Essex Explorer Magazine Spring 2024

To the spring edition of Essex Explorer magazine. In this edition we have not one, but two fantastic competitions for you to enter!

As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the much-loved children’s classic by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, ‘The Gruffalo’, we’ve a great competition where you can win £50 of Gruffalo goodies. All you need to do is send us your colourful creations. See pages six and seven to find out more.

You can also win a family ticket for Colchester Zoo that’s worth up to £99. The ticket - which is for two adults and two children - is courtesy of Colchester Zoo so you can have a fantastic day out while discovering all the great conversation work that the zoo has been doing, both here in the UK and around the world. See page 33 to find out how you can enter.

Also, you can discover how to research your family tree thanks to the Essex Record Office, find out about the historic Hedingham Castle, a walk along the Essex Way that takes you through the ages, our recommended reads for the spring and of course some tasty recipes courtesy of Tiptree Tea Rooms.

There are some great ideas for days out over the coming months as well as much, much more.

As a county, Essex has a beautiful landscape – from country to coast – so get out and about and enjoy all that the parks and green spaces have to offer this spring.

About us

24 ways to enjoy and Explore Essex in 2024

There are so many different ways to enjoy and Explore Essex in 2024 that don’t cost the earth. Not only are these easy and affordable tips, but some of our ideas also support our green spaces, wildlife and building biodiversity in the county. So come and Explore Essex with us.

01 Celebrate The Gruffalo’s 25th anniversary with us at Thorndon Country Park this year. Look out for the Gruffalo birthday party and special forest school. Get involved in our competition to win lots of Gruffalo themed goodies.

02 Join in a butterfly or wildlife survey. Read more on pages eight and nine.

03 Go to your local theatre or enjoy an event or activity funded by the Arts and Cultural Fund. Look out for the Essex Cultural Diversity Project’s Global Village events this summer.

04 Enjoy an exhibition in Essex. From Firstsite in Colchester, Focal Point in Southend, Harlow Sculpture trails and the Stables at Hylands, Chelmsford, and so many more. Get a different point of view in 2024. Check the listings for what’s on.

05 Visit the dog agility trail at Thorndon South, newly updated by the Friends of Thorndon. Test your dogs and train them up, what can you get them to do? Dog agility also available at Belhus Woods Country Park.

06 Enjoy the Stick Man sculpture trail at Weald Country Park. Installed in 2023, you can meet the magical creatures from the books in a beautiful setting around the lake.

07 New for 2024 discover Family Forest School at Great Notley Country Park. Get back to basics, enjoy natural play, camp fires, rope swings and hammocks. Also available at Danbury Country Park.

08

Cook up a storm or enjoy a meal out. It’s food heaven here in Essex – from Tiptree tea rooms to the Galvin Green Man in Chelmsford. Find out more on the Visit Essex website for where to go. Discover our recipes from Tiptree Tea Rooms on pages 28 and 29.

09 Join a reading group or take up a reading challenge, visit your local library. Explore more here: www.libraries.essex.gov.uk/home

10 Discover more about your heritage. Find out how to get started researching your family tree at the Essex Record Office on pages 20 and 21.

11 Visit a castle. Read more about Hedingham castle on pages 18 and 19.

12 Walk the Essex Way. Read more on pages 16 and 17.

13 Enjoy wildflowers. From carpets of daffodils and bluebells in the spring to grasslands full of ox-eye daisies and so much more in the summer. Share your photos with us Explore.Essex@Essex.gov.uk

14 Take a picnic to a park. Meet with family or friends and spend some quality time outside in nature.

15 Try paddle or water sports. Find out how on pages 36 and 37.

16 Take your family to new heights. Discover high ropes fun at Harlow High Adventure at Essex Outdoors or Sky Ropes at Great Notley Country Park and reach for the stars.

17 Book a boat trip. Make memories to last a lifetime with a sailing or powerboat experience. Read more on pages 36 and 37.

18 Visit a vineyard. Essex is fast becoming a renowned area for excellent wine growing. Sample some of the best and take a tour.

19 Visit a zoo or farm. Meet the animals, small and large. Read more about the excellent conservation work that Colchester Zoo are undertaking on pages 34 and 35.

20 Use our seasonal scavenger hunts to see what you can spot out and about in your local green spaces and our Essex Country Parks.

21 Go to the beach. Enjoy the delights of Cudmore Grove Country Park and explore hidden corners of Essex’s 350 miles of coastline, from salt marsh to golden sands.

22 Enjoy Falconry at Cressing Temple Barns.

23 Go Green for 2024. Download the Essex Carbon Cutting app.

24 Consider fostering. Read more on pages 24 and 25.

Or simply go somewhere new . . . See our listings pages to inspire your Day’s Out.

Colchester Zoo

Celebrate 25 years of GruffaloThe with us

Essex Country Parks mark the 25th anniversary of The Gruffalo with a fabulous competition, a series of special sessions of Forest School and a big birthday bash.

Created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and first published by Macmillan Children’s Books on March 23 1999, The Gruffalo was immediately acclaimed as ‘a modern classic’ (Roger McCrum, Observer). The story is loved by children and parents around the world and we’re proud to be home to the original and first Gruffalo trail at Thorndon Country Park in Essex (officially licensed by Magic Light Pictures).

Speaking about the anniversary, Axel Scheffler, said: “The Gruffalo and the Mouse have come a long way in the last twenty-five years. When I first read Julia’s story and did the first sketches we had no idea what The Gruffalo would become and how many young readers would read and love the picture book in the following years.”

Julia Donaldson added: “It’s hard to believe that The Gruffalo is a quarter of a century old. Nowadays it’s not all that unusual for parents to tell me that they remember the book being read to them. Although that makes me feel rather old, it’s actually great to know that families all over the world are sharing the story and that grown-ups reading aloud are putting on different voices to entertain their children. I wish not just the Gruffalo and the Mouse but the three predators - the Fox, Owl and Snake - a very happy birthday.”

Join us throughout 2024 at Thorndon Country Park as we celebrate this classic picture book, from special Forest School sessions during the Easter school holiday to a huge birthday party in September, with the trail available to visit anytime in between.

WIN The Gruffalo prizes worth £50!

We want to see your colourful creations to celebrate The Gruffalo’s birthday.

Download or pick up a colouring template from Thorndon or Weald Country Parks, or your local library, and enter our prize draw.

Send your creations in to: Explore.Essex@essex.gov.uk

We’ll pick a winner every month until the end of August 2024. For more information visit: www.explore-essex.com/ gruffalo-comp

You might also like the Essex Country Parks Easter trail.

Butterflies at Belhus

At Essex Country Parks we are passionate about conservation and biodiversity.

Peacock

Peacock

Gatekeeper

Silver washed fritillary

Purple emperor

During the last couple of years, the team at Belhus Woods Country Park have been undertaking a survey to monitor butterfly species found in the park as part of the United Kingdom Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS). The UKBMS is one of the longest running insect monitoring schemes in the world. Having begun in 1976 it is now recording data on over 2,000 sites a year.

Butterflies are uniquely placed to act as indicators of the changing environment as their quick lifecycles are highly sensitive to changing conditions. The data collected is used to track trends to support research and conservation in a variety of ways and full records can be read on the UKBMS website.

At Belhus Woods Country Park, manager Gavin Leonard has pulled together their findings from the last two years. Their research involved walking a set route once a week through the summer months and recording the species and numbers of butterflies seen. The good news is that from 2022 to 2023 they witnessed increases in both population numbers and types of species.

The team found that browns, blues, ringlets and gatekeepers formed the largest populations in the meadow areas of the park, which hit peak numbers in June and July. Woodland butterflies tended to appear a little earlier (April 2022 and May 2023)

probably due to their tolerance for cooler temperatures and reliance on different food. Generally, the emergence and behaviour for both was quite similar across the two years. Brimstones, whites and peacocks were the first to arrive both years. By far the most common butterfly was the meadow brown.

In 2023 they noticed a small increase in diversity of species, against a national decline. New recordings of small copper, small blue, brown argos and purple emperor were made, however there were no sightings of the painted lady, small tortoiseshell or white admiral.

Find out more about how you can get involved and support the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme with the Essex Country Parks.: www.explore-essex.com/blog/ butterfly-survey

Read more about the UKBMS Research findings: www.ukbms.org/

You might also be interested to know . . .

In 2021 the Environment Act was enhanced to ensure that public authorities do what they can to conserve and support biodiversity in their local area.

Essex County Council is currently working on a biodiversity plan to set out ways in which we can all help. We’ll be sharing more during the year, watch this space.

Images courtesy of Andrew Adams, Tom Heenan and Gavin Leonard.

Comma

Small white

Meadow brown

Get busy spotting butterflies

In this edition of Essex Explorer, we bring you a spotter’s guide to some of the different types of beautiful butterflies you might see during the spring and summer months.

Use our guide when you’re out and about and see how many you can spot in our country parks and green spaces.

Wherever you go in our parks you’re sure to see something special – you never know what you might discover. If during your explorations you see any of the flora and fauna or the inhabitants of our parks, then take a picture and send it to Marketing.ExploreEssex@essex.gov.uk, we’d love to see your photos.

There are many different types of butterfly that can be seen during the spring months feeding in the meadows and hedgerows – how many can you spot?

Adonis blue

Brown argus

Brimstone

Comma

Heath fritillary

Large skipper

Red admiral

Small tortoiseshell

Painted lady

Peacock

Small white

Orange tip

Photography in the parks

With photographer Andrew Adams.

Andrew Adams is a resident of Brentwood and a long time Essex Explorer contributor who enjoys nothing more than trekking and photographing the flora and fauna found within our amazing parks across the county.

He is an experienced and multifaceted photographer with interests in wildlife, landscape and street photography. These stunning images were taken at Danbury, Thorndon and Weald Country Parks. Why not get out and about and see what you can discover?

To see more of Andrew’s photography, visit his Instagram page: #andrew_d_adams or visit Youpic: www.youpic.com/AndrewAdams

Find out more: www.explore-essex.com/places-togo/our-parks-and-places

Male Mandarin duck

Azure damselfly

Fallow deer

Soldier beetle

Chalk hill butterfly

Great crested grebe

Great spotted woodpecker

Peacock butterfly

Female Mandarin duck and duckling

Nuthatch

Red admiral

Buttercups

Canadian goose gosling

Make your mark on the Essex Way

‘Marking the Land’ is new walking guide exploring a circular section of the Essex Way.

The new publication by Shaun C. Badham and James Ravinet features a four-and-a-half-mile section of the iconic Essex Way.

Presented as a walking guide along a small section of the route, this circular walk from Fairstead to Terling in the Braintree district demonstrates how walking can help us re-engage with our environment and surroundings.

Beginning at St. Mary the Virgin Church with its 14th century fresco paintings, the walk takes you through open countryside, farmland, wood and hedgerows. The route also passes a Grade II listed smock mill built in 1818 before looping back through tranquil woodland to Fairstead.

As well landmarks, ‘Marking the Land’ features several historical events associated with the Essex countryside, including land speculators and the agricultural depression, along with early

‘Marking the Land’ was originally presented as a guided public walk in 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Essex Way, an 82-mile long route first introduced by students from Chelmsford Technical College in 1972 following a competition by Campaign for the Protection of Rural England.

‘Marking the Land’ - part funded by Essex County Council’s Arts and Cultural Fund - is published by The Old Waterworks and designed, illustrated and co-written by artist Philippa Stewart.

The walk can be enjoyed remotely or as you follow the path, discover more by purchasing a copy. Visit: www.markingtheland.bigcartel.com

Images courtesy of Paul Tait.

Head to a historic castle this spring

A towering presence over the Essex landscape for over 900 years, Hedingham Castle offers a unique day out for all ages. Whether exploring its ancient ramparts, medieval parkland and landscaped gardens, or watching a jousting tournament, Hedingham Castle has something for everyone.

Image: Andy Griffin

Located in Essex near the Suffolk border lies Hedingham Castle, a Grade I listed building and scheduled monument and, more importantly, one of the finest Norman keeps in the country.

Built around 1100, and the keep in 1140, Hedingham Castle and its 160-acre grounds are open to the public from mid-February to October. The castle hosts educational tours along with events featuring archery, jousting, falconry, re-enactment battles, fairs, classic car shows, theatre productions and much more.

Regularly used as a wedding venue, the castle and its grounds are also no stranger to the small screen having featured in TV shows such as ‘Married at First Sight’, ‘The Only Way is Essex’ and other productions.

This majestic castle which towers over the local area exuding a sense of grandeur and charm is also part of the Historic Houses schemesimilar to the National Trust and English Heritage - and is privately owned by the Lindsay family, descendants of the Earl of Oxford who built it.

This square fortress, a common shape for Norman keeps, has five floors joined by a spiral staircase. The castle includes the Great, or Banqueting, Hall and a Royal Chamber with a four-poster bed. It’s the only modern bedroom in a Norman keep in the country and guests can stay at the top of the castle and experience the life of a noble. For those looking to stay outside of the castle, there is also the medieval lodge and the garden cottage within its grounds.

With many things to see and do, why not head to this majestic castle during the spring and summer an explore a unique and timeless haven.

Find out more by visiting: www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk

To discover all the events taking place at Hedingham Castle see pages 38 to 43.

Images courtesy of Andy Griffin and Broadhouse Media.

Discover your roots with the Essex Record Office

Curious about your family history? Want to discover lost family connections? Then delve deep into the past and find out more about your ancestors with the Essex Record Office (ERO).

Established in 1938 as the storehouse for the county’s history, the ERO holds documents, maps, images, along with sound and video recordings, that together tell the history of over 1,000 years of Essex’s people and places.

In fact, the ERO houses parish registers, diaries, letters, court, wartime, manorial and school records, which take up nearly eight miles of shelving, making it one of the largest county archives in England.

The ERO’s records of births, deaths and marriages provide such a wealth of information you’re sure to discover fascinating facts and surprising stories about your ancestors.

Thanks to over 750,000 digital images of parish and electoral registers, along with wills, you may discover when your ancestor was born, who they married, what their occupation was and where they lived, all under one roof.

As the county’s storehouse, the ERO is home to Church of England parish registers - and many nonconformist records - and has baptisms, marriages and burials dating back to 1538.

It also has wills from the 1400’s to 1858, which can shed light on your ancestors’ occupations, what property they left and to whom, and electoral registers which provide the address of where they were registered to vote.

This year why not research your family history and discover how your ancestors lived and worked?

The friendly and helpful staff at the ERO - which recently received full accreditation from the National Archives - can offer top tips to search for your ancestors and make tracing your family tree much easier.

Start researching today by visiting: www.essexrecordoffice. co.uk/research

Record Office.

All images courtesy of the Essex

Image: Armorial pedigree of the Cornwallis family

Image: The Stagg family

Ageing well with the Arts and Cultural Fund

The Essex County Council Arts and Cultural Fund has proved highly popular since launching and has supported many projects, some of which focus on the health and wellbeing of Essex residents. Over the years, the fund has seen projects taken into schools, country parks, childcare settings, heritage buildings and residential care homes, along with the wider community, to enhance people’s lives.

Here we look at two projects which have helped support elderly and vulnerable people within our communities.

Image: Paul Starr

Veteran’s Choir

Orchestra Live

One project which received funding and support was the Veteran’s Choir, which was co-ordinated by Age Well East and formed from attendees at the Colchester and Harwich Veteran’s Friendship groups.

Choir members, some of whom are experiencing loneliness and isolation, meet regularly for fun, interactive singing sessions and many have said their health and wellbeing has improved since joining the group.

The choir, which has held public performances and concerts, also holds social gatherings and day’s out, such as a recent visit to the Imperial War Museum Duxford.

At the end of the project, a digital recording of choir’s songs will be recorded - with the help of a student from Colchester Institute - and made available to download and will be circulated amongst the community, local schools and care homes so people can listen at their leisure.

Another project which has benefited from the fund is Orchestras Live, who have launched Good Company - a radical new creative day care programme supporting people living with dementia, and their carers, in Brentwood and south Essex, through ‘reminiscence arts’.

Referred to the project by the Alzheimer’s Society, participants are invited to attend a weekly creative group at Brentwood Theatre, where they are immersed in stimulating activities such as theatre, dance, visual arts and orchestral music.

Led by experienced artists from Age Exchange, Green Candle Dance and Sinfonia Viva, the sessions blend social contact and interaction, along with care and support for the mental wellbeing of all participants.

At the end of the eight-week term, Good Company will showcase their work to families and project stakeholders - while overall the project will be evaluated by the University of Essex.

To find out more about the Arts and Cultural Fund and the projects it supports visit: www.explore-essex.com/ culture/arts-culture-fund

Image: Paul Starr

From brain injury to sports star – a foster child’s story

Did you know that 500 children were taken into care in Essex last year? By becoming a foster carer you could make a real change by supporting vulnerable children and giving them a place to call home. Read more about how Sheila and Paul changed a child’s life below.

Shelia says: “Years ago, my husband Paul and I were asked to take in a baby with a brain injury. At the initial discharge meeting, the doctors said his brain had gone into severe trauma and that because of this he probably wouldn’t ever walk or talk. I was determined that he would do all of these things because I wanted to do everything possible to help him recover. The doctor reminded me that this was a shaken baby and in general they do not recover – but I kept optimistic about his future.

Paul’s friend is a physiotherapist, so I asked them what we could do to help the baby. I was told to stimulate him by moving his arms and legs. He was paralysed along his right-hand side, but in time, his right arm and leg began to move slightly when he got excited. He was responding, it was amazing.

One day, I saw him swinging his legs in the back of the car. I’d never seen him so happy. By this point, he was just weak on his right-hand side. I kept telling everyone that he was going to recover and that he would learn to walk and talk.

Miraculously, soon after, he began to crawl. He was slow meeting milestones, but they were there and he was meeting them.

At his next appointment, we received the most amazing news. The doctor told us that his brain had repaired – he would be able to develop, grow and have a bright future. He was just over a year old at this point and we’d protected him from anything that might shake his brain, such as swings and trampolines.

Now, he has grown into a young boy who plays a range of different sports like cricket, football, swimming and badminton. He has even been headhunted to play for a major Essex young sports team.

He was adopted as a young child but we are still in touch with him and his family. He has a forever home and the future he deserves.

He is a lovely boy and a high achiever at school. Fostering really does allow you the opportunity to change a vulnerable child’s life. He’s living proof that foster children can be helped to achieve anything.”

If you are interested in fostering or would like to find out more contact the Essex Foster Team on 0800 801 530 or visit: www.essex.gov.uk/foster

Spring Reads

We’ve pulled together some of the most exciting new books of spring 2024. Delve in and take your pick. Settle back and get ready to be transported . . .

Close to Death

by Anthony Horowitz

When a member of an unpopular family is found dead in an exclusive gated community in London the murder seems impossible to solve – as everyone has the same motive. Can you figure out who done it in the next instalment of Horowitz’s popular crime series?

‘Anthony Horowitz is easily the greatest of our crime writers’ Sunday Times.

Published early April 2024.

James

by Percival Everett

An enthralling and accomplished retelling of ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ from the point of view of the enslaved Jim. A tour de force that inspires us to see the classic in wholly new and transformative light.

From Professor Percival Everett, shortlisted for the 2022 Booker Prize for his novel ‘The Trees’.

Published Thursday 11 April 2024.

My Favourite Mistake

by Marian Keyes

We all make mistakes, but when do we stop making the same one over and over? Discover the brand new novel from the number one bestselling author Marian Keyes.

‘Funny, heartbreaking and always wise – a proper treat’ Daily Mail.

Published Thursday 11 April 2024.

£20 RRP HB

£22 RRP HB

£22 RRP HB

You are Here

by David Nicholls

Sometimes you need to get lost to find your way . . .

A new love story by David Nicholls, bestselling author of ‘One Day’ and ‘Us’. Takes the reader on a journey through first encounters and second chances to finding the way home, by way of a very long walk in the Lake District.

Published Tuesday 23 April 2024.

You Like it Darker

by Stephen King

A magnificent new collection of twelve stories that delve into the darker part of life weaving tales of fate, mortality and luck and the folds of reality where anything can happen. Rich and riveting.

‘One of the great storytellers of our time’ Guardian.

Published Tuesday 21 May 2024.

Enlightenment

by Sarah Perry

A dazzling new story from the bestselling author of the ‘The Essex Serpent’. Set in a small Essex village, discover a story of love and astronomy told over the course of twenty years through the lives of two improbable best friends.

Published May 2024.

£25 RRP HB

£20

RRP HB

£20 RRP HB

Tasty spring recipes with Tiptree

Whether you’re serving up these delicious dishes to family and friends this Easter or you prefer to dine out, our friends at Tiptree Tea Rooms have something to tantalise your tastebuds this spring.

Enjoy sweet treats and more at Tiptree Tea Rooms this Easter and beyond. All of the Tiptree Tea Rooms are open on Easter Sunday with the exception of Bond Street, Chelmsford, and Saffron Waldon.

Find out more by visiting:

www.tiptree.com/pages/tearooms

Spiced avocado with prawns

This recipe, which serves four, is great as a starter or light lunch with crusty bread – shredded mozzarella makes a good alternative to prawns.

Ingredients

2 large ripe avocados

20 seedless white grapes

4 sundried tomatoes in oil

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 teaspoons Tiptree tomato ketchup

2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

To finish:

Prawns or mozzarella

Rocket

Cherry tomatoes

Method

Split the grapes lengthwise and add chopped sundried tomatoes. Mix the olive oil, tomato ketchup and lemon juice together and pour over the grapes. Split the avocados lengthwise, remove the stone and fill it with the grape mixture. Then, top with prawns or mozzarella, dust with black pepper and serve with the rocket and tomatoes.

English Lamb Rack with Goats Cheese

Enjoy this recipe using lamb cutlets with asparagus, goats cheese and rosemary. This uses rosemary and chives and serves four people, it was inspired by chef Rachel Green.

Ingredients

2 racks of lamb (2 racks with 7 cutlets in each)

4 teaspoons Tiptree wholegrain mustard

2 sprigs of fresh rosemary leaves

1 tablespoon of fresh chive leaves

1 to 2 tablespoons light olive oil and a knob of butter

12 medium asparagus spears, trimmed and griddled (optional)

125g soft goats cheese

2 to 3 tablespoons fresh double cream

Black pepper ground

1 tablespoon fresh chives

Method

Set the oven at 200c fan or 220c if it’s a non-fan. Finely chop the rosemary leaves and chives. Spread the mustard on the fat of the loin and cover it with the herbs. Wrap it tightly in clingfilm and chill it until it’s ready to cook – at least one hour. Cut the racks in half so you have four portions.

Cream the goats cheese, add a little cream to slacken the mixture to stand in peaks and season with ground black pepper corns and chives. Place an oven proof dish in the oven to heat with one tablespoon of oil. Heat the oil in a heavy pan, add butter then seal the meat on each side – one and half minutes in total. Remove the meat from the pan and put it into the dish in the oven. Cook according to taste – ten minutes for pink or fifteen for well done. If you’re using asparagus, brush the pan with a little oil and griddle until it’s just tender. Allow the meat to rest in warm place for five minutes.

Serve with asparagus, goats cheese and fresh

TASTY SPRING RECIPES WITH TIPTREE

Golden Lemon Tart

For a sweet treat this spring. This recipe serves four.

Ingredients

4 single portion pastry tart cases

2 tbsp Tiptree lemon curd

2 tbsp crème fraiche

1 lemon – finely grated rind

2 large eggs – you only need the egg whites

2 ½ tablespoons castor sugar

Method

Set the oven at 175c or 160c if it’s a fan. Mix the lemon curd, crème fraiche and finely grated lemon rind. Place the pastry cases on the baking sheet and add the curd mixture, remember to avoid overfilling the tarts.

Whisk the egg whites, then gradually add two tablespoons of castor sugar and whisk until they’re stiff peaks. Spoon the meringue onto tarts and then dust with the remaining castor sugar. Bake for about four minutes or until the meringue is set and starting to colour. Then serve immediately with fresh cream.

Please note: The remaining egg yolks can be used to enrich mashed potatoes or added to a sauce.

Discover the Mersea Island Festival, where everyone can shine

The Mersea Island Festival has provided inclusive activities each summer since 1981 and gained charitable status in 2003.

Each August, the festival aims to bring together children, young people and adults, with or without a physical or learning disability in a fun and safe environment, offering a wide variety of activities. It helps to build confidence while at the same time being huge amounts of fun and provides an opportunity to make new friends – with many people coming back year after year.

Ideal for families, youth groups and inclusive clubs, most sessions are aimed at those aged eight and above, but there is plenty for the whole family to have a go at. Festival goers can take a ride on the zip wire, speed boat, kayaks and paddleboards; learn circus skills, judo and dance moves or try climbing, archery and the band workshop.

Outdoor activities are run by highly qualified instructors, with specialist equipment and adaptions, which make the activities as inclusive as possible. The whole festival is supported by teams of amazing volunteers.

Some of the 2023 attendees, their carers and families told the organisers why they enjoy the festival and why it’s so important to them.

One attendee said: “This is the first time I have attended with my client and I can honestly say I cannot recommend it enough. Every activity, all the staff and volunteers, the whole thing was so impressive and well

thought out and, hand on heart, was amazing. I love it and it’s a shame it’s not on more often.”

A parent added: “During the weekend my son visibly grew in confidence by forming friendships with the other campers. It was a great success for him.”

To find out more and book tickets for summer 2024 visit: www.merseafestival.org.uk/book

To volunteer: www.merseafestival.org.uk/volunteers

Discover more about the Trust: www.merseafestival.org.uk/the-trust

Competition WIN a family ticket to Colchester Zoo worth up to £99!

Colchester Zoo is home to over 155 species set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes.

On a visit you’ll wind your way through many different habitats, encountering animals great and small from around the world. Discover the humid habitat of the komodo dragons, the aquatic world of the penguins and sealions and the zoo’s very own Africa plain, home to the majestic white rhino, giraffes, ostrich, zebra and kudu.

We’re excited to have a family ticket for two adults and two children to visit Colchester Zoo to give away with this edition of Essex Explorer magazine, so that you can take your own voyage of discovery this year.

To enter this prize draw simply answer the question below and email it to: Explore.Essex@essex.gov.uk by midnight Sunday 28 April 2024.

Title your email ‘Zoo Prize Draw’.

Read more about Colchester Zoo over the page. Question:

Answer:

B)

All creatures great and small

Find out more about Essex’s world-renowned zoo and some of the amazing conservation work it undertakes.

Colchester Zoo has been rated among the best in the world, but did you know that as well as being home to some of the most critacially endangered species, it also supports conservation projects around the globe and is about to undertake a big change to further support this important work?

For the last 60 years Colchester Zoo has been privately owned with a charitable arm, Action for the Wild, which provides much needed support to international projects, including their own private nature reserve, UmPhafa, in South Africa.

Since 2004, when Action for the Wild achieved charitable status, over £2 million has been donated to a broad range of conservation projects worldwide encompassing a wide range of species from orangutans to vultures, hornbills to komodo dragons and elephants to Fisher’s estuarine moths.

Funds have also helped with the set up and continuous running of the UmPhafa Nature Reserve. The South African reserve was established to recreate the habitat and species present in the area, which had been impacted by local farming methods. With help from Action for the Wild, a release programme has been established on UmPhafa - supporting species that were once native back into the area.

Now, Colchester Zoo want to do even more. From Spring 2024, Action for the Wild will be known as Colchester Zoological Society in readiness to take over the running of the zoo from Wednesday 1 January 2025, as it becomes a charitable trust. Although it sounds like a huge change, visitors won’t notice a vast difference when visiting. However, during 2024 a brand new logo and website will start to be introduced to celebrate this upcoming change with a series of events shining a spotlight on the conservation work that the zoo undertakes.

Read more by visiting: www.colchester-zoo.com/ introducing-colchester-zoological-society

Images courtesy of Colchester Zoo.

Plan your visit

Plan your visit in 2024 to discover over 155 species from around the globe, including critically endangered amur leopards, komodo dragons and lemurs to name a few.

As you journey around the zoo, you’ll find there’s much to see and do. Meet the gentle giants with the opportunity to hand feed the giraffes or let your kids release their wild side at Jungle Tumble. Get hands on at the interactive sand table at the Discovery Den and watch your creations come to life on the live wall. Take a ride on the Lost Madagascar Express for a break on your adventure and spot many exciting species along the way.

Discover and enjoy many special events taking place throughout the year, including the return of your favourite pre-school TV characters.

Book your tickets in advance to save money at www.colchesterzoo.org or plan your visit at www.colchester-zoo.com/plan-your-visit or download the app

Splish, splash and set sail this spring

Find out how to splash safely into spring and summer at Essex Outdoors and Hadleigh Country Park.

Over the last few years water sports have become increasingly popular, with many of all ages enjoying sailing, paddle boarding, open water swimming, canoeing and kayaking. Not only are these activities a great way of having fun outside but they’re also a fantastic way to keep fit.

Here we bring you some of the best water based activities at Essex Outdoors and Hadleigh Country Park – perfect for learning a new hobby or sport or just having a fun filled family friendly day out. You might also like the boating lake at Mersea, Aqua Park at Lakeside or the Festival Wakeboard and Aqua Park in Basildon.

Sailing and Powerboating at Essex Outdoors

Bradwell

The coast is your host at Essex Outdoors Bradwell. The site, which is a Royal Yacht Association (RYA) training centre, is situated on the Blackwater Estuary and offers powerboat and sailing courses, experience days and children’s sailing weeks in the summer months.

Discover incredible sailing and powerboat experience days for family and friends with room for up to seven people aged seven-years-old and over. Set sail from Bradwell or West Mersea and take the opportunity to have a turn at the helm under expert instruction or simply sit back and enjoy the trip.

Essex Outdoors Bradwell also offers the opportunity to gain the knowledge, experience and qualifications to operate a powerboat at home in the UK or abroad with a range of courses. You can start with the two-day introductory RYA level-two course for beginners.

Younger family members can explore the five-day children’s sailing camps with residential and day options running in July and August, which are for total beginners to more experienced sailors aged ten to 16-years-old.

More at: www.essexoutdoors.com/our-centres/bradwell

Paddle fun at Essex Outdoors Harlow

Have fun on the water with the Saturday Paddle Club at Essex Outdoors Harlow on the River Stort. Led by expert instructors, you can try canoeing and kayaking in a safe setting and all the equipment is provided. It’s ideal for the whole family from aged eight and over and is suitable for all abilities.

You could also join the Tuesday night taster sessions which are the perfect way to try stand-up paddle (SUP) boarding for the first time. You’ll be introduced to the skills and techniques by friendly instructors. Visit: www.essexoutdoors.com/our-centres/harlow

Water sports at Hadleigh Country Park reservoir

Discover water based activities for all abilities, from stand-up paddle boarding to open water swimming at Hadleigh Country Park reservoir*.

Saltwater SUP offer beginner courses and social activities at Hadleigh, allowing you to enjoy the numerous benefits of time spent on the water. To book a Saltwater SUP session visit: www.saltwater-sup.co.uk

Or if you want to get into open water swimming and ‘swim on the wild side’, then the Hadleigh Plungers are for you. To book a swimming session with the Hadleigh Plungers visit: www.hadleighplungersows.co.uk

You can also take the opportunity to enjoy a kayaking session with friends and family at Hadleigh thanks to Essex Kayaking. Visit: www.glampinginessex.co.uk/ essex-kayaking-hadleigh-country-park

*The reservoir can only be used in conjunction with a licensed club and is not open to members of the public.

Please note: We do not allow any independent swimming in any lakes or areas of water within the Essex Country Parks or green spaces. Remember: Even if you are an experienced swimmer and while the weather may be warm the water will still be very cold and could lead to Cold Water Shock.

To stay safe around water visit: www.visitleevalley. org.uk/staying-safe-around-water

Know the risks and read more about how to float to live with the RNLI: www.rnli.org/safety

Reach for the stars

As the days lengthen, take the family to new heights on Essex Outdoors run high ropes courses.

Climbing is an excellent activity for children, combining physical exercise for the whole body with huge amounts of fun, boosting agility, confidence and strength. With a choice of high ropes facilities across the county it’s an easy and affordable trip out.

Sky Ropes at Great Notley Country Park

A two-level high ropes course for adults and children from one metre tall in the wider setting of Great Notley Country Park, Sky Ropes is the perfect day out for the whole family. Adventurers can navigate their way around the bridges and beams high in the sky while Sky Ropes Junior for toddlers and younger adventurers is also available. Read more: www.explore-essex. com/sky-ropes

Harlow High Adventure at Essex Outdoors

Discover the 12 metre tall High Ropes Hexagon at Essex Outdoors Harlow, suitable for children and adults that can reach 180cm with their arms outstretched. Cross the wobbly rope bridge over the river and negotiate the 12 obstacles including balance beams and cargo nets to get your heart pumping.

The Climbing Wall Adventure is perfect for younger thrill seekers, with five colourful and different walls to test climbing skills. Both activities are available for birthday bookings. There’s a café and seating available onsite and free parking nearby.

Read more: www.essexoutdoors.com/harlowhigh-adventure

The Hexagaon at Harlow High Adventure

Spring 2024

Chelmsford Museum

Restless Brilliance: The Story of J.A. Baker and The Peregrine

Saturday 23 March to Sunday 3 November

The Peregrine by J.A. Baker was first published in 1967. The book was an immediate success. This exhibition explores Baker’s life, his love of nature and writing through the archive of his work held by the University of Essex. It is the first time that this archive has been on public display. Suitable for all ages. Price: Free. www.chelmsford.gov. uk/museums/whats-on/temporaryexhibitions/restless-brilliance-thestory-of-ja-baker-and-the-peregrine

Colchester Zoo

St-EGG-osaurus Easter

Friday 29 March to

Sunday 14 April

This Easter journey around our brand new Dinosaur Realm and discover these reptiles from the past. Plus, throughout the holidays we will be celebrating all things Easter with a range of egg-cellent activities. Suitable for all ages. Price:

Included in general admission. www.colchester-zoo.com/event/stegg-osaurus-easter

Aquatic Weekend

Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 April

Join us as we share the incredible underwater world of animals with a range of aquatic inspired activities. Discover how long a Patagonian Sea Lion can hold its breath for or how our Animal Care team tell our Humboldt Penguins apart. Suitable for all ages. Price: Included in general admission. www.colchesterzoo.com/event/aquatic-weekend

Meet Peppa Pig and George

Sunday 12 May

Don’t spend time jumping around in muddy puddles. Bring along your cheeky piglets to our character day where Peppa Pig and George will be greeting visitors at intervals throughout the day. Suitable for all ages. Price: Included in general admission. www.colchester-zoo. com/event/peppa-and-george-2024

Dino Discovery Day

Saturday 13 April

Take a step back in time with our Dino Discovery Day filled with all things prehistoric, including the chance to meet our dinosaurs and their keeper. Discover extinct species from millions of years ago, from gigantic carnivores to the graceful herbivores. Suitable for all ages. Price: Included in general admission. www.colchester-zoo.com/event/ dino-discovery-day-3

Love Your Zoo Week

Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June

Join us as we celebrate our charity, Colchester Zoological society and the vital conservation work that we undertake in the UK and worldwide. From meeting members of our Animal Care team, to learning how to be a ranger on UmPhafa, our nature reserve in South Africa, you can find out about our work. Suitable for all ages. Price: Included in general admission. www. colchester-zoo.com/event/love-yourzoo-week-2024/

Image: Broadhouse Media

Cressing Temple Barns

Charlie Owen Spring Shopping Fair

Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 April

First event of the year. Exhibitors will include arts and crafts, fashion and beauty, food and drink, gifts and household accessories, outdoor and garden goodies as well as the unique and uncategorisable. Well behaved dogs welcome. Suitable for all ages. Price: Adults £5, concessions £4 and children free. www.charlieowenevents. co.uk/events

East Anglian Railway Museum

Chappel 175 Anniversary Celebration Weekend

Saturday 29 June and

Sunday 30 June: 10:00am to 5:00pm

A weekend event to celebrate the opening of the Marks Tey to Sudbury branch line and the Chappel and Wakes Colne railway station. This will be a family event and details will be available on our website. Please email reception@earm.co.uk if you would like to get involved. Suitable for all ages. Price: Adult £13.50, child £9.50. www.earm.co.uk

Essex Country Parks

Animal Mysteries Easter Trail

Saturday 23 March to Sunday 14 April

Head to the Essex Country Parks and pick up or download a free Easter trail. Race around and find the clues, spot the animals hiding in the parks and enjoy the extra activities at home. Find the magic number to enter the prize draw. Supported by the Essex Year of Numbers. Most suitable for younger primary school aged children. Price: Free. www. explore-essex.com/events

Easter Forest School featuring The Gruffalo at Thorndon Country Park

Wednesday 3 and 10 April 10.00am and 12.30pm

Celebrate 25 years of The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler with these special Forest School sessions during the school holiday. Enjoy the enchanting, official trail before or afterwards and make a day of it. Make sure to book to secure your place. Suitable for ages three to ten-year-olds. Price £10 (includes car parking and accompanying adults). www.explore-essex.com/events

Family Forest School at Great Notley and Danbury Country Parks

Saturdays, monthly

Make memories around the campfire, delight in a hammock or a rope swing, get stuck into mud kitchen and nature crafts. Spend some special time in the great outdoors and with each other. Sessions led by an experienced L3 Forest School leader. Suitable for multi-generations. Price: £10 first child. £6 sibling. Accompanying adults and under 18-months-old free. Free car parking. Check dates on the website. www.explore-essex. com/forest-schools

Term Time Forest School at Danbury Country Park

Mondays during term time

Join us for Woodland Play, aimed at the under-fives, for den building, rope swings, imaginative play and camp fire and much more. You can also enjoy sessions for the Home Educated, where children can play and develop their social, physical and emotional skills through various activities in a natural environment. All run by our L3 Forest School leader. Prices for the term vary. www.explore-essex.com/ forest-schools

Essex Record Office

ERO Presents: Out of Essex

Tuesday 9 April: 10.45am to 12.00pm

Join speaker Dr Emelyne Godfrey for ‘The Escapes and Adventures of Kitty Marshall and her Friendship with Mrs Pankhurst’. An artist and resident of Ongar, Theydon Bois and Sible Hedingham, Emily Katherine (Kitty) Willoughby Marshall was also Mrs Emmeline Pankhurst’s personal bodyguard. Suitable for all ages. Price: £6.25. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/ero-presents-out-of-essextickets-780638299167

ERO Presents: Beach Hut People

Tuesday 7 May: 10.45am to 12.00pm

In this talk Nancy Stevenson will reflect upon beach hut culture in Essex and explore the stories collected for her book ‘Beach Hut People’. Suitable for all ages. Price: £6.25. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eropresents-beach-hut-people-tickets780676523497?aff=oddtdtcreator?a ff=oddtdtcreator

Essex Outdoors

School Holiday Activity Days

Easter and May school holidays, various dates

Discover action packed school holiday clubs at four centres across the county. Children take part in four exciting sessions led by highly qualified instructors throughout the day in small groups. Sessions depend on the centre and the day you are booking. Suitable for children aged eight to sixteenyears-old. Book five days and get one free. Price: See website. www.essexoutdoors.com/schoolholiday-activities

Harlow High Adventure

From Saturday 4 May: Weekends throughout the sumer

Take the family to new heights with a choice of two outdoor climbing activities at Harlow High Adventure, reopening for the summer. Choose from 90 minute sessions on the 12-metre tall High Ropes Hexagon, suitable for older children and adults or the colourful Climbing Wall adventure. Café onsite. Suitable for ages six-years-old and over. Price: From £11. www.essexoutdoors.com/ harlow-high-adventure

Harlow Paddle Club

Every Saturday

Have fun on the water with the Saturday Paddle Club at Essex Outdoors Harlow on the River Stort. Led by expert instructors you can try canoeing and kayaking in a safe setting and all equipment is provided. Suitable for the whole family from aged eight and over and for all abilities. Price: See website. www.essexoutdoors.com/ourcentres/harlow

Sailing and Powerboating Experiences

Various dates throughout the summer

For a special day out with a difference get On the Water. Choose from a sumptuous sail or exhilarating powerboat experience, depart from West Mersea or Bradwell-on-Sea. Try your hand at the helm or sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the Blackwater Estuary. Suitable for parties of seven, aged seven-years-old and over. Price: From £30 per person. www. essexoutdoors.com/blackwaterexperience-days

Hylands House

Hylands Open Estate Day

Sunday 21 April: 10.00am to 3.00pm

Hylands Estate is fully open for you to explore and enjoy at your leisure. Discover more about the history of Hylands House at the monthly exhibition in the library and guided morning tour. The Stables courtyard and artist studios are open for you to browse. Suitable for all ages. Price: Free. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/ explore/openestate

Vintage Afternoon Tea

Sunday 21 April: 12.00pm and 2.30pm

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with unlimited tea and coffee inside the Terrace Room. Make the most of your visit by viewing the spaces at our monthly Open House. Be sure to stop off at The Stables for live music and explore the Artist Studios with unique handmade items. Suitable for all ages. Price: Adults £36.00, children under 12-years-old £22.00. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events/ category/afternoon-tea

All About Dogs (organised by Aztec Events)

Sunday 5 and Monday 6 May: 9.30am to 5.00pm

The UK’s favourite canine event for dogs will be making a grand return to Hylands Park for the May bank holiday weekend. Bring your dog for two days full of exciting arena displays, expert advice and lots of activities including dog shows, K9 aqua sports and more. Suitable for all ages. Price: £7.00 to £12.50. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events/ all-about-dogs-show

The National Flower Show (organised by Aztec Events)

Friday 17 to Sunday 19 May: 9.00am to 5.00pm

This year’s show includes the Outdoor Plant Village, the Food and Drinks Pavilion and a Home and Country Pavilion filled with a selection of original handmade giftware, jewellery and more. Also, there is the new floral experience inside Hylands House. Suitable for

all ages. Price: £3.00 to £25.00. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events/ national-flower-show/all

Jewellery Making Workshops (organised by Tanya Krackowizer)

Saturday 23 March: Stacking Rings

Sunday 24 March: Skinny Hammered Bangle

Saturday 13 April: Chunky Hammered Ring with Stamping

Saturday 14 April: Skinny Stacking Rings

Saturday 11 May: Hammered Chunky Bangle

Sunday 12 May: Chunky Hammered Ring with Stamping

All sessions 10.00am to 2.00pm

Hosted by Tanya these workshops will help make wonderful gifts for those who love handmade jewellery. Tanya will teach you the fundamentals of jewellery making and help you make your own sterling silver jewellery. Suitable for 18-years-old plus. Price: From £85 per person. www.hylandsestate. co.uk/organiser/tanya-krackowizer

Beginners Glass Workshops (organised by Mona Marnell)

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 March, Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 April, Sunday 12, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May (Stained Glass): 10.00am to 5.00pm

Friday 19 and Saturday 20 April, Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May (Warm Glass): 10.00am to 4.00pm

Spend a fun day learning and creating your own glass creations. Mona teaches you how to cut glass safely and takes you through the process to make your own pieces. Suitable for 18-years-old plus.

Price: £110 per person, includes car parking. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/ organiser/mona-marnell

Design Consultations and Planning Workshops (organised by Method Studio Architects)

Friday 5, 12, 19 and 26 April: 2.00pm

Friday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May: 2.00pm

Method Studio Architects know the design and planning process can be complicated. To make this easier these afternoon workshops can help you understand what to expect from the process. You can discuss your project brief with the architects and designers. Price: Free. www.hylandsestate.co.uk/organiser/ method-studio-architects

Hedingham Castle

Easter Activities

Selected dates from Sunday 31 March: 11.00am to 4.00pm

Enjoy an Easter trail round the historic grounds and collect your sweet treat from the tearooms when you have found them all. Learn to fight like a medieval Knight at Knight School and meet Eden Falconry’s birds of prey. Suitable for all ages. Knight School is suitable for six-years-old plus. Price: From £9.00 per ticket. www.hedinghamcastle. co.uk/events

Spring Joust with Knights of Middle England

Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 April: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the thrill and majesty of medieval jousting, for their first joust of 2024. Suitable for the whole family. Price: From £16 per ticket. www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk/events

May Day Fair

Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 May

Celebrate the beginning of summer with a traditional May Day fair including maypole dancing, theatre, birds of prey, interactive activities, great food and more. Suitable for the whole family. Price: From £16 per ticket. www.hedinghamcastle. co.uk/events

May Joust with Knights of Royal England

Sunday 26 and Tuesday 27 May

The Knights of Royal England return in all their glory to battle it out in front of the ancient keep, but who will be victorious? A medieval spectacular not to be missed. Suitable for the whole family. Price: From £16 per ticket. www. hedinghamcastle.co.uk/events

Old Time Sailors

Saturday 4 May: 7.00pm to 11.00pm

Old Time Sailors is a musical spectacle set to whisk you away on a time traveling journey back to the 19th century. Their motley crew is made up of 17 musicians playing traditional and eclectic instruments. Suitable for the whole family. Price: £20. www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk/ events/old-time-sailors

Lee Valley White Water Centre

New season launch

From Monday 1 April bookings live

We’re excited to announce our summer rafting season. Whether you are an experienced rafter or a first timer, our facility offers a range of exciting and challenging experiences to suit everyone. Suitable for ages 12-years-old plus. Price: £60 per person. www. better.org.uk/leisure-centre/leevalley/white-water-centre/news/ discover-adventure-at-lee-valleywhite-water-centre

RHS Hyde Hall

The Giant Easter Egg Hunt

Friday 29 March to Sunday 14 April: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Go on an egg hunt this Easter to win a chocolate prize and discover the garden in all its spring glory. Suitable for ages three-years-old plus. Price: See website. www. rhs.org.uk/Gardens/RHS-GardenBridgewater/ViewEvent

Seasonal Walks

Tuesday 2, 16, and 30 April: 11.00am to 12.00pm

Explore Hyde Hall on a guided walk with the garden volunteers, taking in the seasonal highlights of the garden and estate. Suitable for adults. Price: See website. www.rhs. org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall/viewevent

Spring Plant Fair

Saturday 20 to Sunday 21 April: 10.00am to 4.00pm

In partnership with Essex Plant Heritage, discover specialist nurseries selling a range of unusual plants. Suitable for adults. Price: See website. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/ hyde-hall/viewevent

Craft and Design Show

Friday 3 to Monday 6 May: 10.00am to 5.00pm

A fabulous four-day craft show held over the bank holiday weekend, showcasing craftspeople and designer makers selling contemporary crafts. Suitable for adults. Price: See website. www.rhs. org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall

Anglian Potters Exhibition

Friday 3 to Monday 6 May: 10.00am to 5.00pm

An exhibition showcasing an eclectic range of work to suit all tastes. See pots of all shapes and sizes and sculptures for the home and

garden. Suitable for adults. Price: See website. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/ hyde-hall/viewevent

Walkies

Thursday 16 and Thursday 23 May: 5.00pm to 8.00pm

Enjoy a special evening walk and explore the garden in the company of your four-legged friend. Suitable for all ages. Price: See website. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hydehall/whats-on

Jaywick Martello Tower

Growing up, digging deep: The story of Scouts, food and farming

Now until Sunday 28 April

This exhibition from the Scouts Heritage Service explores the story of food and Scouts through three main themes: grow, make and eat. From learning to use a horse and plough, to planning expedition menus and exploring new cultures, we will see how the Scouts have evolved and responded to stay relevant. Suitable for all ages. Price: Free entry. www.explore-essex. com/whats-on

Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre

Historic Building Tours

Saturday 13 and 20 April

and Saturday 11 May: 11.00am and 2.30pm

Tours of 29-31 Church Street and 17 Market Hill (booked via Visit Saffron Walden). A chance to explore inside this much cherished Grade I listed 14th century property - part of the Old Sun Inn. Tours start with an introductory talk by owner Douglas Kent, the Technical and Research Director at the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. Suitable for ages 12-years-old and over. Price: Tickets £15 each, includes tea, coffee, homemade

cakes and biscuits via Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre. www.oldsuninn.com

Saltwater SUP

Hadleigh Country Park and Chalkwell Beach

Various dates

Whether you’re a complete novice or a paddle boarding racer, we have SUP activities and lessons from ages nine-years-old to adults at any level. Price: See website. www. saltwater-sup.co.uk

Sky Ropes

Great Notley Country Park

Weekends and school holidays

Reach for the stars on the Sky Ropes Adventure at Great Notley. Enjoy the two-level high ropes course ideal for children and adults from one metre tall. Suitable for all ages. Toddlers and younger adventurers can test their balance on the Sky Ropes Junior course. Price: Sky Ropes Junior from £4.50. Sky Ropes Adventure £13 per person. www.explore-essex. com/sky-ropes

Stow Maries Aerodrome

East Anglian Craft Fayre

Saturday 27 April: 10.00am to 3.00pm

A chance to enjoy some truly beautiful creations from our community of local crafters, designers and makers as well as the whole museum. Not only do you get to enjoy the fair but your admission gains you all the benefits of enjoying our award-winning exhibitions, hangars and tours. All for the regular admission fee. Suitable for all ages. Price: See website. www.stowmaries. org.uk/events

Wings and Wheels 2024

Sunday 26 May: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Wings and Wheels is returning. Amongst the iconic and atmospheric buildings of the last untouched and active Great War Aerodrome in Europe, hundreds of classic cars and motorcycles will be displayed. As part of the event, weather permitting, our own and guest aircraft will entertain and amaze in the skies, just like they did in 1918. Suitable for all ages. Price: See website. www.stowmaries.org.uk/ event/wings-and-wheels

Riverside Ice rink, Riverside Leisure Centre

Alice in Wonderland on Ice: Annual Easter ice show

Wednesday 3 to Sunday 7 April with morning, matinee and evening performances.

This year Riverside Leisure Centre and Chelmsford Riverside IceSkating Club collaborate to bring you an amateur production of Alice in Wonderland on Ice. Please note that these performances contain flashing lights, strobe lighting, loud noises and pyrotechnics. Suitable for all ages. Price: Tickets from £11.60 per person. www.chelmsford. gov.uk/ice-show

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