Taking foster children on days out is a great way to bond, make memories, and give them
experiences they may not usually have access to. Essex has no shortage of fun, family-friendly places
that are ideal for foster children of all ages. Here are 5 top recommendations.
Adventure Island, Southend-On-Sea
This popular theme park in Southend-on-Sea has rides, attractions and arcades suitable for children
of all ages.
Thrill rides like Dragon’s Claws and Rage will delight older kids whilst tots can enjoy the
Carousel and Ladybird Logs.
With special needs facilities, baby changing areas and lockers to store
belongings, it caters very well to foster families. Food outlets provide plenty of child-friendly dining
options to keep energy levels up! An all-day wristband covering the majority of rides offers excellent
value.
Discounted wrist bands can often be found in independent shops and organisations in Essex.
Visit: https://adventureisland.co.uk/
Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo makes for a wonderful day out for foster children. Spanning over 60 acres, it is home
to over 180 species including endangered ones like orangutans and Amur leopards. If you are
fostering in Essex, your foster children will love getting a glimpse into the lives of giraffes, sea lions,
penguins and more in naturalistic enclosures.
With a children’s farm, discovery centre and adventure playground included in admission, there is plenty to keep kids engaged in between animal viewings.
For babies and toddlers unable to walk long distances, buggies are available to hire.
Visit: https://www.colchester-zoo.com/
Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, Chelmsford
Let imaginations run wild at this animal-themed adventure park near South Woodham Ferrers. Children can feed and groom furry friends at the animal handling sessions, then burn off energy in the large indoor
play frames or go-karts outdoors.
Farm rides, shows and fairground attractions provide endless entertainment, with discounts for foster families making it very affordable. The extensive facilities like baby changing, high chairs and a designated breastfeeding area ensure little ones are also well catered for.
Visit: https://www.marshfarm.co.uk/
Danbury Country Park
The outdoorsy child will adore this large country park spanning over 200 acres near Chelmsford.
Boasting woodland, meadows and lakes rich in wildlife, children can immerse themselves in nature
in a safe, supervised environment.
The sensory garden with textured plants and wind chimes is ideal
for disabled access, while Nature’s Way playground has logs, tunnels, sand and water to fuel
imaginative play. With waymarked trails, picnicking facilities and a café onsite, it caters very well for
families seeking an active yet relaxed day out.
Visit: https://www.visitessex.com/things-to-do/danbury-country-park-p1267981
Sea Life Adventure Park, Southend-On-Sea
A stone’s throw from the popular Adventure Island is another child magnet – Sea Life Adventure
Park. Get up close with magical marine creatures and embark on a voyage under the sea along a themed trail covering different habitats like rock pools and coral reefs. Interactive rockpools allow
hands-on engagement whilst talks and feeds bring certain highlights like sharks and penguins to life.
With special children’s play zones incorporated plus free carer admission for foster families, it offers
a child-friendly, educational experience that won’t break the bank.
Essex certainly isn’t short of attractions to thrill, educate and captivate foster children. By choosing
those with accessibility options, tailored facilities, discounts and engaging hands-on elements, carers
can find days out that allow children to revel in childhood fun whilst ensuring their unique needs are
met.
