Colchester is a great place to be over the Easter School Holidays. With a mix of free and paid activities for kids and families, there's plenty to do for all budgets and taste, whether you're looking to learn more about the city's history, take part in a fast-paced physical activity or enjoy a peaceful walk through nature - perfect for the season!
Whether you're hunting for Easter eggs, looking for lambs or trying to keep the whole family happy and busy, we've got something for every taste, and you can visit our 'What's On For Kids This Easter Holidays' page for information on plenty of upcoming events and award-winning attractions, regardless of the weather.
Easter Holidays at Colchester Zoo (5th-21st April)
This Easter, enjoy a wild adventure at Colchester Zoo filled with daytime activities suitable for children of all ages!
Set within over 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lake, you can expect entertainment from the Wild Vibe Crew and family-friendly daytime activities this Easter Holidays. You'll also be able to enjoy all of the Zoo's classic offerings, like feeding the goats, enjoying the soft-play areas and taking a ride on the Lost Madagascar Express! Click here to find out more about these varied seasonal offerings.
Feed the goats at Colchester Zoo. Photo credit: Colchester Zoo.
Golden Dragon Egg Hunt at Wyvernwood (5th-21st April)
Gather up your little knights and wizards, because Nine of Zephyr & Zeta’s golden dragon eggs have gone missing in the Kingdom! Start your adventure at Wyvernwood this Easter Holidays with an engaging, unforgettable Golden Dragon Egg Hunt.
If you've never visited Wyvernwood, you're missing out. Your little ones will love the spirit of adventure, the riddles and the problem solving at this immersive story-led experience, perfect for families with children aged 2-12! Click here to find out more about this engaging attraction, just a short drive from Colchester.
Easter Fun at Layer Marney Tower
Layer Marney Tower is not only a historic building, but also an excellent base for family fun! If you're looking for a nostalgic celebration of Easter traditions that take you back to your childhood, why not book in to see the lambs, or join the famous Egg and Spoon Race?
Layer Marney Tower also offers an Easter Egg Hunt and bookable tractor rides, with picnics welcome. Click here to find out more about these fantastic, classic celebrations.
Photo credit: Layer Marney Tower.
Teddy Bear Picnic at Dedham Vale Vineyard (19 April)
A classic family-friendly day out, Dedham Vale Vineyard are opening their fields to the Easter Bunny and fluffy friends alike. Embark on an exciting adventure as you hunt for the world famous rabbit before enjoying a delightful picnic in the Vineyard grounds or up in the woods with your favourite teddy.
If you complete the trail challenges, you'll be rewarded with a delicious Easter Egg at the finish line! Click here to find out more about this fun, outdoor event.
Holiday Fun at Firstsite Art Gallery (8th-19th April, see website for schedule)
Firstsite is a great option for art and culture lovers, but that's not all - it's also great for families!
School holidays can quickly become expensive, and it's easy to feel the pressure to keep things exciting and engaging, but Firstsite is proud to offer their Holiday Fun activities for families facing economic challenges, or those who require additional support during the school holidays, including those that qualify for benefits-based free school meals. This project has been funded by the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance and Wellbeing Alliance and the Neighbourhood programme. Funding is administered through One Colchester.
During the school holidays, Firstsite offers an extensive calendar of varied drop-in creative activities that change daily, plus outdoor sport activities. Plus, as a free museum, it's a great spot to introduce your little ones to contemporary art. Click here to find out more about the great events on offer.
Firstsite Art Gallery is the perfect hub for budding creatives, and offers an extensive events calendar over the school holidays.
