Book your activities
Our annual outdoor events programme is packed with fun, educational activities for families and children.
The events allow you to explore our countryside sites with the rangers and take part in den building, pond dipping, bat spotting and more.
You can also find self-led family trails during the school holidays.
Search each month below to find out what's on.
Important information regarding activities/events:
- All children must be accompanied at events.
- All tools, materials and equipment will be provided.
- Events are VAT applicable where appropriate.
Lexden Springs flora survey
Join us for a guided flora survey at Lexden Springs Local Nature Reserve. We will look at the plants and wildflowers growing across the site, including the unfenced area and fenced meadow.
Bring field guides or identification books if you have them. This event may be cancelled or changed due to weather. Wear suitable footwear for rough ground and bring sun protection if needed.
Location: Lexden Springs Local Nature Reserve, entrance off Spring Lane, CO4 3AN. Meet at the field gate within the site. What3words: poems.tall.next
Date: Sunday 28 June 2026
Time: 10am to 12pm
Cost: Free
Gosbecks summer insects walk
Join Colchester Natural History Society for a summer insects walk at Gosbecks Archaeological Park.
We will look for insects across the site, including grassland, hedges and scrub. We hope to see butterflies such as small heath, meadow brown and other grassland species. We will also look for bee families using the site.
Bring field guides, identification books or binoculars if you have them. This event may be cancelled or changed due to weather. Wear suitable footwear.
Location: Maldon Road car park, CO3 0SH. Meet on the grass area next to the car park. What3words: spark.gasp.poet
Date: Wednesday 8 July 2026
Time: 10.30am to 1pm
Cost: Free
Hilly Fields summer insects and butterflies hunt
Join the Ranger and Colchester Natural History Society to look for butterflies, day-flying moths and other insects at Hilly Fields Local Nature Reserve.
We will look for grassland, heathland and tree insects, including dragonflies, damselflies and digger wasps.
Bring field guides, identification books or binoculars if you have them. This event may be cancelled or changed due to weather. Wear suitable footwear for rough ground.
Location: Hilly Fields Local Nature Reserve, Sussex Road entrance, CO3 3QX. What3words: adjust.carbon.piles
Date: Saturday 11 July 2026
Time: 11am to 2pm
Cost: Free
Volunteer induction day at High Woods Country Park
Interested in volunteering with the Ranger team? Apply online before attending.
Location: High Woods Visitor Centre
Date: Sunday 12 July 2026
Time: 10.45am to 3pm
Cost: Free. Invited applicants only