The Best Locations for Family Winter Activities

Shorter days, colder weather, and the constant battle to keep kids away from screens can make it difficult for families to stay active outdoors during the winter months. Yet every year, interest in seasonal activities surges — searches for “things to do with the kids winter” climb as school holidays approach, while parents on forums like Mumsnet and Reddit ask for tips on how to get children outside.

But many English counties offer far more winter fun than most families might realise. From child-friendly walks and biking trails to adrenaline activities like zip lines and ice-skating, there are hundreds of accessible and affordable ways to keep kids outdoors.

To help families make the most of the colder months, Outdoor Toys analysed eight types of winter-friendly activities across every English county. Our research reveals where families have the widest choice of free and paid activities, including the counties with the best festive calendars and the hidden gems that are often overlooked.

And because winter outdoor play comes with its own challenges, our children’s toy experts also share practical advice for safely taking ride-on toys, scooters and bikes outdoors during colder, wetter conditions.

Key findings

• Hampshire is England’s top county for winter activities, scoring 7.97/10 in our rankings and performing strongly across every activity analysed.

• Cumbria has the highest number of family-friendly walking routes per person, with 365 child-friendly trails overall – that’s one for each day of the year!

• North Yorkshire is England’s family biking capital, offering 101 child-friendly trails – more than any other county.

• East Riding of Yorkshire leads the way in paid winter activities, with 70 options to choose from.

• If you want to catch a glimpse of Mr Claus himself, Buckinghamshire is where you need to head, as there are more than 33 Christmas grotto events scheduled across the county!

The Best English Counties for Family Winter Activities

Winter transforms England’s landscapes, turning woodlands, lakes, coastlines and countryside into magical playgrounds for families during the colder months. But whether you’re hunting for Jack Frost or seeking the thrills of outdoor adventure parks, some counties offer far more to explore than others.

Here, we reveal the destinations at the very top of Santa’s nice list – the counties with the widest range of child-friendly activities, perfect for crisp winter walks, festive days out, and fresh-air adventures for the whole family.

1. Hampshire tops the family-friendly activities, scoring 7.97/10

Scoring 7.97 out of 10, Hampshire ranks as England’s most well-rounded winter activity county in our index, performing strongly across every activity category. 

With 460 child-friendly walking trails (more than three times the national average of 142) and 29 nature and wildlife areas, families have almost endless choices for free, accessible days out. The county combines coast, woodland, and gentle hills, making it ideal for buggy-friendly routes and younger children during colder months. Get your wellies at the ready!

Have a head for heights? Hampshire also offers multiple zip lines, ski slopes and Go Ape sites, giving families the option to mix calm winter walks with higher-energy activities.

2. Cumbria places second, scoring 7.81/10

With a Winter Activity Score of 7.81, Cumbria secures second place thanks to its exceptional combination of scenery, family-friendly routes and outdoor activity options.

The county’s 260 child-friendly walking trails offer families a fantastic choice of routes, including lakeside strolls and slightly more challenging climbs up the Lake District’s many fells. Don’t worry, though; there are plenty of safe, well-managed paths that work brilliantly for younger children in winter!

For families who prefer a little more excitement, Cumbria has eight zip lines, along with several ski and dry-slope centres. 

3. Lancashire comes in third place, with a score of 7.45/10

Lancashire follows closely behind with a score of 7.45, earning its place thanks to a great mix of walking trails, cycle routes, and accessible winter attractions.

Families can choose from 162 child-friendly walking trails, ranging from flat countryside paths to slightly tougher routes for older children. Lancashire’s varied terrain, stretching from moorland to forest and coast,  means winter days out can be as relaxed or as active as you want them to be – perfect for little legs!

Like Hampshire and Cumbria, Lancashire also offers higher-energy activities, including a choice of zip lines, Go Ape sites, ice rinks, and ski/dry-slope venues. This balance of gentle and adventurous options makes this county a reliable pick for families juggling different ages and interests.

The Counties with the Most Free Winter Activities

The Christmas season is one of the most magical times of the year…but it can also be one of the most expensive! After buying presents and filling the fridge-freezer with enough picky bits to feed a village, we all want to save a few pennies where possible.To help you manage your budget this winter, we’ve analysed the best English counties for free activities, so you can enjoy making memories as a family without breaking the bank.

The best part? The top 10 places with the most free things to do with kids are spread right across the country, meaning you can get out and about wherever you’re based!

1. Hampshire has the most free winter activities, offering 501 in total

With 501 free activities on offer, Hampshire leads the country for low-cost winter activities. Its huge network of 460 child-friendly walking trails gives families an unrivalled number of options for fresh-air days out. The county’s mix of coastline, woodland, and gentle countryside keeps routes varied and accessible, especially for little ones who want to take their bikes or scooters out for a spin! 

Outdoor Toys recommends: Walking the easy circular route at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, spotting wildlife around the New Forest’s Blackwater Arboretum, or taking a crisp winter stroll along the historic South Downs Way near Winchester.

Top tip: Trails can be particularly slippery in winter, with ice or wet leaves covering paths. As the parent or responsible adult, ensure that you assess whether it’s safe and encourage your children to take extra care when riding their bikes or scooters. Oh, and don’t forget to pack their helmets when heading out for the day!

2. North Yorkshire is the second-best area for free activities, with 371 on offer across the county

North Yorkshire comes in second with 371 free activities, driven by its standout combination of wide-open landscapes and family-friendly routes. The county is home to 101 child-friendly bike trails (the most in England) alongside 241 walking trails that stretch across its moors, forests, and coastline. 

Whether you’re a family that prefers a flat path along an old railway line or a gentle woodland loop, North Yorkshire makes for inspiring winter exploring, whatever your ability.

Outdoor Toys recommends: Following the gentle coastal path between Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby, cycling the flat and family-friendly Cinder Track, or exploring winter woodland on the Dalby Forest Discovery Trails.

3. Surrey places third, offering 339 free winter activities

With 339 free winter activities, Surrey offers one of the strongest selections of things to do for families looking for affordable days out in the South East. A total of 277 child-friendly walking trails provide plenty of easy, scenic options close to London, making spontaneous winter outings simple to plan. 

Add in 50 family-friendly bike routes (more than four times the national average of 12), and Surrey becomes a go-to county for active families who want to keep children moving outdoors without spending a penny.

Outdoor Toys recommends: Taking a wintery walk around Runnymede Nature Reserve, exploring the ruins of Waverly Abbey, or strolling through history along The Deepdene Trail.

The Counties with the Most Paid Winter Activities 

While winter walks and nature trails are brilliant free options, sometimes families want a bigger dose of outdoor excitement, especially if there are older children to entertain.

Across England, lots of counties offer an impressive range of paid winter activities, from zip lines and Go Ape courses to ice rinks, ski slopes – perfect for the little (and large) daredevils in your life!

1. With 70 activities on offer, East Riding of Yorkshire tops our list for paid winter fun

Offering 70 paid winter activities, East Riding of Yorkshire has the widest choice of organised activities anywhere in England. Families can take on six zip lines and enjoy a fantastic range of hands-on outdoor experiences, such as Bridlington Animal Park and Dumble Farm – both perfect for animal-lovers!

The county’s mix of adrenaline activities and family-friendly venues means parents can plan everything from high-energy outings to relaxed afternoons.

2. Essex takes second place with 53 paid activities

Essex follows with 53 paid activities, giving families at least one option in every category we analysed. Whether it’s tackling the tree-top obstacles at Go Ape Chelmsford, hitting the slopes at Brentwood Park Ski & Snowboard Centre, or enjoying an indoor ice-skating session, there’s no shortage of structured winter fun. 

Overall, Essex is a great choice for parents who want reliable, easy-to-book activities through the colder months, all within easy reach of London!

3. Cumbria ranks third, with 47 paid winter activities on offer

After placing second in our overall rankings, Cumbria ranks third for paid winter activities, with 47 options to choose from. Families can soar across the county on eight zip lines, the highest total in England, or visit one of its ski and dry-slope venues for a more adventurous winter day out. 

These attractions provide great alternatives when the weather (or tired legs) makes longer hikes difficult, giving parents dependable ways to keep kids active, engaged, and outdoors all year-round.

The Counties with the Most Christmas Activities

Nothing captures the magic of winter quite like a festive day out. Across England, counties come alive with Christmas markets, Santa’s grottos, sparkling light trails, and seasonal family events that turn even the chilliest days into unforgettable memories.

To put some extra sparkle in your winter, we reveal the counties offering the biggest and brightest range of Christmas experiences.

 

*Christmas light switch-ons, light trails, Christmas markets, pantomimes 

1. Buckinghamshire tops our festive ranking, with 369 Christmas activities

Buckinghamshire tops the festive leaderboard with an incredible 369 Christmas activities, offering more seasonal events than any other county in England. From enchanting light trails at historic estates to family-friendly markets and Santa experiences, almost every corner of the county embraces Christmas. 

With so many attractions clustered around large parks and stately homes, Buckinghamshire makes it easy for families to plan magical winter outings without extensive travel.

2. Cheshire is the second most festive, with 254 Christmas activities

With 254 Christmas activities, Cheshire transforms into a festive playground during December. Iconic locations such as Tatton Park and Dunham Massey host illuminated trails, winter gardens, and special family events (fees may apply), while towns across the county run Christmas markets and seasonal performances. 

Cheshire also ranks in our overall top 10 of the best places for winter activities, meaning it’s great for parents in the North West looking to combine countryside walks with festive experiences.

3. Offering 208 Christmas activities, Cornwall places third

Cornwall’s 208 festive activities prove it’s as captivating in winter as it is in summer. Families can enjoy lantern parades, coastal Christmas markets, and community celebrations across its towns and villages. 

The county’s dramatic coastal scenery also provides a magical backdrop for winter light trails and beach walks, making Cornwall a brilliant choice for families seeking something a little different from traditional festive outings this winter.

Top tip: Did you know that Cornwall also offers some of the highest-rated outdoor experiences in the UK, based on Tripadvisor and Google ratings? Hidden gem spots such as Porth Joke, Portheras Cove, Lantic Bay, and Cardinham Woods all have average review scores of over 4.5 stars, making them fabulous options for parents wanting a truly stunning day out with the kids.

Winter activities: Where’s best for what?

If you know exactly what type of outdoor activity you’re looking for this winter, here’s a snapshot of the best places to go for each activity. It’s time to wrap up warm, pack a thermos of hot chocolate, and get playing!

• Go Ape: Hampshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Kent, Gloucestershire, and Buckinghamshire all have two Go Ape centres.

• Zip Lines: Cumbria and North Yorkshire both have the most zip lines, with eight locations across each county.

• Ice skating: Hampshire, Lancashire, Kent, West Yorkshire, Staffordshire, the West Midlands, Berkshire, South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, and Cambridgeshire all have two ice rinks.

• Skiing: Hampshire, Cumbria, Devon, and Staffordshire all have three snow domes or dry ski slopes for some downhill thrills.

• Nature and wildlife: Kent has the most designated “good for kids” nature and wildlife areas at 35, followed by Berkshire and Norfolk, which both have 34.

• Outdoor activities: With 63 on offer, East Riding of Yorkshire has the most “good for kids” outdoor activities.

• Biking: North Yorkshire has the most biking trails of any county, with 101 separate routes for budding young cyclists to test their skills on.

• Walking: Hampshire has the most child-friendly walking trails, with 460 to choose from across the county.

Keep outdoor play fun and safe this winter, with expert tips from Outdoor Toys

Nick Paulson, Product and Category Manager at Outdoor Toys, shares expert hints and advice to help parents keep their kids playing outdoors throughout the winter months. 

1. Layer up wisely: Use lightweight layers (thermals, fleeces, and waterproofs) so kids stay warm, but can still move freely without feeling restricted.

2. Check wheels and grip: Cold, wet conditions reduce traction on bicycle tyres. Make sure tyres are inflated, and avoid paths covered in wet leaves or mud.

3. Do a quick pre-play safety check: Ensure wheels spin freely, brakes aren’t stiff, and no mud or grit is blocking moving parts of bikes, scooters, and ride-on toys.

4. Keep toys clean and dry: Wipe or hose down ride-on toys, bikes, and scooters after use and store them somewhere sheltered so frost doesn’t damage them.

5. Boost visibility: Short winter days mean reflective clothing, stickers, or handlebar lights are essential for avoiding accidents, especially on shared paths.

6. Keep outings short and fun-filled: Short bursts of activity with regular warm-up breaks help children stay comfortable outdoors.

Methodology

Outdoor Toys is a leading online retailer of high-quality outdoor toys for children of all ages. As part of our mission to keep kids active and in the fresh air, we created a helpful resource of the best places for outdoor activities across England, helping parents encourage outdoor play in all seasons.

To compile the Best UK Locations for Family Winter Activities, we sourced the following data for each English county (excluding London) and gave each a normalised score from 0-10 for each factor, before taking an average of these scores.

• Go Ape locations

• Zip lines

• Ice skating rinks

• Snow domes and dry ski slopes

• "Good for kids" nature and wildlife areas: The number of nature & wildlife areas under the "good for kids" filter on Tripadvisor.

• "Good for kids" outdoor activities: The number of outdoor activities filtered by "good for kids" on Tripadvisor.

• Child-friendly mountain biking trails: The number of mountain biking trails under the "family friendly" filter on www.trailforks.com 

• Child-friendly trails: The number of trails under the "child-friendly" filter on AllTrails.

We also took the number of Christmas events and Santa’s grotto events from local tourist boards or other relevant sources and displayed these separately. For Santa’s grotto events, only events that specifically advertise a Santa’s grotto or a chance to meet Father Christmas/Santa were included. Christmas events range from Christmas light switch-ons and light trails to Christmas markets and pantomimes.