You don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy adventures in the outdoors this winter. Read on to discover 10 low-cost winter activities in the nation's forests for the whole family this season.
1. Take some wintry snaps in your local forest
The forest is a magical place during the winter months. The glistening blanket of frost, the crunching of leaves beneath your feet and that indescribable scent of winter in the air. Photograph a robin, red berries, frost-covered tree branches or even a steaming cup of hot chocolate by a bench. All you need is your mobile phone and a keen eye for photography...and the kids can join in too!
We'd love to see your photos - tag us on Instagram, Facebook or X.
2. Help Stick Man get back to his family tree
Pull on your wellies and waterproofs and head out to explore the new Stick Man trail, in forests across the country from February 2025.
The interactive trail features fun activities and challenges, along with facts about life in the forest and activity packs are just £4 from participating forests.
3. Unwind on a wellbeing trail
Escape the chaos of Christmas and head out on a wellbeing trail for a mindful stroll through the trees. The themed panels encourage you to pause, notice and connect with the forest environment around you. You can even download our forest wellbeing journal to get more from the experience, whether you’re at home or out in the forest.
4. Take your dog for the ultimate Forest Walkies
Our canine friends love exploring the forest even in the depths of winter. Join Wallace and Gromit on our new trail, designed especially for man's best friend. Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic challenges, solve crossword clues and have lots of fun along the way – with everyone’s favourite dog and owner duo for company.
Activity packs are available from participating forests for £5 and include a tote bag, activity leaflet and even a bandana for your dog.
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5. Download your free Gruffalo Spotters winter activity sheets
Winter doesn't have to stop you getting outside and learning about nature. Download your free activities and enjoy a day of frosty fun in the forest, or at home!
6. Enjoy a mini scavenger hunt
Head out on a mini scavenger hunt and challenge your little (and not so little) ones to explore the forest and find things beginning with W, I, N, T, E and R! What natural treasures will they discover? The possibilities are endless.
7. Bake some treats for a winter picnic
Why not spend a couple of hours baking as a family, then pack up the picnic basket and head out for a forest picnic? Perfect for a bright winter day. Don’t forget to pack a blanket to sit on, some extra layers and a flask of hot tea!
8. Have a digital detox
If one of your new year's resolutions is to limit screen time, encourage the kids to have a digital detox by downloading a few of our printable activities. Choose from a fantastic forest word search, some forest-themed colouring in sheets or Tree-Trumps plus loads more! No matter what age or ability, we want to inspire every generation to build a personal and lifelong connection with forests and these activities will allow you to do just that as a family.
9. Treat the family to a steaming cup of hot chocolate
Head to your local forest cafe and indulge in a hot chocolate complete with cream and marshmallows! It’s a simple, low-cost treat and any younger visitors can let off some steam on a woodland walk whilst you’re there.
10. Try a Gruffalo orienteering course
Discover new parts of the forest and learn something new with our Gruffalo-themed challenge. Use a simple map to find 12 Gruffalo markers hidden in the deep, dark wood. Answer questions along the way and gain valuable skills in decision making and map reading as you go. And if you're feeling competitive, choose to run, walk (or skip!) the course against the clock.
Before you begin the trail, pick up a Gruffalo orienteering leaflet with a certificate and map for just £1.50.
