Looking for accessible days out in Essex? Carers go free at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, home to rescued animals, family activities and unforgettable experiences.
If you’re searching for affordable things to do in Essex with kids in the summer holidays, you’ll know how quickly the cost of family days out can add up. By the time you’ve paid for admission, activities and extras, one day out can leave a sizeable dent in the holiday budget. At Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, we believe summer should be about making memories, not worrying about how much every activity costs. That’s why our Summer of Fun has been designed to offer families a fantastic-value day out, with loads of activities included in the ticket price – and an extra surprise that means you can do it all again!

This summer, every paying child receives a FREE return voucher, giving them another visit to Hopefield on a future standard opening day in 2026 (including the summer holidays). That’s right – two family days out for the price of one. Whether your little ones can’t wait to bounce again, want to revisit their favourite rescued animals or simply fancy another summer adventure, they’ll be welcomed back completely free.
Unlike many attractions where the extras soon start adding up, your Summer of Fun ticket includes access to:
It’s all included in your admission price, so once you’re through the gates, you can simply relax and enjoy your day together.

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary is home to more than 700 rescued animals, each with their own unique story.
From horses, donkeys, cows and goats to pigs, rabbits, birds and many more, every visit helps support the care of animals who have been given a second chance.
Along the way you’ll discover fascinating facts about our residents, watch daily animal activities and enjoy plenty of opportunities to learn more about animal welfare.
Every ticket purchased helps fund the care of the animals who call Hopefield home.
That means your family day out isn’t just packed with fun—it’s helping provide food, veterinary care, enrichment and safe forever homes for hundreds of rescued animals.
It’s entertainment with a purpose.
If you’re searching online for:
Hopefield’s Summer of Fun ticks every box.
With a huge range of activities included in your ticket and a FREE return visit for every paying child, it’s one of the best-value family days out in Essex this summer.
Summer of Fun runs from 18th July to 28th August 2026.
Book your tickets today and discover why so many families return to Hopefield year after year.
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