Woodland activities for children and families

Five woodland adventures to try with your family

We believe woods are the world's best playgrounds. They spark imaginations, inspire a love of the natural world, and help to create happy memories you'll have for a lifetime.

So have a go at these activities and enjoy some quality time outdoors with your family. 

1. Build a den

Whether you're building a shelter to protect you from the elements or a secret hide where you can watch wildlife, den building is a fun activity the whole family can enjoy together. Not sure where to start? Read our den building guide to discover our top tips.

And remember, only gather branches and sticks that have fallen to the ground. Please don't break them off trees.

2. Spot wildlife

Do your kids get excited about bird watching or love getting up close to creepy crawlies? Woods are teeming with wildlife, so there's no better place for young nature lovers to explore. And our pocket-sized wildlife ID books will come in handy when you're trying to identify what you've spotted.

3. Go on a scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are an exciting way to get children exploring the natural world. They are also a great way to add fun to family walks. The possibilities are endless:

• You can do seasonal scavenger hunts, searching for signs of spring or autumn treasures.
• How about a colour theme? Challenge younger children to look out for different colours in nature, while older children could track down different shades of one colour.
• You can even get kids exploring with their senses by hunting for textures or sounds.

Check out our scavenger hunt blog for more ideas.

4. Make woodland art

Woods are full of natural craft materials. Keep your eyes peeled for fallen leaves, petals, sticks and pebbles, then get creative with some woodland art.

You could build a tower out of twigs, make a pattern using colourful petals, or even make funny faces on the woodland floor.

5. Have a picnic

Food tastes so much better out of doors, and for kids its a real adventure. So next time you head to the woods, why not have an alfresco feast?

Many of our woods have beautiful views and stunning scenery. Leafy trees also provide plenty of sun dappled, shady spots to enjoy a picnic in the summer months.

So pack up your picnic basket with some yummy food and a blanket and head out to find your perfect picnic spot.

Find a wood for your adventure

We look after more than 1,000 woods across the UK - from tiny urban oases to beautiful ancient woodlands.

Discover a wood near you.