Pirates & Princesses Trail
Get out and about this Feb Half Term and hunt for princesses and pirates at Thorndon South Country Park. Pick up a trail guide from the Forest Café and follow the directions, looking for the clues that are hidden around the paths. Once you have found all the clues head back to the café to get your prize and maybe a warming hot chocolate.
Ideal for children aged 3 to 8 years but fun for all the family.
It could be muddy so wear boots (but dress-up welcome!).
*Car parking charges apply
Please note: this event is running from Thorndon Country Park (South) - postcode CM13 3LW
Event details
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.
Related events

Jaywick Martello Tower Exhibition: St Helena Hospice - Life Stories
St Helena Hospice is celebrating its 40th anniversary with two exhibitions at the historical Jaywick Martello Tower.
- Dates: May 1 - June 22, 2025
- Venue: Jaywick Martello Tower
- Times: 10:00am - 4:00pm
- For the whole family
- Price: Free

*Sold Out* Extraordinary Essex Film Screening: 'Don’t Fight The Land That Feeds You'
The film follows the journey from soil to kitchen, featuring recipes from around the world made with locally grown ingredients in Essex.
- Dates: May 2, 2025
- Venue: High Street
- Times: 6:00pm - 11:00pm
- For the whole family
- Price: Free

Parkrun: Great Notley Country Park
Free, weekly 5km timed runs.
- Dates: Every Saturday
- Venue: Great Notley Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 10:00am
- For adults
- Price: Free to take part