5 Screen-Free Half Term Activities for Families in the UK
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, half term offers the perfect excuse to wrap up warm, get outside, and rediscover the magic of the season together. In a world that so often revolves around screens, autumn half term is a wonderful opportunity to slow down, notice the small things, and nurture children’s natural curiosity.
1. Explore National Trust Sites This Half Term
We’re so lucky in the UK to have countless National Trust sites on our doorstep - wild woodlands, historic gardens, and secret corners where imaginations can roam free. Whether it’s crunching along leaf-strewn paths at Croft Castle, discovering fungi in the undergrowth at Attingham Park, or playing hide-and-seek in the hedgerows of your nearest estate, these places are ready-made for adventure. Pack a picnic, a flask of something warming, and make a day of it.
2. Autumn Scavenger Hunts to Keep Children Engaged
There’s something irresistible about a scavenger hunt - especially in autumn. Children love having a challenge, and hunting for conkers, sycamore helicopters, acorns, or the brightest red leaf keeps little explorers engaged for far longer than you might expect. Add in a few sensory treasures - like something that crunches, something soft, or something that smells earthy, and you’ve created a simple way to connect children with the changing season. We've created an Autumn Pirate Treasure Map for some inspiration.
3. Build a Den With The Original Den Kit
Of course, no half term adventure is complete without a little den building. Whether you head for the woods or set up in the garden, creating a secret space sparks imagination like nothing else. Our Den Kits come with everything young adventurers need: a sturdy tarpaulin, rope, groundsheet, and all the tools to turn a corner of nature into a hideaway. They're hands-on, creative, and best of all - screen free.
4. Go Bug Hunting and Bird Spotting
Half term is the perfect time to slow down and notice the smaller details of the natural world. Take along a magnifying glass, a notebook, or even our Bug Spotter Kit to help little explorers get closer to the creepy-crawlies hiding under logs and leaves. Or bring binoculars and a bird guide to see which feathered friends are still around before winter truly sets in. These gentle, observant activities help children build patience, curiosity, and a sense of wonder.
5. Cosy Campfires and Outdoor Evenings
If you’re lucky enough to have a safe spot for a small fire (or even just a barbecue), autumn evenings are made for gathering round the flames. Toast marshmallows, sip warm drinks, and tell stories in the flickering light. It’s simple, memorable, and full of the kind of magic no screen could ever provide.
A Half Term to Remember
From scavenger hunts to den building, half term doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated to be memorable. All it really takes is a little time outdoors, a splash of imagination, and the willingness to let children lead the way.
So this autumn, step away from the screens, pull on those wellies, and see where the season takes you. The wild is waiting.