Looking for a fun, free, and exciting way to get outdoors with the kids? The UK is packed with incredible FREE trails that combine adventure, creativity, and exploration, all without costing a penny! From hunting for Gruffalo sculptures in the woods to tracking down giant Shaun the Sheep statues, these free family-friendly trails are the perfect way to keep kids entertained, active, and engaged with nature.
So, grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and get ready for a day of adventure with these fantastic free trails across the UK!
Coming Soon…
The Big Egg Hunt – A Cracking Adventure!
Imagine taking your kids on a giant Easter egg hunt – but instead of chocolate eggs, you’re tracking down stunning, artist-designed eggs hidden in parks, city streets, and iconic landmarks! The Big Egg Hunt, organised by Elephant Family, is a London-based free trail that challenges families to find 100 beautifully decorated giant eggs, each with its own unique design and artistic twist.
Why families love it:
- It’s a fun, interactive treasure hunt that keeps kids engaged.
- It takes you to new places, encouraging families to explore parks, gardens, and city streets in a whole new way.
- Perfect for photo opportunities, with each egg being a work of art!
From Canary Wharf, Covent Garden and Marble Arch to The Royal Albert Hall, Chelsea and more! See if you can spot them all!
Across London
24th March to 27th April 2025
FREE
Shaun the Sheep – Find the Flock Trail
Fans of Shaun the Sheep will love this family-friendly, interactive free trail that brings Aardman’s beloved character to life! Set within the gorgeous Trentham Gardens, this free adventure trail challenges families to find a flock of colourful Shaun the Sheep sculptures hidden throughout the gardens. Each Shaun is uniquely designed, making it an exciting and creative treasure hunt that keeps kids entertained while exploring the great outdoors. Each sculpture will be 160cm tall!
Why families love it:
- Encourages kids to be active while solving clues.
- A great way to introduce children to art and creativity is through vibrant designs.
- Plenty of open space for little explorers to run around and enjoy nature!
Pssst…the kids will get a FREE activity pack too!
Stone Rd, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 8JG
5th April - 18th May 2025
FREE
Gromit Unleashed 3
Coming this Summer is a FREE trail that everyone raves about…
Bristol’s Gromit Unleashed trail is a brilliant city-wide treasure hunt featuring huge Gromit, Wallace, and Feathers McGraw sculptures, each painted in quirky, colourful designs. As you wander through Bristol’s streets, parks, and waterfront, you’ll uncover one-of-a-kind art pieces while enjoying the charm of Aardman’s famous characters.
Why families love it:
- It’s a free way to explore Bristol in a fun, interactive way.
- Kids will love spotting their favourite characters in unique designs.
- Perfect for art lovers and Wallace & Gromit fans alike.
The free trail will take you on a journey through the iconic Wallace & Gromit movies, with dazzling sculptures inspired by famous films and the stories that inspired them! Be on the look out for Feathers McGraw…
30th June to 31st August 2025
FREE
On Now!
We’re Going On A Bear Hunt!
Wild in Art transforms cities across the UK into outdoor art galleries with their amazing sculpture trails! In Southport, you’ll discover ten bold, bright and vibrant bears taking over the town centre! Each hand-painted bear will display a unique design from an array of artists and illustrators. Don’t forget it’s FREE and you can download an app to help with your hunting!
Why families love it:
- A brilliant mix of art and exploration, helping kids engage with creativity.
- Every trail is different, so there’s always something new to discover.
- A great excuse to explore a city while keeping kids entertained.
These trails feature giant, hand-painted sculptures, from Paddington Bear in London to elephants in Manchester, encouraging families to explore their surroundings in a fun and interactive way. Each trail is completely free and makes for a fantastic day out, mixing culture, creativity, and adventure.
Southport Town Centre
1st February to 27th April 2025
FREE
The Stick Man Outdoor Trail
If your kids love Stick Man, they’ll be thrilled to step into his world on this magical outdoor trail! Located in the National Memorial Arboretum, this FREE trail brings the story to life through interactive activities, fun challenges, and nature-inspired learning. Follow Stick Man’s journey to the Family Tree, complete family-friendly tasks, and explore the gardens in an fun and engaging way.
Why families love it:
- Brings a favourite children’s book to life in an outdoor setting.
- Encourages kids to explore nature and engage in outdoor play.
- Perfect for young walkers, with easy-to-follow trails and fun activities along the way.
National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Burton-on-Trent, DE13 7AR
23rd March 2024 - 23rd March 2026
FREE
The Gruffalo Trail!
“The Gruffalo said that no Gruffalo should ever set foot in the deep dark wood…” but your little ones can! This magical forest trail, inspired by Julia Donaldson’s classic book, features giant wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo, the Mouse, and other characters. Families can follow the winding path, complete interactive activities, and see the story come to life in the middle of the woods!
Why families love it:
- Encourages kids to be active while enjoying a much-loved story.
- Beautiful natural settings perfect for a family walk and picnic.
- Great for all ages, with shorter and longer trail options available.
You’ll find this FREE trail in various Forestry England sites all across the UK – so you can find one near you!
FREE
Why Free Trails Are the Perfect Family Activity!
Whether kids are tracking down the Gruffalo in the woods, following Shaun the Sheep’s playful flock, or searching for a city’s hidden artistic treasures, these trails ignite curiosity, creativity, and storytelling. Here’s why they’re perfect for families!
- No cost, just fun! – No expensive tickets, just turn up and start exploring.
- Keeps kids active – A great way to encourage fresh air and exercise.
- Sparks imagination – Whether it’s hunting for sculptures, solving clues, or following a story, kids stay engaged and entertained.
- Perfect for all ages – Whether your child is toddling or trekking, there’s a trail to suit every family.
With so many fun, free trails across the UK, there’s no better way to get outdoors, spark your kids’ imagination, and create lasting family memories – all without spending a penny! Whether you’re hunting for Gruffalo sculptures in the woods, tracking down Shaun the Sheep, or following an art-filled treasure hunt, these trails offer adventure, exercise, and excitement for kids of all ages. So, grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and set off on a free family adventure today – because the best things in life really are free!
Looking for more outdoor adventures? From discovering the world’s biggest play park and channelling your inner builder to unleashing adventure at the UK’s largest playground! There’s always outdoor fun to be had, no matter the weather.