Explore Essex is calling for residents to make a New Year resolution to have fun in their great outdoors bucketlist 2020 challenge

From spotting wildlife to learning a new skill the challenges have been created by Essex County Council’s Culture and Green Spaces team.

The team have also listed 101 things to see and do across the county such as mountain biking, den building and watching classic films with loved ones.

Cabinet member for environment and climate change action is Councillor Simon Walsh, said: “The New Year is a great time to make positive changes.

Everyone who completes 20 challenges will be awarded with a certificate and are also encouraged to share their images of you taking part via social media.

Simply use the hashtag #ExploreEssexChallenge and be in with a chance to win an Explore Essex hamper.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Harlyn, age seven, on a swing rope in Colchester

“We’re encouraging everyone, especially families, to discover what’s on their doorstep, get active, try new things and have fun outdoors.

“Research has proven that getting out more and being with nature is great for our wellbeing.

“We want to positively challenge people of all ages to join in. Our country parks and historic venues offer play, education and volunteering opportunities.

Places recommended in the Explore Essex 2020 includes:

  • Belhus Woods Country Park in Aveley
  • Cressing Temple Barns, Cudmore Grove Country Park in East Mersea
  • Danbury Country Park
  • Epping Forest
  • Essex Record Office in Chelmsford
  • Essex Outdoors, Flitch Way from Braintree to Bishop’s Stortford
  • Great Notley Country Park
  • Hadleigh Country Park
  • Jaywick Martello Tower
  • Marsh Farm Country Park in South Woodham Ferrers
  • Sky Ropes in Great Notley
  • The Lock Climbing Wall in Harlow
  • Thorndon Country Park in Brentwood
  • Weald Country Park in Brentwood

To sign-up to the Explore Essex 2020 Challenge and view the 101 things to see and do in Essex, visit www.explore-essex.com/events/challenge