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Dizzying Heights and Steam Fun for Families

Travel back in time by steam to a land of castles at Hedingham and the Knights Templar barns at Cressing. Switch to outlet shopping in Braintree, leisure parks and high ropes.

Day 1

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Morning - Start your journey at Hedingham Castle - a 900-year-old keep which stands in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, and is still owned by descendants of the original owners, the De Veres.

Afternoon - Just a few mintues down the road you'll find the Colne Valley Railway - travel on an old diesel/steam train along the mile-long heritage line. Complete with a working signal box, travelling Post Office and Interpretation Centre, and special events throughout the year including meeting Thomas the Tank Engine, the children will love this place! Cafe on site.

Day 2

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Morning - Head to Great Notley Country Park, a fantastic space for cycling or just enjoying the fresh air. It is home to Sky Ropes and Essex's longest play trail at 1.2km, which includes a giant see-saw, sand pits, tyre swings and more, making it a great place for all ages to explore.

Afternoon - Make your way over to Cressing Temple where you'll find the Tiptree Tea Room, The Barns where you can tuck into some lunch. The historic Templar barns (some of the oldest in Europe) and gardens are also free to explore.

Braintree Village is a short journey away and the place for a spot of outlet shopping. Whilst the Leisure Park offers a cinema, bowling and a swimming pool, plus many restaurants.

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Accomodation

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Six Apples is a wonderful place for children to run around and have fun. Beautiful self-catering accommodation, it sleeps up to 8 and has a heated swimming pool (May to September), BBQ and summer house.

^{*Please check opening times of all venues before visiting as they are subject to change. Please quote Visit Essex when booking any of these venues.}