Looking for fun things to do this summer with the family? Whether it’s blazing sunshine or an unexpected downpour, there are plenty of ways to keep kids and grown-ups entertained across the school holidays.
From indoor adventure venues to scenic outdoor escapes, this guide covers ten tried-and-tested summer activities that suit all ages, budgets, and weather conditions. These ideas are ideal for families looking to create unforgettable memories without the usual stress. Scroll on to plan your perfect summer.
1. Explore Hackers Indoor Adventure Venue, Essex
Best for: Mixed-age families, rainy days, hot weather, indoor fun
If you’re looking for all-day entertainment in a cool, comfortable setting, Hackers is the perfect choice. Our fully air-conditioned indoor adventure venue in Essex is designed for families who want something immersive and exciting. With themed escape rooms, indoor crazy golf, SMARTS AR darts, and a bar and restaurant (complete with a kids’ menu and slushie machine), there’s something for everyone to enjoy while staying cool.
We offer two 8-hole indoor crazy golf courses, Rosa Trail and Azure Trail, which can be played separately or combined into a full 16-hole experience. The courses feature immersive lighting, sound, and themed environments that are fun for all ages.
Our themed essex escape rooms are ideal for older kids, teens, and adults. Choose from exciting storylines like The Tomb of the Wandering King or Blood Over Baker Street, both filled with puzzles, mystery, and hands-on challenges. We’ve even been named “one of the UK’s best escape room destinations for 2024”. Some rooms are wheelchair accessible, and we always aim to make our experiences inclusive and welcoming.
For the grown-ups, we also serve slushie cocktails, combining nostalgic flavours with your choice of flavoured vodka, gin, or rum. Our range of summer cocktails makes Hackers the perfect place to unwind after the action.
2. Visit a Pick-Your-Own Fruit Farm
Best for: Outdoor family days, healthy snacks, younger kids
Spending a day at a pick-your-own farm is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and encourage healthy eating. From strawberries and raspberries to blackberries and even sunflowers, most farms have something in season throughout July and August.
Look out for extras like picnic areas, nature trails, and tractor rides. Many also have cafés, so you can treat yourself to homemade cakes or ice cream after all that picking.
3. Discover a Local Lavender Field
Best for: Relaxed days, beautiful scenery, photo opportunities
A visit to a lavender field is a peaceful and photogenic outing for the whole family. Stroll through fragrant purple rows, snap some pictures, and enjoy the calming atmosphere.
Some locations also offer family-friendly events such as flower crown workshops or lavender-themed crafts. Peak bloom is typically late June to early August, so plan ahead.
4. Book an Outdoor Cinema Night
Best for: Teens, tweens, and film-loving families
Outdoor cinemas have grown in popularity and are now found across parks, rooftops, and even beaches. From classic Disney to recent releases, most events are family-friendly. Bring your own snacks or try the on-site food trucks for pizza, loaded fries or ice cream
5. Cool Off With a DIY Garden Waterpark
Best for: Budget-friendly fun at home
If you’re staying home on those ultra-hot days, a few paddling pools, sprinklers, and water balloons can create hours of entertainment. Add garden games like ring toss or limbo, and don’t forget the cold drinks and shade. It’s a great way to keep the kids active while avoiding packed public pools.
6. Try Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Best for: Active older kids and teens
If you’re near a lake or slow-moving river, paddleboarding or kayaking is a great way to stay active and enjoy nature. Many hire centres offer family packages, beginner sessions and child-friendly equipment.
It’s worth checking whether your local centre runs “family splash” mornings or guided nature tours, which are often less busy and more relaxed.
7. Plan a Themed Picnic
Best for: Sunny days and food-loving families
Picnics don’t need to be basic. Turn it into an event by choosing a theme, such as Italian-style antipasti, brunch, or build-your-own wraps. Get the kids involved in packing, and don’t forget cool drinks and a shady spot.
Games like frisbee, cards or mini scavenger hunts can help the fun last longer. If it’s really hot, try freezing bottles of water to keep everything chilled.
8. Spend a Day at the Museum or Science Centre
Best for: Educational fun, hot or rainy days
Museums and science centres offer a great mix of learning and fun, especially when the weather turns. Many host special events and workshops during the summer holidays, with exhibits designed to engage curious minds of all ages.
Search for family passes, free admission days, or downloadable activity packs to get the most from your visit.
9. Visit a Mini Golf Course or Indoor Arcade
Best for: Competitive families, all-weather fun
Indoor mini golf courses and arcades are ideal for unpredictable British weather. They’re usually walk-in friendly, affordable, and guaranteed to bring out your family’s competitive side. If you’re local to Essex, Hackers should be your first stop.
10. Take a Family Bike Ride or Nature Walk
Best for: Budget-friendly outdoor time
Explore local trails, forests, or nature reserves with a bike ride or family walk. Look for routes with wildlife spotting, climbing trees, or café stops along the way. Apps like Komoot or AllTrails can help you find routes suitable for prams, scooters, or bikes.
This summer, you don’t have to rely on beach trips or theme parks to keep the family happy. With a balance of indoor and outdoor ideas, from creative home activities to full-day adventures, there’s plenty to explore whatever the weather brings.
If you’re in Essex, Hackers is here to give you a summer full of excitement, challenge, and refreshingly cool treats
