Colchester Zoo is a fantastic place to visit with something for all the family.  Wander around and see the array of animals in excellent habitats.  Don't forget to visit the Leopards at Ussuri Falls, this new expansion can be located opposte the White Tiger Valley and the Medellin Momkeys.  Other popular areas of the zoo include Tiger Taiga, Chimp World and Wallaby Walkabout.   Look out for special events throughout the year such as Shriek Week on Halloween.  If you book tickets online you can obtain a discount of 10% and are also fast tracked on entry to the zoo - a great idea in the school holidays.

This amazing owl sanctuary located in the Stowmarket area of Suffolk should be high on your list of places to visit in the area.  The attraction is also a registered charity and carries out important work in the care & rehabilitation of owls from the region.  The sanctuary also raises awareness of owl conservation throughout the UK.  Between April and the end of September there are two superb flying displays each day so you should try and make your visit coincide with one of these displays if you can.

Adventure Island costs nothing to enter and there is an array of rides and attractions on offer. The Big Adventure rides include the Dragon's Claw, Rage and Vortex.  For younger children there is just as much fun on offer with rides like the Cow Jump, Over the Hill and Dragon. Mini Rides include the Choo Choo Train, Crooked House and Flying Jumbos.  When you have ran out of energy you could have a wander round the gift shop and perhaps buy a souvenir of your day.

This attraction is currently under construction but we are looking forward to it opening in early 2011.  The philosophy of the Discovery Centre is 'healthy body, healthy mind, healthy planet and aims to change people's attitudes and actions towards our planet.  Educational as well as fun there are plenty of activities such as outdoor sport pitches, cycle and walking trails and indoor activity rooms.  This is a unique attraction for the whole family.

Wildwood Trust is well worth a visit if you are staying in the local area.  You can experience close encounters with native wildlife - all in a beautiful forest setting.  You will find this attraction between the coastal town of Herne Bay and the ancient city of Canterbury.  There is a wide variety of animals to see including badgers, foxes and otters. Kids will also love the animal encounters sessions, playground and games and quizzes.  Check out their website for the latest admission prices which are excellent value for a family day out in Kent.

The National Trust Ickworth House, Park & Gardens is a Beautiful 1800 acre country estate with many attractions including a fantastic adventure playground for the children and a range of nature trails which the whole family will enjoy. The site also has a family friendly cycle route a gift shop and a small café