Get active
Simply being outdoors and getting active improves both mental and physical health. From taking a walk across rolling grasslands to cycling and kids’ play trails we’ve got something for you in many different locations across the county. So come on and get out more.
Read more about the benefits of being outside in our blog.
Places to go
Featured 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 18, 2024 - January 5, 2025
- Venue: Weald Country Park
- Times: 8:00am - 4:30pm
- For the whole family
- Price: Free*
Christmas Colouring
Spread some seasonal cheer with our cute colouring sheet
- Dates: November 18 - December 31, 2024
- Primary School aged children
- Price: Free. Print at home.
Animal Mysteries Festive Trail at Belhus Woods
Enjoy this festive trail at the Essex Country Parks funded by the Year of Numbers.
- Dates: December 1, 2024 - January 5, 2025
- Venue: Belhus Woods Country Park
- Times: 10:00am - 4:00pm
- Primary School aged children
- 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
Parkrun: Cudmore Grove Country Park
Free, weekly 5km timed runs.
- Dates: Every Saturday
- Venue: Cudmore Grove Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 10:00am
- For adults
- Price: Free
Parkrun: Hadleigh Country Park
Free, weekly 5km timed runs.
- Dates: Every Saturday
- Venue: Hadleigh Country Park
- Times: 9:00am - 10:00am
- For adults
- Price: Free
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.