BUILDING Blocks and Mini Musical Mayhem toddler groups have created a list of family activities in Saffron Walden this summer.
Free activities include Saffron Walden Common, where families can enjoy a picnic, a stroll through the turf maze, or a visit to the swings.
The common, known for its vibrant summer social life, occasionally hosts a pop-up beach and bouncy castles.
Families are also encouraged to explore Rowney Woods, located opposite Carver Barracks.
The circular walk takes about an hour. To get to the wood, walk down the made-up track which passes the garden centre.
The park at Chesterford community centre is equipped with a death slide and a witches' hat, is a hit with children.
The nearby Horse River Green offers a picnic spot and an ice cream shop.
Shadwell Wood, Noakes Grove Wood, and the American Playing Fields are also included in the list.
The American Playing Fields feature a hedge maze and a well-loved swings park.
Golden Acre swings and Herbert's Farm Copse are noted for their pirate ship, unique pedal roundabout and lively after-school scene.
The footpath to the playing fields opposite takes families to the woods, which have bicycle stunt tracks.
In Debden, families can enjoy the swings and a pleasant walk down Church Lane to the church, with a footpath leading to a lake and woods.
The list also suggests a visit to Saffron Walden Library and Museum for indoor activities.
Further afield, families can venture to Linton.
Although parking can be tricky, the area offers a steep walk to Rivey Hill Water Tower for a picturesque view, feeding ducks at an old ford and bridge, and hot chocolate at the friendly Linton Kitchen.
For those willing to spend a bit more, the list includes Riverside Barns Café near Ickleton, featuring small shops around a lake, and Just Play soft play on Shire Hill.
Audley End House Swings, Audley End Enchanted Railway and Fairy Wood, and the Splatter Room in Saffron Walden are also recommended.
The enchanted railway and fairy wood includes a train ride, followed by a visit to a play area and Wendy houses.
A park in Newnham, near Cambridge, offers free open-air paddling, while Cherry Hinton Park provides a similar experience.
Both parks have swings, and Cherry Hinton Park has a nearby child-friendly pub.
Harlow Park, although further away, has farm animals and a paddling pool.
Boydell’s Dairy Farm, with its pat-friendly animals, is also on the list, but only opens at certain times and days.
The list also suggests Bury Lane Play Barn, an enormous soft play area near Royston.
The barn, which requires pre-booking, has a farm shop, café, and pick-your-own strawberries.
Parents can head to the food vans on the common on Thursday nights, although they are advised to arrive early as food sells out fast.
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Building Blocks runs on Wednesdays in term time from 9.30am to 11am at All Saints Great Chesterford.
Mini Musical Mayhem runs on Fridays in term time at Saffron Walden Community Church from 9.30am to 11am.
Ring Anna on 07562506867 for details or just turn up.
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