In today's digital world, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens. Technology does have its place, but being offline and out in nature provides huge benefits to your child’s physical and mental health. It's also a fun way to connect with each other and create lasting memories.
While our Stick Man trail and Gruffalo activities are popular with younger visitors, the forest has plenty to entice older children and teenagers too. Read on to discover some of our favourite activities for families with older children and make plans to swap some screen time for green time this summer.
Den building
Nobody is too old for a den. Gather building materials from the forest floor and create your own secret hideout for some zen time. Build a frame against a sturdy tree trunk using dead branches and logs, and then layer smaller sticks and leaves to fill in the gaps.
Short on time or don’t know where to start? Lots of forests already have established dens, so you can add to one already started and make it your own. Discover your nearest forest and let the building begin!
Disc golf
Fancy a game of something social but without the intense competition of team sports? Instead of hitting golf balls with clubs, in disc golf you throw specially designed flying discs into metal basket targets.
Challenge friends or family to complete a course in as few throws as possible for a little friendly competition. Nothing beats the satisfaction of watching your disc sail perfectly into the basket. There’s a discount available for members too.
Camping in the forest
A change of scenery is good for the soul, no matter the age. Head to the forest for an overnight stay and experience nature like never before. From back-to-nature hideaways to full-facility sites, we’ve got options for all tastes. Plus, members can save 10% on Forestry England Camping sites.
Get the kids involved in the pitching and cooking to develop new skills and encourage independence (while you put your feet up with a refreshing drink!). And once the sun goes down it’s the perfect opportunity to practice nighttime photography whilst stargazing.
Go Ape Treetop Adventures and Segway
Older kids and teens love the adrenaline rush of completing a high-ropes course among the trees, seeing the forest from a whole new perspective as they swing and climb.
Prefer the view from the ground? Ditch the bikes and try something different by hiring an electric, self-balancing Segway instead. They’re fun and easy use, and gliding around the forest is a novel way of making memories.
Practice photography skills
Put the smartphones away and dig out an older digital or instant-print camera ready for a photoshoot in the forest. Look up some tips and tricks before you go, and practice new skills whilst surrounded by beautiful subject matter.
Play with the dappled light coming through the trees, interesting shadows, colour contrasts and different textures to get some artistic shots. Take inspiration from your favourite online creators and upload your photos to share when you get home.
Nature for self-care
Research shows that spending time in nature can improve our health and wellbeing, and walking along a forest trail is a great way for older kids to decompress from the stresses of school and teenage life.
Many content creators across Instagram, TikTok and Youtube now talk openly about the importance of mental health breaks too. If you need a hand getting started, our Wellbeing trails have panels with tips on how to practice mindfulness as you explore, as well as prompting conversations and playful activities.
Find your nearest forest
Ready to spend some time in the forest with the family? Find your nearest forest and plan a day out.
