Autumn 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.
Turn your next family walk into a spotting competition! Put on your walking boots and unleash your inner explorer!
Simply download, print and take our new Autumn and Winter Spotter's Guide with you and see how many signs of the changing seasons you can spot along the way.
Whether you’re heading out for a short walk near your home or going to a country park further afield, you should be able to spot fiery leaves, colourful mushrooms and fungi, berries, and an array of wildlife such as squirrels, birds, and spiders. See how many of these things you can tick off the list.
Download the guide here.
To decide which Essex Country Park to visit take a look at our parks and places here.
Share your finds with us on social media @exploressex #EssexAutumn
When you visit remember to respect the flora and fauna you see. Please do not touch, pick or trample. Be wary of fungi which can be poisonous.
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

Stick Man Sculpture Trail and Colouring Competition at Weald Country Park
Come and enjoy the The Stick Man sculpture trail this winter at Weald Country Park.
- Dates: November 29, 2025 - January 4, 2026
- Venue: Weald Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm
- For the whole family
- Price: Free*

Festive Fairy Door Trail at Cressing Temple Barns
Enjoy this free family trail at Cressing Temple Barns this festive season.
- Dates: November 29, 2025 - January 3, 2026
- Venue: Cressing Temple Barns
- Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm
- Primary School aged children
- Price: Free*

Festive Elf Trail at Belhus Woods
Enjoy this free family trail at the Essex Country Parks this festive season.
- Dates: December 1, 2025 - January 4, 2026
- Venue: Belhus Woods Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm
- Primary School aged children
- Price: Free*
