Where to Start
Deciding where to go can be a minefield. Some adventures will please some but often not all.
The key thing starting off is this, there is probably more on your doorstep than you realise.
When you think of going for an adventure, your mind may start thinking about places like Durdle Door with its picturesque beach cliffs or Pen Y Fan with its Insta worthy summit picture opportunity but unless they are on your doorstep, a 3-hour car journey will overshadow any idyllic picture in your head.
Whether you live in an urban or rural setting, there’s adventures to be had all around us. There is a high possibility that no matter where you live, you will be near either of the following, beach, coast, river, hills, parks, forests, woodlands. You may even be lucky to have a few of these!
The good news is that we have all the answers in the palm of our hands. If you are a pro or just starting out, there are lots of websites and even more people on social media who have been there, done that and posted about it online.
A good trail to follow is this:
· Google something like, Child friendly walks near me. Or Sandy beaches near me. Etc.
· Pick your adventure
· Work out how long it takes to get there (and most importantly back)
· Search the location on social media (Instagram is best for this)
· Ask around if anyone else has been there.
· Go and make memories
When you get back and you have loved it, share it. Most parents will follow other parents on social media and the best recommendations come from people who are like you and without realising it, you will soon be keeping a closer eye on those who share their family adventures and before you know it, you will be battling the other parent to find the next cool location!
TOP TIP
When you are next on your commute to work or on the school run, have a look for potential adventure opportunities. Is there a bridge that goes over a river? If it does, chances are, there’s a footpath that goes alongside it. Is there a park? If there is, there’s probably greenspace where games can be played or opportunities to talk about nature with your children.
If you want to start going further afield, they you need to do your research. How long is the adventure, are there interesting features to this place that will keep the kids interested, is it pushchair friendly? There are many questions you need answers to but the key to finding a good adventure is to know your kids limits. How long are they happy hikers? Do they get bored easily?
· Start local – you’ll be surprised what’s on your doorstep
· Do your research
· Look for interesting features to keep the kids entertained
· Know your limits and more importantly, your kids limits
DON’T DO
Don’t worry about finding new places every time. If you child has a favourite place to go, then visit it regularly. It’s an easy win. However, being a parent, you will know kids can quickly change their minds. So, work out what they liked so much about that place and find similarities in other places to keep their interest.
Summary
· Start local
· Know your limits
· Do your homework
· Have fun
· Share the knowledge
