10 Fun Outdoor Activities to Do in Winter

When winter rolls around here in the UK, we all know how easy it is to want to hibernate. 

The days are short, the air chilly, and the sofa looks very tempting with its warm blankets and cups of tea. 

But for those of us who love the outdoors, that sense of adventure and exploration doesn’t leave during the colder months. So why not make the most of what this season has to offer?

The crisp mornings. Snowy days. Puddle jumping. Christmas lights. 

For us, we like to think of it not as “surviving” a British winter, but leaning into it. Leaning into the adventure, just in warmer clothes!

So here are 10 fun outdoor activities to do in winter that’ll get you outside, keep you active, and remind you just how good the British outdoors can be all year round.

 

Before You Head Out: A Note on Winter Safety

Winter adventures are brilliant, but they do need more thought than summer outings. Weather can change quickly, and daylight disappears before you know it. 

Always:

• Check reliable weather forecasts before setting off
• Stick to routes and activities that match your experience level
• Carry essentials like head torches, spare layers, and water
• Let someone know where you’re going if you’re heading into remote areas

Stay safe out there!

1. Christmas Markets & Light Trails

Christmas markets are an easy way to get everyone outside without the usual winter complaints. You're walking around, getting fresh air, but there are plenty of warm spots to duck into when you need them. 

It’s festive, low-effort, and one of the best fun winter activities to do as a family.

The big ones like the Manchester Christmas Markets or Hyde Park Winter Wonderland are worth the trip, but honestly, your local high street market can be just as good - and a lot less hectic. Most towns put something on, and you'll often find outdoor carol services happening too. A quick search on your local Facebook group or council website should bring up what’s going on in your area. 

Light trails are another winner for dark days. Imagine strolling through illuminated woodlands, with fairy lights strung across branches and giant glowing sculptures lighting the path. Places like Dunham Massey in Cheshire, Belton House in Lincolnshire, and Cliveden in Buckinghamshire all put on pretty spectacular displays.

Top tips:

• Book tickets early, as prime weekend slots tend to go quickly
• Wrap up warm and wear comfortable shoes you’d be happy to walk around in
• Bring a bit of cash just in case some stalls don’t take cards

2. Woodland Dog Walks

Wet weather or not, your pup still needs its walk every day! So take the opportunity to enjoy what woods and forests can offer in the winter months. 

For example, there are often special trails set up by Forestry England. The Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit is a cracking (sorry) example.

What to bring:

• Dog drying coat for muddy pups 
• Changing robes for muddy kids (and adults)
• Wellies for everyone - woodland paths can get a bit boggy particularly after it rains

Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit at Salcey Forest

 

3. Nature Treasure Hunts

Speaking of woods and forests, another great way to get outdoors in winter is to turn a regular walk into a nature hunt. 

Create a checklist of things to spot, and then let the kids tick them off as you go.

Things to spot on your winter nature hunt:

• Robins (easier to see with no leaves on trees)
• Pinecones and acorns
• Frost patterns on leaves
• Winter berries (but don't eat!)
• Animal tracks in mud or snow
• Different types of bark
• Birds' nests (visible now trees are bare)

What you'll need:

• Clipboard in a plastic wallet (keeps lists dry)
• Pencils tied on string
• Small bag for treasures
• Warm waterproof gloves

Make your own checklist or grab a printable one from Etsy if you’re short on time. 

4. Farm Visits & Petting Zoos

Lots of farm visits don't stop for winter. In fact, they can be even better when it's quieter, as you're not competing with summer holiday crowds.

Plus, many tend to have indoor barns and play areas for when you need to warm up between seeing the animals. So you can make it a proper day out.

Our top tip: Embrace the mud and mess. Get the kids kitted out in puddlesuits or waterproof trousers, proper wellies, and just let them enjoy it. They're going to get mucky anyway, so you might as well go with it!

 

5. Garden Campfires & Stargazing

You don't need to venture far for this one, as your own back garden will do perfectly.

Fill thermos flasks with hot chocolate for the kids and brews for the adults, layer up in thermals and fleeces, and gather round a fire pit. Leave the phones inside and just chat, play games, toast marshmallows, or try spotting constellations.

Winter's brilliant for stargazing because it gets dark early (no staying up until 10pm waiting for stars to appear!) and clear winter nights often give the best views. Grab some books from the library about stars and constellations if you want to make it more of a learning experience.

6. Mountain Biking

Fair warning — this one's weather dependent! You don't really want to be cycling when it's icy or the trails are waterlogged.

But when conditions are right, winter mountain biking can be a fantastic way to get outdoors together as a family. The trails are quieter, you don't overheat on the climbs, and you can cover good ground without battling summer crowds.

Look for dedicated mountain bike trails or bridleways - avoid footpaths and always stick to those designated routes. Many forestry areas have marked bike trails that are perfect for families.

Safety tip: Wear hi vis clothing and bring a head torch. It’s always better to be over-prepared, even if you think you’ll be cycling during daylight. 

7. Winter Hiking

Getting out for a hike in winter can be lots of fun. Wrap up warm, bring along a few essentials to stay safe, and you can enjoy some of the best views you’ll get all year.

What to wear:

• Thermal baselayer
• Half zip fleece as your midlayer
• Waterproof jacket and/or trousers
• Heavyweight walking socks like those from Bridgedale
• Beanie, neck gaiter, and waterproof gloves
• Proper walking boots with decent grip
• Walking poles for slippery ground

If you’re new to hiking (or just want to double-check your kit), our What to Wear Hiking guide has everything you need.

Safety essentials for winter walking

Winter hikes are some of the most rewarding outdoor activities in winter, but planning and respect for conditions are non-negotiable.

Always:

• Let someone know your route and expected return time. 
• Check weather forecasts before you go, e.g. Weatherline, MWIS, Met Office
• Make sure your phone is fully charged before heading off, and bring a fully charged portable phone bank with you

Plus make sure you have these in your backpack:

• Head torch
• Hi-vis vest
• Map and compass (phone signal might be patchy especially in bad weather)
• Water and snacks
• First aid kit including any essential medication

Mountain Rescue UK has a handy PDF you can print out and take with you, with great safety tips and important emergency contact details.

8. Wild Swimming

Not for the faint-hearted, this one, but cold water swimming has become increasingly popular over the years.

You might have seen people doing plunges on New Year’s Day, but plenty of people love to swim throughout winter. In the Peaks, for example, spots like Three Shires Head on the River Dane are popular with wild swimmers.

What to bring:

• Wetsuit for swimming (unless you want to brave it in just your trunks or swimsuit!)
• Changing robe for getting warm quickly afterwards
• Warm clothes for after
• Non-slip shoes for getting in and out safely
• Someone with you - never swim alone

Always check local conditions and water quality before you go. Some spots may be off-limits during certain times of year, so best to confirm before you head out there.

 

9. Winter Camping

For the properly hardy outdoor lovers, winter camping offers a completely different experience to warm weather pitching.

Campsites are quieter, you get incredible night skies, and it's a change of scenery during the darker months when the summer holidays feel far away.

That being said, you do need to be prepared for the cold though!

Essential camping kit:

• Four-season sleeping bag (or layer summer bags if you have them)
• Insulated sleeping mat - the ground will suck heat right out of you
• Comfy thermal layers for sleeping
• Reliable camping stove (some gas canisters struggle in cold weather)
• Extra batteries for torches
• Waterproof everything

Top tip: Start by testing your setup at home. Pitch the tent in your garden on a frosty night and see how your gear holds up before heading off. Get it right, and you’ll discover one of the most rewarding fun winter activities of all.

10. Sledging Adventures

Few things beat the pure joy of sledging on a snowy British hillside! 

It’s something most of us have memories of from our own childhood, and it’s a great family winter activity for all ages.

How to make the most of it:

• Wear warm, waterproof clothing. Puddlesuits are your best bet for the little ones with a sturdy pair of wellies to match
• Bring hot drinks and snacks to enjoy afterwards
• If you don’t have a “proper” sledge, hunt around your garage or shed as you probably have something that you could makeshift. Even an outdoor bin lid can be turned into a sledge with enough imagination!

Quick Guide to Winter Outdoor Activities in the UK

Activity	Kit to Bring
Christmas Markets & Light Trails	Warm coat, comfy shoes, small cash
Woodland Dog Walks	Wellies, dog towel/coat, changing robe
Nature Treasure Hunts	Clipboard, pencils, bag for finds
Farm Visits & Petting Zoos	Waterproof trousers, puddlesuit, wellies
Garden Campfires & Stargazing	Fire pit, thermos, blankets, star book
Mountain Biking	Hi-vis, helmet, head torch
Winter Hiking	Layers, waterproofs, boots, poles
Wild Swimming	Wetsuit, robe, warm clothes, non-slip shoes
Winter Camping	4-season sleeping bag, insulated mat, stove
Sledging Adventures	Waterproofs, hot drinks, sledge (or DIY)

 

How to Dress for Winter in the UK

Now you’ve got some activities lined up, the next bit is deciding what to wear. We’ve given a few activity-specific tips along the way, but here’s a round-up of what to have in your winter outdoor clothing wardrobe.

Clothing:

• Thermals for wearing under your t-shirts on super cold days or as a baselayer under a fleece
• Fleeces for your mid-layer
• Padded jackets for dry, cold days when you need good insulation
• A decent waterproof jacket for those inevitable rainy days
• A gilet for extra warmth under your jacket if needed
• Packable waterproof overtrousers you can stash in your backpack as backup for wet weather

Accessories:

• Waterproof gloves for keeping your hands warm and dry
• Beanies or headbands for retaining heat around your head
• Neck gaiters like those from Buff for protecting your neck and face
• Thick sturdy socks for cushioning and warmth in your boots

Footwear:

• Waterproof walking boots for hiking and longer walks
• Wellies for muddy fields, farms, and puddle-heavy terrain
• Snow boots for when you get proper winter conditions

And for the car: keep a torch, spare clothes, blankets, water, snacks, and a portable phone charger. Winter weather changes fast, and being prepared makes every outing easier.

 

Start Your Winter Outdoor Adventures

So, what will it be? A festive-themed evening wandering a Christmas light trail, a muddy woodland walk with the dog, or maybe even a hike up into the mountains? 

Winter might just become your favourite season at this rate!

We hope we've inspired you a little to get outside this season, and however you choose to do so, we're always here to help get you kitted out. Take a look at some of our bestselling wellies and waterproof jackets, or feel free to drop us a comment below for any further advice.

About the Author

Tom, proud resident of Chapel-en-le-Frith (aka the ‘Capital of the High Peak,’ as he loves to remind everyone), is a dad of two who spends his weekends ferrying the kids between football and dance class, occasionally sneaking in a peaceful walk around Fernilee Reservoir. When the family escapes to their coastal hideaway in Anglesey, he trades in the football boots for paddleboards and fishing rods, though his true passion lies in building the ultimate sandcastle. On the Avenue 85 blog, Tom shares his outdoor tips (and the occasional dad joke) with a down-to-earth approach that’ll make you feel like part of the family.