Families looking for a memorable Easter break won’t need to travel far this year. Barking and Dagenham is bursting with events, from whimsical Alice in Wonderland workshops to outdoor nature trails and historic egg hunts.
Whether you are looking to get active in the borough’s green spaces or get creative at a local museum, here are 10 top things to do with the kids this spring.
1. Easter Trail Fun
Where: Eastbrookend Country Park
When: Saturday 28 March – Sunday 12 April
Cost: £5
Crack the ‘Bunny Code’ by spotting colourful eggs and collecting hidden letters to claim a treat at the Tea Room. There is also a dedicated quieter trail, making this a perfect choice for SEND and younger children.
2. ‘Making Your Story’ Family Workshops
Where: The Women’s Museum
When: Saturday 28 March & Saturday 4 April (12pm – 3pm)
Cost: Free
Led by local artists Julia Forsman and Javaria Hashmi, these hands-on sessions celebrate the brilliance of women. Children can design protest badges, craft memory banners, and create their own family memory boxes. (Ages 5–12).
3. Springtime with TinderSticks
Where: Beam Parklands
When: Wednesday 1 April (10am – 12pm)
Cost: Free
A great way to get back to nature. Have a go at ‘hapazome’ (extracting natural colours from flowers onto fabric), learn about local birds, and try your hand at kite racing across the grassland. (Ages 4+).
4. Wonderland Crafts: A Curious Spring
Where: Valence House
When: Thursday 2 April (11am & 1.30pm)
Cost: £5
Step into a whimsical world of creative projects. This make-and-take session focuses on enchanting spring décor and playful keepsakes inspired by the season. (Ages 3+).
5. Junior Tennis Camp
Where: Barking Park
When: Friday 3 April (12pm – 2.30pm)
Cost: £18.50
Keep the kids active with professional coaching from Lawn Tennis Association-qualified staff. The session includes games, team competitions, and match play suitable for all skill levels. (Ages 5–15).
6. The ‘Easter-bury’ Egg Hunt
Where: Eastbury Manor House
When: Friday 3 April & Sunday 5 April (11am – 3pm)
Cost: £5
Explore the historic grounds of this stunning Tudor house. Your ticket includes the trail, a sweet prize, and entry to the house itself, where you can discover five centuries of local history.
7. White Rabbits Workshop & Scavenger Hunt
Where: Valence House
When: Tuesday 7 April (11am – 12pm)
Cost: £4
Channel your inner Mad Hatter by decorating a one-of-a-kind basket before heading out on a scavenger hunt through the gardens. Watch out for the Queen of Hearts! (Ages up to 8).
8. Wonderland Farm Day
Where: Valence House
When: Thursday 9 April (11am – 4pm)
Cost: Free (Drop-in)
Gemma’s Farm returns to the borough! This is a wonderful opportunity for children to meet friendly farm animals, enjoy outdoor games, and soak up some Wonderland-inspired magic.
9. Nature Brunch & Sculpture Trail
Where: Eastbrookend Country Park Tea Room
Cost: Adults £18 / Children £8
Enjoy a scrumptious brunch surrounded by lakes and forest. After eating, families can head out to explore the wildlife or follow the popular Arty’s Sculpture Trail.
10. Easter Cupcake Decorating
Where: Valence House
When: Saturday 11 April (11am & 1.30pm)
Cost: £9.50
Don’t be late for this very important date! This workshop invites you to decorate delightful cupcakes fit for a tea party. Costumes are highly encouraged.
“Easter is a fantastic time for families to come together and enjoy everything our borough has to offer,” says Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council. “We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike to take part in the exciting events happening across Barking and Dagenham this spring.”
How to Book: For more details on opening times and to secure your tickets, visit lbbd.gov.uk/culture-heritage.