Looking for some exciting and unique ways to make the most of your summer? In our previous blog post, we highlighted 6 exhilarating outdoor activities to try in the UK. But why stop there? We’ve rounded up 7 more thrilling options that will help you make the most of the sunny season. From soaring over the treetops on high ropes courses to swimming in open water, there’s something for everyone. So grab your gear and get ready for a summer filled with adventure and fun.
Night hiking:
Night hiking is a unique outdoor activity that offers a completely different experience compared to hiking during the day. Exploring the countryside after dark, with only headlamps and other lighting sources to guide you, is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. With the lack of light pollution, the stars are more visible and the wilderness takes on an eerie, almost mystical quality.
Night hiking requires more preparation and caution than hiking during the day. You need to be well-prepared with proper gear, including headlamps, extra batteries, and maps. It’s also important to have knowledge of the trail and the area you plan to hike, as well as to let someone know your intended route and expected return time.
Despite the added preparation and caution required, night hiking can be a truly rewarding experience. The stillness of the night and the peacefulness of nature can be calming and refreshing, and you may even encounter wildlife that is more active at night.
The UK has plenty of options for night hiking, with many national parks and other wilderness areas that offer guided tours or allow for self-guided exploration. Some popular routes for night hiking include the Brecon Beacons in Wales, the Lake District in England, and the Scottish Highlands. However, it’s important to always check regulations and obtain any necessary permits before embarking on a night hike in any area.
Overall, night hiking is an exciting and unique way to experience the outdoors and explore the UK’s stunning landscapes in a completely different way.
Find out more: rei.com
Bouldering:
Bouldering is a great way to experience the thrill of climbing without the need for ropes and with less safety equipment. It involves scaling smaller rock formations or boulders, using only your hands and feet to reach the top. In the UK, bouldering has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many dedicated bouldering areas popping up across the country.
One of the main appeals of bouldering is that it requires little gear beyond a pair of climbing shoes and a chalk bag. This makes it a more accessible option for those who may not have the resources or experience for traditional rock climbing. Additionally, bouldering can be done both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile activity that can be enjoyed year-round.
Outdoor bouldering provides the added benefit of being able to enjoy the natural beauty of the UK’s diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Peak District to the rugged coastlines of Cornwall. Many bouldering areas are situated in picturesque locations, making for a unique and memorable experience.
While bouldering does not require ropes, it is still important to take safety precautions, such as using crash pads to cushion falls and climbing with a spotter. It is also essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment while bouldering outdoors.
Overall, bouldering offers an exciting and accessible way to get started with climbing, and the UK offers many opportunities for both indoor and outdoor bouldering adventures.
Find out more: climbernews.com
Orienteering:
Orienteering is a popular outdoor activity in the UK that combines physical exercise with problem-solving and navigation skills. The activity involves using a map and compass to navigate through the countryside, finding checkpoints or control points along the way. Orienteering can be done individually or as part of a team, and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It is a great way to explore the great outdoors, improve fitness and develop new skills.
Orienteering courses can vary in length and difficulty, with some designed for beginners and others for more experienced orienteers. Some courses are set in forested areas, while others may be set in urban or parkland environments. Orienteering can also be done in all weather conditions, making it a versatile activity that can be enjoyed year-round.
Image by Jonáš Sanislo
Participating in orienteering can be a great way to improve problem-solving skills and spatial awareness. It also encourages participants to think strategically, plan ahead and work together as a team. Orienteering is often used as a training activity for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, orienteering is a fun and challenging activity that provides an opportunity to explore the outdoors and develop new skills. It is a great way to improve fitness, build confidence and meet new people, all while enjoying the beautiful countryside of the UK.
Find out more: britishorienteering.org.uk
Kite buggying:
Kite buggying is a thrilling outdoor activity that is gaining popularity in the UK. This land-based sport involves flying a power kite while riding in a small, three-wheeled buggy that is steered by the rider’s body weight. With the wind in your face and the rush of adrenaline as you speed across the open terrain, kite buggying offers a unique way to experience the great outdoors.
Kite buggying can be done on a variety of terrains, from beaches to open fields. It’s a great activity for anyone looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the countryside. Kite buggies are lightweight and easy to transport, so you can take them wherever you go.
Kite buggying is also a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors. The physical demands of steering and controlling the kite, as well as the buggy, make for a full-body workout. And because it’s a low-impact activity, it’s easy on the joints and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure or just want to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views, kite buggying is an excellent choice. It’s an affordable and accessible activity that provides a unique perspective on the UK’s beautiful countryside. So why not grab a kite, hop in a buggy, and take to the open road?
Want to know what it’s like? Watch the video below!
Tree-top adventures:
Tree-top adventures are an increasingly popular way to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. High ropes courses, ziplines, and tree-top walks offer a fun and adventurous way to explore the canopy of trees. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a thrilling challenge, there are a range of tree-top adventures to suit all ages and abilities.
High ropes courses are designed to test your balance, strength, and agility as you navigate a series of obstacles suspended high up in the trees. These courses often include rope bridges, swinging logs, and zip lines, and are suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit and comfortable with heights.
Ziplines offer a more adrenaline-fueled experience, as you glide through the air on a cable attached to a harness. Ziplines can range from short, easy runs to long, high-speed rides that will take your breath away.
Image by -Rita-👩🍳 und 📷 mit ❤
For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, tree-top walks offer a chance to explore the forest canopy from a different perspective. These elevated pathways wind through the treetops, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, explore the natural world, or simply enjoy some fresh air and exercise, a tree-top adventure is a great way to get outside and have some fun. With locations all across the UK, there’s sure to be a tree-top adventure near you.
Find out more: forestryengland.uk
Open water swimming:
Open water swimming is a popular outdoor activity that allows swimmers to connect with nature while getting some exercise. The UK has an abundance of options for open water swimming, including rivers, lakes, and the sea. Whether you are looking to train for a triathlon, compete in an open water swimming event, or simply enjoy the sensation of swimming in natural bodies of water, open water swimming is an excellent option. Swimmers can choose to wear wetsuits or swim skins for warmth, and some locations may have facilities such as changing rooms and showers. Open water swimming can be done individually or as part of a group, and there are many clubs and events for those who want to get more involved. It’s important to make sure you are aware of the risks associated with open water swimming, such as cold water shock, currents, and tides, and take appropriate safety precautions. But with the right preparation, open water swimming can be a fun and rewarding way to enjoy the UK’s natural beauty.
You can find open water swimming locations here.
Via ferrata:
Via ferrata, which means “iron path” in Italian, is a type of climbing that is gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts in the UK. It is a combination of hiking and rock climbing and involves ascending a mountain via a route equipped with steel cables, ladders, and other fixed anchors for safety. This activity originated in the Alps and was used during World War I to move troops across treacherous mountain terrain.
Today, via ferrata is a recreational activity that provides a unique way to explore the mountain landscape. It is suitable for both experienced climbers and beginners, as it offers a safe and controlled way to climb without the need for advanced technical skills. Via ferrata routes are graded according to their difficulty, with easy routes suitable for beginners and more challenging routes for experienced climbers.
Image by Michael Rehm
The UK has several via ferrata locations, including Honister Slate Mine in the Lake District, where climbers can traverse the edge of a 1,200-foot-high cliff face. Another popular location is the Via Ferrata Xtreme in Kinlochleven, Scotland, which offers a challenging course through steep, rugged terrain.
Via ferrata provides a unique perspective on the mountain landscape, as climbers can see the mountains from a different angle and often encounter wildlife and other natural features that are not visible from the ground. It is also a physically challenging activity that can provide a great sense of achievement upon completion of a route.
Safety is a top priority when participating in via ferrata, and climbers must wear appropriate safety equipment, including a helmet and harness, and must be attached to the steel cable at all times. It is also recommended to go with a trained guide or instructor, especially for beginners.
In summary, via ferrata offers a thrilling and unique way to explore mountain landscapes in the UK. With several locations to choose from, it is an accessible activity for both experienced climbers and beginners. Safety is paramount, so it is important to follow proper safety procedures and consider going with a trained guide or instructor.
Find out more: base-mag.com
Featured image by Mohamed Hassan