Our Blogs

Our blog is your go to place for everything outdoors! From hidden gems to epic hikes, we share our experiences, helpful tips, and the joys of exploring nature. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just looking for some outdoor inspiration, we’ve got something for you

Looking for a little extra calm?

We’ve put together a page all about Trip Drinks, which are lightly sparkling drinks designed to support calm, balance and focus. They’ve become part of how we manage anxiety alongside getting outdoors.

👉 Read more and grab your Trip Drinks discount code here: Trip Drinks Discount

How to use a map and compass made easy

Ready to feel confident on your walks Our new guide keeps things simple and fun. Learn map reading for beginners, how to use a compass in easy steps, and little games that help kids lead the way. We show you how to match the map to what you see, choose the right path, and practise in a woodland you already know.

£10 Off Huel with Outdoor Exploring Family

We’re big fans of Huel and it comes with us on so many adventures. From starting the day with Daily Greens to enjoying a Hot and Savoury meal beside a waterfall, it really keeps us going. The kind people at Huel have even given us a discount to share with you so you can get £10 off your first order.

Colania Dene

Since we've spent a few wonderful holidays at Colania Dene, we've gathered quite a list of favourite spots! We wanted to share some of the places we absolutely love to visit while we're in the area for your convenience, we've included the postcode for each location, along with an approximate driving time from Colania Dene Lodges.

We're really hoping our family's tried-and-tested recommendations will help you find some lovely gems and make your own adventures in the beautiful Scottish Borders truly special!

Discovering Derwent Water & Friars Crag

If you're planning a trip to the Lake District, Derwent Water is an absolute gem you can't miss — and right on its shores lies the peaceful viewpoint of Friars Crag, one of my personal favourites. Whether you're here for a relaxed stroll, a boat trip, or the first steps towards climbing Catbells, this area is packed with charm, history, and things to do.

The Bowes Museum

The Bowes Museum is one of our favourite go-to spots for a relaxed family day out. With its stunning building, hands-on exhibitions, lovely café, and open grounds with a play park, it’s a brilliant mix of culture and outdoor fun—perfect for all ages.

Low Force

Looking for a short, family-friendly adventure in the heart of Teesdale? Come and discover Low Force Waterfalla gem that’s perfect for little legs, four-legged friends, and anyone who loves an easy, scenic walk with a big reward. From swing bridges and riverside paths to the soothing sound of cascading falls, this peaceful spot is one of our favourite places to escape into nature. Find out where to park, what to spot along the trail, and why Low Force is a must-visit for outdoor-loving families!

 

Summerhill Force

Summerhill Force & Gibson’s Cave – A Family-Friendly Waterfall Adventure in Teesdale

If you're after a short, magical walk with a big reward at the end, Summerhill Force and Gibson’s Cave is the perfect spot for your next family adventure. Tucked away in the beautiful Bowlees area of Upper Teesdale, this hidden gem is easy to reach and full of wonder

Water-to-Go

We’ve been hydrating in style with Water-to-Go bottles – but do they really live up to the hype? Check out our honest review and see if these bottles are your next adventure must-have!

How a Tiny Spoonful of Orange Magic Changed Our Mornings! 🍊

A few weeks back, we decided to give Vivo Life’s B12 vitamin liquid a go just 1ml a day of the zesty orange flavour. That’s it. And wow. We weren’t ready for what happened next:

North East Family Days Out – by the Outdoor Exploring Family

If your family’s anything like ours, you’ll know there’s something magical about walking through ancient woodland, hearing the rush of a waterfall, or exploring the ruins of an old abbey. These are the days out that stay with you – and even better, many of them don’t cost a penny.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite free outdoor family adventures in the North East

We started using Huel around the same time we turned to nature to help with anxiety, and combining the two has completely changed our family for the better. From Daily Greens in the morning to Hot & Savoury lunches on the hills, Huel has become part of our outdoor routine. In this post we share how we use it on hikes, why it’s perfect for wild camping, and our exclusive Huel discount code so you can try it too.