For a day out which the kids will love, visit Colchester Zoo where you’ll find over 260 species from all over the world. The latest exhibit on show is Otter Creek, an impressive enclosure which houses a number of the famously charismatic animals.

Also take a look at Lion Rock, Tiger Taiga and Penguin Shores for an up close and personal experience with some of the more exotic creatures on location.

From 22^nd – 31^st October, the zoo will be putting on Shriek Week. This will be a great opportunity to entertain the kids during half term, with a hair-raising walk through the Chamber of Nightmares or an enjoyable foray into Halloween crafts.

There’s plenty to do and see on The Orchards caravan holidays in Essex, but make sure you get down to Colchester Zoo this month for a mixture of great wildlife and some spine-chilling frights.

The remarkable crescent-shaped building has been created around the newly restored Berryfield mosaic, discovered in the Essex town in 1923. Don’t miss Firstsite’s first exhibition – Camulodunum, the Roman name for Colchester. Showing for a limited time only, the exhibition will celebrate the cultural and artistic heritage of the region and the town’s important Romano-British artifacts.

Scrutinize the works of your favourite artists, and pick from a variety of our daily guided tours. Make the most of being in the perfect setting for inspiration and try some of your own sketching in the gallery. Stroll through galleries of famous works by legendary modern artists, such as particular favourites Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and Andy Warhol.

Explore Essex during your stay with the orchards caravan holidays and uncover the other wonders Essex has to offer. The kids will have the time of their lives at Colchester Zoo, stumbling upon rare and tropical species and see three cheetah cubs that have very recently been born. In preparation for Halloween, Colchester Zoo are inviting you to their exclusive ‘Shriek Weeks’. Enjoy a number of spooky themed displays and activities, or take a spine-chilling walk through the haunted forest. Take a break from the kids and spend an unforgettable night out in Clacton-on-Sea, enjoy theatre, restaurants and bars playing live music.

Whether you are a die-hard art fan, or a newbie in the world of arts, there is bound to be something for you to enjoy. Don’t miss the opening of the new Firstsite art centre. Get away from your hectic lifestyle and experience the fun and flexibility of a caravan holiday in Essex.

To see some of the earliest Roman ruins in the UK, a visit to Colchester is a must. The remains of the ancient Temple of Claudius can be clearly seen beneath the castle whilst the town walls, which still circle the city, are some of the oldest in Britain.

In addition to Roman ruins, the influence of the Norman invasion can be witnessed throughout Essex. Holiday makers can explore the many castles, museums and abbeys for a trip that’s both fun and educational.

Packed with interesting buildings, Essex is an ideal destination for architecture enthusiasts. From the famous wooden log church in Greensted to the Tilbury fort, there’s plenty of places to explore in this bustling county. To enjoy The Orchards caravan holidays, make sure you visit all the nearby towns and sights. Steeped in history and heritage, Essex is one of the UK’s most diverse counties.