Free outdoor activities. The great outdoors can benefit us both physically and mentally. Whether you’re looking to entertain the kids during the school holidays or are looking to get the whole family out and about over the weekend, there are plenty of free outdoor activities across the UK. It doesn’t matter if you’re a nature enthusiast or not, we guarantee you’ll enjoy getting stuck into these outdoor activities.

A historical day out

There are plenty of free days out to be had at some of the UK’s most historic landmarks. Kids will love Durham Cathedral in the North East of England. The UNESCO-listed building dates back to the 11th century and was also used as a filming location for many of the Harry Potter films. You could also try:

Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
Chester Roman Gardens, Chester
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London
The Big Pit, South Wales

Walking tours

If you’re visiting a new area, guided walking tours are a great place to start! You’ll find out lots of fun facts you wouldn’t otherwise and the guide will help you discover the best sights to see. Who knows, they might even have a few tips on the best places to eat. Contrary to popular belief, many towns and cities across the UK offer free, guided walking tours. Here are some of our top picks for kids and adults alike. Bath free outdoor activities uk

The Potter Trail, Edinburgh

This is another one for Harry Potter fans! Wands at the ready, this magical tour will take you around Edinburgh’s magical locations that JK Rowling used as inspiration for the famous books.

Mayors Guides’ Bath Walking Tours, Bath

Bath is a beautiful city that is best explored on foot, and who better to help you out than a free tour guide? Mayors’ Guides walking tours have been around since 2014, offering visitors a real insight into the historical city.

Free walking tours across the UK

A quick search of your city followed by ‘free walking tours’ will bring up many on-foot tours across the UK that are completely free. Why not take one in your local city, you might discover a thing or two!

National parks

From New Forest and South Downs to The Lake District and Cairngorms, the UK is home to 15 national parks which means there is most definitely one on your doorstep. Visiting a national park is one of our favourite free outdoor activities as the opportunities are endless. You could go for a hike, a leisurely stroll or even partake in a spot of birdwatching. To find your nearest national park, visit the National Parks UK website.

Free outdoor activities closer to home

These free outdoor activities can be done at your local park or even from the comfort of your own garden.

Birdwatching

We can’t stress enough how relaxing and therapeutic birdwatching can be - and the children will love it! Head to your local park to see which birds you can spot. You can identify them using our A-Z bird guides. Or, if you prefer, attract the birds to your garden with some of their favourite bird food, such as our mixed flavour suet pellets, and watch on as they flock to your feeder. You can even make a game out of it by seeing who can spot different species. outdoor activities uk birdwatching

Have a picnic

Sandwiches, snacks and drinks make a great day out. Throw together a tasty packed lunch from the food in your fridge and find a relaxing spot at your local park. Whether you’re going with the children or not, a picnic is a great way to embrace the great outdoors.

Go camping

It’s time to dust off that tent that’s been sat in your attic for the last 10 years. Even if you’re just camping in the garden, the experience of camping outdoors can be enjoyed by all ages! Why not give it a try? Here are some resources to help you get started with birdwatching!

12th Aug 2019 Kennedy Wild