Summer Holidays - keeping children amused in and around the area
Wed 06 Aug 2025
Summer holidays are a time for making memories, soaking up the sun, and (if you’re a parent!) finding new and exciting ways to keep the kids entertained. Luckily, we’re surrounded by brilliant days out, activities, and hidden gems right here in Essex – perfect for all ages and budgets.
If you're wondering how to fill the rest of the six weeks without hearing "I'm bored" on repeat, we've got you covered. Here’s our guide to keeping children busy this summer in and around Hockley, Benfleet, Thundersley, Hadleigh, Southend, Leigh, Basildon, Canvey, Rochford, and Ashingdon.
Outdoor Adventures
Hockley Woods (Hockley)
The largest remaining area of wild wood in Essex is perfect for den-building, woodland walks, and picnics. There are trails to follow and plenty of shade for those hotter days.
Hadleigh Country Park (Hadleigh/Thundersley)
With mountain bike trails, walking routes, a castle to explore, and a fantastic playground, Hadleigh Country Park is ideal for a full day out.
Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park (Rochford)
A brilliant spot for nature walks, wildlife spotting, and open space to run around or fly a kite. Free parking and dog-friendly too!
Thundersley Glen – A Woodland Wonderland
Nestled on the clay ridge of Thundersley just south of the A13, Thundersley Glen is a peaceful green space of roughly 13.7 hectares managed by Castle Point Borough Council. It’s a favourite for families seeking natural adventures close to home
Seaside Fun
Southend Seafront & Adventure Island (Southend-on-Sea)
You can’t beat the classic Southend experience – arcades, fish and chips, and rollercoasters galore! Adventure Island offers wristbands for unlimited rides and there's also the Sealife Adventure aquarium nearby.
Canvey Island Beach (Canvey)
Perfect for paddling, building sandcastles, and exploring the nearby Canvey Miniature Railway or the sea wall walk.
Leigh-on-Sea Old Town
Crabbing, cockles, and coastal charm. A wander through the cobbled lanes of Old Leigh with an ice cream in hand is a summer must-do.
Indoor & Rainy Day Ideas
Base Jump Trampoline Park (Rayleigh)
Wall-to-wall trampolines, ninja obstacles, and soft play for younger kids – perfect for burning off energy indoors.
Monkey Bizness (Basildon)
A soft play haven for the under-10s, with separate baby areas, a café for grown-ups, and special toddler mornings.
Wat Tyler Country Park (Basildon)
A great mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with a brilliant play area, themed trails, café, and visitor centre.
Kids Kingdom or Partyman World (Southend & Basildon)
Soft play centres with climbing, slides, and even mini discos – ideal for days when the weather isn’t playing ball.
Creative & Cultural Activities
Rochford Hundred Rugby Club Summer Camps (Rochford)
Many local clubs offer summer camps – rugby, football, or dance – to keep kids active and social. Worth checking out their summer schedule.
Southend Museums and Planetarium (Southend)
Free entry museums like the Southend Central Museum and Southchurch Hall are packed with local history. The planetarium offers sessions perfect for curious minds.
Crafty Kids Essex (Mobile across Essex)
Craft workshops popping up in local halls and libraries throughout the holidays – check local Facebook groups for dates and locations.
Quirky Local Highlights
Crouch Valley Railway Line (Hockley, Rochford, etc.)
Why not hop on the train for a mini local adventure? Children often love the novelty, and you can make a day of it with stops along the way.
Miniature Railways (Hadleigh & Canvey)
Perfect for younger children – enjoy a ride on miniature trains and explore the parks around them.
Final Tips
- Libraries across Essex often run free summer reading challenges and craft mornings – great (and free!) entertainment.
- Community Facebook groups for each town often promote local one-off events, fetes, or classes – well worth keeping an eye on.
- Pack a picnic – it turns even the simplest day out into a fun family treat.
Whether you fancy exploring the great outdoors, heading for seaside thrills, or getting stuck into crafts and soft play, there's no shortage of things to do right here in Essex.
Wherever your summer takes you, we hope you and your family have a fun-filled, memory-making break!
The Williams and Donovan Team