The October Half Term is approaching in Essex and with it families will be thinking of ways to keep the kids entertained.

The half term lasts from Monday October 25 to Friday October 29 according to the county council website - that's five days and a weekend before and after that to potentially go out and see all that Essex has to offer.

It could be an opportunity to see a bit of local history or go out and enjoy a picnic (if the weather holds out of course).

Here are some of the things that you could go to in the Half Term.

October Half Term activities in Essex

Barleylands

There's plenty of things to do at Barleylands in Billericay.

You'll have the opportunity to meet animals at the farm, as well as see a reptile show and a birds of prey display.

Additionally there are two outdoor playground areas, tractor rides, a wildlife walk and even go karts.

A family of four ticket costs £50, with tickets for adults and children between 2-15 costing £14.50 each.

Book your day out at their website.

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

A great day out can be found at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, whici is home to 500 rescued animals.

You can find over 100 different species there, from horses, pigs and turkeys to cats and guinea pigs.

Take part in the Hopefield Trail to test your animal knowledge and maybe make a stop at Max's Cafe for refreshment.

A family ticket is £22, with it costing £6 for children aged 2-15 and £7 for adults.

Book your tickets at their website.

Colchester Zoo

A trip to the zoo is usually a good way to please the whole family on a day out.

With a whole host of animals to see, from elephants to komodo dragons, you're sure to be entertained.

Plus, for Halloween this year the zoo will be hosting a 'Trail of Terror' in the evenings.

Book your tickets at their website.

Hylands Park

The Hylands Estate has over 574 acres of parkland to explore, including the main house, gardens, stables and much much more.

It has five different mapped walks to take, where you can enjoy the stunning sights of the park.

It's also home to the Adventure Castle playground which is fully inclusive and suitable for wheelchairs.

As an added bonus entry is also free.

RHS Garden Hyde Hall

A good way to spend a morning or an afternoon is a trip to the RHS Garden Hyde Hall.

With many different areas of the garden to explore, including Clover Hill and the Winter Garden, you'll be able to see a delightful variety if plants and fauna.

It will also host a Autumn Carnival garden trail during Half Term, as well as crafts and pumpkin carving.

RHS members can get in for free, whilst it is £13.50 for adults and £6.75 for children.

Get your tickets at their website.

Chelmsford City Museum

If you want to learn a little about local history then you would be suited visiting the Chelmsford City Museum.

You can see a mammoth, watch a princely Anglo-Saxon burial, and see stunning art by a Turner Prize winner.

Plus entry to the museum is free.