It's no secret that children nowadays spend more time indoors than ever before. With technology keeping them entertained and an increasing number of after-school activities taking place inside, it can be a challenge to encourage youngsters to explore the great outdoors. However, spending time in nature has numerous benefits for children, from improving mental health to increasing physical fitness. Swindon is a fantastic area for families to explore, with plenty of outdoor activities on offer that will keep children engaged and entertained. In this blog post, we'll be sharing some of the best outdoor activities in Swindon for children – so grab your walking boots, pack a picnic, and get ready for a day of adventure!
Located on the outskirts of Swindon, Lydiard Park is the perfect place to start your outdoor adventure. This beautiful Grade II listed park offers 260 acres of stunning parkland, woodland and lakes to explore, making it an ideal location for a family day out. The park is free to enter, and you'll find plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, including a large adventure playground, a splash park (open during the summer months), and picturesque walking trails.
If you want to combine your trip to Lydiard Park with some educational activities, head to the historic Lydiard House and St. Mary's Church. The house has been beautifully restored, and you can take a tour to learn about the history of the estate and the families who lived there. Meanwhile, St. Mary's Church is famous for its beautiful stained glass and ornate monuments.
For an outdoor experience that's both educational and fun, head to Roves Farm. Located just a short drive from Swindon, this working farm offers a range of activities that will keep children entertained all day. Get up close and personal with the animals in the barn, where you can hold rabbits, guinea pigs and chicks, and feed the goats and sheep. Join a tractor ride around the farm to learn about the crops and countryside, and don't miss the opportunity to see a sheep shearing demonstration during the summer months.
Roves Farm also has an indoor play area and a café, so you can warm up with a hot drink after exploring outside. The farm is open all year round, and they host a range of special events throughout the year, including Easter egg hunts, pumpkin carving, and Christmas festivities.
Coate Water Country Park is a beautiful spot for a family day out, with its stunning lake, woodland walks and large play area. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great place for kids to learn about nature. Look out for swans, ducks and other waterfowl that call the lake home, or keep your eyes peeled for squirrels and other woodland creatures as you explore the trails.
One of the highlights of Coate Water Country Park is the miniature railway, which is run by volunteers and operates during weekends and school holidays. The railway is a fun and unique way to see the park, and children will love hopping aboard the miniature trains for a ride around the lake. There's also a pitch and putt golf course, a splash park (during the summer months) and plenty of open space for a picnic or a game of football.
Another fantastic park to explore is Stanton Park, located on the northern edge of Swindon. This 74-acre park offers a mixture of woodland, parkland, and a beautiful lake, providing plenty of opportunities for children to discover wildlife and enjoy the great outdoors. There are several walking trails to follow, as well as a bird hide and a small play area for younger children.
Stanton Park is also home to the 18th-century Stanton House Hotel, which has a Japanese-themed garden that's worth exploring. The hotel also has a café where you can refuel after your walk, or you can bring a picnic and find a spot overlooking the lake to enjoy your lunch.
If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, head to Jungle Parc, an exciting high ropes adventure course set in the beautiful Lydiard Park. Suitable for children aged four and over, Jungle Parc offers a range of challenging and thrilling activities, including zip lines, rope bridges, and Tarzan swings. With a range of courses tailored to different age groups and abilities, Jungle Parc is the perfect way to get kids active and engaged with the outdoors. Booking in advance is necessary, and prices start from £14 per child.
Alongside exploring the great outdoors, getting your child involved in physical activities such as dance classes is another fantastic way to keep them active and engaged. At Intune Dance and Movement, we offer a range of dance classes for children of all ages in Lechlade and Fairford. Whether your child wants to try ballet, tap, modern or street dance, our experienced and passionate instructors will help them develop their skills and confidence in a fun and supportive environment.
If you'd like to find out more about our dance classes or book a trial session for your child, please get in touch with us at [email protected]. Let's get your child moving and grooving today!
Swindon is a fantastic location for families to explore the outdoors and create unforgettable memories. With a variety of parks, nature reserves, and adventure activities on offer, there's no shortage of ways to keep your children entertained and active. So, make the most of the natural beauty on your doorstep and start planning your next family adventure today!
