Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays | Events at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, or are yet to discover the home of our 500+ previously rescued or abandoned residents, when it comes to things to do in Essex in the summer holidays, we’ve got an udderly fabulous line up of events…

Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays – Kid’s Mega Fun Weekend

 Our Kids Mega Fun Weekend (22^nd & 23^rd July) is back and we know the family will love getting busy with inflatables, bungee trampolines, our soft play bus, foam pit and cannon, entertainment plus meet and greet opportunities with Captain America and Mirabel.
Book here. 

Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays – Pony Mornings

For your budding equestrians our Pony Mornings will definitely be a hit and they’re happening every Sunday throughout the summer holidays. Suitable for children age six-years and older, this parent-supervised activity includes activities such as feeding, watering, cleaning and grooming a pony. The sessions also include a children’s lunchbox, free admission to the sanctuary, an art & craft activity, an exclusive pony morning t-shirt and a certificate of participation. Please note that the experience does not include riding the ponies. Email office@hopefield.org.uk to secure your spot before the spaces all gallop out of town.

Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays – Ethical Animal Experiences

We’re really excited to announce that we’re launching Ethical Animal Experiences in time for the summer holidays. Choose from Cow Cuddles, Pony Glow Up, Pig Tickles or Sheep Shenanigans. The experience will include your chosen activity and lunch for two people, a dedicated member of staff with you plus an animal sponsorship. Suitable for parent-accompanied children age six-years and older.

Cow Cuddles: Meet our adorable Jersey Cows, Arlo and Oakley, and make a fuss of them in their paddock before hand feeding our gentle giants, Jude, Chip & Co in our other cow field.

Pony Glow Up: Spend time with our rescued ponies and give one of them a stunning glow up. Our pony friends love a groom and meeting new people!

Pig Tickles: We have lots of pigs here at Hopefield, most of who love nothing more than a belly rub and tickle! As part of this ethical experience you will get to interact with them as well as prepare their food and then help feed the large piggy gang.

Sheep Shenanigans: Come and make friends with our chilled and funny sheep flock including Dustin, Dougal and Simon, who you’ll help prep a tasty treat for before feeding them.

To find out more and to make a booking, please email office@hopefield.org.uk.

Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays – Hopefield’s Summer of Fun

We’ve got a full programme of activities happening (from 24^th July) that add up to a big Summer of Fun! Come down for inflatables, soft play bus, dino walkabouts, treasure trail, character meet ‘n’ greets, arts ‘n’ crafts, BBQ and a purpose-built sandpit. We’ve got you covered for the whole six weeks holiday!
Book here.

Things to do in Essex in the summer holidays – Family Fun Weekend

Back by popular demand our Family Fun Weekend (26^th & 27^th August) is making its return and includes children’s funfair rides, soft play bus, mega inflatable slide, bungee trampolines, live performances, entertainment, children’s play area plus BBQ and beer & Pimms tent.
Book here.

Other Hopefield Animal Sanctuary events you need on your family fun radar

Fire Walk: Can YOU brave the flames? Test your courage and help raise funds for Hopefield Animal Sanctuary by walking across fiery coals this September! This is set to be a red hot event that is sure to tick the ‘family night out’ box.
Sign up here.

Bubble Fest: All things bubbles are happening at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary on 23^rd September! Check back soon for the full, bubbly schedule!
Book here:

Dog Show: Our pawsome dog show is returning this September, and we can’t wait! Dog show classes include ‘waggiest tail’ and ‘best young handler.’ There will also be lots of pooch-based trade stalls, a children’s entertainer and those all-important inflatables.
Book here.

Keep your eyes peeled for other pop-up events as well as our Halloween at Hopefield and Christmas at Hopefield extravaganzas, more details on both very soon! Your support means the world to us, so when it comes to figuring out things to do in Essex with kids, do keep us in mind and tell all your friends about us too!