Top 10 low cost activities for little ones in Loughton

As a mum of 4 children, I was always looking to find free or low-cost ways to entertain my children, especially when the weather got warmer and the days longer. Every day out seemed to cost a fortune, so over the years I have tried out a few cheaper options that won’t break the bank.

Here are my top 10 activities for little ones in and around Loughton.

1. Loughton Library, Traps Hill (IG10 1HD) –

Take out a book, enjoy the sensory area, join the summer reading scheme, or join in with baby and toddler rhyme time. All for free. Support your local library.

2. Family swim in Loughton Leisure centre, Traps Hill (IG101SZ)

Little ones, love making a splash and a swim session costs around £3.60 for juniors and £5.70 for adults (prices as of 14^th June 2023)

3. Children’s playgrounds are located at:

Traps Hill, Jessel Green, Rectory Lane (Take a picnic to make more of it)

 (Combine this with the library or swimming and you have filled a whole afternoon).

4. Forest walk from Baldwins Hill through to The Kings Oak High Beech. Take a picnic, visit the Epping Forest Visitors centre. Get an ice cream from the Green Kiosk in the forest by the Kings Oak and maybe a cool drink from the pub beer garden while the little ones play on the swings. This one is a favourite of ours!

5. Pelican Playground in Chigwell (IG7 6DP) This is free sandpit and play area designed for children under 8 years. We have taken lunch and spent a whole day here before. Don’t forget the sun cream!

6. Feed the ducks in Theydon Bois, CM16 7JD. Visit the duck pond, see the ducks, and enjoy lunch on the green.

7. Hainault Forest Country Park, IG7 4QN. Visit the farm animals (check website for opening days/times) Play on the green. Go in the new visitors’ centre. Enjoy a picnic and play ball on the green. Get the little ones an ice cream from the café. See the ducks on the lake.

8. Bowling- Rollerbowl, Collier Row RM5 2BH. Before 12o’clock early bird bowling is just £6 each (price correct 14^th June 2023). Perfect for slightly older children, especially in the holidays.

9. Kids am cinema showings. Odeon South Woodford and other cinemas show family fun films at a cheaper price in the morning. Grown ups pay Kids prices. Check their websites for details.

10. Don’t forget to check out a Caterpillar Music class (Term time only). At only £6.50 a session and accompanying siblings only £1 our classes are accessible and flexible. You can Pay as you go as well as block book for an added discount. With puppets, instruments, the parachute, sensory props, and lights to our classes are friendly, interactive and stimulating. Everyone is always welcome. Check out our Loughton and Buckhurst Hill timetable here.  Hope this gives you a few ideas! Anna xx