Outdoor Summer Holiday Activities for Kids

Getting outside is one of the easiest ways to beat boredom and make the most of the summer holidays.

1. Nature Scavenger Hunt

 Create a list of things to find, such as feathers, flowers, smooth stones, butterflies, or different shaped leaves. It’s a simple way to encourage children to explore the world around them.

2. Picnic in the Park

 Pack homemade sandwiches, fruit, and snacks and enjoy lunch outdoors. Add a blanket, a few games, and a favourite book to turn it into a full afternoon adventure.

3. Water Balloon Games

 With the heatwaves we’ve been experiencing, water games are a great way for children to cool down while having fun outdoors. Try a water balloon toss, a target challenge, or a family competition — just remember to keep everyone hydrated and enjoy the sunshine safely.

4. Build a Garden Den

 Use blankets, chairs, branches, or outdoor furniture to create a secret hideaway. Children can decorate their den and use it as a base for summer adventures.

5. Create a Wildflower Bouquet Craft

 Bring the outdoors inside with this simple summer craft idea. Children can make their own paper vase by decorating a piece of card or paper and adding small holes for the flowers to poke through. Then head outside to find a selection of flowers, leaves, and greenery to create a colourful wildflower-style bouquet. It’s a lovely way for children to get creative while connecting with nature.

6. Go on a Bike Ride

With the Tour de France inspiring cycling fans around the world, summer is the perfect time to get children on their bikes. Explore local cycle paths, parks, or quieter routes together, and turn it into an adventure by packing snacks and stopping at interesting places along the way.

7. Fly a Kite

 Windy summer days are ideal for flying colourful kites. Head to an open field, beach, or park and see how high you can get it.

8. Go Geocaching

 Turn a family walk into a treasure hunt with geocaching. Using a free app, children can search for hidden caches in parks, towns, and outdoor spaces across the UK.

9. Have a Family Football Match

With the World Cup bringing plenty of football excitement this summer, why not create your own match? Head to the local park, pick your teams, and enjoy a friendly game of football together.

10. Plan a UK Staycation Adventure

 You don’t need to travel abroad to have an exciting summer holiday. Explore somewhere new in the UK, whether it’s a day trip to the seaside, a visit to a national park, a camping adventure, or discovering a family-friendly attraction in another town.