LOOKING for something to do with the kids this half term? Hadleigh Country Park has put together a host of events to keep children (and adults) entertained over the school holiday. 

There is something for everyone from horrendous history, vampire bat hunts and a fun family bike ride.

Experience adrenalin and thrill at the 2012 Olympic mountain bike course with trails for all ages. Visitors can explore acres of beautiful countryside, rich heritage and even spot wildlife.

1. Tuesday 27th October - Horrendous History

Life in the Iron Age could be worse than horrible! Find out about bog bodies, the nasty things people did to one another and the disgusting things they kept in their houses. Not suitable for those of a nervous disposition!

Meet: Chapel Lane car park, 10 a.m. or 2 p.m.

Cost: £4 per child. Suitable for age 7 – 11 BOOKING ESSENTIAL: phone 0845 603 7624

2. Wednesday 28th October - Family Bike Ride

Run by Bike Art, the cycle shop/hire centre based at Hadleigh Park, this is a fun ride for families, taking in the beautiful landscape of the Hadleigh Downs and Thames estuary.

Time: 2 p.m. (ride lasts around 2 – 3 hours)

Meet: Chapel Lane car park Suitable for families with children aged 10+ (all children must be accompanied)

Cost: FREE if bringing your own bike Helmets MUST be worn – “no helmet, no ride”

Please ensure your bike is in safe riding condition. Alternatively bike hire is available on site. BOOKING ESSENTIAL: phone 01702 551076

3. Thursday 29th October Vampire Bat Hunt

Wanted: Hunters for our missing vampire bats. Follow their trail from the spooky house out into the Park and see how many you can spot to earn yourself a prize. Come in Hallowe’en costume!

Meet: Chapel Lane car park, 10.30 a.m. – 2.30 p.m., start any time.

Cost: £4 per child, includes a prize. Suitable for age 3 – 8.

4. Sunday 1st November - Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon

Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how your ancestors lived 2000 years ago. Try firelighting the ancient way, from sparks.

Meet: Chapel Lane car park, any time 1 – 4 pm Cost: free entry to Roundhouse Friday 6th November Lantern Walk to the Castle Make a colourful lantern then join other families in a lantern-lit procession to Hadleigh Castle and back.

Meet: Chapel Lane car park, 5.30 p.m.

Cost: £4 per child. Suitable for age 3+ BOOKING ESSENTIAL: phone 0845 603 7624

5. Saturday 21st November - Astronomy Open Evening

What does a galaxy look like? Could you tell the difference between Jupiter and Saturn? Find out more about these and other heavenly bodies at our free stargazing event. Telescopes and expert knowledge provided by Southend Planetarium and Castle Point Astronomy Club. Hot drinks for sale. Event will run only if skies are clear.

Meet: 5.30 – 7.30 p.m. Chapel Lane car park. Cost: free

6. Visitors can try for free the ‘Holiday Postcards’ children’s trail and travel all round the world in just 1 kilometre!

Look for the clues you need to complete the postcards. Just pick up a trail sheet from the Hadleigh Park Office.

For more information or to book visit our website www.hadleigh-park.co.uk.