The choice of activities is broad, from escape rooms, paintball, axe throwing, clay pigeon shooting, combat archery, horse riding, bubble football, go-karting right through to white water rafting and other water-based activities, such as SUP boarding and kitesurfing. All these activities and much more can be found on Geronigo®, the largest network of adventure and adrenalin activities in the UK and Ireland.

The Sightseeing ‘Must Dos’ in Dublin

The Dublin Musical Pub Crawl has to come top of the list. The best of the many that are on offer are run by professional musicians – as this experience is all about the music, and the odd drink or two! Your musician guides, who take you to some of Dublin’s most notable public houses, explain the history and stories behind traditional Irish music and perform songs and instrumental Irish Jigs and Reels throughout the tour. A truly immersive and interactive experience filled with great Irish music and dancing.

The Book of Kells Exhibition should be on your itinerary if history and religion are of interest. Located in the heart of the city centre in Trinity College Dublin, the Exhibition displays the Book of Kells, a 9th-century manuscript that documents the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure and the world’s most famous medieval manuscript. The Exhibition also features access to the Long Room, one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, that houses 250,000 of Trinity College’s oldest books.

Dublin Walking Tours are many and varied. History and culture are featured in the form of storytelling and music, one notable being a guided tour by opera singers. Others highlight the darker side of Dublin’s history and the ghost and ghouls who are said to wander the city’s oldest areas on the darkest nights. Tours like ‘The Grave Digger’s Tour’ should set your teeth rattling or the ‘Dublin Ghost Bus Tour’ that promises to take you to the scariest and most sinister places in the city. Dubliners love a good story and have many storytelling events that are hosted in the city pubs, museums and public spaces.

The Guinness Storehouse Experience and taste the story of Ireland’s most iconic stout beer – Guinness. For fans of this brew, the Guinness Storehouse is a veritable place of worship. The Storehouse – also called the Guinness Hop Store – opened in 2000 in a century-old fermentation plant. Today it comprises seven floors surrounding a pint-shaped atrium. Visitors are treated to a blow-by-blow account about how the delicious dark brown beer is made, the history of the Guinness brand and the life of its founder, Arthur Guinness. To round off your visit, you get a complimentary pint of Guinness in the spectacular Gravity Bar on the Storehouse’s 7th floor.

Jameson Whiskey Tour is another Dublin favourite. For over 200 years Jameson’s have been producing their fine whiskey in Dublin. The tour takes you from the year 1780, when John Jameson walked through the doors of the Bow St. Distillery in Dublin and through the early years when the distillery saw rapid growth, and employed so many people, it was seen as a vibrant city within a city. The story then takes you through the years and developments to the present day. Jameson whiskey is touted to be the world’s most famous and best Irish whiskey, and you can try it for yourself during your tour.

Dublin Castle – one of the most important buildings in Irish history. The castle has witnessed the historical progression from a country ruled by the British to one of independence. From 1204 until 1922 it was the seat of English, and later British rule in Ireland as a residence for the Viceroy of Ireland, and as a ceremonial and administrative centre. Originally a medieval fortress constructed on the ground once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement, and despite a severe fire in 1684, much of the medieval and Viking structures survived and can still be explored by visitors today.

In the late-seventeenth and eighteenth centuries saw the Castle transformed from a medieval bastion into a Georgian palace. The new building included a suite of grand reception rooms known as the State Apartments, which accommodated the Viceroy and were the focus of great state occasions. The Castle remains one of the architectural highlights of Georgian Dublin today.

On 16 January 1922, the last Viceroy of Ireland handed Dublin Castle over to Michael Collins and the government of the newly-independent Irish state. Successive Irish governments have continued to use it for important national events, such as state dinners and commemorations. Since 1938, all of Ireland’s presidents have been inaugurated in St Patrick’s Hall within the castle. Among the many famous figures associated with the Castle is Bram Stoker, author of Dracula, who worked as a civil servant at the Castle from 1866 to 1878.

O’Connell Street has often been centre-stage in Irish history. Renamed in honour of Daniel O’Connell, a nationalist leader of the early 19th century, whose statue stands at the lower end of the street, facing O’Connell Bridge it forms part of the main thoroughfare created in the 18th century that runs through the centre of the capital, terminating at City Hall and Dublin Castle. It has great prominence in Irish history because it formed the backdrop of many protests, demonstrations and celebrations, and so has many monuments and significant tourist stopping points. To know the Irish is to know their history and this street is steeped in it. However, it would be hard to miss this famous street as it’s central to any location you visit in Dublin.

Theatres, Music Halls Clubs and Pubs in Dublin are all venues for performance, be that impromptu or planned. Irish people love to dance and sing and tell stories. So, one venue you must not miss, is Smock Alley Theatre, which is nestled on the banks of the River Liffey. Originally built in 1662, The Theatre Royal at Smock Alley gave the world the plays of George Farquhar (The Recruiting Officer), Oliver Goldsmith (She Stoops to Conquer) and Richard Brinsley Sheridan (The Rivals). 300 people attended the theatre each night, seven days a week to be enthralled, entertained and enlightened by actors, acrobats, dancers, musicians and trapeze artists. Now, 350 years after it was first built, the theatre has been carefully and lovingly restored to become Dublin’s Oldest Newest Theatre. It is now once again a bustling hub of theatre, song, dance, art and creativity. Check out their performance schedule, you will not be disappointed.

Dublin – the City of Diversity, Fun and Intrigue 

So now you can combine a cultural visit to Dublin with a few activities; an ideal combination for a Dublin stag party weekend, a Dublin hen party weekend – or any holiday that affords you a little more time. Taking part in activities in the countryside that surrounds Dublin also enables you to experience some of the most breath-taking scenery that the county of Dublin has to offer.

By CJ

We welcome our new kayaking partner in Anglesey, North Wales to the Geronigo network – the biggest network of adventure sports in the UK and Ireland.

Anglesey offers the sea kayaker an amazing water playground ranging from beautifully sheltered paddles, small islands and short journeys, to exciting tide races and rough water for the experienced sea kayaker. There’s something for every paddler, from just five years of age.

As you paddle amongst the waves off the island of Anglesey, you will be treated to fantastic scenery, sandy coves, stunning cliffs, islands and maybe even a glance some of the wildlife – Puffins to Porpoises, Turnstones to Seals. The expert kayakers at our Anglesey venue are looking forward to sharing the wonders of sea kayaking, with you soon. If that isn’t enough to get your fingers itching to book, then here are a few more reasons to try sea kayaking in Anglesey very soon.

1. Anglesey in north Wales is an Area of Outstanding National Beauty with rugged coastlines, remote islands, tidal currents.
2. The instructors are highly qualified, have top local knowledge together with being friendly and highly experienced.
3. The company have high environmental awareness and encourage all kayakers to collect a few items of plastic, from the beach/sea each time you’re on the water.
4. With a large island like Anglesey, the company use the conditions to their advantage and really ensure you experience nature and the natural environment.
5. Because our Anglesey operator is run by a highly regarded professional paddler, you can expect top-quality equipment like Kokatat, VE paddles and P&H Sea Kayaks. 
6. All kit & equipment is impeccably maintained, which also means your wetsuit, won’t smell and it will be dry when you put it on!
7. Small personal groups allow more time for you and what you want out of your kayaking experience and make your time on the water more productive and more rewarding.
8. Safety is always Anglesey’s main priority so that you can have fun, face challenges and be safe at the same time.  
9. Local knowledge, combined with vast experience and being highly qualified, ensures you have the best day possible.

How can you resist? To book, follow this link

For more information about adventurous Wales, visit this link

By CJ

Our rapid expansion has seen us partner with over 2,000 venues all over the UK and Ireland. If it’s thrills you’re seeking, we have them by the bucket-load! Speaking of venues, we’re excited to announce our newest addition – our spectacular multi-activity venue in Redhill!

What makes this venue special, you ask?

Nestled between London and Brighton, Redhill is a great place to get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and of course, get your adrenaline fix! This venue is perfect for our London friends who may want a short break from the hustle and bustle that is the capital. If we haven’t convinced you yet, read on and learn more about all the activities you can try when you visit the site!

Fly Boarding

If you’re seeking a new adrenaline rush, this is a sport that will definitely deliver! Once you’ve properly suited up, an experienced instructor will teach you how to handle this hover board style device. During this fly boarding session in Redhill you’ll learn how to balance on water, and once at a comfortable height, can try to do twists, turns, and other maneuvers. There’s nothing quite like it!

Off Road Karting

Prepare for some mud mayhem! This off-roading experience in Redhill is perfect for all speed junkies out there! Imagine going at 60mph; doing hairpins and high speed turns on uncharted terrain! Off-road karting, also called off-road buggies, is a great activity to try for those that prefer their fresh air with a hint of petrol and mud. Be warned though, it is not for the faint of heart!

Quad Bikes

Big, powerful, and a lot of fun to play with; let’s talk quad bikes.

These bad boys are usually seen in farms, due to their ability to easily handle rough terrain (and treatment). So, if you’re looking for a fast paced, exciting day out, this activity is for you. You’ll learn how to drive the bikes, and take them through fields, woodlands, muddy puddles, and (if you’re lucky) boulders! Are you up to the challenge?

4×4

If you’re a true petrol head with a need for speed, you’re going to love this! Guided by a professional driver, you’ll cruise through hills, mud, rocky terrain, and even rivers! This 4×4 driving experience in Redhill is a challenging activity that will test your driving skills like nothing else. Don’t forget your driving licence!

This list is just the tip of the iceberg! Redhill offers a cornucopia of incredible activities. All you have to do is reserve your space and get ready for excitement.

By SG

There are so many activities in and around Bristol, it’s hard to know where to start. So, we broken-it down into categories and give you a sample of what’s on offer.

Combat Sports in Bristol – If you are into combat sports, Bristol can satisfy you with airsoft, paintball and combat archery

Target Shooting in Bristol – Shooting at targets in and around Bristol is easy with a choice of archery, crossbows, clay pigeon shooting and the more recent addition, axe-throwing.

Motorised Experiences in Bristol – go-karting, quad biking, off-road buggies, driving a performance car, 4X4 driving or rally driving are in Bristol city itself or can all be accessed easily from the city.

Water-Based Activities in Bristol – if the water calls you when it comes to adventure, then you’ll want to take part in canoeing, raft building, and surfing, which are a short drive from Bristol city.

Adrenalin Rush Activities in Bristol – Bungee jumping is the biggest adrenalin rush you can have in Bristol – that and paragliding.

Less Adrenalin – maybe, but hot air ballooning will still take your breath away as you float above the beautiful south west coast. Then there are escape games in Bristol. Do you have the wit and courage to try your hand at the puzzles and conundrums and make your escape?

You may also want to take advantage of the Geronigo® App, so you can have every adventure, everywhere in the UK and Ireland right there on your phone. You’ll also be one of the first to know when Geronigo adds more activity adventures.

THINGS THAT YOU MUST SEE IN BRISTOL

The South West city of Bristol has a name for being a creative and multi-cultural together with being a hub for regular events. We’ve listed some of the key ‘must-sees’.

The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge comes in as the first recommendation with its views across the picturesque Avon Gorge and the entire city together with its spectacular transformation as it lights up at night. Walking across is the best way to appreciate the views, and some local pubs will give you a first-class advantage point while you sip a drink or two.

As one of the UK’s most significant science centres, We the Curious offers a fun day out for the entire family. Located right in the centre of town with hundreds of hands-on exhibits to explore, live shows and a Planetarium.

Park Street is a major shopping street in Bristol with lots of quirky stores and places to stop for coffee and tasty eats. Linking the city centre to Clifton, the building of Park Street started in 1761, and it was Bristol’s earliest example of uniformly stepped hillside terracing. Look up the street, and you will be treated to a dramatic view of the Wills Memorial Building. Keep an eye out for Banksy artwork, located at the bottom of the street. As Banksy is one of the famous Bristolians, you can also do a tour of his artwork around the city.

J K Rowling, another famous Bristolian, went to School in Winterbourne of the Northern outskirts of Bristol. If you want to see where this acclaimed author learned her early English skills, you can visit the school. Well, probably just look at it as I don’t suppose the teachers wouldn’t be too impressed by tourists gawping through the classroom windows from the playground.

Bristol Zoo’s stated mission is to “maintain and defend biodiversity through breeding endangered species, conserving threatened species and habitats and promoting a wider understanding of the natural world”. The mammal collection at the zoo numbers around 300, representing 50 species, including gorillas, Asiatic lions, pygmy hippos, and red pandas. Among species now on view at Bristol which are rare or absent in the other UK zoos are Livingstone’s fruit bats, aye-ayes and quolls.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is a huge ship which, it is claimed ‘changed the world’ is located in the Bristol Harbour. Launched in 1843, you can visit the ship and soak up its history and marvel at its structure.

The Arnolfini art gallery is an international art centre and gallery. It has a programme of contemporary art exhibitions, artist’s performance, music and dance events, poetry and book readings, talks, lectures and a cinema.

The amazing Cargo at Wapping Wharf is home to a host of independent eateries, shops and more. This new concept made entirely of converted shipping containers is part of Wapping Wharf and boasts stunning views across the water.

Just across from Cargo, the M Shed museum is a vast space offering several exciting exhibitions for people of all ages to enjoy. There are working exhibits outside the building that you can see when the museum is closed, such as the electric cranes and Fairbairn Steam crane.

If vast, rolling green space is what your heart desires, then a visit to the Downs is a must. The Downs consists of Clifton Down and Durdham Down, bordering the Clifton Village, Clifton and Redland areas of Bristol. Together they represent a vast area of protected parkland right on the edge of the city within walking distance of other major attractions such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, giving the impression of being surrounded by countryside.

If you want to know more about what to see in Bristol, then we can recommend you visit this site.

HISTORY OF BRISTOL AND ITS NAME

Iron Age hill forts and Roman villas have been found at the junction the rivers Frome and Avon, and records show, from around the beginning of the 11th century, the settlement at this spot was known as Brycgstow (Old English “the place at the bridge”). Bristol received a royal charter in 1155 and was historically divided between Gloucestershire and Somerset until 1373 when it became a county of itself. From the 13th to the 18th century, Bristol was among the top three English cities, after London, in tax receipts. Bristol was then surpassed by the rapid rise of Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool during the Industrial Revolution. A more in-depth history can be found here.

By CJ

In AD49 Colchester (then known as Camulodunum) was the first place in Britain to be given the status of a Roman Colonia by the Roman Emperor Claudius. A Colonia was a planned settlement for retired veteran soldiers who became citizens of Rome upon discharge, with all the privileges that Roman citizenship afforded. This meant Colchester acted as a focal point for “Roman-ness” in the new province of Britannia and a beacon for transmitting Roman civilisation and values throughout the region. It’s status and importance further endorsed by the attack on Colchester led by Queen Boudica in AD60 as her revolt against Roman rule.

Britain’s First City

Colchester’s status as a Colonia has never been revoked. So, while it has yet to achieve modern city status, Colchester’s historic claim to be both Britain’s first city and the former capital of Britain is undisputed as far as any records show. Its position, close to the sea, and a large population of circa 12,000 indicated it was a large and vital town by Roman standards. Its status and importance were further endorsed by the attack on Colchester led by Queen Boudica in AD60 as her revolt against Roman rule.

Besieged, Ransacked and Rebuilt

The town saw many invasions after this starting with the Saxons who named it Colne Ceaster (now Colchester) Ceaster was the Saxon word for a group of Roman buildings. The Danes came next who used the old Roman forts and walls as strongholds. The English then recaptured it from the Danes besieging town and fought till they overcame it and killed all the people except those who fled away over the wall’. The English then repaired the damage to Colchester and occupied it. The Normans came next capturing Colchester and building a castle on the vaults of the old temple of Claudius. King John’s men then besieged the castle and expelled the French.

Colchester – a Fascinating Place to Explore

National political and religious struggles were reflected in dramatic local events in the 16th Century. St Botolph’s Priory & St John’s Abbey were both closed down in King Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in the 1530’s. In the reign of his zealous Catholic daughter Queen Mary, forty Protestants from Colchester and the surrounding district were burnt alive at the stake as heretics; a more substantial proportion, relative to population, than in any other town in England. When Mary was succeeded as Queen by her sister Elizabeth I, Colchester became a haven for Protestants fleeing from Flanders, where they had been defeated in a rebellion against Catholic Spain. Many of them were skilled weavers, and it was through this Dutch community that Colchester became famous for high-quality cloths. Today, Colchester celebrates its long, rich history and invites tourists to share in these experiences. You can find out more here.

Activities Befitting Colchester’s History

A town that has a long bloody history of battles with soldiers and everyday people fighting for their town and their homes, it seems appropriate to recommend activities in keeping with the town’s history as you tread upon this ancient part of the UK. So, let’s look at some of the activities that fit the bill.

The medieval longbow played a big part in the history of Colchester. These skilled bowmen were essential for the defence of the town, as well as in the ranks of those that attacked and overthrew the town’s defences.

Combat archery a modern form of archery that sees participants go into battle. Our ancestors would have approved of this fast a furious team game for their leisure time.

Being able to wield an axe would have made you a top warrior in any battle. Can you throw an axe and hit the target? These Axe throwing experiences will help you hone your skills without hurting anyone.

Clay pigeon shooting. Shooting skills became paramount during the history of Colchester when guns became common-place in battle. Together with being able to kill food, the defence of the town would have benefitted from skilled shooters. Try your hand at this sport.

Crossbows in Roman times were huge weapons operated by several men. Modern crossbows are handheld and are made to be lightweight and easy to handle. Try your hand at this weapon made famous recently by Game of Thrones.

The ability to scale walls and get at your enemy would have been an essential skill throughout the warring history of Colchester. The climbing skills you learn today will never be used like the soldiers of Rome, or the invading hordes of Saxons or Danes, but it’s a great ability to have and 100s people can be found on climbing walls regularly every week in the UK.

By CJ

Are you trying to plan a special Valentine’s Day date night? You’ve got the card, but where to go? You can’t stay in a watch the TV – not on Valentine’s Day! Then there’s always that restaurant you both love, but it’s a set menu for Valentine’s Day and neither of you like what’s on offer. The theatre, maybe? But you can’t talk to each other, and that’s not very romantic.

How about being totally original and doing an escape game together. It’s different, fun and you can finish the evening in a pub, cocktail bar, restaurant, nightclub of your choice.

But why an escape game?

• It’s unique, and that’s always going to make you look good if you think of booking it.
• You have a shared challenge to work on together.
• How cute is that furrowed brow your date makes when they are trying to fathom a clue?
• Your date may surprise and delight you when they crack a difficult puzzle – or you might surprise yourself
• You’ll get to show-off just how clever you are.
• The experience may be full of surprises that get you clinging to each other for support.
• The memories you create will carry you through the rest of the evening as you share and laugh together about the experience.

When Should I Book?

Right now, is your best bet! Escape Rooms are becoming very popular for date nights and Valentine’s Day is the biggest date night of the year.

By CJ

Northern Ireland has the most stunning scenery with rolling hills, mountains, lough’s, castles and buildings oozing with history and atmosphere. To give you a taste, we can recommend the following.

Armagh, Northern Ireland’s smallest city where you can take a short stroll to Navan Fort and gaze upon the spectacular views of Saint Patrick’s City, with the spires of the two cathedrals standing proudly above the skyline. Then there are the golden sands of Whiterock’s Beach in Portrush, where you will be rewarded with a view of the striking white chalk cliffs, sea stacks and a chalk arch. From here you can also catch a glimpse of the haunting ruin of Dunluce Castle looming on a cliff edge in the distance.

If you’re looking for a great view of Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast you need to head to Cave Hill to the basaltic outcrop known as ‘Napoleon’s Nose’ that makes the hill easily recognisable. From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views over the city, all the way to the Mourne Mountains, and on a clear day, the Isle of Man and the Mull of Galloway in Scotland are also visible.

The only inhabited offshore island in Northern Ireland, Rathlin sits just six miles from the mainland and a short ferry trip from Ballycastle. Walk from the harbour to the RSPB Bird Sanctuary to marvel at the thousands of fulmars, razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes and puffins in residence on the nearby cliffs.

Then there is the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway on the North Antrim Coast, which lies at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the sea coast on the edge of the Antrim plateau. It is made up of some 40,000 massive black basalt columns sticking out of the sea. The dramatic sight has inspired legends of giants striding over the sea to Scotland. It continues to draw thousands of visitors year-round. For the best views take a bracing walk along the Red Trail on the cliffs above the Causeway.

Game of Thrones

We can’t ignore the fact that Northern Ireland was a key filming location for Game of Thrones with over 25 locations where this famous series came to life. As well as the visiting the filming locations, you can also call into the Titanic Studios in Belfast, where much of the show was filmed. Why not go on your own Game of Thrones themed Irish adventure? There are so many tours and activities on offer linked to the show that you ‘live’ the experience yourself.

Tourism and Where to Eat Websites

So, we have whetted your appetite for Northern Ireland, and you want to know more. This information website is the best we have seen, so we can recommend it for all sightseeing tours in Northern Ireland. This is a handy resource for where to eat, and if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, this is the best resource.

Activities and Adventure Website

If you want to do less looking and more doing and take part in the best activity adventures in Northern Ireland, there is no better resource than Geronigo®.  Tried, tested and approved activities can be found on the site, and you can book with ease as they have live availability, which is available 24/7. Many people download the Geronigo® App onto their phones before they set off, so they can book more activities when they are actually exploring Northern Ireland.

By CJ

The Royal borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is crowned by stunning Windsor Castle – the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world and the Queen’s favourite weekend home. Linked by the beautiful River Thames, the Royal Borough has a rich mix of history, culture, heritage and fun which makes it one of South East England’s most popular destinations.

The town of Windsor was the perfect setting for two royal weddings in 2018 and The Duke and Duchess of Sussex love the area so much they chose Windsor as their family home where you can witness the colourful and very ‘British’ spectacle of the guards marching through the streets of Windsor for the Changing the Guard ceremony within Windsor Castle’s walls.

Close to Heathrow and less than an hour by public transport to the capital, the borough boasts that they are London’s country estate and the perfect place from which to enjoy the city and the countryside!

Families head to Windsor to visit LEGOLAND® situated just outside the town centre. Others are inspired by beautiful parks and gardens such as the Savill Garden, part of Windsor Great Park and the National Trust’s gardens at Cliveden, near Maidenhead, offering year-round interest.

Get Active in Windsor and Maidenhead

If you are visiting this area and want to get a bit more active during your visit, there are several options available to suit every age group.

Bungee Jumping is the most adrenaline-fuelled activity in this area and you need to be at least 14 years of age and in good health to take part. The height of the drop is 160ft and you will be dropping over water on a tandem jump, so you’ll need to get another adrenaline junkie to join you.

Segway Driving   in this area takes place by the beautiful lakeside and through picturesque wooded areas where you will ride this amazing machine alongside others. The minimum group size is two people for any booking, but you only need to be 11 years of age to take part, so this can be a real family outing. No experience is required as full training is given and you will be accompanied by an expert at all times.

Shred it up on a Shredder. These crazy machines are a combination of a tank, skateboard and motocross bike. After a briefing and attaching your comms headset, as your guide will be in touch at all times, get ready to shred-it like a demon. The controls are easy to master with the ride being similar to a jet ski. Then you can open-up the throttle and find out first-hand just what these mean machines can really do.

If you are in the area as a group, such as a stag party, or on a hen do, or maybe a corporate event, then Bubble Football will tick all the boxes for adrenaline-fuelled and huge amounts of fun. This manic activity will make you laugh like you’ve never laughed before. Your group are given huge zorb balls to wear over the top part of your body with grip straps inside. Now try and score a goal or dribble the ball down the pitch. You’ll be fine if no one tackles you, but if they do, you’ll both end up rolling on the ground helpless with laughter.

Another group activity in the area is Combat Archery, which is also known as bow and arrow tag and battle archery. Whatever it is called it has turned regular archery into a fun-filled, adrenaline-pumping competitive group game that is a fantastic option for groups such a group of friends, stag party or a corporate team-building event. The game’s rules closely resemble dodgeball with the game beginning with a number of arrows in the centre of the arena. At the whistle, players race to collect them, before firing them at one another across the playing field. A player is eliminated if struck by an arrow, and a player can bring an eliminated teammate back into play by catching an arrow. Click the link above to see more and to book.

Just outside of town and you can go horse riding an activity for anyone above the age of 8 years of age, so definitely one for a family group. The horses are all chosen to be good-natured and are used to complete beginners. You will learn the basics including trotting, canter and how to control the horse. This is a great introduction to horse riding or you can book into our 30 Minute Horse Ride that will see you trekking across some picturesque countryside atop one of our magnificent horses.

For more information about other activities in this area, click here.

By CJ

With attractions and activities aplenty during the summer months, it can be a tough task choosing the perfect experience for not only you as a parent, but more importantly, for your kids! So, without further ado, we’re here to narrow it down and give you a helping hand when choosing the right activity.

Escape Games

It’s time to get clued up, because an Escape Game could be the key to combatting those summer boredom blues! This activity puts your problem solving skills to the test, as you work alongside your team with the aim of escaping the room successfully. To make things more interesting, you’re up against the clock! It’s a testing-but-rewarding challenge for you and your kids, and to top things off, some of our Escape Game venues can accommodate players as young as 10 years old! Oh, and one more thing, this activity can be done in all weather conditions as all of our Escape Game venues are indoors, which suits the UK summer climate just perfectly!

Horse Racing

Put away the jodhpurs, because luckily, it won’t be you who’ll be racing the horse. This summer, under 18s can get in to hundreds of race days for free (when accompanied by a paying adult) through Great British Racing’s Under 18 Race Free Campaign. It isn’t all about the horse racing though, because there’s also a range of family race days across the country with the added zing of extra activities to keep the kids

Surfing

Speaking of weather, we’ve had quite a pleasant summer so far (*touches wood*) so why not take advantage of the sun and blue skies by getting out onto the waves at one of our Surfing venues? From Broadstairs to Saltburn-by-the-Sea, we have 14 locations for you to choose from around the UK and its beautiful coastline. What’s more, the minimum age at some of our Surfing venues is 7 years old, so you’re guaranteed to keep the kids entertained for a few hours at least! You and the kids won’t be doing it alone though. You’ll receive expert tuition throughout the experience so that you’ll hopefully be riding those waves in no time! Surf on, dude!

Sports & Outdoor Fun

If the weather remains on the bright side this summer, be sure to check out the whole host of cheap or free activities there are on offer. The FA have teamed up with Lidl to offer football coaching sessions during the holidays around the country. Boys and girls aged 5-11 of all abilities are welcome to learn new skills, develop their technique and have lots of fun! If football doesn’t interest them and you’ve got bikes in the shed, it’s time to dust them off because there are miles upon miles of kid-friendly cycle routes across the country, which are courtesy of the National Trust.

Canyoning

If your kids are slightly older, but still want to take part in action on (and beneath) the water this summer, then look no further than Canyoning. This adrenaline-packed experience involves exploring magnificent waterfalls, combatting white water swims and overcoming cliff heights. So, if your kids have plenty of energy, this activity will certainly tire them out, that’s for sure! Canyoning is available for those aged 8 years or older, but the adventure is often tailored to accommodate you and your kids’ particular skill level.

High Ropes Course

It’s time to return back to dry land, as this next activity gives you the opportunity to climb, leap and swing from obstacle to obstacle at heights of up to 50 feet, so you can feel the sun shining and the wind in your hair from altitude! This isn’t just a test of one’s physical ability, it’s also one which challenges your mental and problem solving ability, too. This activity really is one for all the family, as those as young as 5 years old can take part! What’s more, with over 15 courses around the UK and Ireland, you’re bound to find a High Ropes Course near you.

For When It’s Wet

It’s best to head indoors when the weather is on the wetter side, and that’s not a problem because the UK has some stellar indoor attractions to keep the kids occupied this summer. From cinemas, to indoor wildlife centres and libraries, the indoor life can provide hours of fun! Museums are the best bet, as the majority of them are free for all ages in the UK! So, if you and the kids are interested in learning about local history, natural history, or scientific or famous figures, head to your local museum. You can find your nearest one right here.

Final Thoughts

So there we have it, just a handful of activities that’ll (hopefully) keep your kids entertained during the summer school break. If none of the above tickle your fancy, we have a lot – and we mean a lot – more to choose from over on our main website!