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View our upcoming events for February 2012

Sat 4th Feb 2012

10:30-15:00 Greenbunch February

A conservation work party for young people aged 11 - 16. We meet once a month and carry out practical work on our nature reserve. It's a great way to meet friends, help the wildlife in your local area and it looks great on your CV. Contact Ali at the visitor centre for more information or to book your place FREE 01206 738 172

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Junior Rangers Feb

Conservation and wildlife group for 8 to 11 year olds. Donation £3 per child.

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Sun 5th Feb 2012

10:00-13:00 Senior Wildlife Rangers Feb

Conservation group for 11 to 16 year olds. Donation £3 per child

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Tue 7th Feb 2012

10:00-13:00 Caterpillar Club Feb

A fun morning of outdoor activities, messy play and games for pre-schoolers. Suitable for 18 months up (babes in arms go free) Donation £5 per child, £3 per sibling.

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Wed 8th Feb 2012

10:30-12:00 Creepy Crawlies Club February

Once a month we will be spending an hour and a half exploring our nature reserve, discovering new things and finishing with a wildlife themed story and snack for the children. Children 5 and under only. Children MUST be accompanied by an adult.£4.00 per child/ £6.00 for 2 siblings BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

Sat 11th Feb 2012

10:00-15:00 Garden Bird Weekend NEST BOX MAKING

NEST BOX MAKING on Saturday 11th February
Come along between 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm
£5 donation per box and ADVANCE BOOKING ONLY

And all weekend..... -we will be on hand to offer advice on looking after your garden birds. -there will be pine cone bird feeders to make. ( no need to book for this just turn up) -nest boxes, bird food & feeders to buy.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Sun 12th Feb 2012

10:00-16:00 Garden Bird Weekend Sunday

Come along to our garden bird weekend.
-we will be on hand to offer advice on looking after your garden birds.
-there will be pine cone bird feeders to make.
-nest boxes, bird food & feeders to buy.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Mon 13th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Monday Funday morning session

Nature and wildlife themed activity and craft morning. Please come along dressed for doing outdoor activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child. Booking and payment in advance.

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Hedgehog Club

Join the new Hanningfield Hedgehogs Club and enjoy themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve. This event is for 4 - 8 year olds, and children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Monday Funday afternoon session

Nature and wildlife themed activity and craft afternoon. Please come along dressed for doing outdoor activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child. Booking and payment in advance.

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Tue 14th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar ClubWildlife Detectives

A fun morning of outdoor fun, messy play and games for pre-schoolers. Suitable for 18 months up (babes in arms go free) Donation £5 per child, £3 per sibling

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 14th Feb 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:00-14:00 Family Fishing 14th Feb 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 will need a day licence from the post office. £5 per person fishing. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-15:30 Wildlife Discovery Holiday Club

A drop off and pick up session for children that are 8 years+ Children are fully supervised by Essex Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers. Children spend the whole day at Bedfords Park doing wildlife and nature themed activities. Takes place every Tuesday in the school holidays. £10 donation per child. Booking and payment in advance essential.

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Love Your Birds Wildlife Discovery Day

Love your birds! Do a little birdwatching on the reserve and then get messy making bird feeders and boxes to help out the feathered friends in your garden. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:30-12:30 Basic survival

Come and learn some basic skills like tracking, shelter building and fire lighting. Suitable for accompanied 6-12 year olds. a donation of £5 per child requested. 10.30am or 2pm. Pre booking essential

Location Thorndon Countryside Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Family Nature Day Marvellous Mammals

Part of Wildlife Detective Week, look for tracks and signs of our furry friends and discover how they survive the winter. Donation £5 per child

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Wed 15th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Denbuilding Family Nature Day

Test your shelter building skills on this fun woodland activity. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Family Nature Day Den Building and Tracking

Part of Wildlife Detective Week, Build a den in the woods and play games to learn the skills needed to track wildlife. Donation £5 per child

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar PreSchool Club Febuary Half Term

Activity morning for pre-school age children at Bedfords Park. Nature and wildlife themed morning with outdoor and indoor activities focused on exploring nature and the outdoors, natural play, arts and crafts. Different activities each session. Takes place on the last Wednesday morning of every month and every Wednesday morning in the school holidays. Please dress for doing outdoor activities as we will always aim to spend some time outdoors whatever the weather! Feel free to bring a packed lunch to eat after the activities – you are welcome to sit in the centre and eat if you don’t want to have a picnic outside. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:00-14:00 Family Fishing 15th Feb 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 years olf will need a day licence from the post office. £5 per person fishing. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Hawks Club 15th Feb 2012

Enjoy a day of themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve with other Hanningfield Hawks. Hawks Club is for 8 - 12 year olds, and children may be unaccompanied. £10 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-12:30 Orienteering The easy route

Learn some very basic compass skills and follow our easy orienteering route. Suitable for accompanied 6-12 year olds. A donation of £5 per child requested. Pre-booking essential. 10.30am or 2pm

Location Thorndon Countryside Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Family Nature Day Orienteering and Footprint Casting

Part of Wildlife Detective Week, test your navigation skills on our animal footprint orienteering trail and make a plaster cast of a pawprint to take home. Donation £5 per child

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Campfire Cooking Family Nature Day

Warm up with a lesson in outdoor cuisine as we see what we can create and cook on our campfire. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 16th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Family Activity Morning Wake up from Winter

Discover which creatures are waking up from their winter sleep. Nature and wildlife themed activity morning. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please come dressed for doing outdoor activities. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential.

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:00-11:00 Creative Clay

Come along and create your own clay model, lots of fun for all, meesy hands welcome. £5.00 donation per child.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:00-15:00 Green Bunch 16th Feb 2012

Join our group of young volunteers, aged 11 - 18, and take part in practical conservation work to help manage our reserve. Free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 1

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:30-12:30 Den Building

Who will build the best?? Come and have a go. Suitable for accompanied 6-12 year olds. A donation of £5 per child requested. Pre-booking essential.

Location Thorndon Countryside Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Family Activity Afternoon Creature Detectives

Come along and be a creature detective in Bedfords Park! Nature and wildlife themed activity afternoon. Children must be accompanied by an adult Please come dressed for doing outdoor activities. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential.

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

13:30-15:00 TShirts

Bring a plain white t-shirt along and we will provide everything you need to design your own unique wildlife t-shirt. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

19:00-21:00 Bedfords Owl Evening 1

Phil Eckett from owlwise will be giving a talk and flying his owls in the centre, great for all the family. Booking essential and a donation of £6 per person is required.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Fri 17th Feb 2012

10:30-15:00 Wildlife Discovery Day CSI Langdon

Part of Wildlife Detective Week, become a wildlife detective for the day, find the clues and solve the wildlife who-dunnit. For unaccompanied 8-12 year olds (6&7 year olds with an adult) Donation £10 per child

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Feathered Friends Family Nature Day

Find out more about the birds on the reserve then get messy making bird feeders to help see your garden birds through the winter. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

19:00-22:45 Astronomy Night

Come and learn all about the night sky, see how to find the constellations and planets and how to use our telecope. £5.00 donation per person. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Sat 18th Feb 2012

11:00-13:00 Winter Trail

Come along and see what you can find on our winter walk. Seek out the trail and wildlife. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Sun 19th Feb 2012

10:30-12:30 Bushcraft Babies

Learn how to create shelter, build a fire, cook some tasty treats for the children and enjoy fireside activities. Suitable for children aged 4 years and over. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

11:00-13:00 Build a Bird Box Drop In Session

As part of National Nest Box week we are holding a 'build a bird box activity'. Fun for the kids and fantastic for our feathered friends! £5 per box.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Tue 21st Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar Club Feb3

A fun morning of outdoor activities, messy play and games for pre-schoolers. Suitable for 18 months up (babes in arms go free) Donation £5 per child, £3 per sibling.

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Sat 25th Feb 2012

10:00-16:30 Garden for Wildlife

Information and displays in the centre to help you make your garden a wildlife haven.Free event. On all week.

Location Thorndon Countryside Visitor Centre

Sun 26th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Nest Box Challenge

Can you make a useable nest box? Come along and find out. We provide all of the equipment needed. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

14:00-16:00 Bird Boxes

A fun afternoon making bug and bird boxes, bird feeders and planting seeds. Suitable for accompanied 5's and over. Pre-booking essential. A donation of £5 per child requested.

Location Thorndon Countryside Visitor Centre

Tue 28th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 28th Feb 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Wed 29th Feb 2012

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar PreSchool Club February

Activity morning for pre-school age children at Bedfords Park. Nature and wildlife themed morning with outdoor and indoor activities focused on exploring nature and the outdoors, natural play, arts and crafts. Different activities each session. Takes place on the last Wednesday morning of every month and every Wednesday morning in the school holidays. Please dress for doing outdoor activities as we will always aim to spend some time outdoors whatever the weather! Feel free to bring a packed lunch to eat after the activities – you are welcome to sit in the centre and eat if you don’t want to have a picnic outside. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Sat 3rd Mar 2012

10:30-15:00 Greenbunch March

A conservation work party for young people aged 11 - 16. We meet once a month and carry out practical work on our nature reserve. It's a great way to meet friends, help the wildlife in your local area and it looks great on your CV. Contact Ali at the visitor centre for more information or to book your place FREE 01206 738 172

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

Wed 7th Mar 2012

10:30-12:00 Creepy Crawlies Club March

Once a month we will be spending an hour and a half exploring our nature reserve, discovering new things and finishing with a wildlife themed story and snack for the children. Children 5 and under only. Children MUST be accompanied by an adult. £4.00 per child/ £6.00 2 siblings BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

Sun 11th Mar 2012

10:30-12:30 Sensory walk and play!

Join us on a fun packed trail of sensory discovery and play around the Gorge. Come along and use all of your senses, props and various games for a fun packed day. Suitable for children 4 years and over, must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per child.

13:30-15:30 Wild art in nature!

Go wild and explore your creative side using natures materials to create your own unique piece of art work. Head out into the Gorge to collect your own materials before creating your master piece. Suitable for children of all ages, must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per child.

Tue 13th Mar 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 13th March 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Sun 18th Mar 2012

10:30-12:30 Sensory Walk and Play

Join us on a fun packed trail of sensory discovery and play. Suitable for children aged 4 years and over. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-12:30 Wild Art in Nature

Go WILD and explore your creative side using natures materials to create your own unique piece of art. Suitable for children of all ages. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Sat 24th Mar 2012

18:30-20:30 Creatures of the Night

Meet the wildlife that comes out after dark - use bat detectors, check for visitors to the moth trap and more. Suitable for 5yrs and over. All children must be accomapnied by an adult. Donation £6 per person, includes hot drink and biscuits.

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Tue 27th Mar 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 27th March 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Wed 28th Mar 2012

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar PreSchool Club March

Activity morning for pre-school age children at Bedfords Park. Nature and wildlife themed morning with outdoor and indoor activities focused on exploring nature and the outdoors, natural play, arts and crafts. Different activities each session. Takes place on the last Wednesday morning of every month and every Wednesday morning in the school holidays. Please dress for doing outdoor activities as we will always aim to spend some time outdoors whatever the weather! Feel free to bring a packed lunch to eat after the activities – you are welcome to sit in the centre and eat if you don’t want to have a picnic outside. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential

Location Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Mon 2nd Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Hedgehog Club 2nd April 2012

Join the new Hanningfield Hedgehogs Club and enjoy themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve. This event is for 4 - 8 year olds, and children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Monday Funday morning session

Nature and wildlife themed activity and craft morning. Please come along dressed for doing outdoor activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Monday Funday afternoon session

Nature and wildlife themed activity and craft afternoon. Please come along dressed for doing outdoor activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child. Booking and payment in advance.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Tue 3rd Apr 2012

10:00-14:00 Fishing Day 3rd April 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 years will need a licence from the post office. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Eggs and Nesting Wildlife Discovery Day

It's a busy time of year for our birds; find out all about what they're up to during nesting season with fun games, crafts and nature exploration. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:30-15:30 Wildlife Discovery Club

A drop off and pick up session for children that are 8 years+ Children are fully supervised by Essex Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers. Children spend the whole day at Bedfords Park doing wildlife and nature themed activities. Takes place every Tuesday in the school holidays. £10 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Wed 4th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Family Nature Day Pondemonium

Come pond dipping to see what's living beneath the surface of our ponds! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Caterpillar Club

Activity morning for pre-school age children at Bedfords Park. Nature and wildlife themed morning with outdoor and indoor activities focused on exploring nature and the outdoors, natural play, arts and crafts. Different activities each session. Takes place on the last Wednesday morning of every month and every Wednesday morning in the school holidays. Please dress for doing outdoor activities as we will always aim to spend some time outdoors whatever the weather! Feel free to bring a packed lunch to eat after the activities – you are welcome to sit in the centre and eat if you don’t want to have a picnic outside. £5 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:00-14:00 Fishing Day 4th April 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 years will need a licence from the post office. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Hawks Club 4th April 2012

Enjoy a day of themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve with other Hanningfield Hawks. Hawks Club is for 8 - 12 year olds, and children may be unaccompanied. £10 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Creature Comforts Family Nature Day

Look at the variety of minibeasts on the reserve and then make a cosy home for them to take home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 5th Apr 2012

10:00-15:00 Green Bunch 5th April 2012

Join our group of young volunteers, aged 11 - 18, and take part in practical conservation work to help manage our reserve. Free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:00-12:00 Easter in the Park

Easter themed activity morning. £5 donation per child, nooking and donation in advance essential.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

10:00-11:30 Bug Hunting

Come and join in the hunt for bugs around the gorge. We have lots of different species out there - how many will you find? Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 2

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:00 Wildlife Walk

Come along and join us for our wildlife walk around the Gorge and see what is out and about down there. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Fri 6th Apr 2012

10:30-14:00 The Grand Easter Challenge

WELCOME TO OUR NEW VISITOR CENTRE AND NATURE RESERVE! The Grand Easter Challenge is the launch of children's events from the new visitor centre. Be the first families to take part in Easter egg hunts, Easter craft and explore the new site. All ages welcome must be accompanied by an adult. Bring along a packed lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Easter Eggstravaganza Family Nature Day

Follow our seasonal trail around the reserve for a healthy walk before you get a tasty reward. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Sat 7th Apr 2012

12:00-14:00 Easter Weekend 7th and 8th April 2012

Lots of fun and games around the Gorge. Come and meet the Easter Bunny and receive your free Easter egg. Wellie throwing, egg and spoon race, coconut shy, egg hunt and much more. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Sun 8th Apr 2012

11:00-16:00 Easter Eggstravaganza

Follow a trail around the reserve and take part in pond dipping and minibeast hunting. Return to the centre to collect your prize and make an Easter themed craft to take away with you. £6 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Mon 9th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Hedgehog Club 9th April 2012

Join the new Hanningfield Hedgehogs Club and enjoy themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve. This event is for 4 - 8 year olds, and children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-14:00 Barmy Easter Bunnies

Bring the family along to explore the wonderful world of rabbits and hares and follow the special Easter bunny trail. All ages welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Bring along a packed lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

11:00-16:00 Fabulous Fingringhoe Annual Easter Monday family funday!!

Lots of fun for all including: springtime trail, make and take, art exhibition, panning for gems, marine themed games, optic sales, home made refreshments and much, much more. No need to book, just come along and have fun!!

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

14:00-16:00 Easter Eggstravaganza 9th April 2012

Follow a trail around the reserve and take part in pond dipping and minibeast hunting. Return to the centre to collect your prize and make an Easter themed craft to take away with you. £6 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Tue 10th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 10th April 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:00-14:00 Fishing Day 10th April 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 years will need a day licence from the post office. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-14:00 Orienteering Challenge

Get to know your way around our fabulous new site by taking up the orienteering challenege. There will be a short course and a long course as well as the oppourtunity to make your own compass to take home. All ages welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Bring along a packed lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Migration Mayhem Wildlife Discovery Day

There are lots of comings and goings in the animal kingdom at this time of year, but why? Come along and find out about the global wanderings of some of our favourite species. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for ages 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:30-15:30 Wildlife Discovery Club 2

A drop off and pick up session for children that are 8 years+ Children are fully supervised by Essex Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers. Children spend the whole day at Bedfords Park doing wildlife and nature themed activities. Takes place every Tuesday in the school holidays. £10 donation per child. Booking and donation in advance essential.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Wed 11th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Creature Comforts Family Nature Day 2

Look at the variety of minibeasts on the reserve and then make a cosy home for them to take home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

10:00-14:00 Fishing Day 11th April 2012

Come along and learn the art of fishing. All equipment is provided. Over 12 years will need a day licence from the post office. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-14:30 Who done it?

There has been a wildlife crime out on the reserve and we need some budding detectives to solve the mystery. Drop your children off for a day of detective work. Un-accompanied children only aged 8-12 years old. Bring along a packed lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Hawks Club 11th April 2012

Enjoy a day of themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve with other Hanningfield Hawks. Hawks Club is for 8 - 12 year olds, and children may be unaccompanied. £10 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Pondemonium Family Nature Day 2

Come pond dipping to see what's living beneath the surface of our ponds! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 12th Apr 2012

10:00-11:30 Reptile Walk

Come along and join us on our search for reptiles that live in the Gorge. Newts, slow-worm or grass worms - what will you see? Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

10:30-12:30 Bugs and Beasties

Bring the family along for a morning exploring our wonderful nature reserve and finding out who some of the bugs and beasties are that live here. All ages welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 3

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:00-15:00 High Flyers

Fancy having a go at making your own kite? Then come along with the family and design, make and fly your own kite out on our reserve. All ages welcome but must be accomapnied by an adult. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

13:30-15:00 Great Pond Safari

Come and delve into the depths of our pond and see which of the many creatures living there you will find. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Fri 13th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Hedgehog Club 13th April 2012

Join the new Hanningfield Hedgehogs Club and enjoy themed wildlife activities on the nature reserve. This event is for 4 - 8 year olds, and children must be accompanied by an adult. £5 donation per child.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

10:30-14:00 Mystery and Mayhem

Team work is needed to solve the wildlife mystery at Abberton Reservoir. Come along with the family for a day of being a wildlife detective. All ages welcome but must be accompanied by an adult . Bring along a packed lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

19:30-21:30 Bedfords Bat Evening 1

Talk and then walk out in the park using bat detectors to look for Bats. Booking and payment in advance. Booking is essential and a donation of £5 per person is required.

Location: Bedfords Park Visitor Centre

Sat 14th Apr 2012

19:00-22:30 Wild Evening Out

Enjoy an evening out on the reserve learning about nocturnal wildlife, including bat detecting and pond dipping. Campfire with marshmallows included. This event is suitable for 6+ years. £10 per person.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Sun 15th Apr 2012

10:30-12:30 Gorge On Outside Games

On your marks, get set, GO!!! If you love to play games and let off steam, then join us for two hours of games in the Gorge. Suitable for children aged 4 years and over. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Wed 18th Apr 2012

10:30-12:00 Creepy Crawlies Club April

Once a month we will be spending an hour and a half exploring our nature reserve, discovering new things and finishing with a wildlife themed story and snack for the children. Children 5 and under only. Children MUST be accompanied by an adult. BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Location Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre

Tue 24th Apr 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 24th April 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Fri 27th Apr 2012

20:00-22:00 Bat evening April 2012

Join us for a short informal talk on the bats that live at the reserve then accompany us on a walk looking and listening for the different species using bat detectors (supplied). Please wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring a torch. Hot drink and biscuits provided. Donation £6 per person. Not suitable for under 16s.

Location Langdon Visitor Centre

Mon 7th May 2012

9:00-10:00 Family Fun Afternoon Delightful Ducks

Come and join us for duck themed craft and activities. Mr and Mrs Duck will be here to say Quack Quack!!!

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 8th May 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 8th May 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Sun 13th May 2012

10:30-12:30 Bushcraft Babies 13 May 2012

Learn how to create shelter, build a fire, cook some tasty treats for the children and enjoy fireside activities. Suitable for children aged 4 years and over. Booking is essential and places are strictly limited. For more information, or to book a place, please email chaffordv@essex.org.uk or call 01375 484 016. £5.00 donation per child requested.

Location Chafford Gorges Visitor Centre

Tue 22nd May 2012

10:00-12:00 Hatchlings Club 22nd May 2012

Come and join the Hanningfield Hatchlings. Fortnightly pre-school group for the under 5's including wildlife activities on the nature reserve, games, crafts and music in the centre. Drink and snack included. £5 donation per child, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free.

Location Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre

Tue 5th Jun 2012

10:30-15:00 Minibeast Madness Wildlife Discovery Day

There's a wealth of creepy crawlies at Fingringhoe; learn all about them on this action-packed day of exploration. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for ages 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 6th Jun 2012

10:00-12:00 Minibeast Safari Family Nature Day

Come on a hunt for some of the fascinating bugs that call Fingringhoe home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Pondemonium Family Nature Day 3

Come pond dipping to see what's living beneath the surface of our ponds! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 7th Jun 2012

10:30-15:30 Fingringhoe Explorers 4

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 8th Jun 2012

13:30-15:30 Call of the Wild Family Nature Day

Animals and birds communicate with some amazing sounds, have a listen to the reserve's inhabitants and then make your own noisemaker from recycled materials! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Sun 10th Jun 2012

11:00-16:00 Open day and Ponddipping

At Gt Holland Pits nature reserve. For more information please contact Tendring Local Group on 01255 861342. Open to non members. All are welcome to these events.

Tue 24th Jul 2012

10:30-15:30 Buzzy Bees Wildlife Discovery Day

We'll be finding out all about the fascinating world of bumblebees, discover how to identify them and why they are so important. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 25th Jul 2012

10:00-12:00 Campfire Cooking Family Nature Day 2

Flex those chef skills with a lesson in outdoor cuisine as we see what we can create and cook on our campfire Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Denbuilding Family Nature Day 2

A fun woodland afternoon of shelter building. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 26th Jul 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 5

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 27th Jul 2012

13:30-15:30 Minibeast Safari Family Nature Day 2

Come on a hunt for some of the fascinating bugs that call Fingringhoe home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 31st Jul 2012

10:30-15:00 All at Sea Wildlife Discovery Day

It's Marine Week so join us to find out all about the wonderful creatures in our seas and their unusual lives. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 1st Aug 2012

10:00-12:00 Marine Art Family Nature Day

It's Marine week so be inspired by the seas to make all sorts of arts and crafts from natural and recycled materials Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 2nd Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 6

Sea survival - in our marine week themed session come and discover how our sea creatures survive in their habitat and confront the challenges of the modern world. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 3rd Aug 2012

13:30-15:30 Sea Life Family Nature Day

Join us for this fun session of sea creature themed activities and crafts to celebrate marine week. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 7th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 All at Sea Wildlife Discovery Day 2

Join us this Marine Week to find out all about the wonderful creatures in our seas and their unusual lives. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 8th Aug 2012

10:00-12:00 Sea Life Family Nature Day 2

Join us for this fun session on sea creature themed activities and crafts to celebrate marine week. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Marine Art Family Nature Day 2

Celebrate Marine Week and be inspired by the seas to make all sorts of arts and crafts from natural and recycled materials Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 9th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 7

Sea survival - in our marine week themed session come and discover how our sea creatures survive in their habitat and confront the challenges of the modern world. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 10th Aug 2012

13:30-15:30 Eel Survival Swim Family Nature Day 2

Follow the eel treasure trail on your journey around the reserve to learn all about their lives Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Sat 11th Aug 2012

20:00-22:00 Night Patrol

What are the animal residents up to on the reserve when we've all gone home? Come out after dark with us looking for bats and other creatures of the night. Family event, donation per child - £5. Adult only groups - donation appreciated. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 14th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Wildlife Detectives Wildlife Discovery Day

There's been a crime and we need you to solve it! Examine the evidence, follow the clues and catch the culprit at this wildlife themed mystery. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 15th Aug 2012

10:00-12:00 Pondemonium Family Nature Day 5

Come pond dipping to see what's living beneath the surface of our ponds! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Minibeast Safari Family Nature Day 4

Come on a hunt for some of the fascinating bugs that call Fingringhoe home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 16th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 8

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 17th Aug 2012

13:30-15:30 Bee Trail Family Nature Day

Find out all about the amazing world of bumblebees and finish off with a buzzy bee craft. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must bee accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 21st Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Dragons and Damsels Wildlife Discovery Day

The reserve will be alive with beautiful dragonflies and damselflies, find out all about their weird lives and how to tell them apart. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 22nd Aug 2012

10:00-12:00 Supersenses Family Nature Day

Animals use all their senses to survive, test yours out in this multi sensory adventure. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Miniworlds Family Nature Day

Create a wildlife garden in a box and learn more about how you can help your garden creatures. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 23rd Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 9

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 24th Aug 2012

13:30-15:30 Going Batty Family Nature Day

Do our bat trail to find out more about these mysterious creatures and make your own batty friend to take home. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

19:30-21:30 Night Patrol 2

What are the animal residents up to on the reserve when we've all gone home? Come out after dark with us looking for bats and other creatures of the night. Family event, donation per child £5. All adult groups - donation appreciated. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 28th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Tracks and Trails Wildlife Discovery Day

Our wildlife can be hard to spot so come along to get some tips on how to know what's about, even when you can't see it! Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 29th Aug 2012

10:00-12:00 Pondemonium Family Nature Day 6

Come pond dipping to see what's living beneath the surface of our ponds! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Bee Trail Family Nature Day 2

Find out all about the amazing world of bumblebees and finish off with a buzzy bee craft. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 30th Aug 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 10

Forest survival - The first Britons lived in the woods, but could you survive outdoors? Test your shelter building, nature and crafting skills. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 31st Aug 2012

13:30-15:30 Supersenses Family Nature Day 2

Animals use all their senses to survive, test yours out in this multi sensory adventure. Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Sat 8th Sep 2012

19:00-21:00 Night Patrol 3

What are the animal residents up to on the reserve when we've all gone home? Come out after dark with us looking for bats and other creatures of the night. Family event, donation per child £5. All adult groups - donation appreciated. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 21st Sep 2012

18:30-20:30 Night Patrol 4

What are the animal residents up to on the reserve when we've all gone home? Come out after dark with us looking for bats and other creatures of the night. Family event, donation per child £5. All adult groups - donation appreciated. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Tue 30th Oct 2012

10:30-15:00 Fantastic Fungi Wildlife Discovery Day

Enter the mysterious world of mushrooms as we find out all about them through games, experiments and a fun fungal foray. Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Wed 31st Oct 2012

10:00-12:00 Potions Lesson Family Nature Day

Don your witches and wizards hats as we make our own magic potion from the plants around us… Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

13:30-15:30 Fungi Discovery Family Nature Day

A mushroom discovery journey just for beginners with games and crafts. Donation per child - £5. bOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Thu 1st Nov 2012

10:30-15:00 Fingringhoe Explorers 11

Professor Wick's lab - a day of scientific discovery, find out about the weird and wacky things our plants have been used for and experiment with some potions of your own Donation per child - £10. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Drop off and pick up. Suitable for age 8+

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Fri 2nd Nov 2012

13:30-15:30 Autumn Art Family Nature Day

Make your own marvellous creations from things we can find in the woodland - prepare to get messy! Donation per child - £5. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre

Categories

Exhibitions and Sales
Walks and Runs
Talks and Courses
Families and Children
Special Events
Work Parties
Adult Courses

Visitor Centres

Abberton Reservoir
Abbotts Hall Farm
Bedfords Park
Chafford Gorges
Fingringhoe Wick
Hanningfield Reservoir
Langdon
Thorndon

Local Groups

Basildon Natural History Society
Braintree
Brentwood and Billericay
Castle Point
Chelmsford
Colchester
Epping Forest
Havering
Maldon & South Woodham Ferrers
Southend and Rochford
Tendring
Thurrock
Uttlesford

Protecting Wildlife for the Future and for the People of Essex