Spring is a great time for family outings in the East of England. With the countryside coming into bloom, wildlife becoming more active and plenty of outdoor activities on offer, spring makes exploring from Norfolk to Essex especially rewarding. Here are ten top family-friendly attractions to visit this season.
Wimpole Estate
Lambing season makes Wimpole Estate a wonderful spring visit. Families can tour the working farm, see newborn lambs, and enjoy walks through gardens and woodlands. There’s an adventure playground and a café, so it’s easy to spend a full, relaxed day here.
Pensthorpe Natural Park
A haven for wildlife, Pensthorpe has trails, bird hides and wetland habitats. In spring you’ll spot ducklings, goslings and carpets of wildflowers. Children enjoy the large outdoor play area and the hands-on Discovery Centre.
Colchester Zoo
Spring brings livelier animal activity at Colchester Zoo. The park features a variety of exotic species, interactive feeding sessions and play areas. The Wild Explorers zone, with rhinos, zebras and giraffes, is a highlight.
Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure
Perfect for little dinosaur fans, Roarr! offers life-sized dinosaur models, a large adventure playground and an indoor play centre for wet days. In spring you can also enjoy the outdoor splash zone before the summer crowds arrive.
Holkham Estate
Holkham’s wide-open spaces are ideal for spring visits. There’s a lake with boat hire, a nature reserve, and a walled garden that begins to bloom. The grounds are great for cycling and the deer park makes for pleasant family walks.
Banham Zoo
Home to over 2,000 animals, Banham Zoo offers plenty of interactive experiences, from feeding giraffes to watching big cats. Spring often brings baby animals and the milder weather means outdoor enclosures are enjoyable to explore.
Southwold Pier
A trip to the seaside is always appealing in spring, and Southwold Pier has classic British charm. Families can play arcade games, watch quirky automaton machines, enjoy fish and chips and stroll along the beach. The pier’s water clock is a fun attraction for kids.
RSPB Minsmere
For families who love nature, RSPB Minsmere is excellent for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Spring is prime time to see avocets, marsh harriers and sometimes otters. There are child-friendly trails and a visitor centre with interactive activities.
Audley End
Audley End blends history with outdoor family fun. The gardens burst into colour in spring, and children can meet farm animals in the Victorian Stable Yard. The site also hosts family-focused events around Easter.
Cambridge Botanic Garden
A peaceful, educational outing, the Cambridge Botanic Garden comes alive in spring with daffodils, cherry blossoms and tulips. Discovery trails and glasshouses make it an engaging visit for all ages.
With longer days and mild weather, spring is an ideal season to explore the East of England. Whether your family prefers wildlife, history, gardens or the coast, there’s plenty to enjoy.
