Best Easter Activities Essex 2024: Great Family Fun
Are you searching for the perfect Easter Activities to enjoy with your family in Essex? Look no further! Following my February Half Term Activities and Christmas Events in Essex, I’ve curated a list of the best Easter activities Essex events in the area for a memorable holiday. From an exciting easter egg trail to a fun-filled week full of cheeky woodland animals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Need places to eat during the Easter Half Term? Check out my Kids Eat Free – Easter Half Term article.
Get ready to embark on a fantastic Easter adventure in Essex!
Date: Friday 29th March 2024 – Sunday 14th April 2024
Prices and information are subject to change for events; please check the website for the latest information.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the top Easter activities for the family in Essex in 2024.
- Plan a memorable holiday filled with family fun and adventure.
- Explore egg hunts, family trails, and exciting events throughout the Easter weekend.
- Find out where to enjoy delicious Easter Sunday carveries in Essex.
- Create lasting memories with your loved ones on this memorable holiday.
FUN DAYS OUT AND ABOUT THIS EASTER
Spring Time Suprise: Audley End
Location: Audley End Miniature Railway, Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JB
Embark on a whimsical journey through the enchanting woodlands of Audley End this Easter. Step into a realm of magic and springtime cheer, perfect for the whole family. We went for Christmas, its a great experience.
The festivities spill into the picnic field, where adventure beckons in the play area. Here, laughter and joy fill the air, complemented by delectable seasonal fare from the Woodland Cafe, available throughout the day to satisfy your cravings.
29th Mar – 1st Apr:
Adults and Children over 92cm – £20,
Children under 92cm – £10,
Infants under one year – Free,
Carers of disabled guests – Free.
2nd – 14th Apr:
Adults and Children over 92cm – £18.50,
Children under 92cm – £9.25,
Infants under one year – Free,
Carers of disabled guests – Free.
Good Friday Family Funday Chelmsford City Racecourse
Celebrate Good Friday at Chelmsford City Racecourse with their Family Funday. This event offers a day of excitement, with traditional Easter horse racing, music, games, and fun for the whole family. Kids go free, making it an affordable and enjoyable option for Easter weekend. Gather the whole family and experience the thrill of horse racing while enjoying live music and various activities.
- Traditional Easter horse racing
- Live music performances
- Exciting games and activities for all ages
- Free entry for kids
| Date | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Friday 29th March 2024 | Chelmsford City Racecourse | GENERAL ADMISSION from £20.00 |
Hop into Easter at Barleylands Farm Park
Location: Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, Essex
Date: 2nd April – 14th April 2024
Time: 10 am – 3 pm
Event Details: This Easter, Barleylands Farm Park is set to become a magical springtime wonderland, brimming with enchanting activities that celebrate the season’s joy. From heartwarming lamb bottle feeding to playful encounters with baby goats, and from gentle chick and duck handling to an adventurous Easter trail, there’s an abundance of activities to engage the whole family. Unleash your creativity with springtime crafts, enjoy leisurely tractor rides, and explore the farm’s many attractions, including the Wallaby Walk, small animal petting, pony grooming, and beautiful animal talks. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Skittleman the Entertainer, who promises a unique blend of magic, comedy, and fun, captivating audiences of all ages.
Tickets: **Save 15% on Gate Prices by buying your tickets online**
Adult Entry Online: £12.30
Child Entry (Age 2-15) Online: £12.30
Under 2: £2.55
Family of 4: £42.50
Days Out With Thomas EARM
Location: East Anglian Railway Museum, Wakes Colne, Colchester, Essex, CO62DS
Date: Friday 29th March 2024
Time: All-day event with no fixed timetable
Event Details: Celebrate Thomas the Tank Engine’s 75th birthday with a fun-filled day at the East Anglian Railway Museum. Enjoy train rides, meet The Fat Controller, and participate in Thomas-themed activities.
Additional Information: Advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid disappointment. A family-friendly event that promises fun for Thomas fans of all ages.
Brightlingsea Boat Trips
Location: Harbour Office, 4 Copperas Road, Brightlingsea, Colchester, Essex, CO7 0AP
Date: 1st April – 22nd September 2024
Time: First ferry at 10:00 AM
Event Details: Explore the waters around Brightlingsea with daily ferry services to Mersea Island and Point Clear. Enjoy scenic walks, local pubs, and the unique heritage of this historic Cinque Port. Options include ferry trips to East Mersea and Point Clear and a Pub Lunch River Cruise to Wivenhoe.
Additional Information: Online booking is available. Services provide a quick and scenic alternative to road travel, with options for cyclists and walkers looking to explore the area.
High Ropes Adventure
Location: Nuclear High Ropes, Secret Nuclear Bunker, Ongar Road, Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 0LA
Dates: Selected Sundays throughout the year (21st Jan – 31st Dec 2024)
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Event Details: Tailored for those a bit wary of heights, these sessions offer access to lower high ropes levels, allowing participants to build confidence and enjoy the thrill at a comfortable pace.
Additional Information: Perfect for families with younger children or those new to high ropes courses.
High Ropes – Quiet Session
Dates: 3rd March – 2nd December 2024
Event Details: Experience the high ropes with reduced noise and fewer participants. These sessions offer a calm environment to enjoy the course, with additional instructors available for personalized guidance.
Additional Information: Ideal for participants seeking a less crowded and quieter adventure.
Langdon Family Forest Fun – Easter Special
This April, the Essex Wildlife Trust invites you and your family to immerse yourselves in the enchanting woodlands of Langdon Nature Reserve for an Easter adventure like no other. Set against a backdrop of blossoming flora and bustling fauna, the “Langdon Family Forest Fun – Easter Special” offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and celebrate the season of renewal.
Details That Matter:
- Date: April 1st, 2024
- Location: Langdon Nature Reserve, a haven of wildlife and woodland trails, offers a perfect setting for an Easter celebration.
- Activities: Easter egg hunt, nature crafts, wildlife walks, and much more.
- Who’s Invited: This event is perfect for families looking for an engaging and educational way to spend their Easter Half-Term. Whether you have tiny tots or inquisitive preteens, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Pack Your Adventure Bag: Dress for a day outdoors — think boots for exploration, hats for shade, and a keen spirit for adventure. Don’t forget to bring along a picnic to enjoy amidst the beauty of Langdon Nature Reserve, making the most of this special day.
MEET ADORABLE ANIMALS THIS EASTER
Easter Family Fun Day – Hockley
Location: Hockley Community Centre, Westminster Drive, Hockley, Essex, SS5 4SW
Date: Saturday, 1. April 2023
Time: 11:00 to 16:00
Looking for a fun-filled Easter celebration for the whole family? Join the Easter Family Fun Day hosted by The Essex Badger Protection Group in Hockley. This exciting event offers a day of entertainment and excitement, with something for everyone to enjoy.
With over 30 stall holders showcasing various products and services, you’ll have plenty to explore and discover. From handmade crafts to delicious treats, there’s sure to be something that catches your eye.
For the little ones, there will be games, raffles, and even an opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny! They can also participate in craft activities and create their Easter-themed masterpieces. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained and spark their creativity.
Hedingham Castle
Location: Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham, HALSTEAD, Essex, CO9 3DJ
Date: 31st March – 14th April 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Event Details: Experience a myriad of egg-citing Easter activities at Hedingham Castle. From Easter trails and birds of prey demonstrations to knight fighting lessons and spectacular jousts, there’s endless entertainment for everyone.
Additional Information: The Easter Pass and Easter Pass PLUS offer great value for visitors planning multiple visits. The castle grounds provide ample parking, and facilities include on-site refreshments.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
Location: Sawyers Hall Farm, Sawyers Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9BZ
Date: 1st April – 14th April 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Event Details: Dive into an eggcellent adventure at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary. Meet the Easter Bunny, explore the Easter Trail, and enjoy fun Easter arts and crafts. This is a perfect day out for families seeking to celebrate the joy of Easter while connecting with adorable animals.
Additional Information: The sanctuary is suitable for all ages. Parking is available, and refreshments are available on-site.
Prices: Adults and Children £9.00, Concessions £7.00. Under 2’s FREE.
Easter Tractor Rides to the Lambs
Location: Layer Marney Tower, Layer Marney, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9US
Dates: 27th March – 11th April 2024 (various dates)
Time: Please check the website for specific timings
Event Details: Welcome spring with a visit to Layer Marney Tower. Enjoy lamb visits, giant garden games, and special Easter activities, including an egg and spoon race and a toddler Easter egg hunt. The picturesque grounds offer the perfect setting for a family day out.
Additional Information: Tickets grant access to the tower, gardens, and church. Refreshments are available, and picnics are welcome. Venue hours are 11 am to 5 pm.
Prices: Adults £11.00,
Children £6.00.
FUN EASTER EGG HUNTS AND ACTIVITY EVENTS
Easter Obstacle Egg Hunt Races Wild Forest
Location: Parsonage Farm, Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood, Essex CM15 0LA
Hop along to Kelvedon Hatch for Easter fun with the Easter Obstacle Egg Hunt. Let your little ones test their agility and challenge themselves with various obstacles. This event suits children aged 6-10 and promises an adrenaline-filled experience.
Dates and Times:
2nd April at 10 am
4th April at 1:30 pm
9th April at 10:30 am
11th April at 10:30 am
Tickets
23.00 PP + BOOKING FEE
90 minutes of obstacles, including an easter egg hunt
The Giant Easter Egg Hunt at RHS Garden Hyde Hall
Join the Giant Easter Egg Hunt at RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Rettendon, Chelmsford. This event promises a fun-filled day for mini legs and the whole family. Explore the beautiful gardens’ green spaces while searching for hidden eggs and enjoying various family activities. From face painting to craft sessions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on the chance to partake in this giant Easter egg hunt and create lasting memories with your loved ones!
Event Details
| Date | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, April 13th | RHS Garden Hyde Hall | – Easter egg hunt – Face painting – Craft sessions – Family games – Garden exploration – Refreshments |
Make the most of this Easter weekend by joining in the fun at The Giant Easter Egg Hunt. Don’t forget to bring your Easter baskets and prepare for an egg-citing adventure!
Pets Corner Easter Egg Hunt
Head to Pets Corner in Harlow for an Easter Egg Hunt like no other. Hunt for Easter eggs and solve clues to win exciting prizes. This self-led activity is perfect for all ages and guarantees a day of family fun. Explore the beautiful surroundings of Pets Corner and enjoy the thrill of hunting for hidden treasures. Don’t miss out on this egg-citing Easter adventure.
- Date: Easter Sunday
- Location: Pets Corner, Harlow
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Age: Suitable for all ages
- Price: Free entry (Donations welcome)
How It Works
- Upon arrival at Pets Corner, collect your clue sheet trail guide and a basket for collecting Easter eggs.
- Follow the clues and search the area to find hidden Easter eggs.
- Solve riddles and complete challenges along the way to earn extra rewards.
- Once you have collected all the eggs, return to the starting point to claim your prizes.
| Benefits | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Engages the whole family in a fun-filled activity. Promotes teamwork and problem-solving skills. Encourages outdoor exploration. Fosters creativity. Opportunity to win exciting prizes | Hunt for Easter eggs. Solve clues and riddles. Explore the beautiful surroundings of Pets Corner. Create lasting memories. Enjoy a day of family fun. |
Discover Enchantment: Easter Egg Hunt at Cromwell Manor
Date: 29th March, 31st March, and 1st April 2024
Location: Cromwell Manor, Pitsea Hall Lane, Pitsea, Essex, SS16 4UH
Experience: Cromwell Manor is set to host an unforgettable Easter celebration. The Easter bunny is ready to make a special photo appearance and distribute chocolatey treats. Upon arrival, each guest will receive an Easter Passport. Dive into decoding the egg hunt, bounce on castles, and unleash your creativity with pot decorating activities. It’s an Easter extravaganza promising fun and smiles for all ages.
Tickets: Children £9.50, Adults enter free. A family-friendly affair where Easter dreams come to life.
Quest for the Golden Dragon Egg Hunt
Date: 29th March – 14th April 2024
Location: Wyvernwood, St. Osyth Road, Alresford, Colchester, Essex, CO7 8AP
Adventure: Join a thrilling quest at Wyvernwood to find the nine missing golden dragon eggs. Accompanied by a vibrant cast of characters, you’ll solve riddles and follow clues across a magical landscape. This event is perfect for families who love a good mystery and adventure in the great outdoors.
Tickets: Family £62.49, Child £17.49, Adult £16.49, Concession £15.49.
Easter Fun Weekend at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
Date: 30th – 31st March 2024
Location: Sawyers Hall Farm, Sawyers Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9BZ
Activities: The sanctuary is gearing up for a weekend of Easter fun, including an Easter trail, meetings with the Easter bunny, inflatable play zones, live performances, and more. It’s a day of joy and entertainment, supporting a noble cause.
Tickets: Adult £8.00, Child £10.00, Concession £6.00.
Teddy Bear Trail and Picnic at Prittlewell Priory
Date: 30th March – 14th April 2024
Location: Prittlewell Priory, Victoria Avenue, Southend, Essex, SS2 6NB
Fun Fact: Bring your favourite teddy bear for a special picnic and trail adventure. After exploring the teddy trail, settle down on the grass for a lovely picnic. Activity sheets and picnic boxes enhance this delightful family outing.
Tickets: Adult £9.00, Child £7.00.
Woodland Easter Egg Hunt at Haven House
Date: 4th April 2024
Location: The White House, High Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 9LB
Overview: Embrace the spirit of spring with a woodland Easter egg hunt. Post-hunt, enjoy hot cross buns and beverages while the little ones dive into some easter crafts, an activity sheet or two, playground fun, and more.
Tickets: Child £10.00.
Tips for a Successful Easter Egg Hunt
- Come prepared with comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing.
- Bring your own basket or bag for collecting eggs.
- Work together as a family and share the excitement of the hunt.
- Take your time to explore, especially if it’s a self-led trail, and enjoy the surroundings.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the special moments.
DELICIOUS EASTER FOOD AND DRINK EVENTS
Princess Afternoon Tea at Wivenhoe House
Date: 3rd April 2024
Location: Wivenhoe House Hotel, Park Road, Wivenhoe, Essex, CO4 3FA
Delight: Step into a fairy tale with the Princess Afternoon Tea. Join the Tower Princess, the Miracle Maker, and the Mermaid Princess for an afternoon of magic, storytelling, and song. This enchanting event features separate afternoon teas for adults and children, with various sweet and savoury treats. Engage in crafts, enjoy musical singalongs, and don’t miss the opportunity for photos with the princesses.
Tickets: Adults & Children £30,
Complimentary for children up to 1 year (no afternoon tea provided).
Stoke by Nayland Resort Easter Sunday Carvery
Gather the whole family for a delicious Easter Sunday carvery lunch at a beautiful venue in Leavenheath, Colchester. Indulge in a traditional feast and enjoy quality time together on this special day. This Easter activity allows you to relax, enjoy a mouth-watering meal, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Book in advance to secure your table for this popular event.
Venue Details:
| Location | Opening Hours | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Leavenheath, Colchester | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Easter Sunday |
Family Activities:
- Easter egg decorating station
- Face painting for children
- Outdoor games and lawn activities
After enjoying your delicious Easter meal, engage in various family activities to keep the fun going. Let your creativity shine at the Easter egg decorating station, where you can personalize your Easter eggs with vibrant colours and unique designs.
Children can transform their faces into adorable characters or animals through professional face painting. Watch their faces light up with excitement as they choose their favourite designs and see themselves transformed into their chosen creations.
Brewers Fayre Mulberry Tree Easter Treats with Cadbury
This Easter, Brewers Fayre and Cadbury are joining forces to delight the kids with an extraordinary adventure! Dive into a thrilling Easter Egg Hunt, where clues lead you on the Easter Bunny’s trail, revealing delicious surprises at every turn. This egg-citing event takes place from March 29th to March 31st and promises sweet fun for the whole family!
| Location | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Mulberry Tree, 15-minute walk away from Braintree Village | Easter Bunny Trail | March 29th to March 31st |
This school holiday, enjoy amazing deals on meals at Brewers Fayre! Score a family feast with two adults and two kids mains for just £18, available from the 2nd to the 12th of April,
Monday through Friday, between 12 pm and 6 pm.
Indoor Play at Brewers Fayre
Open daily: 12 pm-7 pm
Dive into fun in our indoor play area, designed for children up to 145cm tall. Plus, tots under one play for FREE!
Sunday Carvery at Brewers Fayre
Make this Easter Sunday memorable with their sumptuous carvery, available from 12 p.m. This option is also available every week. Choose from hand-carved turkey, beef, or gammon, or indulge in a bit of everything, with limitless sides like crispy roasties, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and fresh veggies. Treat your family, and let Brewers Fayre take care of you.
Exciting Easter Theatre Trips
Treasure Island
Date: 9th April 2024
Location: Chelmsford Theatre, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1JG
Adventure: Embark on a high-seas adventure with “Treasure Island.” This family-friendly pantomime brings swashbuckling action, heroes, and villains to life on stage, with dazzling costumes and catchy tunes.
Alice in Wonderland On Ice
Dates: 3rd – 7th April 2024
Location: Riverside Leisure Centre, Chelmsford, Essex
Wonder: Glide into the whimsical world of “Alice in Wonderland On Ice.” This annual Easter ice show features amateur skaters in colourful costumes, bringing the classic tale to life in a chilled setting.
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out & Dinosaur Adventure Live: Trouble on Volcano Island
Dates: 6th – 7th April 2024 (Peppa Pig) & 7th April 2024 (Dinosaur Adventure)
Location: Mercury Theatre, Colchester (Peppa Pig) & Chelmsford Theatre (Dinosaur Adventure)
Joy: Whether joining Peppa Pig for a day at the zoo and beach or assisting rangers to save dinosaurs on Volcano Island, these shows promise exhilarating family entertainment.
Sing-a-Long-a Matilda the Musical
Date: 7th April 2024
Location: West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-On-Sea, Essex
Magic: Dive into the world of Matilda with this interactive sing-along experience. It’s a chance for the whole family to be naughty together, with dance moves, prop bags, and the opportunity to dress up encouraged.
More Fun Easter Activities Essex
Call of the Wild Zoo, South Woodham Ferrers
Dive into the animal kingdom at its new and improved habitat. It’s a fantastic spot to learn about wildlife conservation and meet some furry and feathered friends up close. They often have special Easter activities throughout Easter.
Meet Peter Rabbit! That’s right, Peter Rabbit will be visiting here on March 29th. Fantastic meet-and-greet opportunities and your chance to get your camera ready! They also have their Easter TRAIL AND PETTING ZOO.
Adventure Island, Southend-on-Sea
If your crew is up for thrills, this amusement park by the sea has rides for all ages. From gentle rides for your little ones to more adrenaline-pumping options for older kids and adults, there’s enough to keep everyone entertained for hours.
Colchester Zoo, Colchester
St-EGG-osaurus Easter
29th March – 14th April 2024
This Easter, journey through the BRAND-NEW Dinosaur Realm and discover species from the past. PLUS, they will celebrate all things Easter with dino-themed face painting and activities throughout the holidays!
Step back in time and join the Dino Stomp party!
| Wild Vibe Parade | 11:00 am – 11:15 am • Starts at Main Stage |
| Step Back in Time Party | 4:45 pm – 5:00pm • Starts at Main Stage |
| Wild Vibe Parade | 2:30 pm – 2:45 pm • Starts at Main Stage |
| Step Back in Time Party | 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm • Main Stage, next to Penguini’s Restaurant |
| Wild Vibe Parade | 4:45 pm – 5:00 pm • Starts at Main Stage |
Passholders: This event is FREE for Zoo Passholders. Turn up on the day and bring with you your valid zoo pass to gain entry into the zoo.
Still Need More? Even More Easter Activities Essex
Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar
Step back with a steam or diesel train ride through the Essex countryside.
Join us on board the Easter Express for the longest Easter Egg Hunt in Essex!
Find all the eggs
Easter Bunny visits
Face painters
Peppa Pig and her brother George will be here on Sunday, 7 April. Take a ride on one of their heritage steam trains to Ongar, where they will appear.
Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Billericay
Consider visiting nature reserves if you opt for a more laid-back day instead of many activities. They have lovely nature trails suitable for little legs and often host family-friendly activities during the school holidays, like bird watching, pond dipping, and craft sessions.
Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford
Egg Heads (£2)
3rd, 6th, 10th, 13th, 20th, 27th April
10 am to 4 pm
What better way to spend Easter than with Easter Activities Essex 2024? Make a police officer, police dog, or robber from a polystyrene egg.
Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park
This place is great for Easter as it often has lambing events and the chance to feed and interact with other farm animals. They also usually run Easter egg hunts and craft activities.
Events on this Easter half-term
| The Easter Grotto & Eggstravaganza | 29th March to the 1st April |
| Great Easter Eggstravaganza | 29th March to the 7th April |
| Spring Spectacular | 8th to the 12th April |
Picnic in Danbury Country Park
If you’re looking for a more relaxed day, a family easter treat picnic in one of Essex’s beautiful country parks could be perfect. Danbury offers lovely walks, a play area, and plenty of space for a family picnic.
Conclusion
Easter in Essex offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. Whether you’re searching for exciting egg hunts or engaging interactive games, there is something for everyone to participate in. Take full advantage of your Easter holidays by exploring the beautiful locations, immersing yourself in fun-filled activities, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Don’t miss the opportunity to have some fantastic Easter Activities Essex.
With numerous Easter activities throughout Essex, families can indulge in the joy of egg hunts, thrilling trails, and captivating events. We visited the Woodland Animals Easter Egg Trail at Weald Country Park, and they had a FREE Woodland Animals theme Easter Egg Trail. We had to find the eggs that the cheeky woodland animals had hidden. There were seven to discover, the animals were Boris Badger, Ollie Owl, Freddie Frog, Sammie Squirrel, Heidi Hedgehog, Dilly Deer and Rachel Rabbit. Unfortunately, the event is not on this year, but hopefully, they will bring it back again, maybe next year.
Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit, there’s no shortage of family fun in the area. So pack your Easter baskets, gather your loved ones, and embark on an unforgettable Easter adventure in beautiful Essex.
