Thrive
Do something wild this summer
This article is more than three years old. It reflects the best available evidence at the time of publication.
The Great British Summer is here and come rain or shine, there’s no better time to get outside, be active and enjoy our beautiful island! Why not go on an adventure this summer and do something wild? Check out my five top activities for all ages that will inspire your sense of mischief, top up your happiness levels and teach you new skills!
Barefoot walking
Get in touch with nature and let the grass tickle your toes by walking barefoot at Trentham gardens in Staffordshire. Here, they dare you to get naked from the knees down and tickle your toes on the grass, mud and bark, as you dip your feet in the streams and brooks. There are also lots of other places to go barefoot walking around the UK – some great ones are listed on the National Trust website.
Wild swimming
Fresh air, exhilarating water and discovering hidden coves, secret lagoons and peaceful beaches – that’s the fun of wild swimming! Described as a micro adventure, when you plunge into the sea, river or waterfall, you’re opening up a whole new world of magic and exploration. What are you waiting for – find out where to swim all across the UK at Wild Swimming.
Join a green gym
The Conservation Volunteers run a range of projects – the green gym is one of them! Get active in the outdoors by planting trees, sowing meadows and doing all sorts of other activities in the fresh air. Not only are you helping your community, you’re exercising too. One volunteer says: “Conservation work is my best workout each week.”
The sessions are fun and free! Find out more about the green gym.
Bush craft courses
Make yourself at home in the woods for a weekend and learn how to survive in the wilderness. Build shelters, track animals, forage for food and cook in the outdoors – just some of the skills you can learn on a bush craft course.
Courses include Woodsmoke in the Lake District and a variety of locations across the UK with Ray Mears.
Dance in the sunshine
Whether it’s a local festival or something more established, sing along, dance and get that body moving at a music festival this summer. Lots of them are child friendly too!
Check out the festival calendar.
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