Experience a relaxing and cost-effective day out with our list of fun things to do in Chelmsford for all the family.
Go on a journey through the town's history at the Chelmsford Museum, which is situated in a park with an adventure play area. Children will love the fossils, British Wildlife galleries and the living beehive! There are also different archaeological monuments that take you from the Ice Age to the present day.
If your child dreams of being a police officer then they’ll love the Essex Police Museum. They can take their own fingerprints, become a detective solving a crime and listen to an actual police call. Small, but perfectly formed the museum is a family favourite and completely free of charge. Making memories on your Chelmsford family day out needn’t cost a penny!
It’s always a good idea to make the most of open spaces when you’ve got energetic kids in tow. Baddow Hall Park is a great spot for games and picnics and has an adventure play area, there’s also Chelmer Park for the sports enthusiasts with its basketball, football and netball courts and outdoor gym and Hylands House and Park, which has acres of space, 574 to be exact, and a huge outdoor playground that’s disabled-friendly.
Get out on the canal with Chelmer Cruises and hire a rowboat or canoe to go at your own steam, or join one of the cruises and let someone else do all the hard work for you!
If you’re unexpectedly rained off you can’t go wrong with a decent soft play Wacky Warehouse Queen B!

Inspired by ITV's hit TV show - Ninja Warrior UK! Face the obstacles yourself!

Indoor crazy golf, airsoft range, and escape rooms—fun, safe, and unforgettable family adventures all under one Chelmsford roof!

Ultimate bouncing fun for the whole family at Essex's top adventure park! Trampolines, climbing, AirSlides, and much more!

Challenge yourself, reach new heights and try amazing outdoor activities for all ages!

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary is a peaceful, family-friendly refuge for rescued animals, promoting compassion, education, and ethical animal care.

Race against the whole family at TeamSport Indoor Karting Basildon, to find out who's the true speedster among you!

Putt your way through two 12-hole crazy golf courses, play darts & arcade games, and bowl at Mulligan's Basildon!

Bring your family to TeamSport Indoor Karting Harlow for a fun-filled experience and discover who’s the ultimate speedster!

OPENING TIMES PETTING FARM ENTRY Friday/Saturday/Sunday 10am-4pm Open during School and Bank Holidays EXPERIENCES Pre-booked animal experiences are available every day!

Monday to Saturday Gymnastics, tumbling, DMT (double mini trampoline) Age: 2-15 Adult sessions 16+

Cammas Hall Farm is a family-owned and run farm attraction in beautiful countryside on the Hertfordshire/Essex border.

Uncover buried loot on the Chelmsford Mystery Treasure Trail!

Solve the puzzles and tackle the maze at Writtle Maize Maze's aMAZEing outdoor adventure!

Glide, spin and make memories at Riverside Leisure Centre's ice rink! Public sessions, age-restricted and fun disco sessions for all ages. Ice hockey and ice shows too!

Explore Hylands House and Park! See the grand house, stunning parklands and grand staircases! Enjoy the playground and cafe too!

Explore Essex Police Museum and its history from 1840 until present day. Learn about crime detection, see a recreation of a police cell & dress up for photos. See the many items on display and take a tour with knowledgeable volunteers and serving policemen!
Experience the UK's top attractions for less with our VIP Pass - the nation’s favourite day out discount membership! Enjoy kids go free, 2 for 1 and more on unforgettable days out.

Take the family to Ceramics on the Hop! Choose from a huge range of ceramics and get creative with clay hand-building, painting or handprints. Make something special to keep forever!

Pumpkin paradise, eerie circus, ghostly fun fair, and bewitching bites await at Land of the Dead!

Test your skills at West Park Pitch Putt & Crazy Golf! Challenge yourself with a 9 or 18 hole course, Footgolf and more. Enjoy special events, Kids' Club and birthday parties.

We offer an action packed soft play experience for little monsters and award winning children parties for the best memories

May half-term is certainly on the horizon now, which means it’s time to start planning some unforgettable family days out! With Whit Week just around the corner, attractions across the country are gearing up for a packed schedule of special events, live entertainment, thrilling rides, and seasonal activities perfect for all ages. Below is a…

It’s that time of the week again when you start scratching your head as to where to take the children this weekend. Well, there’s no need to worry as we’ve got you covered with a whole range of entertaining activities suitable for your youngest right up to your eldest. Below is a list of all…

Discover unusual Airbnb stays for UK families in 2026, from treehouses to castle stays, plus tips for booking around school holidays.

See what’s actually opening at Kynren in 2026, from live-action shows to future phases, plus what families should expect before they visit.

Discover the best hot air balloon dining experience in the UK for 2026, from family-friendly Feast on Cloud 9 to Beaverbrook’s luxury dining.
Discover Outernet’s free butterfly trail in London, where families can hold a digital butterfly on their phone and enjoy interactive mixed reality fun.

See the full Shrek cafe menu, from green waffles to swampy drinks, plus locations, opening times and top visit tips for families.

The first of the double whammy May Bank Holidays is upon us and you’re probably wondering how you’re going to entertain the kids for the long weekend. Well, panic over! We’ve got you covered with a whole range of entertaining activities and attractions. Below is a list of all the trending attractions you’ll want to…