The Zog Trail based on the wonderful Julia Donaldson story. Everything you need to know about the Essex Zog Trail at Thames Chase, Upminster. The Essex Zog Trail opened in February 2023.
You can find Zog trails at Forestry England sites all over the UK, here is what you need to know about the Essex Zog Trail.
Where is the Zog Trail in Essex?
Thames Chase Forest Centre, Pike Lane, Upminster, RM14 3NS
Opening hours: 10am-5pm weekdays and weekend (10-4pm in the winter)
How much is Parking at the Zog Trail?
Parking costs £1 all day until March, when the charge rises to £2 for the entire day. Payment machine takes cash, or you can pay on card at the visitor centre.
What facilities are at the Zog Trail?
The Forest Centre has a staffed visitor centre, toilets (including accessible and baby change facilities), a small shop and inside seating area. There is also a tearoom at the Thames Chase Forest Centre. The cafe is open fro 10am to 4pm (3pm in the winter season).
Is there a playground at the Zog Trail?
There is a small playground located close the Forest Centre. There is a large climbing frame with slide, a separate climbing frame, baby swings and a nest swing. There is also a climbing structure with seats underneath. The playground is suitable for children up to junior age.
How much does the Zog Trail cost?
You do not have to pay to complete the Zog Trail. The first marker is at the overflow car park. However Zog Activity packs are available, which increases the experience. Activity packs cost £4 from the Forest Centre. The packs contain a small activity booklet which can be completed with the clues on the trail. There are some glasses, again needed to spot the letters marked out on the trail. There are also some Zog stickers, Zog wings and string and a crayon for the brass rubbing at the end of the trail.
Is there a Zog App?
There is a new ‘Zog: A Forest Adventure’ App by magic light. The App used augmented reality to really enhance the trail, I really recommend it. There are several markers along the trail. Point your phone at the markers to access the augmented reality tasks. The idea is to complete the challenges to win Zog's gold stars. It was really great seeing Zog appear.
Before you go, download the App HERE
Is the Zog Trail accessible and is the Zog trail buggy friendly?
The trail is well sign posted and the trail grounding is a mix of predominantly gravel pathways. The trail is mainly flat and therefore passable for wheelchair users or with a sturdy buggy.
What age is it the Zog Trail suitable for?
Zog lovers of all ages! The new App makes it interesting for older children too.
How long does the Zog Trail take to complete?
The trail takes at least 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
A great addition to our brilliant Essex Parks! I definitely recommend giving the Zog Trail a go.
More Trails
If you love a Julia Donaldson character trail, you can check out the Essex Stick Man Trail!
There is also an Essex Peter Rabbit Trail and a Wind in the Willows Trail, both at Essex Wildlife Trust sites. .
Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex
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