What's On - Catch the Summer
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Got any plans? Check out what's happening in Essex
Summer kids camps and courses at Riverside Leisure Centre - 24th July - 30th August
Ready for a summer of fun?
Fun for everyone this Summer at Chelmsford Riverside Leisure Centre kids’ courses, parties and family swim and skate sessions!
Running 24 July to 30 August across our four leisure centres, our fantastic Summer courses are perfect for kids aged 2 to 16, and include everything from bouncy castles, swimming, ice skating and athletics, to football, parkour, pool inflatable and scuba diving.
Plus, our whole and half day Mini and City Camps are perfect for kids aged 4 to 12. Ideal for working parents, children can make friends, try new activities and have loads of fun!
• DBS checked staff
• Early drop-off and late pickup
• Childcare voucher payment options
• 15% sibling discount after Weds 10 July
How to get there: Catch services 47, C8 or C11. Nearest stops are Victoria Road or Tesco, Springfield Road. Click here for timetables.
Learn more and book your place now at Kids Holiday Camps and Courses | Chelmsford
Summer kids’ parties - Dovedale Sports Centre - 24th July - 30th August
School's out and it's party time!
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, the summer holidays arriving or just want to keep the kids active, why not book one of our fantastic parties at Dovedale Sports Centre this Summer?
- 24 July - 30 August
- Fun activities including inflatable, Glitter tattoo's, face painting, party games, arts and crafts, glitter cannons!
- Friendly Supervision • No mess, no hassle just fun!
- We’ve got your child’s next party all wrapped up
With lots of fun activities, we’ll help you plan a party the whole playground will be talking about. Let's celebrate!
How to get there: Catch services 13, 13A, 14, 42A, 300, or C1 to the South Lodge Hotel, which is just a few minutes away from Dovedales. Click here for timetables.
More info: Party fun at Dovedale (chelmsford.gov.uk)
Book Your Free Sculpt Your Summer Trial at Riverside Leisure Centre Now! (Offer running 1 July - 31 August)
Ready to Sculpt your Summer?
This summer, why not make your well-being a top priority?
Summer is the perfect time to rev up your fitness routine. So whether you’re looking to boost your energy, find your fitness groove, or simply unwind, our state-of-the-art facilities have something for everyone.
With our wide range of activities, from swimming and indoor cycling to yoga and strength training, discover new ways to stay active and sculpt your summer! Our friendly, expert team are here to support you every step of the way.
Get set for the social season with cutting-edge kit, killer classes, and refreshing pools to cool down in. Boost your energy and spirits this summer – try our leisure centre for FREE!
Dust off those trainers and let’s get you started
*Ts and Cs apply.
Summer Holidays at Colchester Zoo - Saturday 20th July – 1st September 2024
Visit Colchester Zoo this summer as the Wild Vibe Crew return with parties and parades every day throughout the holidays! PLUS take part in a number of fun activities including their ever-popular Exploratorium and interactive Discovery Den.
How to get there: Hop on the 75 bus service running from Maldon to Colchester, calling at Colchester Zoo. Download timetables here.
More info: https://www.colchester-zoo.com/summer-at-the-zoo/
Summer Lates at Colchester Zoo - 10th & 24th August 2024
Experience a summer like no other as Colchester Zoo stays open until 9:00pm! Enjoy an extra three hours of exploring at no additional cost and party into the evening with live musical performances from Steel Drummer, Ian Beckles, and A Taste of Southern Africa.
How to get there: Hop on the 75 bus running from Maldon to Colchester to get there. Download timetables here.
More info: https://www.colchester-zoo.com/summer-at-the-zoo/summer-nights-2024/
Colchester United Open Day - Sunday 21st July, JobServe Community Stadium
The First Essex Team will be at the event with our Colchester Zoo-themed bus. Visit us to find out about the new updates to Service 75! 🚌 Show your downloaded First Bus app for a 'spin to win' at our stand! Plus, there will be lots of activities at the family event, including meeting the players, games, food and drink and more.
More event info: Click here
Gaia | Colchester Castle - 9 July - 17 September
This summer, Colchester Castle is thrilled to welcome Gaia, a captivating six-metre diameter touring artwork that brings the Earth’s beauty to an unprecedented scale. Developed in collaboration with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot, and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres, Gaia is a mesmerizing installation that offers a unique and immersive perspective on our planet.
How to get there: All services into Colchester High Street. Click here for timetables.
More info: Gaia | Colchester Museums (cimuseums.org.uk)
Under Fives: Little Star Crafts | Natural History Museum (Colchester) - 7th, 15th & 22nd August
Head to the Natural History Museum for a morning of star-themed crafts designed especially for a under-fives audience! Your little ones can sparkle and shine as they dive into hands-on crafting, creating their own starry delights. Enjoy lively sing-alongs with classic nursery rhymes and get lost in stories that whisk you to where stars twinkle and dance in the night sky. It’s a perfect outing for toddlers and preschoolers to explore, learn, and have fun. Free entry!
How to get there: All services into Colchester High Street. Click here for timetables.
More info: Under Fives Fun | Colchester Museums (cimuseums.org.uk)
Space Day | Colchester Castle - 10th August
Join Colchester Castle for a celebration of all things space! Dive into the wonders of the cosmos with space-themed activities, talks and interactive fun. Engage with experts from Tiptree Stargazers and listen to captivating talks from experts and enthusiasts who will share their insights and passion for all things space. The team will also host a variety of space-themed crafts and games. These activities will spark creativity and curiosity about our galaxy, perfect for young explorers.
How to get there: All services into Colchester High Street. Click here for timetables.
More info: Space Day | Colchester Museums (cimuseums.org.uk)
Leisure Pool | Leisure World, Cowdray Avenue
Embark on aquatic adventures in the iconic leisure pool, where thrills unfold! Ride down the flumes, splash in the waves, and navigate the Crazy River. The water wonderland continues at Palm Tree Springs, where the Castaway Spa Pool awaits with bubbles and jets.
How to get there: Catch the service 4 to get here. Download timetable.
More info: The Leisure Pool - Leisure World (colchesterleisureworld.co.uk)
Soothe Your Senses at Aqua Springs
Experience pure tranquillity at Aqua Springs its hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and steam rooms provide the ultimate relaxation. No booking needed, just turn up and unwind. Treat yourself and book a treatment too!
How to get there: Catch the service 4 to get here. Download timetable.
More info: Home - Aqua Springs (aqua-springs.co.uk)
Smoke & Fire Festival | Maldon Promenade Park - 17th - 18th August
The popular Smoke & Fire Festival returns to Maldon’s Promenade Park, with its unique mix of barbecue food, bands, competitions and food and drink stalls.
The event highlights include the Great British Open Freestyle BBQ Championships, a myriad of award-winning street food traders, international pitmasters and fire cooks set to elevate your BBQ appreciation.
How to get there: First Bus services 31, 331 and 332 from Chelmsford and 75 from Colchester stop right at the park gates. Click here for timetables.
More info: Smoke and Fire Festival - Food / Drink Festival in Maldon, Maldon - Visit Maldon District
Mega Fun Day | Maldon Promenade Park
Wondering where to take the kids in the holidays?
Mega fun day is packed with massive inflatable playgrounds, giant slides, and super cool bouncy castles, all designed for kiddos aged 4 to 11. Each jump and bounce is packed with giggles and joy, perfect for a day out with the family.
There are lots of other fun attractions in the park as well, including a petting zoo, Splash park, sandpits, play equipment and adventure golf.
How to get there: First Bus services 31, 331 and 332 from Chelmsford and 75 from Colchester stop right at the park gates. Click here for timetables.
More info: Mega Fun (mega-fun.uk)
Colchester Pride - Saturday 17th August
Come and Celebrate Pride in Colchester. This event includes music, food and fun activities for all ages. Our Colourful Pride Bus will be leading the march too!
How to get there: Catch any of the First Essex services running into Colchester Head Street for the start of the march. Click here for timetables.
More info: Home | Colchester Pride
Towngate Theatre
Towngate Theatre is the hub for the arts at the heart of Basildon. The Towngate Theatre brings wonderful concerts, drama and much more to Basildon and Essex.
How to get there: Catch any Basildon services to get there. Click here for timetables.
Braintree Weekly Market, every Wednesdays and Saturdays
Discover the traditional style market in the heart of the historic market town, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
How to get there: Catch service 70, 170, X20 or X70 to get you there. Click here for timetables.
Find out more: Weekly markets – Trade at a market – Braintree District Council
Superhero Weekend | Adventure Island - Saturday 17th August and Sunday 18th August
Feeling Super? Then why not join Adventure Island for Superhero weekend!
This weekend all of their favourite superheroes, and villains will come down to Adventure Island and Sealife Adventure.
How to get there: Catch any Southend service, including the X30 Airlink service. Click here for timetables.
More info: Superhero Weekend - Adventure Island
Sensory Sessions – Riverside Leisure Centre (Chelmsford)
Sensory Session – Tuesday & Thursday Nights – 6.15pm – 7.15pm.
Sensory sessions target audience will be customers with sensory needs. However, the General public will also be able to attend but as it’s the learner pool the age limit will be 8 years or younger UNLESS they have a sensory impairment, then there is no age restriction.
Sensory sessions will include, sensory lights, sensory toys, calming music and some small floats. No Bubblers, no Wall Jets & no Splash Jets.
How to get there: Catch services 47, C8 or C11. Nearest stops are Victoria Road or Tesco, Springfield Road. Click here for timetables.
More info: Sensory swim sessions at Riverside (chelmsford.gov.uk)
East Anglian Railway Museum (Wakes Colne - Open Wednesday & Weekends)
Another firm favourite with families – they're a great way to visit the Museum and have unlimited rides in their vintage wagons or carriages.
How to get there: Catch service 88 & 88A to the Street stop, which is a few minutes' walk to the museum. Click here for timetables.
Find out what's on: East Anglian Railway Museum – A Visit England Quality Assured Visitor Attraction (earm.co.uk)
