24/10/2026
There are some great free and budget-friendly family activities happening across the Epping Forest District for the October half-term (Monday, 26th October to Friday, 30th October 2026). Have fun and please stay safe.
Here are the top free things to do locally, alongside a few low-cost treats you might want to look into:
Free Library Craft Sessions
The Epping Forest District Museum is taking its activities on the road this half-term to host Ancient Roman Fun and Crafts sessions. These are 100% free, but booking ahead is essential to secure a spot:
• Where: North Weald Library and Debden Library.
• Booking: You can reserve space online via TicketSource.
Free Guided Walks & Eco-Activities
If you want to wrap up warm and get outdoors, there are several free organized environmental and community tasks taking place:
• Top Picks Litter Picking: Wednesday, 28th October at Hollow Pond (10:00 AM).
• Youth Litter Pick & Photography Collective: Wednesday, 28th October in Chingford (11:00 AM & 11:30 AM).
• Volunteering at Copped Hall: Tuesday, 27th October (9:30 AM).
Everyday Free Attractions in EFD
If you need flexible, drop-in options that don’t cost a penny, these local permanent features are perfect for half-term day trips:
Epping Forest District Museum
Entry to the museum is free. It is highly child-friendly, offering free explorer kits (with torches and magnifying glasses) and free seasonal trails to grab from the Tudor Gallery.
The Essex Way
You can start this beautiful walking route directly from Epping Station for a crisp autumn hike.
Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge
Located near Chingford, it offers a great glimpse into Tudor history completely for free.
Free & Low-Cost Halloween Trials
Halloween Trail & Party (Loughton): A local outdoor spooky trail where families follow clues to a final venue. Includes complimentary food, games, and crafts, though spots are limited and booking is needed.
• Epping Forest District Museum Drop-ins (Waltham Abbey): While their premium storytelling events cost £5, the museum is running spooky Drop-in Halloween Crafts (like making Mexican Gods' eyes and spider webs) on Tuesday, 27th October and Saturday, 31st October for just £3.50 per child.
"Kids Eat Free" Restaurant Deal
If you are planning a meal out to break up the week, The Royal Forest pub (located right on the edge of Epping Forest) is running a Kids Eat Free deal all week from Monday, 26th October to Friday, 30th October 2026. Two children can get a free three-course meal for every adult who orders two courses (including a main).
