The Best Easter 2026 Family Activities in Essex and Hertfordshire (Plus the Perfect Place to Stay)
Planning an Easter break with little ones in 2026?
Roydon Marina Village is perfectly placed for families looking to mix peaceful waterside relaxation with exciting Easter days out across Essex and Hertfordshire.
From steam trains and animal encounters to woodland obstacle runs and dinosaur-themed soft play, here’s your guide to the best family Easter activities near Roydon Marina Village - all within easy driving distance.
Easter Eggstravaganza at Epping Ongar Railway (~30 minutes away)
Image source: Epping Ongar Railway
Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April 2026
Step back in time this Easter and hop aboard the magical Easter Express, featuring the beautifully restored steam locomotive in its iconic red livery.
Families receive a clue sheet on arrival and must hop on and off the heritage trains to hunt down Bertie the Easter Bunny’s hidden eggs along the line. Complete the trail and little explorers are rewarded with a special Easter treat!
Bonus fun: vintage London buses running throughout the event.
Perfect for: train-loving toddlers, primary-age children, and nostalgic parents alike.
Easter EGG-Stravaganza at Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park (~20 minutes away)
Image source: Lee Valley Park Farms (Facebook)
Thursday 2nd to Saturday 18th April
A full Easter celebration packed with interactive fun:
Easter egg trail
Meet Mother Goose and the Easter Bunny
Bunny Chocolatiere experience
Farm animals and adventure play
Every child receives a tasty Easter treat included in their ticket, making it fantastic value for families.
Perfect for: younger children who love animals, playtime and hands-on fun.
Easter Egg Hunt at Copped Hall (~25 minutes away)
Image source: Copped Hall
Sunday 5th April
Set in the beautiful Long Garden, this charming Easter event invites children to hunt for hidden clues, solve them, and win a chocolate egg prize.
Easter-themed colouring
Face painting
Stunning historic surroundings
A relaxed and traditional Easter experience, great for enjoying some spring sunshine.
Perfect for: families who enjoy outdoor fun with a touch of history.
Old Macdonald's Easter Festival (~45 minutes away)
Image source: Tommy's Entertainments (Facebook)
Saturday 28th March to Sunday 12th April
One of Essex's most popular family attractions goes all-out for Easter every single year, and 2026 is no different! Look forward to:
Baby animal encounters
Magical Easter show
Arts and crafts workshops
Woodland Easter egg hunts throughout the day
Rides, soft play and petting zoo fun
A brilliant full day of energy-burning adventure
Perfect for: families wanting a big day out packed with variety.
Easter Woodland Obstacle Run at Nuclear Races (~40 minutes away)
Image source: Nuclear Essex
Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April
For active families, this relaxed 2K woodland obstacle course is designed especially for ages 6+.
Fun challenges
Classic egg and spoon race finale
Marshmallow toasting by the fire pit afterwards
A brilliant way to burn off Easter chocolate while making memories together.
Perfect for: adventurous kids and sporty parents.
Paddington Comes to Hertfordshire Zoo (~20 minutes away)
Image source: Hertfordshire Zoo
Saturday 28th to Sunday 29th March, then Saturday 4th to Sunday 5th April
Little ones will love the narrator-led storytime sessions all about Paddington's adventures, and even getting to meet the beloved bear himsef.
All included with regular zoo admission, alongside the zoo's wonderful animal exhibits.
Perfect for: toddlers and early primary-age children.
Easter Egg-stravaganza at Rye-Assic Aventure Park (~15 minutes away)
Image source: Rye-Assic Adventure Park
Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April
Rye-Assic Adventure Park’s Easter Egg-stravaganza is a fun-filled spring celebration packed with 2.5 hours of soft play, trampolines, arts and crafts, games, and an unforgettable Easter egg hunt. Every child over one year old even receives a chocolate Easter egg to take home — the perfect sweet ending to an action-packed adventure.
Perfect for: adventurous little ones, creative kids, and families looking for a memorable day out.
Why Stay at Roydon Marina Village This Easter?
After busy days filled with egg hunts, animals, rides and adventure, Roydon Marina Village offers the perfect peaceful retreat for families.
Spacious luxury lodges ideal for young families
Beautiful waterside setting for evening strolls
Easy access to Essex, Hertfordshire and London attractions
Calm, safe environment, perfect for relaxing after busy days out
Whether you’re enjoying breakfast overlooking the marina, letting the kids play outdoors, or unwinding after a full day of Easter fun, Roydon Marina Village gives you the space, comfort and location to make Easter 2026 truly special.
With so many family-friendly Easter events just minutes away - and the tranquillity of your hot tub lodge waiting for you at the end of each day - Roydon Marina Village is the ultimate base for your spring getaway.
Book your Easter break now and create magical family memories in 2026.