Fun for all the family in the Thames Gateway
With the river and the sea always within easy reach it isn’t hard to keep the family entertained – here are just 5 of the best family days out
City Farms
City Farms are a great way to see animals and birds close up. The London part of the Thames Gateway is spoilt for choice with Mudchute Farm – where you can see llamas in a green field with Canary Wharf as the backdrop or check out the busy equestrian centre. Or there’s Newham City Farm where all year round there is lots to see, from the pygmy goats to Blaze, the mighty Shire horse. You can even sample the honey produced by the farm’s very own bees!
Southend Pier
No visit to Southend would be complete without a visit to its landmark 1.33 mile-long pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world. There’s even a train that runs to the furthest point! Built in 1830, the pier is the focal point of Southend’s beachfront, and was crowned Pier of the Year in 2007. Southend has loads more for families to enjoy including Sealife Adventure.
Dickens World
Merging two opposing types of entertainment, literature and theme parks, is the brand new £60 million Dickens World, which celebrates Medway’s most famous resident, novelist Charles Dickens. This theme park has a host of attractions, including one of Europe’s longest dark boat rides, Ebenezer Scrooge’s haunted house and the Fagin’s Den soft play area.
Watt Tyler Country Park
The 125-acre Watt Tyler Country Park is a Site of Scientific Interest, with many rare species. Visitors can use RSPB hides and there are many marked trails. Other attractions include a miniature railway, café and education centre, and the Motorboat Museum with over 30 boats on display including the chance to operate remote-control model boats.
Thames Barrier Park
On the north bank of the Thames is London’s first major riverside park. This 22 acre urban oasis includes grassy lawns, a sunken formal garden, a fountain plaza, riverside promenade, 5 a side football/basketball courts, a children’s play area, and café.
