The summer holidays are a great excuse to get out and explore closer to home, and there’s plenty to do in Brentwood, Shenfield and Ingatestone over the coming weeks.
From colourful floral displays and village walks to free family events and fairground rides, there are lots of ways to enjoy a day out without travelling far.
Discover Ingatestone in Bloom
If you’re looking for somewhere pretty to explore, Ingatestone is well worth a visit this summer.
The new Ingatestone in Bloom event begins on Friday 17 July, with floral displays and colourful decorations appearing throughout the village and continuing across the summer holidays.
Take a wander along the historic High Street and you’ll find flower displays, decorated shop windows and creative artwork alongside the village’s independent shops, cafés and businesses.
The displays will also coincide with the Ingatestone & Fryerning Parish Council Summer Show on Saturday 18 July, making it a particularly good weekend to visit.
A number of local businesses are taking part, including Abigail’s Lifestyle, Budgens, Co-op, Fierce Wellness, Kennadys, Oaktree Gallery, Pastasciutta, Patrick Green 1888, Ravens Bakery, The Blue Dandelion, The Ginger Tree, The Lounge and The Star Inn.
There will also be floral displays to discover at St Edmund & St Mary’s Church, The Bell and Ingatestone Station.
Free family fun in Brentwood and Shenfield
There’s also plenty happening for families during the school holidays, with free Family Fun Days returning to Brentwood and Shenfield.
Organised by Brentwood Connected in partnership with Brentwood Borough Council, the events will include children’s activities, entertainment, face painting and free rides.
You can find the Family Fun Days at:
Brentwood High Street
Wednesday 5 August, 10am–4pm
Hutton Road, Shenfield
Wednesday 19 August, 10am–4pm
There’s no charge to attend, making these a handy option for a low-cost day out during the summer holidays.
More family fun in local parks
The fun isn’t limited to the high streets either. Brentwood Borough Council is also hosting Family Fun Days in two local parks.
Seymour Field, Ingatestone
Friday 31 July, 10.30am–3.30pm
Hutton Recreation Ground
Friday 28 August, 10.30am–3.30pm
Entry to both events is free, although there will be a small charge if the children want to go on the fairground rides.
A summer of exploring locally
You don’t always need to travel miles for a good family day out. These events are a great opportunity to explore some of the places on your doorstep, support local businesses and make the most of the summer weather.
Whether you fancy wandering around Ingatestone to see the floral displays, heading into Brentwood for some free entertainment or spending an afternoon at one of the local parks, there are plenty of reasons to get out and explore Brentwood, Shenfield and Ingatestone this summer.
For more local family events, days out and things to do with kids, keep an eye on our Essex family events guide.
