Just because you’ve decked the halls doesn’t mean you have to lock the doors. This Christmas, don’t hibernate.

Why not check the alfresco alternatives across the county? Wrap up warm, pour a flask and explore the many things going on in Essex.

1. Discover the meaning behind some of the historic traditions of Christmas with a visit to Danbury Country Park near Chelmsford on Sunday, December 21. 

The park is hosting a winter festival from 2pm where families can create “lanterns of light”, join a singing workshop, go on a storytelling adventure, follow a woodland trail and lots more. Booking is essential. Visit www.visitparks. co.uk/events/ winter-festival Cost is £5 per person.

2. At historic Cressing Temple, in Braintree, children can travel through a Christmas grotto, meet the elves and help them get to work in their science lab, post office and workshop.

Visitors young and old can meet Father Christmas before popping down to the elf toy shop to choose their own present straight off the shelf.

Events will be on every weekend up to Christmas. Pre booking is essential on 0845 6037624. It costs £9.99 per child, including a prize and one adult ticket. £2 per additional adult

3. Stretch your legs with some wintry fun at Wat Tyler Country Park, in Pitsea.

From Saturday December 20 to Sunday January 4 the visitors centre will be open at the RSPB-run park for activities including Christmas tree decoration making, festive bird box making and more.

Events are on from 10am to 4pm daily.

4. Meet Santa and receive a gift at Chafford Gorges Nature Park in Thurrock, on Saturday, December 12.

Stroll through the winter wonderland and work off some steam. The event is on from 12pm to 1pm and costs £5 per child. Book a space on 01375484016.

5. Get crafty at Langdon Nature Reserve, in Laindon, on Sunday, December 14.

An afternoon of festive crafting including cards, decorations and gifts will take place from 12pm to 4pm.

A donation £1 per craft is requested.

Call 01268 419103 for more details.

6. Abberton nature reserve near Colchester, has a festive funday for all the family on Saturday, December 20.

Go along and see the winter wonderland and visit Santa in his magical grotto. Work off some prefestive calories with a trail around the reserve, then warm up with some crafts in the visitors’ centre. Booking is essential.

A donation of £6 per child is requested. Event will be on from 10.30am to 2pm.

Call 01206 738172 or book by email on abberton@essexwt.org.uk

7. Calm down before the big day with a family stroll around Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre, in Fingringhoe, near Colchester.

Go for a wallk around the reserve trail, enjoy some orienteering or enjoy some Christmas crafts at the festive drop in day from 10.30am to 3pm. No need to book.

  • Go to visitparks.co.uk for more information on the Christmas events taking place throughout December across Essex.