Free Outdoor Adventures for Families This Summer
Free Outdoor Adventures for Families This Summer
With the summer break about to begin, it can be a challenge to keep children entertained without spending a small fortune. The good news? Some of the best adventures don’t cost a thing. At The Outdoor Classroom, we’re all about helping families get active, connect with nature, and discover the joy of the outdoors – for free.
Here are some simple and free ideas for making the most of summer with children in your local area:
1. Try Local Orienteering
Orienteering is a brilliant way for children to explore maps, build problem-solving skills and enjoy a real-life adventure. British Orienteering's Go Orienteering website lists free local trails and permanent courses across the UK. It’s perfect for all ages and easy to get started.
2. Create a Nature Treasure Hunt
Make a simple list of items to spot outdoors – a feather, a smooth stone, something red, a butterfly. Head to your local park or woodland and turn it into a treasure trail!
3. Chalk Obstacle Course
A tub of pavement chalk is all you need. Draw a path with hopscotch, balance lines, spin-around circles or even maths questions to answer as they move through.
4. Visit a Local Green Space
You don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors. Visit a local nature reserve, park, or canal path. Take a picnic, bring a football or frisbee, and stay all afternoon.
5. Wild Art from Nature
Collect leaves, sticks, stones, and flowers to make wild art. Mandalas, leaf animals, or natural sculptures – let creativity run wild with what you find on your walk.
6. Make a Mini Den
Build a shelter with fallen branches, blankets, or even under the garden table. It’s a great way to encourage imaginative play and teamwork.
7. Stargazing Nights
On a clear night, spread out a blanket, lie back and look up. Count stars, spot constellations or just enjoy the calm. Use a free stargazing app if you want to identify what you see.
8. Park Fitness Trail
Turn a walk into a fun fitness challenge. Pick 5 exercises (star jumps, hops, skipping, lunges, etc.) and set a challenge at different points in the park.
9. Take Part in a Litter Pick
It’s free, feel-good and a great way to teach children responsibility for their environment. Just bring gloves and a bag. You can even make it a competition!
10. Outdoor Story Time
Take your favourite books outside. Read under a tree or make up your own story inspired by your surroundings. Bonus points if you act it out!
Where Will Your Summer Take You?
There’s so much fun to be had just outside your front door. Whether it’s trying orienteering, building dens, or going on a bug hunt – the summer break is the perfect time to reconnect with nature and each other.
Don’t forget to check out Go Orienteering to find free orienteering trails near you!