The Monkey Tree

Throughout Essex there are many great attractions to visit and, whatever your interests, you can be sure of many enjoyable days out. Why not take advantage of the longer days to discover all that the county has to offer?

Why not escape to one of our country parks or open spaces? With no less than 14 country parks throughout the county they are perfect for a stroll or a family picnic. The Essex Ranger Service has developed a great programme of events and activities for children of all ages and interests. Cudmore Grove Country Park at East Mersea has the added attraction of a quiet beach and long views over the Blackwater Estuary. Essex has one of the longest coastlines of any English county and a number of excellent blue flag beaches at Dovercourt, Brightlingsea and 3 in Southend-on-Sea. For more traditional fun head to Clacton-on-Sea for some fun-packed rides on the pier.

Re-live the age of steam at the East Anglian Railway Museum or the Colne Valley Railway where you can enjoy dining services in a beautiful Pullman carriage. For a different type of train experience enjoy a train ride that takes passengers the 1.33 miles down the longest pleasure pier in the world at Southend-on-Sea. Then spend some time at Adventure Island where more than 32 rides will ensure children of all ages will have the time of their life.
 
Animals are always popular with children and at Colchester Zoo you will certainly find a wonderful collection. Don’t miss ‘Spirit of Africa’, the elephant enclosure. Here you can also visit the 'Dragons of Komodo' and see the newly born twin meerkats. Alternatively, for more domesticated animals, try Marsh Farm Country Park at South Woodham Ferrers or Barleylands Farm where children of all ages can meet and feed farm animals, ride the mini tractors around the farm and let off steam in the adventure play area.

Colchester has a great choice to keep kids amused from dawn to dusk. You will find things to do whether it is raining or sunny, for the whole day or just an hour or two. For those who like to live life at a fast pace, go along to Rollerworld’s massive rollerskating rink (the best in Europe!) and Indikart’s go-cart track. Colchester Castle, Hollytrees and Natural History Museums are fun places to visit at anytime and have hands-on activities and lots of special events.

To get your free copy of the 2008 REvisit guide please call 0845 6007373 or visit our website www.realessex.co.uk