Mountfitchet Castle and Toy Museum
Mountfitchet Castle and Toy Museum is a fabulous day out for the whole family. The castle is the only wooden Motte and Bailey reconstruction on its original site anywhere in the world. It is a living history, hands-on and interactive experience stepping back in time to see what life would have been like in 1066 Norman England. There’s plenty of opportunities to feed the rescue animals on site and the House on the Hill Toy Museum has over 80,000 items on display making it an Aladdin’s cave of nostalgia. For the bravehearted a visit to the Haunted Manor is also recommended.
Read more about Mountfitchet castle here.
Golf World Stansted
If you need some fresh air and fun don’t miss the fantastic 18-hole adventure golf. Based on local history and built to reflect the motte and bailey castle at Stansted Mountfitchet. Pot your way through a life size Normal longship, a thatched turreted house and a working water wheel, all set in a calming water and garden environment.
If you fancy something a bit more challenging, have a game of Footgolf – combining the two most popular sports in the world, what’s not to love!?
Read more about Golf World Stansted here.
Audley End House and Gardens
The stunning Jacobean mansion, Audley End House and Gardens, owned by English Heritage has acres of space for the kids to run off some steam and a play area with café. Kids will learn what life was like above and below stairs with lots of interactive exhibits plus a visit to the stables to see the resident horses.
Read more about Audley End House and Gardens here.
Audley End Miniature Railway
Situated just the other side of road from Audley End House is the fabulous Audley End Miniature Railway and Fairy Walk. As the miniature steam train meanders through the magical woodland keep your eyes peeled for the special residents who live there. A fantastic playground, café and an enchanting fairy walk make this a charming day out for all generations.
Read more about Audley End Miniature Railway here.
Saffron Walden Town
Saffron Walden town is great fun for kids. The award winning, family friendly museum is a must do, as is visiting the common for a wander around the turf maze and playground equipment for young and old alike. Make a mission out of exploring the town by following the Secret Spy Mission Trail then take in the tranquillity of Bridge End Gardens and the hedge maze.
For older kids check out Saffron Walden Saffron Walden Skate Park The floodlit park has three bowls and street skating, a rail area and a mini-park for under 10’s. The skate park is free and open from 8am until 10pm. Smaller skate parks are situated in Great Dunmow, Stansted Mountfitchet and Thaxted.
Cammas Hall Farm
Cammas Hall Farm is a fun packed day with so much to do!
As well as a wide selection of pick your own fruit and vegetables there is also a maize maze (August to October), nature trail, foot golf course, play area, tea barn and farm shop.
There are lots of seasonal events to enjoy such as the Sunflower Festival, Bank Holiday Beer Festivals and the legendary Pumpkin Patch!
Daisy May’s Community Farm also provides an opportunity to gain some hands-on experience with the animals, paddle in the stream or take a ride on the resident ponies.
Hatfield Forest has an abundance of things to do. There’s space for den building, acres of ancient woodland to explore, trees to climb, boats to row and ducks to feed. You can also borrow some outdoor games such as boules, quoits and croquet from the visitor welcome hub.
For the more adventurous amongst you book an adrenaline fuelled experience day racing supercars or American Trucks or head over to Langley Park Rally School where youngsters can take a turn behind the wheel.
When rain stops play head to Little Monsters House of Fun in Great Dunmow or Just Play in Saffron Walden for some soft play. Try your hand at some pottery painting at The Chameleon Cafe or the independent community cinema, Saffron Screen, hosts a variety of films alongside some special screenings for younger children
