Best Things to Do in Essex with Kids: Don’t Miss the May Bank Holiday Family Festival in Brentwood!

Looking for one of the best things to do in Essex with kids this May bank holiday? The Bank Holiday Family Festival at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood is back bigger than ever, and is packed with fun, animals and activities for all ages – all for an amazing cause.

Taking place on 2nd to 4th May 2026, 10am–4pm, this family event in Brentwood has something for everyone — from littles to teens. Whether you’re local to Essex or visiting for the day, it’s a brilliant way to spend a bank holiday while supporting the 700 rescued animals who call Hopefield their forever home.

What’s On at the Bank Holiday Family Festival

This festival brings together classic family fun with the unique backdrop of a working animal sanctuary. With one entry ticket, you and your kids can enjoy:

🐐 Meet and greet our sanctuary animals — a chance to get up close with residents rescued from tough pasts

🛝 Play areas and inflatables — including soft play and bouncy fun

🧠 Interactive activities and crafts — creativity for all ages

🎶 Live entertainment throughout the day — live acts and family-friendly performances

🎡 Fairground rides

🧸 Soft play bus

🐾 Sanctuary trail

There will also be plenty of tasty food to purchase on site, and a fully licensed bar for you to buy your soft and alcoholic drinks at.

This is not just another day out — it’s one of the best family events in Brentwood, where every ticket purchased helps support the ongoing care of rescued animals.

Why This Festival Is One of the Best Things to Do in Essex with Kids

Essex has lots of great family days out, but the Bank Holiday Family Festival at Hopefield really stands out for a few key reasons:

✨ It’s built around learning and compassion — kids can connect with animals and learn about rescue and welfare.

✨ It’s active and engaging — from play areas to fairground rides, there’s always something to do.

✨ It’s accessible for all ages — whether toddlers, primary school kids or teens, everyone can join in the fun.

✨ It supports animal welfare — every ticket helps fund our vital work in rescuing and rehabilitating the animals that need us most.

Tickets can be bought now at discounted online rates, so don’t miss out on the fun! We can’t wait to welcome you and your family down for an amazing day out with the kids in the Essex countryside.

BUY TICKETS