🌟 Early May Bank Holiday: Family Festival (2nd–4th May 2026)
Kick off the month with one of the top family events in Essex this May Bank Holiday — our hugely popular Family Festival.
Taking place over three days, this high-energy event combines live entertainment, hands-on activities and the chance to meet our rescued residents — all included in your ticket.
What to expect:
🎡 Fairground rides and inflatables
🎶 Live music and performances
🎨 Children’s crafts and activities
🧸 Soft play bus
🐾 Meet hundreds of rescued animals
🌿 Sanctuary trail and open space to explore
Whether you’ve got toddlers or teens, there’s something for everyone — making it one of the best family days out in Essex this May.
👉 Book Family Festival tickets: https://hopefield.org.uk/bank-holiday-family-festival-2026/
🎉 Spring Bank Holiday Weekend: Bank Holiday Bonanza (23rd–24th May 2026)
Looking for even more things to do with kids this May Bank Holiday in Essex? Our Bank Holiday Bonanza brings festival vibes, fun activities and family entertainment to the sanctuary.
Perfect for all ages, this event is packed with interactive experiences and lively entertainment across the site.
Highlights include:
🎪 Family entertainment and live acts
🎨 Hands-on activities and games
🐾 Rescued animals to meet
🏰 Giant inflatables
🚌 Soft play bus and soft play toddler zone
🦘 Huge jumping pillow
🌳 Outdoor fun across the sanctuary
It’s the ideal way to enjoy the long weekend with the kids — combining fresh air, fun and a meaningful cause.
👉 Find out more: https://hopefield.org.uk/bank-holiday-bonanza/
🐶 Spring Bank Holiday Special: Doggy Fun Day (25th May 2026)
Dog lovers — this one’s for you! Taking place during the Spring Bank Holiday, our Doggy Fun Day is one of the most unique and fun family events in Essex.
Bring your four-legged friends along for a day full of wagging tails, games and laughter.
What’s on:
🐕 Fun dog show classes
🎉 Games and activities for dogs and owners
🛍️ Stalls and treats
👨👩👧 Family-friendly atmosphere
It’s a brilliant addition to your Bank Holiday plans and a must-visit for animal lovers.
👉 Learn more about Doggy Fun Day: https://hopefield.org.uk/doggy-fun-day-2026/
💚 A Family Day Out That Makes a Difference
What makes Hopefield truly special is that every visit supports something bigger.
As a registered charity, all profits go directly towards caring for our rescued animals, giving them a safe and loving forever home.
So when you’re planning the best things to do with kids this May Bank Holiday in Essex, you can enjoy a fantastic day out knowing you’re helping animals in need.
🌿 Why Choose Hopefield This May Bank Holiday?
✔️ 53 acres of countryside to explore
✔️ Activities for toddlers, children and teens
✔️ A mix of fun, education and outdoor adventure
✔️ On-site café, playground, wellness garden & quiet areas
✔️ A meaningful day out supporting rescued animals
📅 Plan Your Visit
With three incredible events across both May Bank Holiday weekends, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Whether you come for the festival atmosphere, the family fun, or the animals — Hopefield offers one of the best days out with kids in Essex this May Bank Holiday.
🎟️ Book early to avoid missing out — these events are always popular!
