrees House on selected days
in April (2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th) for a glimpse into the lives of those
who worked in the grand mansion, suitable for age 4 and upwards.
Mornings from 10:30-12 and afternoons from 3-4:30. Free drop in event
with free museum entry too.
In 2023 they had Easter Arts and Crafts sessions running during the holidays which cost from £5, but there is no mention of this currently. The museum is open 10am to 5pm and admission is free for this family friendly museum in Castle Park with plenty of hands-on exhibits.
In 2023 they had Easter Arts and Crafts sessions running during the holidays which cost from £5, but there is no mention of this currently. The museum is open 10am to 5pm and admission is free for this family friendly museum in Castle Park with plenty of hands-on exhibits.
2024
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, Sawyers Hall Farm, Sawyers Hall Lane, CM15 9BZ
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: Hopefield reopens
for the season on 29th March. On 30th and 31st March there is a fun
weekend. Meet the Easter Bunny, follow the Easter trail, go on
inflatables, enjoy performances and more. Early bird tickets are £8
for adults, £10 for children.
They also have an Easter trail and crafts from 1st to 14th April, advanced tickets for these dates in £8 per person.
They also have an Easter trail and crafts from 1st to 14th April, advanced tickets for these dates in £8 per person.
2024
RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Rettendon Common, Chelmsford CM3 8ET
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The Easter trail
is running from Friday 29th March to 14th April when children can
hunt for giant colourful eggs hidden around the garden. Children
will receive a NOMO egg (which is free from and vegan and really
yummy) from the garden centre when they have completed the trail. On
Tuesday 2nd and 9th April there are storytelling sessions throughout
the day. On Thursday 4th, Friday 5th and Monday 8th there are
children’s Easter craft sessions throughout the day (additional
£2.50 a child) and Face Painting (£5) and a bubble show on Wednesday
10th April. Entry free to RHS members and under 5s, £15.85
adults, £7.95 children.
Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, Squadrons Approach , Hornchurch, RM12 6DF (Sat Nav RM12 6TS)
The Institute, Theatre, 15 Bocking End, Braintree, Essex, CM7 9AE
The Institute has a few family friendly events during April, including Exciting Science (Monday 7th April) and The Ultimate Bubble Show (Thursday 10th April).2024
Kids Play Bouncy Castles, Debden Park High School, Willingale Road, Loughton, IG10 2BQ
Details likely to be announced after their February half term event.
2024 details were: If you are looking for something inside for
children to burn off energy then this pop up soft play and
inflatable event is suitable for 6 months to 11 year olds. There are
large inflatables for children aged 4 years and over and brilliant
area for younger children too. Running from 2nd to 5th April in
bookable 2 hour slots starting at 9.30am, £13 per child (over 6
months) tickets available to book online.
2024
Lakeside Shopping Centre, Grays, Essex, RM20 2ZQ
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: From 27th March
until 14th April Circus Vegas is at Lakeside. The show lasts
about 2 hours and can be found in a theatre style Circus Big Top
located in Lakeside The Quay. Tickets cost £10 to £35 depending on
location,
book here.
They have also announced there will be Easter activities taking place at the Shopping Centre from Monday 1st to Friday 12th April between 11am and 7pm (5pm Sundays), but other than the "sustainable maze" they haven't said what the activities will be.
They have also announced there will be Easter activities taking place at the Shopping Centre from Monday 1st to Friday 12th April between 11am and 7pm (5pm Sundays), but other than the "sustainable maze" they haven't said what the activities will be.
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Part of toddler area at Kids Play Bouncy Castle Pop Up Soft Play and Inflatables in Loughton |
Langdon Nature Discovery Park, Lower Dunton Road, Basildon, SS16 6EJ
Grab a map from the Nature Discovery Centre and take part in the
Easter Trail. Once completed children can return to the centre to
collect their prize. £4 per child. Running from Saturday 5th April to
Sunday 20th April.
Lambourne End, Centre for Outdoor Learning, Manor Road, Lambourne End, Essex,
RM4 1NB
Just outside of the Easter holidays, but there is an Adventure and
Farm Fundraiser day from 11am to 4pm on Sunday 27th April 2025. Full
details yet to be announced for Easter activities but last
year, entry was free, but parking is £5. Individual activity
tokens cost £2.50 or you could get wristbands for unlimited
activities for £18 (over 8s), (£8 under 8s). No need to prebook, but
bringing a change of clothes is recommended. As well as seeing baby
animals, sessions include, pond dipping, kayaking, archery, rock
climbing and low ropes. Some activities only suitable for 8
plus.
Lathcoats Farm, Beehive Lane, Great Baddow, Chelmsford CM2 8LX
The Easter trail is running from 29th March to 19th April 2025, full
details are yet to be announced. Last year participants collected
their activity sheet and pencil from the farm shop till point and
headed to the animal area to start the Easter Trail. Once completed
you could collect your prize. £4.50 per participant. No more than 2
non-paying participants with 1 paying participant. No booking
required.
2024
Lavenham Guildhall, Market Place, Lavenham, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9QZ
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: This National
Trust property hasn't yet announced on their website they are
having a 2024 trail, but as it's a National Trust property it
would be surprising if they aren't getting involved. They have
shared a teaser on their Facebook page that they will have Easter
activities. Last year the trail took place around the
village from 10.30am - 2pm. The price of the trail is expected to
be £3 per child and includes a trail map, pencil and a chocolate
egg at the end. Collect the trail pack from Visitor
Reception.
2024 Layer Marney Tower, Layer Marney, Nr. Colchester, C05 9US
Whilst no Easter events have been announced yet, (in 2024 they had
an Easter Egg hunt for the toddlers, Egg and Spoon Races and a
tractor trailer ride to see and feed the lambs). However they have their Spring Open Day on Wednesday 2nd April 2025.
Tickets are £12 for adults, £7 for over 13's, under 13's are free.
Tickets include access to the Tower and Church.
2024 Layer Woods, New Cut, Layer de la Haye, Colchester CO2 0EH
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: The Layer Egg Hunt
is taking place between 10am and 2pm on Friday 29th March. The event
is raising money for Layer primary school and starts at the village
hall before going round the woods. Each child receives an egg or
allergen free alternative. Tickets £6 (plus booking fee) in advance,
£8 on the day per child depending on availability. May not be muddy
and not suitable for pushchairs.
Buy tickets here.
2024
Lee Valley Boat Centre, Old Nazeing Road, Broxbourne EN10 6LX
No details yet for this year but 2024 details were: On Easter Sunday
31st March at 11am there is a 1 hour Easter Cruise where children can
meet Easter Bunny and Spring Girl. There are activities and a
chocolate egg for children, adults get tea/ coffee and biscuits. 1
hour cruise, £15 per person. Call 01992 462 085,
book here
or email office@leevalleyboats.co.uk to book.
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Feeding a baby lamb |
2024
Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF
In 2024 Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park ran an Easter
Eggstravaganza and a Spring Spectacular event. At the Easter event
you could meet the Easter Bunny, go on an Easter Egg hunt and enjoy
their animals, play areas and entertainment. The Spring Spectacular
didn't have an egg hunt, but there was entertainment and the normal
activities. Open 10am to 5pm everyday. Tickets were £14.99 per
person, 6 months to 2 years £4.99 for Easter Weekend and £12.99 per
person for the rest of the holidays. We will update when tickets are
made available.
2024 Little Easton Manor, Park Road, Dunmow CM6 2JN
Last year Little Easton Manor had a Peter Rabbit's Easter Adventure
event. Including games with Mr McGregor, a hunt for Peter Rabbit's
carrots, bouncy castles, garden games and live music. Entry was £12 per
person (over 2 years). Whilst they don't yet have anything like this
announced for 2025 they are running an
Easter Felting with the Alpacas work shop
on Wednesday 9th April 2pm-4pm for 10yrs+ charged at £45 per person.
2024
Markshall Estate,
Marks Hall Road, Coggeshall, CO6 1TG
In 2024, The Great Nest
Trail ran throughout April. You could also separately book into
craft activities in the Coach House. Included in normal admission
price (£9 adults, £5.30 children). 2025 details will be updated when
announced.
2024 Marsh Farm, South Woodham Ferrers CM3 5WP
Last year Marsh Farm ran 3 different events over the Easter holidays
including an Easter Grotto experience, Egg Hunt and Easter themed
entertainment. It won't be long until they announce their 2025
offering.
Normal activities include: train ride, fairground rides, playgrounds,
animals, soft play and crazy golf.
Last year tickets cost £14.99 to £16.99 depending on the date for everyone over 2, £4 for 6 months to 2 years and free for under 6 months (plus 50p booking fee per person online).
Last year tickets cost £14.99 to £16.99 depending on the date for everyone over 2, £4 for 6 months to 2 years and free for under 6 months (plus 50p booking fee per person online).
Melford Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9AA
Easter Adventures will be running at Melford Hall between 9th and 13th
April & 16th to 21st April 2025. This event includes a National
Trust Easter trail with nature inspired activities in the beautiful
gardens. Charged at £3.50 per child including map, bunny ears and
chocolate treat (vegan/ free from option available), get your trail at
the Visitors Centre. Admission charges also apply (£12.35 adults,
£6.18 children for general entry)
Mountfitchet Castle, Stanstead CM24 8SP
Mountfitchet Castle opens for 2025 on the 15th March, with their Easter
Bunny Trail running between 12th and 21st April 2025. Collect stamps
around the Castle & Museum to claim an Easter prize. Opening hours
10am to 5pm with last admission at 3.45pm. £18 for adults, £14 for
children 3 to 13, no need to book.
On Saturday 5th April 2025 there is an Easter Disco at Mooros Chigwell hosted by the Fairytale Facepainter, with disco, face painting (costs extra) and an egg hunt plus loads more. The Easter Bunny, Buzzy, Cowboy and Jess will also be making a special appearance. Early bird tickets are £10 per child, with standard tickets costing £15, adults £5 and under 1's free. Get your tickets here.
Natural Foundations,
Blackmore Road, Highwood, Chelmsford, CM1 2QR
Take part in an Easter Egg Hunt (14th, 16th. 17th, 18th April 2025) £10 per child. They also run their Easter holiday sessions which offer a range of outdoor activities including: pizza decorating, den building, smore cooking at this Forest School style site. Sessions running at various times and dates throughout April and sessions are priced between £6.75 and £11. Prebooking required.
Take part in an Easter Egg Hunt (14th, 16th. 17th, 18th April 2025) £10 per child. They also run their Easter holiday sessions which offer a range of outdoor activities including: pizza decorating, den building, smore cooking at this Forest School style site. Sessions running at various times and dates throughout April and sessions are priced between £6.75 and £11. Prebooking required.
The Naze Centre, Old Hall Lane, Walton-on-the-Naze, CO14 8LE
Take part in the
Easter trail
charged at £7.73 per child with a chocolate treat for completing, on
18th, 19th or 20th April. They also offer the Naze Seashore Discovery (6 and 7th April 2025 1pm - 3pm) Creativity by the Sea (8th April) or Seashore Science Lab (8th April)
North Weald & District Miniature Railway, Canes Lane (A414), Hastingwood, Near Harlow, Essex, CM17
9LD
This miniature railway in the grounds of Harlow Garden Centre (the one on the roundabout at junction 7 of the M11) has it's Easter specials on 19th, 20th and 21st April 2025. Children get a chocolate egg and to meet the Easter bunny. It is a short event (15 mins or so), but children enjoy it. Book quickly as they sell out. Tickets cost £7 per person.
This miniature railway in the grounds of Harlow Garden Centre (the one on the roundabout at junction 7 of the M11) has it's Easter specials on 19th, 20th and 21st April 2025. Children get a chocolate egg and to meet the Easter bunny. It is a short event (15 mins or so), but children enjoy it. Book quickly as they sell out. Tickets cost £7 per person.
2024 Off Road Kids, Carlton Farm Beehive Lane, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, CM2 8RL
Off Road Kids offer mini safaris in little cars children can
drive themselves. During the Easter holidays they normally have 15
minute drives around a field where the children have to collect 5
eggs from baskets in the field. At the end these are exchanged for a
chocolate egg or sweets. Nothing has been announced for 2025 yet but
come back for updates.
Pets' Corner, Harlow Town Park, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2QG
Monday 7th to Saturday 19th April 2025, Pets' Corner are hosting a number
of activities including: meet the lambs, meet the Easter bunny, keeper
talks, Easter Egg Hunt and Easter crafts. Best place to check for more
details and booking is their
Facebook page.
Princes Theatre,
Clacton Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton on Sea, Essex CO15 1SE
The Easter pantomime for 2025 is Pinocchio (Sunday 6th April 2025)
Children's tickets are charged at £13 and adults £14 or a family of 4 is
£50.00 (booking fees charged on top).
2024
Prittlewell Priory Visitor Centre, Priory Lodge, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6NB
Last year the Prittlewell Priory ran their 'Victourian Bunnies &
Bonnets' event where you could find out about how the Victorians
created our Easter traditions.
There was also a Teddy Bear picnic and teddy trail. Check back here for updates for Easter 2025.
There was also a Teddy Bear picnic and teddy trail. Check back here for updates for Easter 2025.
Rainham Hall, The Broadway, Rainham, Havering, London, RM13 9YN
Plenty of Easter based activities at Rainham Hall this April, between
the 16th and 21st April 2025. There is an Easter trail with a treat at
the end for completion plus croquet, bingo and welly wanging. £3.50 per
participant. Booking not required (but book separately if you want to
visit the Hall as well). There is no on site car park, but there is
parking nearby in Tesco (3 hours free for customers) and a pay and
display car park.
Riverside Leisure Centre, Victoria Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1FG
Not Easter themed but watching the amateur production of Rapunzel: The
Tangled Tale on Ice is something different to do during the holidays.
Billed as suitable for the whole family and with tickets ranging from
£12.60 to £21.80 there are several performances a day from 16th to 20th
April.
Roding Valley Meadows Nature Reserve, Grange Farm Centre, Grange Farm Lane, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6DP
This Nature Tots Easter special includes: swinging in the hammock,
crafting activity, getting mucky in the mud kitchen, searching for
minibeasts plus more. There is also a campfire which can be toasted
on at the end of the session if weather permits. £7.73 per child and
intended for children aged between 18 months and 5 years. Taking
place on Tuesday 8th April 2025. Find and book via the
Events page. Events at this location very between being listed as Roding
Valley Meadows, Chigwell Meadows and Grange Farm.
Romford Shopping Hall, 43 Market Place, Romford, Essex RM1 3AB
Romford Shopping Hall has a range of dinosaur inspired events this
Easter. Tuesday 8th April, children can 'Dine with the Dinos' for
£12.50 per child and £2 for accompanying adults, children will get a
dinosaur themed meal whilst meeting baby dinos, feeding the T-Rex
and riding on a raptor. On Wednesday 9th April 2025 there are Easter
Bonnet decorating sessions. Tuesday 15th April is a Dino Egg Hunt
(£4 each), Wednesday 16th April is Dinosaur Egg Rock Painting (£3
each). There is also face painting, glitter tattoos and hair
braiding on April 15th between 10-4pm prices range between £1 and
£10.
Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY
Will be hosting open days on the 6th and 21st April 2025. Open
days include a rocket-making workshop, tractor-trailer tours,
railway rides, interactive exhibitions and more. Tickets: Adults
£15, children £10.
2024
Rye-Assic Adventure Park
at Rye House, Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, EN11 0EH
Last year the Dinosaur Themed Adventure Park in Hoddesdon will be
transformed for their Easter events from the Friday 29th to 31st March
however nothing has been announced for 2025 yet.
2024
Scotts of Southend, Sutton Road, Rochford, SS4 1LQ
There is nothing showing online for April 2025 yet, last year they had
sessions teaching children to plant sunflowers. Keep an eye on their
socials for updates.
2024
Shotgate Easter Fayre, Shotgate Park, SS11 8XD
No update yet for 2025 but in 2024 there was an Easter Fayre with a
Children’s entertainer, children’s rides, Easter egg hunt,
activities, market stalls and more. Easter bonnet parade at 11am.
Admission free.
2024
Southchurch Hall,
Southchurch Hall Close, Park Lane, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TE
2025 event not yet announced, in 2023 there was a Mouse Trail
running over the holidays at Southchurch Hall. Read the story, find
the mice and solve the mystery of Mousechurch Hall. The trail cost
£2.50 and was running between 11am and 4pm on 1st, 2nd, 5th, 8th,
10th and 12th to 16th April.
2024
Southend Pier & Railway, Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1EE
2025 event not yet announced, in 2024 there was an Easter Egg Hunt on the pier. It cost £2.50 per child plus the normal entry prices. Complete the activity sheet and take it to the Offshore Bar & Restaurant for a prize. Pier entry costs £6.20 for adults and £3.10 for children in you get the train both ways (the pier is over a mile long) or cheaper if you walk one or both ways.
2025 event not yet announced, in 2024 there was an Easter Egg Hunt on the pier. It cost £2.50 per child plus the normal entry prices. Complete the activity sheet and take it to the Offshore Bar & Restaurant for a prize. Pier entry costs £6.20 for adults and £3.10 for children in you get the train both ways (the pier is over a mile long) or cheaper if you walk one or both ways.
Stubbers Adventure Centre, Ockendon Road, Upminster, Essex, RM14 2TY
They will be open during Easter half term for activities including a
nature trail. Entrance includes the paddle beach and play park. On the
day you can book tractor rides, clip n climb, caving and pedalo. You can
also prebook water sports, target sports and 4x4 driving. General
entrance costs £4 children, £3 adults, under 5's free. Activities are
varying prices.
Thames Chase Forest Centre, Broadfields Farm, Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS
There are several events taking place at Thames Chase over Easter (as well as the new Stick Man trail and playground). The Woodland Folk Face activity involves children (aged 5+) using a slice of tree trunk and natural materials from the forest floor to make a character's face. They are also running a 'Paint your own Easter biscuits' with Wallace Kitchen session on April 17th, 1.30pm-2.30pm. £16.30 and includes 4 biscuits, and edible paint, glitter and embellishments. The website currently isn't showing the Easter events, so check their Facebook page.
There are several events taking place at Thames Chase over Easter (as well as the new Stick Man trail and playground). The Woodland Folk Face activity involves children (aged 5+) using a slice of tree trunk and natural materials from the forest floor to make a character's face. They are also running a 'Paint your own Easter biscuits' with Wallace Kitchen session on April 17th, 1.30pm-2.30pm. £16.30 and includes 4 biscuits, and edible paint, glitter and embellishments. The website currently isn't showing the Easter events, so check their Facebook page.
Thameside Theatre, Orsett Road, Grays, RM17 5DX
Has a couple of child-friendly shows this April, on 8th April there is
Top Secret: The Magic of Science,
and on 16th April is
Nicky Trix’ Easter Egg-stravaganza.
2024
Thorndon Nature Discovery Centre,
Thorndon Park North, The Avenue, Brentwood, CM13 3RZ
Nothing has been announced for April 2025 yet, but check the events page
for details as all events are normally prebooked.
Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Mucking Wharf Road, Mucking, Stanford Le Hope SS17 0RN
Easter activities for 2025 include Thameside Easter in the Woods (18th
April) which may include an Easter Egg Hunt, Easter-themed natural
crafts, and various other fun activities. There is also
Thameside Pond dipping
(7th April),
Thameside Family Forest Fun
(9th April),
Thameside Pond Dipping & Minibeast Hunting (16th April) Read more about
Thurrock Thameside and their playgrounds here.
2024
Wat Tyler County Park, Pitsea Hall Lane Pitsea, Basildon Essex, SS16 4UH
Nothing announced for 2025 yet but in 2024 there were inflatables at
Wat Tyler on Good Friday and Easter Monday (weather dependent), and
they said there will be some other activities during the holidays, but
no Easter trail this year (follow them on Facebook
for further announcements). Find out
more about Wat Tyler here.
Wild Forest Obstacle Activity Centre, Parsonage Farm, Ongar Road, Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood, Essex, CM15
0LA
This year's Easter family Obstacle Run is on 18th, 19th and 21st April.
A 2k run (walk or jog) with obstacles and lots of mud. Billed as 2 hours
of Easter Family Fun and includes Hot Chocolate & Fire pit (bring
your own marshmallows). An Easter treat for each child. £24 per person
plus booking fee.
Booking details on website.
Willows Activity Farm, London Colney, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF
Willows has their Easter Eggstravaganza running from 5th to 21st April
2025. Tickets include: Easter egg hunt, Easter grotto, Easter arts and
crafts, meet and greet animals including Easter bunnies, pig racing and
lamb bottle feeding demonstrations. Tickets are yet to be announced but
the link above will take you directly there when they are.
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The Easter Egg Hunt at Willows Activity Farm
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Wivenhoe House Hotel, Wivenhoe House, CO4 3SQ
On Tuesday 15th April 2025 at 2.30pm Magical Princess Parties are hosting
a Princess Afternoon Tea. Includes meeting the princesses, story telling,
singalongs and crafts along with an afternoon tea. £30 per person.
Woodstock Farm, Cold Norton, Essex, CM3 6NP
Last year Woodstock Farm hosted an event called "Lambing Live!" which
included a bouncy castle, animal petting, Easter Bunny, pony rides and
crafting, unfortunately nothing like that has been advertised this year.
However, they are running 'Baby bottle feeding & cuddle time sessions'
with their kids and lambs during April and May, tickets from £7.50.
Wyvernwood, St. Osyth Road, Alresford, Colchester CO7 8AP
Wyvernwood is an outdoor immersive storytelling world with lots of play areas and very little cover. They haven't released their Easter plans yet but advanced tickets cost £22.49 for children and £16.49 for adults. Last year their special Easter quest saw children finding the missing dragon eggs for a chocolatey reward. Tickets (when available) can be bought here.
Wyvernwood is an outdoor immersive storytelling world with lots of play areas and very little cover. They haven't released their Easter plans yet but advanced tickets cost £22.49 for children and £16.49 for adults. Last year their special Easter quest saw children finding the missing dragon eggs for a chocolatey reward. Tickets (when available) can be bought here.
All information correct at time of publishing as far as I could check. I
am not affiliated with any of the venues and I can't provide any
information about the quality of the events. If you spot any errors or
know of any other events please email me or add to the comments below.
Thank you.
You may also be interested in these related posts:
Things to do with children in Essex this Spring and Over 150 places to go on rainy days in Essex
Things to do with children in Essex this Spring and Over 150 places to go on rainy days in Essex
If you fancy going further afield you might want to check out this guide
to
Easter Egg Hunts in South East London
or this guide to Easter activities in Kent.
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Where to go in Essex this Easter |
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