You don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy quality family time in nature this winter. From forest adventures to cosy moments with hot chocolate, give each other the gift of time and use our list of ideas to make new memories together.
Whether you're on a scavenger hunt against the clock or simply enjoying a frosty walk with the dog, these suggestions are simple, fun, and perfect for reconnecting.
1. Test your map reading skills with orienteering
Learn new skills or develop existing ones with this exciting outdoor challenge, perfect for groups of family and friends of all ages.
Use a map and compass to navigate between control points in the forest and explore along the way. We have orienteering courses in forests across the country - find your nearest one via the button below.
2. Frosty fun with Gruffalo winter activity sheets
Winter doesn't have to stop you getting outside, exploring and learning about nature. Download our free Gruffalo-themed winter activity ideas and enjoy a day of fun in the forest, or at home.
Learn how to make a bird feeder, go on a scavenger hunt and turn your hand to ice decorations.
3. Take your dog for winter walkies in the forest
Staying active as a family this winter can be as simple as bundling up for a frosty walk with the dog. Whether you're crunching through leaves or spotting robins in the trees, it's a great way to enjoy quality time together outdoors.
Discover a local trail and set off on a mini forest adventure with your canine companion - hot chocolates in a flask or from the cafe make it even better!
4. 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? Willow, icicles, nests...The possibilities are endless. Find your nearest forest and get ready to explore this winter.
5. Take some wintry snaps in your local forest
The forest is a magical place during the winter months, with glistening frost, atmospheric mist between the trees and winter foliage all around. Photograph a robin, red berries, snow-covered tree branches or your friends and family exploring in their woolly hats and wellies.
All you need is your mobile phone or camera, and a keen eye for photography...and the kids can join in too!
We'd love to see your photos - tag us on Instagram or Facebook.
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6. Warm up with a tasty 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 for the family and visitors both young and old can let off some steam on a woodland walk or forest play area whilst you’re there.
7. 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.
8. 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 those bright winter days with blue skies and crisp air. Don’t forget to pack a blanket to sit on, some extra layers and a flask of your favourite hot drink!
If you're feeling extra adventurous in the kitchen, we've even got some forest-themed recipe ideas for you to try.
9. Try a Gruffalo orienteering course
Discover less-trodden parts of the forest and learn new skills with our Gruffalo-themed orienteering challenge - perfect for younger explorers. 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 from participating forests.
10. 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.
