25 ways to Explore Essex for 2025
From coastal strolls to learning something new, kickstart 2025 with our 25 things to do this New Year.
Kickstart your New Year.
The Explore Essex team have come up with 25 affordable ways to get you out and about in 2025.
Whether it's a coastal stroll, a day out sailing, or discovering heritage gems on your doorstep there's something for everyone to explore in Essex.
View the full list and be inspired!
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The Explorer Pass gives you the opportunity to make the most of the Essex Country Parks across the county, all year round.
Buy a pass in January 2025 using code: NY25 to receive an extra month for free.
Event details
Explore Essex
Search our parks and places to plan your perfect day out

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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.
Related events

Autumn Winter Scavenger Hunt
Autumn has arrived and the parks are bursting with colour. See how many of these seasonal sights you can spot on your next trip to an Essex Country Park.
- Dates: September 10, 2025 - January 31, 2026
- Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm
- For the whole family
- Price:

Essex Libraries: Winter Reading Challenge
Join the Pawfessionals for a winter of reading and fun!
- Dates: January 10 - February 22, 2026
- Times: 12:00pm - 12:00pm
- 4 to 12-years-old
- Price: Free

Parkrun: Great Notley Country Park
Free, weekly 5km timed runs.
- Dates:
- January 31, 2026
- February 7, 2026
- February 14, 2026
- February 21, 2026
- February 28, 2026
- (continued …)
- Venue: Great Notley Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 10:00am
- For adults
- Price: Free to take part
