8 new things to try outdoors this summer
Summer is a great time to get outside and explore, so we thought we’d suggest a few fun activities to get you started
Originally published 23 July 2019.
You don't have to go far to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors.
These fun activities will help you to get outside and explore during the summer holidays, wherever you are. It could be your local park, your garden, a balcony, or anywhere else where you can enjoy nature and fresh air.
If you try any of these out then please feel free to tell us about it on Facebook or tag us on Instagram - we love seeing your activities, and you may inspire other girls to get involved!
1. Take steps to look after the environment
Summer is the perfect time to start thinking about how we can look after our environment - the people, animals, plants and nature all around us in our everday lives. You could do things like getting involved in a litter pick, helping at a local community garden, planting some wildflowers or building a bee hotel.
If you'd like to take action on the environment this summer, you could earn yourself a special badge and certificate by completing your Eco award.
2. Stargaze in your garden
Sometimes the greatest memories can be made right in your own garden. One night, why not wait until it’s completely dark and then look up and see how many stars you can count? Bring out some cushions and get comfy – don’t forget the hot cocoa!
3. Play a game of footie
With the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 happening in Switzerland this summer, excitement is running high. Why not get in on the action by practising some keepie-uppies or having a kick about against a wall? If there's a sunny day, you could organise a game with some friends – best get slicing those oranges now!
4. Start an appreciation journal
When you’re having fun, life can seem to speed by. One way to slow down and stay mindful is to keep an appreciation journal. It’s simple – once a day you write down something you were grateful for that day, whether big or small. It could be something as simple as laughing with a friend, eating some tasty food, or going on a nice walk. At the end, you can read through your entries and remember what an awesome summer it was.
5. Try Geocaching
Want to join the world’s biggest treasure hunt? Use coordinates found on the Geocaching website to search for hidden caches in your local area. Alternatively, you could make your own trail for others to find. As a bonus, Guides can gain their Geocaching interest badge.
6. Create your own ice lollies
Making your own ice lollies is so easy, you’ll wonder why you’ve not been doing it every summer. All you need to do is mix water or lemonade with something fruity – cordial or pureed fruit is perfect – then pour them into some ice lolly moulds and pop them in the freezer! Why not try coming up with recipes together, and trying out different or unusual flavour combinations? If you’re feeling brave, you could host a taste test with friends or family and see who makes the tastiest ice lollies!
7. Plan a photo scavenger hunt
This activity gets everyone outside into the fresh air, while keeping it competitive! To plan a photo scavenger hunt, you’ll need to make up a list of things to take pictures of. For example, it could be photos of 3 different colours of cars, someone walking a dog, and the tallest tree you can find. At the end of the hunt, count how many photos you each achieved and declare the winner!
8. Challenge yourself with adventures at home
For more outdoor activity ideas and challenges, check out our Adventures at home hub. There are plenty of activities for girls to do at home during the summer holidays, as well as with their unit.
Here are a few challenge ideas to get you started: