Get out of Your Hobbit Hole!

Half term will be here soon so I thought I would share some ideas for family fun this Winter!

No doubt you and your kids have already seen “The Hobbit.” This winter, use this film to inspire you to get out into the world and start exploring. While the winter cold can be a huge drag, you can still have lots of fun days out with the kids. Here are some excellent opportunities for family adventures.

Vertical Chill Ice Wall, Covent Garden, London

Learn how to climb an ice wall on the facility’s 8m high wall with plenty of tracks for beginners as well as experienced climbers. The internal temperature is kept between –5 and –7 degrees C. This option might be a better bet for older children, as there is a lower age limit of 13. Nevertheless, pretend you’re scaling a mountain and get your altitude fix by trying this extreme winter sport.

Reigate Caves, Reigate, Surrey

Beneath Reigate Castle is Baron’s Cave, which dates back to medieval times. Nearby, you’ll also find the Tunnel Road Caves, which was used in World War I. Both caves are open and would make great places to explore.

Banham Zoo, Banham, Norfolk

Rated as one of the top three zoos in the UK by WHICH?, the Banham Zoo is a must-see. It has nearly 1000 animals in residence, as well as an exhibit dedicated to birds of prey and a free Safari roadtrain. You can also stop by the Tarzan Towers play area for a little playtime.

Christs College Ski Club, Guildford, Surrey

Spend the day here learning how to ski. You can sign up for lessons or ski on your own. It’s a great place to practice for if you ever want to take a family ski holiday to the Alps.

Make it happen

To ensure a successful day out, it will help if you remember the right gear. For starters, since it’s winter, you’ll want to dress appropriately and remind your kids to do the same, so that nobody ends up feeling cold. You’ll also want to allow for enough time for meals and even bring a few snacks for the trip so nobody is hungry.

It will also help if you have the right phone. If you are going somewhere you’ve never been before, a smartphone with the right apps which will give you local information, such as maps and recommendations on where to stay or stop and have a drink. However, you’ll want to make sure you have the right phone. For example, sell your Samsung galaxy s and upgrade to the sIII. Or, trade in your old Blackberry for an iPhone. Either way, you’ll want a good phone that will let you have all the information at your fingertips.

Either way, don’t let the winter weather keep you inside all day. Instead, get out there are start exploring.