14 Best Country Parks in Essex for Families
Essex is well served for country parks – free entry at most sites, plenty of space for kids to run, and a mix of woodland, heathland and coastal walks across the county. Several, including Great Notley, Hylands, High Woods and Cudmore Grove, also have their own dedicated playground listed separately in our Play Areas category, so it's worth checking both if you're planning a full day out.
Forests & country parks · Free · Great Notley Country Park, Great Notley, Braintree, CM77 7FS
Forests & country parks · Free · Belhus Woods Country Park, Romford Road, South Ockendon, Aveley, RM15 4XJ
Forests & country parks · Free · Cherry Orchard Park, Rochford, Essex
Forests & country parks · Free · Cudmore Grove Country Park, Broman's Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, CO5 8UE
Forests & country parks · Free · Danbury Country Park, Woodhill Road, Danbury, Chelmsford, CM3 4AW
Forests & country parks · Free · Flitch Way Country Park, Rayne Station, Station Road, Rayne, Braintree, CM77 6RX
Forests & country parks · Free · Hadleigh Country Park, Chapel Lane, Benfleet, SS7 2PP
Forests & country parks · Free · Hainault Forest Country Park, Romford Road, Chigwell, IG7 4QN
Forests & country parks · Free · High Woods Country Park, Turner Road, Colchester, CO4 5JR
Forests & country parks · Free · Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ
Forests & country parks · Free · Marsh Farm Country Park, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP
Forests & country parks · Free · Thorndon Country Park, The Avenue, Warley, Brentwood, CM13 3RZ
Forests & country parks · Free · Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea Hall Lane, Pitsea, Basildon, SS16 4UH
Frequently asked questions
Are Essex country parks free to enter?
Yes, entry is free at all the country parks listed here – some charge for parking.
Which Essex country parks have a playground?
Great Notley, Hylands, High Woods and Cudmore Grove all have a dedicated playground nearby – see our Play Areas category for details.
Are dogs allowed in Essex country parks?
Most Essex country parks welcome dogs, though some ask that they're kept on leads in certain areas – check each listing for specifics.