10 big activities for small spaces
Fun things to do when your space is limited - whether you're in a small meeting room or the back of a minibus!
10 April 2026
Originally published 21 August 2018.
You don't need a lot of space or equipment to have a lot of fun with your unit.
Ever find yourself in a tight spot? Whether you’re squeezed into a small room, travelling in a minibus, or sheltering in a tent, these Girlguiding indoor activities prove that you can have big fun in small spaces. They’re perfect for Brownies, Guides and Rangers.
1. Jigsaw poetry
We love leader Caroline's creative wordplay game for groups, which encourages creativity and teamwork. You could try it with words from newspapers, leaflets or magazines too.
Give each group a poem cut into individual words, a piece of card and some sticky tape. The idea is not to recreate the original poem, but to use some of the words to create something new – and it shouldn’t rhyme. When the words are arranged to their satisfaction, they can add a title, any necessary punctuation, and stick it down.'
2. Songs for the road
Songs aren't just for the campfire, says volunteer Helen – they’re also ideal minibus activities for Girlguiding trips. A good sing along lifts everyone’s spirits, builds confidence, and keeps the group entertained while you’re travelling.
Campfire songs always go down well on the bus. Not sure how the drivers feel about them though!'
3. 3-word stories
Volunteer Mary's storytelling game can be played absolutely anywhere. It’s one of the best no equipment indoor games for sparking imagination and laughter.
If space is really limited, tell a 3-word story. Each person tells 3 words of the story starting with 'once upon a…' and then the next person adds…'Tuesday, there was...' and so on.'
4. Make your own Trivial Pursuit
Sometimes you can't beat a good board game, says Ranger Mia. If space is really limited, ditch the board and just use the questions.
This is one of my favourite activities to do when we don’t have much room, as it’s a challenge and you learn a lot. You can also create your own questions and themes that are more interesting for your unit, or cover a certain badge you’re doing at that time.'
5. Create an artistic masterpiece together
Volunteer Abi's artistic idea is one of the most joyful creative group activities you can do with just paper and pencils - it's sure to end in lots of giggling!
This needs a piece of paper and pencil per girl. All draw a head and neck, then fold the top of the paper so only the bottom of the neck can be seen. Pass the paper to the person on the left. Now draw arms and torso, and fold the paper so only the lower torso can be seen. Pass the paper again, and so on until the drawing is complete.'
6. DIY friendship bracelets
Friendship bracelets can be made absolutely anywhere, says volunteer Kirsty. It’s a classic Girlguiding craft activity that’s perfect if you’re off on a trip.
They can be picked up and put down, and girls don’t need to move once they have them!'
7. Folding fun with origami cranes
Explore the Japanese art of origami and make beautiful cranes just by folding paper. Check out our Legend of 1,000 cranes video and follow along for a peaceful and creative moment. This is a great option if you’re searching for quiet indoor games for Brownies or mindfulness activities for Guides.
8. Keep counting
Member Caroline’s counting activity is a brilliant team building indoor game that boosts focus and cooperation.
Get the unit to count 1 to 10 (out loud and with each girl offering 1 number at a time). Anyone can call out the next number, but if two people speak at the same time you have to go back to number 1.'
9. Make a statement in style
Ask girls what the future means to them. What will the world be like? What sort of person do they want to be? Explain what a slogan is and ask girls to write one that gives a message of hope for the future. If you have the time, space and crafting equipment, you can get them to put it on a poster or t-shirt, or you can just enjoy the discussion.
10. Ask 20 questions
Get 1 girl to think of an object, animal, person, or place. The group can then ask her up to 20 questions to guess what she’s thinking of – but she can only answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’. This game needs no equipment, is great for all ages and helps girls to develop their logical thinking skills.