Clacton-on-Sea in Essex is a beautiful town located on the southeast coast. With scenic beaches, a vibrant town centre and a modern pier there is plenty to see. Here are the top 5 places to visit with your kids in Clacton-On-Sea, a guest post by popular blogger Diary of a Dad.
Hastys Adventure farm
Hastys is a farm that offers so much more. With acres of land and so many activities, this farm is just perfect for kids aged 3-11. There are all of the animals you would expect to find including pigs, sheep, goats and alpacas.
You will also find a huge outdoor playground area as well sandpits full of building vehicles for toddlers to play with. There is even an indoor play zone for when the great British weather takes a turn for the worse! Those feeling really brave may want to take a few laps on the Hastys adventure farm go-kart track too.
Clacton pavilion family fun park
Located on the coast just metres from the sea, the Clacton pavilion is a fun place to pass a few hours with the family. With a large choice of rides, there is something for kids of all ages (And adults too!)
If thrill-seeking is not really your thing then maybe the al fresco dining area will be more up your street. Serving all the snacks you would expect in a seaside town from fish and chips to doughnuts and ice cream. Tasty.
Other activities at Clacton Pavilion include crazy golf, inflatables, carnival stalls and arcades. Entry is completely free, though there is a cost per ride. Bulk ride tickets can be bought at reception offering very reasonable discounts in the park.
PlayPalz soft play centre
PlayPalz soft play centre is, without doubt, the number one spot for soft play in Clacton-On-Sea. The huge soft play frame is packed full of slides, tunnels and play equipment making it perfect for young kids. Those that reach the top of the frame will find a sports area with a football goal and basketball nets too, giving them a chance to show off some skills!
Those with babies and toddlers will be pleased to know that PlayPalz has an area for under 3’s including a ball pit, sensory activities and much smaller slides and soft play toys. PlayPalz has recently changed ownership and name, it was formerly Robbie Rascals, and now boasts a wide
selection of speciality days. If you are planning to visit PlayPalz always check ahead as you may even be able to meet a princess on your visit!
Clacton Pier
Clacton pier really does have it all. No longer a shabby outdated boardwalk, a full refurbishment of the pier took place whilst the area was closed during the pandemic leaving us with state-of-the-art rides all along the pier.
The inside section of the pier is incredible too. You’ll find a huge arcade with every game you could possibly imagine as well as a range of bars and restaurants. There is a full ten-pin bowling alley which is perfect for those families who revel in a little in-house competition!
A secret gem of Clacton, the aquarium can also be found on the pier allowing kids to get up close and personal with a huge range of sea creatures. A huge pier with something for everyone, you really can’t have a family day out in Clacton without visiting the pier.
Clacton pavilion water park
Brand new this year and open between May and October, this water park is the perfect place for kids when the sea is just a little too chilly! The water park is packed full of slides, sprays and hoops as well as a large pool for those that just want a swim.
The park is reasonably priced too, with entry just £7 for kids and under 12’s allowed entry for free. There is plenty of seating around the pool for those just looking to relax or to keep an eye on the little ones. Other facilities include changing rooms, a pool shop and a refreshments shop. It’s just like being on holiday!
So that’s it for the top 5 places to visit with kids in Clacton-on-Sea. Clacton is a seasonal town and those visiting in the Summer should always plan ahead as there are plenty of seasonal events and festivals.
This year will see the return of the circus, family festivals, classic car events and a huge variety of top shows at Westcliff and Princes theatres. When the sun is shining, Clacton-on-Sea really is a great town for a family getaway.