LOOKING for something to do with the children over half term? Or do you fancy trying something different this weekend? We've put together a list of some of the best attractions in Essex.

1. White Water Rafting at Lee Valley Park 

Enjoy adrenalin pumping white water rafting and canoeing at this amazing venue. Tackle the same wild rapids and obstacles that international athletes have faced during the London 2012 Games. The venue is situated in the award-winning Lee Valley Regional Park stretching 26 miles along the banks of the River Lee, from Ware in Hertfordshire, through Essex, to the Thames at East India Dock Basin.

Website: www.gowhitewater.co.uk

2. Aerial Runway at Mersea Island

One for thrill seekers and those not afraid of heights! Participants are connected to a wire 12 metres above the ground before stepping out into thin air and embarking on a 100m descent. During courses, multiple activities are available as part of the same cost. Please note pre-booking is essential.

Website: www.essexoutdoors.org/activities.php

3. Walk and cycle around Essex

The gently rolling landscape of Essex, sprinkled with rivers and lit by constantly changing East Anglian skies, miles of country lanes, hidden byways, bridleways and public footpaths is best explored by walking or cycling. Choose from carefully selected routes, including five walking and five cycling routes passing through various locations in Essex. The routes provide the perfect opportunity to explore much of the county.

Website: www.visitessex.com/walkandcycle

4. Rope Runners, based at The Secret Nuclear Bunker at Kelvedon Hatch

Open all year round, this woodland adventure will see you take to the trees as you make your way around the various courses. Low level and more advanced courses are available and you can tie in your trip with a visit to the Secret Nuclear Bunker. Phobia training is also available for those with a fear of heights, the dark or confined spaces.

Website: www.roperunners.co.uk

5. Bradwell Outdoors, Bradwell-on-Sea

The Essex Outdoors centre at Bradwell is a coastal outdoor education centre, based on the River Blackwater Estuary, a lovely stretch of sheltered tidal water on the east coast of Essex.

Activities include dinghy sailing, power boating, and multi-activity days. Taster sessions all the way up to advanced instructor qualifications are all available.

Website: www.essexoutdoors.org/bradwell.php

6. Imperial Bird of Prey Academy, Billericay

The leading Bird of Prey Centre is based at Barleylands Farm & Craft Village, Billericay, where you can enjoy daily flying displays in a purpose built flying arena.

Discover a wide range of experience days, which are fun and educational, catering for all ages and abilities. The friendly falconry team will make your experience both personal and enjoyable giving you plenty of hands on time with the amazing birds of prey – a day you will never forget!

Website: www.essexfalconrydays.com

7. Fishing at Hanningfield Reservoir, Billericay

Set in beautiful Essex countryside, Hanningfield Reservoir provides some of the best reservoir trout fishing in the UK. Equipment and boat hire is available, or you can just take your seat by the bank while you wait for your catch of the day. For beginners wanting to get into the pastime learn to fish courses are available.

Website: www.eswater.co.uk/gofishing

  • Do you have any suggestions of places to go in Essex? Comment below. To see more suggestions, and routes, go to the Visit Essex website

9. Riding experience in Epping Forest

High Beech Horse Riding School caters for all riders, from teaching the beginner or novice in the indoor school to experienced riders wishing to improve their technique.

They also offer escorted forest rides (hacking). And if you are not sure which is best for you, they offer taster horse riding sessions, horse riding experience days and gift vouchers, so there has never been a better time to give horse riding a try.

Website: www.highbeechridingschool.co.uk

10. Clacton Pier 

Six and a half acres of fun and entertainment, including under cover and outside fairground, amusements, side stalls, cafés and take aways, Seaquarium, public house with children's play area and lots more for all the family.