Winter Days Out with Little Trekkers- 10 Ideas that don't cost anything!

Winter is a magical season for families to spend quality time together, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to create lasting memories. At Little Trekkers, we believe the best adventures are the ones that cost nothing but deliver everything. Here are some fantastic ideas for free winter days out that will delight your little explorers.

1. Frosty Woodland Hunts

Head to your nearest woodland for a crisp winter walk. Turn it into an adventure by creating a scavenger hunt for frosty leaves, pinecones, or animal tracks in the snow. Pack a magnifying glass or a nature guide to identify what you find, adding a touch of education to the fun. Don’t forget your Little Trekkers waterproofs to keep everyone warm and dry, even when the forest floor gets muddy!

Download our FREE winter Scavenger Hunter HERE

2. Frozen Puddle Adventures

Winter puddles take on a new charm when they freeze over! Find a local nature reserve or park and let your kids carefully explore frozen puddles. Find a stick to poke the ice or watch the fascinating cracks form underfoot. Remind your little adventurers to tread lightly and always stay safe near water.

3. Sledging Without the Slopes

If you’re lucky enough to have snow, sledding is an obvious choice. But even without hills, flat fields can be just as fun for pulling little ones on a sledge. If snow hasn’t arrived, head to your local park for some good old-fashioned running games to burn off energy.

4. Winter Wildlife Watching

Winter is a quieter season for wildlife, making it easier to spot birds like robins, blackbirds, and wintering waterfowl. Bring along some binoculars and a bird guide to make it a bird-spotting challenge. If you’re near water, see if you can spot ducks, swans, or even a heron.

5. DIY Ice Art

On especially cold days, turn your garden or local green space into an art gallery! Bring some food colouring and arrange leaves, berries, and sticks into small bowls of water. Leave them outside to freeze, then hang your creations from trees or fences.

6. Local Parks for Winter Play

Visit your local playpark for a winter spin on familiar fun. Climbing frames and swings are just as exciting in the cold, especially when wrapped up in warm layers. Add some extra fun by creating obstacle courses or challenging your family to a relay race across the park.

7. Historic Sites and Ruins

Winter is the perfect time to visit nearby castles, ruins, or historic landmarks. Many of these sites are free to explore and offer plenty of space for running around. Bring a picnic (with a thermos of hot chocolate!) and let your kids imagine the stories of knights and adventurers who lived there long ago.

8. Community Winter Events

Check your local community boards for free winter events like Christmas light displays, winter markets, or storytelling sessions at libraries. These events often cater to families and are a great way to get out of the house without spending a penny.

9. Stone Skimming by the River

Find a peaceful riverbank or lakeshore and practice stone skimming. The cold air adds a sense of adventure to this classic activity, and it’s a great way for kids to improve coordination and learn about the natural world.

10. Starry Nights and Stargazing

With the longer nights of winter, stargazing is a fantastic free activity for families. Bundle up, bring a blanket, and look up at the winter constellations. Apps like Star Walk can help you identify what you see, making it a magical and educational experience.

Wrap Up and Get Out There!

With so many free options for winter fun, there’s no need to stay indoors this January. The key is to layer up with warm, waterproof gear, pack some snacks, and embrace the season. At Little Trekkers, we’re here to help you make the most of winter adventures with the best outdoor gear for the whole family.

Let us know where your adventures take you! Tag us on Instagram with #LittleTrekkersAdventures and share your winter fun. ❄️