Best outdoor activities to try in February half term 2024

Keen to keep the kids away from their screens this February half term? Then it's time to put on your wellies, wrap up warm and head outside.

By Laura Cooke | Last updated May 14, 2025

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February half term is just around the corner, and what better way to make the most of it than by embracing the great outdoors?

If you are struggling to decide what to do with your little ones (and not-so-little ones) during the week-long break, then Mumsnetters are here to share their wisdom.

So wrap up warm, get your waterproofs on and check out our guide to the best outdoor activities to try this February half term.

1. Try stargazing

“Defo get a stargazing app, my kids love being able to see the planets and constellations etc on that.” Product recommended by Mumsnetter Wnikat.

Cold nights generally mean clear skies, so it’s the perfect time of year for a bit of stargazing. If you are a stargazing novice and need a bit of help to identify the constellations, there are some excellent apps that you can download onto your phone to help you get the most out of your stargazing sesh. Don’t forget to wrap up warm and top up your best thermos flask with something delicious before heading out.

2. Explore on wheels

“We will be going to the skate park so DD can practice her scootering, there's a play park right next to it so she'll spend some time on that too. I'll take drinks, snacks and a picnic blanket so we can spend a few hours there.” Activity recommended by Mumsnetter FatAgainItsLettuceTime

What better way to warm up on a chilly day than taking the bike for a spin? Whether you live in a city or on the coast, take your brood to explore your local cycle paths or green spaces on their bikes. Teeny tots may prefer a pootle around the park on their balance bike, while the more adventurous can take their skateboards or scooters down to the local skate park to hone their skills.

3. Go on a nature walk

“Go for a walk and spot the first signs of spring.” Walking recommended by Mumsntter IggyAce

“When my daughter was v young we used to do lots of adventure walks (have to find a series of items), would take them home and create a picture / model with them. We also used to go out in all weather with snacks and hot chocolate.” Activity recommended by Mumsnetter bighair32

It may not feel like it at the moment, but spring is just around the corner, meaning it’s nearly time to dig out the paddling pool and outdoor toys. But until then, take the kids out on a nature walk to try and spot the first signs of spring, like snowdrops or early daffodils. If your little ones are particularly crafty, gather some sticks to take home to make a picture, model or bug hotel. If the weather is dry, take a blanket and a packed lunch and enjoy a winter picnic. Just be sure to wrap up warm!

4. Visit a castle

If your child loves nothing more than playing knights or princesses, then what better way to spend the day than taking them to a real-life castle and letting their imagination run riot?

The National Trust holds special half term events at a number of its properties. Check out the National Trust website to find out what is going on near where you live.

5. Have fun at the farm

Tractor rides, feeding the sheep, playing in the hay barn…what’s not to love about getting mucky on a farm? Younger kids in particular will be in their element and, as far as they are concerned at least, the muddier, the better. So wellies are a must!

About the author

Laura Cooke is a Content Editor at Mumsnet, with a special focus on toddler play, child play and outdoor play. She is a mum of two and lives in Sussex.

Laura is a freelance journalist and has written for a range of publications including The Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful.