Things to Do this Father’s Day in Essex 2025

Make this Father’s Day in Essex a great one and show your dad how much you love him with amazing days out! From beer tastings at local breweries to adrenaline-fueled activities – there’s something to make every dad feel special this June. Read on for our top things to do this Father’s Day!

Bottoms Up

Celebrate Father's Day in Essex with a unique experience for beer-loving dads at Brentwood Brewery. Treat your dad to an unforgettable brewery tour where he'll enjoy an exclusive look behind the scenes of the beer-making process. From learning the craft of brewing to sampling two of the finest beers on tap, it’s an experience sure to impress. Plus, every visitor receives a four-pint takeaway container to savour at home! Want to go the extra mile? The brewery also offers ‘Experience Days,’ giving dads the chance to create their own beer to take home. Tours are just £15 per person, while the ultimate ‘Experience Day’ is priced at £119 per person.

If your dad prefers wine, why not surprise him with a visit to Dedham Vale Vineyard this Father’s Day? Nestled in Essex’s stunning countryside, this 40-acre estate is the perfect spot to explore the world of English wine. Discover what makes Essex’s geology and climate ideal for winemaking and discover the secrets of the craft. The guided tour includes a tasting of four signature wines, letting your dad indulge in some of the finest local flavours. For an extra treat, roll out a blanket and enjoy a prepared picnic amongst the vines. Tours run on select dates throughout the year, from 11am to 2pm, with tickets priced at £30 per person. The optional picnic is an additional £15 per person. Be sure to book early to make this Father's Day a truly special occasion!

Rally Driving Dreams

Make this Father’s Day unforgettable for dads who dream of rally driving glory at Langley Park Rally School, near Saffron Walden. Give your dad the thrill of a lifetime with an action-packed rally experience! Guided by a professional driver in a safe and controlled environment, he'll learn essential techniques to tackle challenging terrain like a champ – once briefed, your dad will take the wheel himself, navigating the loose gravel track with newfound skill and confidence. The excitement doesn’t end there - he'll also get the adrenaline-pumping chance to sit alongside an experienced driver for a high-speed lap around the course. Packages are priced at £99 per person, and gift vouchers are available, letting you treat dad to an unforgettable day whenever it suits him.

See the Seals at Harwich

Treat nature-loving dads to a memorable adventure with a seal-watching trip from Harwich. Depart from the historic Ha’Penny Pier and embark on a scenic journey along the Essex coastline, complete with breathtaking views of Harwich old town. The highlight of the trip is a visit to the creeks of the Hamford Water Nature Reserve, home to a thriving colony of around 250 common seals and an abundance of birdlife. This unique experience is perfect for the entire family! Ticket prices start at £19 for children under five and go up to £29 for adults. Advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot on this unforgettable trip.

History Fanatics

For dads fascinated by World War I or aviation, the Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Maldon is a must-visit. Dating back to 1916, this treasure trove of flying history is the largest surviving Great War aerodrome in Europe. The museum features WWI-era biplanes, historic aircraft hangars, workshops, and squadron offices. It's not just about planes—there's a well-stocked café for treats and the surrounding airfields are home to wildlife like hares and barn owls. The Aerodrome is open Friday to Sunday, from 10am to 4pm, admission costs £12 for adults.

If you dad is manic about mechanics, they will enjoy the Museum of Power near Maldon. This unique museum celebrates the evolution of power, showcasing everything from steam and diesel to valves, lathes, and even a petrol-powered iron! Housed in a historic water pumping station, the museum’s original working steam pumping engine is a true highlight. After touring, visitors can relax at the Steam Pump Tea Room with tasty breakfasts and lunches. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, 9.30am to 4pm, and admission starts at £8 for adults.

For a dad interested in crime-solving and police history, head to the Essex Police Museum at Chelmsford's police headquarters. Step back in time to experience a Victorian police cell, delve into Essex Police's fascinating history, and even solve a mock crime scene. Open on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm, admission is free, making it a perfect Father's Day outing.

If firefighting sparks your dad’s interest, the Essex Fire Museum in Grays is sure to impress. Featuring a superb collection of vintage fire engines, equipment, and uniforms, this museum showcases the transformation of firefighting technology over the decades. Open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and occasional weekends from 10am to 3.30pm, admission is also free.

Bring the Action

Essex is brimming with action-packed options for Father’s Day, making it easy to plan an unforgettable experience for your dad! Celebrate with activities designed to delight dads of all ages at Potters Resort Five Lakes near Maldon. Whether your dad is a keen sportsman or just loves to unwind, the resort’s incredible range of options has something for everyone. Beyond the 18-hole golf course, dads can try their hand at tennis, badminton, archery, bowls, laser clay shooting, or air rifle shooting. There’s also a fully equipped gym, an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a luxurious spa for ultimate relaxation. Treat your dad to a short break and create lasting memories—three-night packages start at £529.

For a thrill-seeking dad, challenge him to conquer the heights at Nuclear High Ropes in Brentwood—the largest high ropes course in Essex. This adrenaline-fueled activity features three levels, six courses, and over 70 aerial obstacles to tackle before completing the grand 40m zip wire finish. A perfect Father’s Day gift for an adventurous spirit, sessions are priced at £30 per adult, with gift vouchers available. Advance booking is highly recommended.

Alternatively, let dad unleash his inner Tarzan at Go Ape in Hylands Park, Chelmsford. With three high rope courses, a heart-racing zip wire, and a classic Tarzan swing, this treetop adventure is sure to be a Father's Day to remember. Gift vouchers are on offer, with the Treetop Challenge starting at £36.95.

Treats & Tipples

Celebrate Father’s Day at Cammas Hall in Hatfield Broad Oak with a beer and barbecue extravaganza. Starting at 11am, this fun-filled celebration features live music, a DJ, and a fully stocked beer tent offering wines and cocktails too. Feast on barbecue classics like burgers, hotdogs, and pizza, with vegan options also available. As a thoughtful touch, every dad receives a free footgolf voucher, which can be redeemed before the end of the season. Tickets are priced at just £4.95 for adults, and children enjoy free entry, making this a great family-friendly outing.

For dads with a love of British comedy, treat them to the Fawlty Towers Father’s Day Lunch at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace in Southend. Basil, Sybil, and Manuel promise a hilariously chaotic dining experience, packed with belly laughs and mayhem. Indulge in a delicious three-course meal, served with a generous helping of classic British humour. Advance booking is recommended, with prices at £57.50 for adults and £28.50 for children.

If your dad appreciates fine dining, wow him with a visit to Marco’s New York Italian at Brentwood’s Holiday Inn. Created by acclaimed chef Marco Pierre White, the restaurant’s menu blends Italian and New York flavours for a truly memorable culinary experience.

With these fantastic options, Essex offers the perfect way to make Father’s Day truly special for every dad. Keep up to date on What’s On in Essex here.