After 13 years at Hopefield Animal, we have had to say goodbye to beloved rescue cow Devon — a gentle soul who touched the hearts of thousands.
If you’re searching for the best things to do this summer in Essex with kids, there’s one place that combines family fun, outdoor adventure, unforgettable animal encounters and exciting seasonal events all in one day out — Hopefield Animal Sanctuary.
Located in Brentwood, Essex, Hopefield Animal Sanctuary is home to hundreds of rescued animals and an exciting calendar of family-friendly events throughout the summer holidays. From giant inflatables and carnival rides to exotic animals and themed family festivals, Hopefield is quickly becoming one of the top family attractions in Essex.
Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure, searching for affordable school holiday activities, or simply hoping to get the kids outdoors this summer, here’s what’s happening at Hopefield in Summer 2026.
This summer, Hopefield is launching its biggest school holiday programme yet with Summer of Fun — six weeks packed with activities, entertainment and family fun throughout the school holidays.
Families visiting during the Summer of Fun can expect:
As an added bonus for families looking for value this summer, every paying child will receive a FREE return voucher, giving families another opportunity to revisit the sanctuary during the holidays.
For parents searching for “school holiday activities Essex”, “summer holiday days out with kids”, or “cheap family days out Essex”, Hopefield’s Summer of Fun offers fantastic value alongside a memorable day out supporting rescued animals.
Exotic Animal Weekend arrives at Hopefield this June, giving families the rare chance to see rescued exotic animals usually unavailable to view during standard sanctuary visits. Children can discover fascinating rescued birds and unusual species while learning more about animal welfare and conservation in a safe, educational environment. Expect to say hello to skunks, meerkats, palm civets, a serval, cockatoos, African grey parrots, foxes, birds of prey, tanuki, raccoons and more.
This unique event is ideal for animal-loving children and offers a fantastic alternative to traditional zoos or theme parks in Essex.
Hopefield’s Vegan & Wellness Day offers a more relaxed summer experience for families looking to enjoy wellbeing, ethical living and plant-based food in a beautiful countryside setting.
Visitors can enjoy:
This unique event combines a positive, community atmosphere with Hopefield’s mission of compassion and animal welfare, making it a fantastic summer day out for families, animal lovers and anyone interested in wellness or sustainable living.
Looking for something different this summer? The Hopefield Hoedown brings country-themed family entertainment to Essex with live music, dancing, games and festival-style fun.
Families can enjoy:
It’s the perfect way to kick off the summer season while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the sanctuary.
If your children love inflatables, rides and non-stop entertainment, the Ultimate Kids Fun Weekender is a must-visit this summer.
This two-day family event is packed with:
Alongside all the entertainment, children also get the chance to meet Hopefield’s rescued horses, alpacas, goats, pigs, rabbits and many more friendly residents. Every ticket helps support the sanctuary’s rescue work, making it a fun day out with a meaningful purpose.
For parents searching “kids activities Essex summer holidays” or “family days out Essex”, this event ticks every box.
Celebrate the end of the summer holidays in style at Hopefield’s End of Summer Carnival.
Expect three days of:
This August Bank Holiday event is ideal for families wanting to make the most of the final weekend before the children return to school.
Unlike many family attractions, Hopefield offers more than just entertainment. Every visit helps fund the care of over 700 rescued animals, giving families the opportunity to support an important local charity while creating lasting memories together.
Families visiting Hopefield can enjoy:
The sanctuary is especially popular with younger children thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and variety of friendly animals to meet throughout the site.
Essex is full of fantastic family attractions during the summer holidays, but if you’re looking for a destination that combines entertainment, animals and meaningful family experiences, Hopefield Animal Sanctuary stands out as one of the best summer days out in Essex.
To find out more about each of these events and to book tickets for any of them (or general admission tickets – we’re open outside of school holidays Friday to Tuesday every week and daily in school holidays), head to the link below:
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