Events in Essex – Categories
Please note: The events in Essex featured are all third party events: Healthy Life Essex is not normally directly involved in organising or running any of these events. As events may be cancelled or details changed without us being informed, please always clarify details with the organiser / contact listed. Healthy Life Essex cannot accept responsibility for incorrect information shown on our events listings.
Directory advertisers can add their own ad hoc events free of charge as can most charities. Other events may incur a cost. The directors reserve the right not to accept entries or to make a small charge.
September 2019
Belfairs 5 mile fun run – Belfairs Woodland Centre
£10
Please join Essex Wildlife Trust for a 5 mile fun run through the beautiful late summer woodland. We will meet at the Belfairs Woodland Centre and follow a 5 mile off-road course through the Belfairs Woods and Nature Reserve. The run will take you through ancient coppiced woodland, a home to rare butterflies, song thrushes and wild flowers. RUN WILL START AT 10.30 AM. Runners must be aged 14 or over, 14 to 16 year old's must be accompanied by…
Find out more »Forest School Training Level 3 (RQF) Summer holiday 2019 – Abbotts Hall
During this nine day course at Abbotts Hall Farm we will equip you with a wealth of practical skills and provide on-going support to complete a portfolio and run a pilot Forest School required to become a qualified Forest School practitioner with deep understanding of the Forest School ethos and the woodland environment and wildlife. Course dates August 5,6,7,8,9 and and two tool skills days September 21 and 22 plus half termly Forest School Portfolio surgeries (dates tbc) On the…
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Migration Day and The Big County Birdwatch – Fingringhoe
Expert guides from Swallow Birding will be present all day offering advice and walks alongside The Essex Birdwatching Society. Expert guides from Swallow Birding will be on hand all day to offer advice and have a chat, free guided tours going out at 10am, 12noon and 2pm. The Essex Birdwatching Society will have a stand in the centre all day and will be encouraging you to take part in The Big County Birdwatch to celebrate their 70th year of bird…
Find out more »Photography Level 1 – Know the Basics – Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre
Join Photographer Daniel Bridge for this one-day workshop. This course is designed to teach you the basics of photography. You will learn everything needed to take full control of your camera e.g. aperture, shutter speed, ISO etc. Event suitable for 11+ years of age. Advance booking essential.
Find out more »Nature Course: Foraging for beginners
Want to learn about Foraging and how our furry friends look for foods. Let yourself be taught practical skills that you can use any time to forage for foods yourself. In the course you'll learn the basics of foraging and how to identify edible plants followed by a walk around the nature reserve to put into practise what you learnt in the classroom.
Find out more »Migrant and Sea Watch Walk: Walton on the Naze
Come and enjoy a guided walk around The Naze lead by bird expert Marc Outten to discover which migrants have arrived, what is out at sea and other things of interest at this unique and diverse coastal habitat. Don't forget your binoculars and camera. Booking essential
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Abbotts Hall Farm Nature Tots
A wonderful weekly event for pre-school toddlers at Abbotts Hall Farm Forest School. Let your tots get outside and explore! Look for creepy crawlies, build dens, balance on ropes, get messy in our mud kitchen, fly through the trees on our rope swing , relax in the hammock, play woodland games and watch the fire. The only limit is their imagination! This is a Forest School Nature Tots that is child led with themed activity each week, we play in…
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Tuesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
TuesdayJoin Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Beavers Work Dam Hard – Finchingfield, nr Thaxted
Come and join Essex Wildlife Trust to learn about Beavers and the flood Management project. See some amazing footage by Russell Savory, Wildlife Photographer; whose work features regularly on national TV. Tea, coffee and a bacon roll included. Guided walk to follow: Brent Hall Road, Finchingfield, Braintree CM7 4NL Wellies and appropriate clothing are essential for this event. In partnership with Spain’s Hall Estate. Booking essential. CLICK HERE TO BOOK
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Tiptree Heath Nature Reserve
Weekly Tuesday afternoon work parties are organised by the warden throughout the year to carry out on-going maintenance and access tasks. Better for you than the gym and free too 😊 Please wear suitable clothes for the weather conditions and sturdy footwear. Please contact the warden if you wish to join on a specific date to make sure a work party is taking place.
Find out more »Dementia friendly walk – Hanningfield
Led by dementia-friendly trained staff, take an exclusive, quiet and peaceful walk through Hanningfield Nature Reserve. The walk is for people with dementia and their carers. Enjoy a cream tea when you return to the visitor centre. Booking required
Find out more »Forest School Level 3 Training September 2019
Would you like to set up a Forest School? Would you like to become a qualified Forest School Practitioner? This is a nine-day course at Abbotts Hall Farm from 9am to 4pm on 25th, 26th, 27th, 30th September, and 1st October, plus tool skills days on October 24th and 25th, plus portfolio surgeries and a work-bases assessment. Course content: • Attend training days which consist of both theory and practical tasks. • Run a Forest School programme in your chosen…
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Wednesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – The Naze
Weekly pre-school parent and toddler group for under 5s every Wednesday at The Naze Includes wildlife themed activities, games and crafts. The sessions will include a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities so wrap up warm when the weather is cold. We may be on the beach when the tide is out so please bring appropriate footwear and clothing. Please note that access for pushchairs may be limited especially for beach activities. Booking Essential
Find out more »Home-education Forest School Group – Benfleet
This is a group for children and their parents/carers, who are home-educated. We learn about wildlife, create crafts from natural materials, light fires, build dens - socialise, problem solve, build resilience and independence - and most of all HAVE FUN!! All in the beautiful and calm surroundings of our reserve at Pound Wood, Thundersley Bring a snack to cook on the fire if you want to, and bring water and juice Wear outdoor clothing, which may get muddy, and bring…
Find out more »Nature Tots – Abberton
Nature Tots is a weekly preschool group for under 5's during term time at Abberton Nature Reserve, where young children can explore, play and learn through nature. The EWT team guarantee a fun filled morning of wildlife adventures, crafts and stories. As the seasons change, we like to get outside, explore, play, learn and create based on a different natural theme each week. From bug hunting and leaf spotting to clay creations and pond dipping - the only limit is…
Find out more »Nature Tots – Langdon
Join the EWT team at Langdon Nature Reserve for a fun morning of wildlife themed activities, including outdoor adventures, craft and story. Suitable for pre-school aged children, accompanied by an adult, babes in arms free when accompanying an older sibling. Suitable outdoor clothing required. Advance booking is essential
Find out more »Wildlife Walk: Bowers Marsh nr Basildon
The Essex Wildlife Trust Brentwood & Billericay Local Grouo have organised a visit to Bowers Marsh, a newly established RSPB site on the Thames Estuary, to view migrant waders and passerines, plus an interesting range of insect life. For wildlife walks, please arrange car sharing if possible. If travelling direct, call wildlife walks organiser first in case of last minute changes. All walks open to non-members.
Find out more »Monthly Wildlife Amble – The Naze
Join your EWT guides Geoff and Isobel for our monthly Wildlife Amble. The Amble takes place on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Take a steady stroll on the Naze enjoying the wonderful views across the cliffs and out towards the North Sea. There will be plenty of opportunity to stop along the way to look at the plants, birds,mammals and insects found in the unique habitat of the Naze. The amble will take about an hour and a half…
Find out more »Sea and Shore Photography Workshop – The Naze
This is a small group specialist adult-only workshop run by Essex Wildlife Trust at The Naze, concentrating on coastal photography, from wider seascapes to details of beaches. You'll need to be happy with your ability to control your camera, either because you've attended my 'Know The Basics' workshop, or because you've already learnt the basics yourself, and a tripod will be hugely beneficial for this sort of photography, especially as we'll be shooting into late evening. We spend the afternoon…
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Thursday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly Thursday volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Belfairs Nature Tots
Belfairs Nature Tots is an under 5's pre-school club based around nature, wildlife and the seasons at Belfairs Woodland Centre and Nature Reserve held during term time only. Youngsters will love the mix of arts, crafts and games; having stories and music; and, of course, some outdoor time in the woodlands! CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED Booking is essential
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Nature Tots (Under 5s) – Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre
This weekly pre-school group, held on alternate Tuesdays and Fridays at Hanningfield Nature Reserve, is for the under 5's. The session includes wildlife activities on the nature reserve, crafts and games in the centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – Fingringhoe Nature Reserve
A weekly group for the under 5's providing child led play in the lovely Fingringhoe woodland. Get messy, make some noise & enjoy being outside. Booking is essential and places are limited. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Story Time: The Little Cockroach – Hanningfield
Essex Wildlife Trust are pleased to be hosting the author of 'The Little Cockroach' at Hanningfield. Susie Violet will be leading a storytime perfect for your little ones. Come along and join us anytime from 12.30 to 1.30pm. About The Little Cockroach: Pedro is a little Mexican cockroach. He is brave, lovable and always looking for fun. Pedro loves Mexico but he wants to see the world. Amazing things happen to Pedro and his friend Enrico when they leave Mexico…
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Lost Words Trail – Thorndon Countryside Centre
So many words are disappearing from our dictionaries! Would you like to help Essex Wildlife Trust discover those lost natural words by following a trail around the woods at Thorndon Countryside Centre. Drop-in and collect a self-led trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre at any time. Come on your own or bring the family.
Find out more »Optics Day – Abberton Reservoir
Visit Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre and let the friendly Optics Team help and advise you. The EWT range of Hawke and Opticron binoculars, telescopes, tripods and accessories are carefully selected for quality, price and value for money and will be on display so you can try before you buy. All profits go to EWT to support our conservation work around the county
Find out more »Youth Rangers – Hanningfield Reservoir
A fortnightly group for children aged 8-11 years old who enjoy the outdoors, wildlife and getting their hands dirty at Hanningfield Reservoir Centre and Nature Reserve. Lots of different indoor and outdoor activities.
Find out more »Basket Making – Abberton Reservoir
Come and spend an enjoyable day trying your hand at the traditional craft of basket-making. Using English willow you will weave a basket to take home. The workshop is informal and relaxed and is suitable for beginners. All materials and tools will be provided but please bring sharp secateurs if you have them and it is a good idea to wear old clothes. Lunch will be available to purchase from the tea room or bring a packed lunch which may…
Find out more »Crafty Saturdays – Thurrock Thameside Nature Park
Onsite parkingDrop into Thurrock Thameside Nature Park and make a clever craft with our volunteer, Crafty Carol. Each week there will be a different theme. This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Heidi Jukes and Rachel Spender Art Exhibition – Fingringhoe Wick
A joint art exhibition at Fingringhow Wick Visitor Centre featuring Heidi Jukes art works and aerial photographs from Rachel Spender. Rachel Spender will be exhibiting hand made black and white aerial photographs of Essex salt marshes. Heidi Jukes will exhibit small ‘OutPost works’ painted on board using visual references from rural sites on exploratory visits to Roman Hill, Essex, to be displayed close to source at Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre. This exhibition is in conjunction with OUTPOST, a project running…
Find out more »Volunteer Wortk Party: Sawbridgeworth Marsh Nature Reserve
Work parties at Sawbridgeworth Nature Reserve take place every Sunday. Contact the warden Bob Reed for more information.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Cranham Marsh Nature Reserve
Why not join the last Wednesday volunteer work party at Cranham Marsh Nature Reserve and help complete a range of tasks including coppicing in the woods, hedge laying, scrub bashing, fence and ditch work. Contact the warden Tony Gunton for more details. Further work parties are held on the last Sunday of every month throughout the year
Find out more »Fun dog show – The Naze
Is your dog a show stopper almost worthy of Crufts? Can they dance and headbang to the likes of AC/DC. Come along to our fun dog show at the Naze Centre. It’s a great day out and a chance to get a rosette for your dog. With classes such as best veteran, best junior handler, Dog the judges would most like to take home, It’s sure to be a good day out! Registration will start at 10:00 am and the…
Find out more »Forest School Fun Sundays – Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
A fantastic outdoor family event for all the family at Fingringhoe Hoe Wick Nature Reserve, near Colchester Forest School Activities in the woods include bug hunting, build dens, balance on a rope walk, make woodland crafts, use tools, create wild art, play woodland games and learn how to light fires. The only limit is your imagination. Suitable for children 5+ who must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
Find out more »Forest School Fun Sundays – Hanningfield Nature Reserve
A fantastic outdoor family event for all the family at Hanningfield Nature Reserve, near Chelmsford. Forest School Activities in the woods include bug hunting, build dens, balance on a rope walk, make woodland crafts, use tools, create wild art, play woodland games and learn how to light fires. The only limit is your imagination. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
Find out more »Abbotts Hall Farm Nature Tots
A wonderful weekly event for pre-school toddlers at Abbotts Hall Farm Forest School. Let your tots get outside and explore! Look for creepy crawlies, build dens, balance on ropes, get messy in our mud kitchen, fly through the trees on our rope swing , relax in the hammock, play woodland games and watch the fire. The only limit is their imagination! This is a Forest School Nature Tots that is child led with themed activity each week, we play in…
Find out more »October 2019
Tuesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
TuesdayJoin Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots (Under 5s) – Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre
This weekly pre-school group, held on alternate Tuesdays and Fridays at Hanningfield Nature Reserve, is for the under 5's. The session includes wildlife activities on the nature reserve, crafts and games in the centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Tiptree Heath Nature Reserve
Weekly Tuesday afternoon work parties are organised by the warden throughout the year to carry out on-going maintenance and access tasks. Better for you than the gym and free too 😊 Please wear suitable clothes for the weather conditions and sturdy footwear. Please contact the warden if you wish to join on a specific date to make sure a work party is taking place.
Find out more »Wednesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – The Naze
Weekly pre-school parent and toddler group for under 5s every Wednesday at The Naze Includes wildlife themed activities, games and crafts. The sessions will include a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities so wrap up warm when the weather is cold. We may be on the beach when the tide is out so please bring appropriate footwear and clothing. Please note that access for pushchairs may be limited especially for beach activities. Booking Essential
Find out more »The Ladybirders – Fingringhoe Wick
Ladies... a fortnightly event just for you. No men involved Join our expert guide Liz in this friendly group at Fingrinhoe Wick Nature Reserve, Colchester aimed at ladies who would like to learn a new or improve on their birding knowledge. Please wear suitable clothes for the weather (we’ll go out rain or shine!) and good footwear for walking on some uneven surfaces. Bring binoculars if you have them or we can lend you some.
Find out more »Nature Tots – Abberton
Nature Tots is a weekly preschool group for under 5's during term time at Abberton Nature Reserve, where young children can explore, play and learn through nature. The EWT team guarantee a fun filled morning of wildlife adventures, crafts and stories. As the seasons change, we like to get outside, explore, play, learn and create based on a different natural theme each week. From bug hunting and leaf spotting to clay creations and pond dipping - the only limit is…
Find out more »Wellbeing Walks – Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
Interested in starting to walk, improve your fitness or mental wellbeing? Start your wellbeing journey by joining us for a gentle fortnightly walk around the beautiful Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve Led by one of Essex Wildlife Trust volunteers, an informal, friendly well-being walk of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. A good pair of boots or shoes and weather appropriate clothing recommended
Find out more »Nature Tots – Langdon
Join the EWT team at Langdon Nature Reserve for a fun morning of wildlife themed activities, including outdoor adventures, craft and story. Suitable for pre-school aged children, accompanied by an adult, babes in arms free when accompanying an older sibling. Suitable outdoor clothing required. Advance booking is essential
Find out more »Wednesday Health and Wildlife Walk – Abberton Reservoir
Join Essex Wildlife Trust at Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve for a guided stroll around the nature reserve to discover its varied wildlife. A regular event on the first Wednesday of each month Booking essential
Find out more »Thursday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly Thursday volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Phyllis Currie Nature Reserve
Volunteer work parties take place at the Phyllis Currie Nature Reserve in Great Leighs on alternate Thursdays from the beginning of September to the end of March. New recruits would be made very welcome. All equipment is provided Meet in the car park at 9:30am. Please bring your own packed lunch. Contact the warden Sylvia Jiggins for more information
Find out more »The Ultimate Meditation and Mindfulness Day – Dunmow
Join Essex Wildlife Trust for a Nurturing day of Wellness and Relaxation. Learn about Oil Therapy, Sound Therapy, Gut Health and much more including a gorgeous two course plant based lunch and snacks. This is a fundraising event and all profits support the work of Essex Wildlife Trust. Book is essential: CLICK HERE to book or contact Karen: karend@essexwt.org.uk or telephone 07519 119692
Find out more »Belfairs Nature Tots
Belfairs Nature Tots is an under 5's pre-school club based around nature, wildlife and the seasons at Belfairs Woodland Centre and Nature Reserve held during term time only. Youngsters will love the mix of arts, crafts and games; having stories and music; and, of course, some outdoor time in the woodlands! CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED Booking is essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – Fingringhoe Nature Reserve
A weekly group for the under 5's providing child led play in the lovely Fingringhoe woodland. Get messy, make some noise & enjoy being outside. Booking is essential and places are limited. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Birdy Birds – Ingrebourne Valley
This is a ladies only, monthly event. Join our friendly and knowledgeable volunteer and enjoy a walk around Hornchurch Country Park and surrounding areas, spotting and identifying birds and other wildlife along the way. Booking is essential
Find out more »Crafty Saturdays – Thurrock Thameside Nature Park
Onsite parkingDrop into Thurrock Thameside Nature Park and make a clever craft with our volunteer, Crafty Carol. Each week there will be a different theme. This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Merlins – Hornchurch Country Park
This is a monthly event for unaccompanied childre ages 8+ to observe and identify the birdlife of Hornchurch Country Park. Armed with binoculars, bird guide and notepad (all provided) join Brenda our birdwatching guideand learn and develop new skills session by session. Booking is essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Chigborough Lakes Nature Reserve
We are a friendly group and new volunteers will be made welcome. Work parties are normally held on the first Sunday of the month, but do always check as dates and times may change. Do bring drinks and snacks, and maybe lunch incase we carry on a bit longer. Please contact the warden at for details and more information
Find out more »Volunteer Wortk Party: Sawbridgeworth Marsh Nature Reserve
Work parties at Sawbridgeworth Nature Reserve take place every Sunday. Contact the warden Bob Reed for more information.
Find out more »Optics Day – Abberton Reservoir
Visit Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre and let the friendly Optics Team help and advise you. The EWT range of Hawke and Opticron binoculars, telescopes, tripods and accessories are carefully selected for quality, price and value for money and will be on display so you can try before you buy. All profits go to EWT to support our conservation work around the county
Find out more »Family Forest Fun – Bedfords Park
Fortnightly family Forest School session in the beautiful Bedfords Park woodland. Learn to light fires, use tools and ropes, play, create and explore through the changing seasons Bring a snack and water and ensure suitable clothing. Advance Booking Essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party. Sandylay & Moat Woods / Little Waltham Meadows
These work parties are held on the first Sunday of each month. The venue changes according to need, so it is essential to contact the wardens in advance and confirm meeting points. (terriamory@hotmail.com or blackberry67@hotmail.co.uk) Tools and refreshments provided. Younger volunteers welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult.
Find out more »Abbotts Hall Farm Nature Tots
A wonderful weekly event for pre-school toddlers at Abbotts Hall Farm Forest School. Let your tots get outside and explore! Look for creepy crawlies, build dens, balance on ropes, get messy in our mud kitchen, fly through the trees on our rope swing , relax in the hammock, play woodland games and watch the fire. The only limit is their imagination! This is a Forest School Nature Tots that is child led with themed activity each week, we play in…
Find out more »Tuesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
TuesdayJoin Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Tiptree Heath Nature Reserve
Weekly Tuesday afternoon work parties are organised by the warden throughout the year to carry out on-going maintenance and access tasks. Better for you than the gym and free too 😊 Please wear suitable clothes for the weather conditions and sturdy footwear. Please contact the warden if you wish to join on a specific date to make sure a work party is taking place.
Find out more »Wednesday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – The Naze
Weekly pre-school parent and toddler group for under 5s every Wednesday at The Naze Includes wildlife themed activities, games and crafts. The sessions will include a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities so wrap up warm when the weather is cold. We may be on the beach when the tide is out so please bring appropriate footwear and clothing. Please note that access for pushchairs may be limited especially for beach activities. Booking Essential
Find out more »Nature Tots – Abberton
Nature Tots is a weekly preschool group for under 5's during term time at Abberton Nature Reserve, where young children can explore, play and learn through nature. The EWT team guarantee a fun filled morning of wildlife adventures, crafts and stories. As the seasons change, we like to get outside, explore, play, learn and create based on a different natural theme each week. From bug hunting and leaf spotting to clay creations and pond dipping - the only limit is…
Find out more »Nature Tots – Langdon
Join the EWT team at Langdon Nature Reserve for a fun morning of wildlife themed activities, including outdoor adventures, craft and story. Suitable for pre-school aged children, accompanied by an adult, babes in arms free when accompanying an older sibling. Suitable outdoor clothing required. Advance booking is essential
Find out more »Thursday Volunteer Work Party – Chafford Gorges Nature Reserve
Join Dean Williams, the Ranger at Chafford Gorges Nature for weekly Thursday volunteering sessions. The work will also provide an opportunity for you to find rare plants and animals. Where appropriate clothing. Steel toe-capped boots are useful for any heavy work. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided, but please bring water and a packed lunch. Contact Dean if you are interested in helping out. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Belfairs Nature Tots
Belfairs Nature Tots is an under 5's pre-school club based around nature, wildlife and the seasons at Belfairs Woodland Centre and Nature Reserve held during term time only. Youngsters will love the mix of arts, crafts and games; having stories and music; and, of course, some outdoor time in the woodlands! CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED Booking is essential
Find out more »Nature Tots (Under 5s) – Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre
This weekly pre-school group, held on alternate Tuesdays and Fridays at Hanningfield Nature Reserve, is for the under 5's. The session includes wildlife activities on the nature reserve, crafts and games in the centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
Find out more »Volunteer Work Party: Langdon Nature Reserve
Sessions are weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. These sessions can change, please contact the Ranger Josh Childs before to confirm. Activities include removal of invasive species, fencing, litter picking, path clearance, pond maintenance, coppicing, hedge laying and more. Work parties may not be close to a bathroom.
Find out more »Nature Tots – Fingringhoe Nature Reserve
A weekly group for the under 5's providing child led play in the lovely Fingringhoe woodland. Get messy, make some noise & enjoy being outside. Booking is essential and places are limited. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Youth Rangers – Hanningfield Reservoir
A fortnightly group for children aged 8-11 years old who enjoy the outdoors, wildlife and getting their hands dirty at Hanningfield Reservoir Centre and Nature Reserve. Lots of different indoor and outdoor activities.
Find out more »Crafty Saturdays – Thurrock Thameside Nature Park
Onsite parkingDrop into Thurrock Thameside Nature Park and make a clever craft with our volunteer, Crafty Carol. Each week there will be a different theme. This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Volunteer Wortk Party: Sawbridgeworth Marsh Nature Reserve
Work parties at Sawbridgeworth Nature Reserve take place every Sunday. Contact the warden Bob Reed for more information.
Find out more »Forest School Fun Sundays – Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
A fantastic outdoor family event for all the family at Fingringhoe Hoe Wick Nature Reserve, near Colchester Forest School Activities in the woods include bug hunting, build dens, balance on a rope walk, make woodland crafts, use tools, create wild art, play woodland games and learn how to light fires. The only limit is your imagination. Suitable for children 5+ who must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential
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