Get active
Simply being outdoors and getting active improves both mental and physical health. From taking a walk across rolling grasslands to cycling and kids’ play trails we’ve got something for you in many different locations across the county. So come on and get out more.
Read more about the benefits of being outside in our blog.
Places to go
Featured events
Essex Libraries: Summer Reading Challenge
Join the Essex Libraries for this year's Summer Reading Challenge.
- Dates: July 19 - September 6, 2025
- Times: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- 4 to 14
- Price: Free
Bugs and Butterflies Summer Trail at Hadleigh Country Park
Help our rangers find the animals hiding in the parks this summer holidays . . .
- Dates: July 19 - August 31, 2025
- Venue: Hadleigh Country Park
- Times: 10:00am - 4:00pm
- Primary School aged children
- Price: Free
Summer Magic Trail at Thorndon Country Park
Add a touch of summer magic to the school holidays with our Summer Magic Trails at the Essex Country Parks...
- Dates: July 19 - August 31, 2025
- Venue: Thorndon Country Park
- Times: 10:00am - 4:00pm
- Primary School aged children
- Price: Free
Explore Essex
Search our parks and places to plan your perfect day out
Need to know
Explorer Pass
Save money with your Explorer Pass
Our annual Explore Essex Pass will give you and your family the freedom to explore some of the incredible places and green spaces that Essex has to offer, as many times as you like throughout the year, with free parking at seven country parks, 2 or 1 on Sky Ropes, priority booking on specific events, and 10% discounts at many cafes and visitor centres.