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Whether you’re planning the school holidays or just looking for a weekend adventure, there are loads of family-friendly attractions that offer fun, adventure, and memory-making. From thrilling animal parks and historic estates to splash-filled lake days and LEGO magic, here are a few epic days out with the kids.
🐰 Willows Activity Farm – St Albans, Hertfordshire
Themed around Peter Rabbit, this all-weather farm park has everything from animal encounters and tractor rides to soft play and seasonal events. A favourite for younger children and a guaranteed full day of fun.
🧒 Best for: Ages 1–8
💷 From £15.95 (book online for best prices)
🐑 Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park – South Woodham Ferrers, Essex
Perfect for little animal lovers, Marsh Farm offers friendly animals, fairground rides, bouncy pillows, and themed festivals. Seasonal events like the Halloween Spooktacular and Christmas Village are a real highlight.
🧒 Best for: Ages 2–10
💷 From £8.99–£15.99 (varies by season)
🏰 Legoland Windsor Resort – Windsor
A bit of a drive, but well worth it! With over 55 rides and attractions, Legoland is a dream come true for LEGO fans. Miniland, LEGO City, water rides, and live shows make this a blockbuster day out.
🧒 Best for: Ages 3–12
💷 From £34 (advance tickets)
🐮 Old MacDonald’s Farm & Fun Park – Brentwood, Essex
Gentle rides, farm animals, diggers, and soft play — this park is ideal for preschoolers and first-time theme park visitors. Compact and easy to get around.
🧒 Best for: Ages 1–7
💷 Around £17.50 per person (under 2s free)
🌸 RHS Garden Hyde Hall – Chelmsford, Essex
A peaceful day out with nature trails, bug hotels, and space to run. There are family activity trails during school holidays, plus stunning gardens for grown-ups to enjoy.
🧒 Best for: All ages
💷 Free for RHS members; from £7.95 child
🏞️ Knebworth House & Gardens – Knebworth, Hertfordshire
A day that mixes history with outdoor fun! Tour the Gothic mansion, wander through beautiful gardens, and explore the dinosaur trail and enormous adventure playground.
🧒 Best for: Ages 4–12
💷 From £13.50 child / £16.50 adult
🏡 Wimpole Estate – Near Royston (National Trust)
Explore a working farm, stately home, and acres of walking trails. A perfect blend of outdoor space, animal encounters, and education.
🧒 Best for: All ages
💷 Free for National Trust members; from £6.50 child / £16 adult
🐘 Colchester Zoo – Colchester, Essex
One of the UK’s top zoos with more than 200 species, hands-on feeding zones, adventure play, and immersive exhibits. Don't miss the lemur walk-through and elephant lookout!
🧒 Best for: Ages 2+
💷 From £22.50 child / £27.50 adult
💦 St Andrew’s Lakes – Rochester, Kent (close to Essex)
Looking for something active and adventurous? St Andrew’s Lakes is perfect for families who love the water! Enjoy paddleboarding, open-water swimming, kayaking, pedalos, or just relax on the man-made beach. The Aqua Park is a highlight — a giant inflatable obstacle course on water that’s great for kids (and grown-ups!).
🧒 Best for: Ages 6+ (Aqua Park)
💷 Aqua Park from £15 per session; beach entry from £3.50
📍 Note: Wetsuits and buoyancy aids included with activities
✨ Top Tips for Family Days Out:
- Book in advance to save money and avoid disappointment.
- Pack layers, hats, and sunscreen — weather can be unpredictable.
- Bring snacks, refillable bottles, and a picnic blanket for extra savings.
- Check age/height restrictions if you're planning theme park or water-based activities.
- Memberships like National Trust or RHS can really pay off if you visit multiple places.
- Check all opening times/ events/ prices with each attraction before you set off on your visit! I do my best to make sure all information is correct, but it's always advisable to double check!
