It’s not always easy to make plans for some quality time with the family, especially when the youngsters appear to be glued to their phone screens. If your little ones are seemingly engrossed in social media, gaming or online chats with their friends, the best option might just be to create a diversion. And that diversion can be found in a number of exceptional Sussex and Surrey days out. Here are five examples of fun-packed experiences in the great outdoors. After all, there’s a reason the outdoors is called great, of course.
Conquering your fears at an iconic seafront location
Even those with a fear of heights will surely want to test themselves at the superb Brighton Zip. Located 17 metres above one of the most famous beaches in the whole of the UK, it’s suitable for children aged six and upwards, as well as for adults. The brave among you will enjoy taking in the views of the Palace Pier and the Seven Sisters, while those with a little trepidation might just be focusing on simply getting to the other side.
A family day that’s fun from start to finish
Among the more popular attractions can be found at the excellent Godstone Farm. The youngsters will love the chance to meet a range of cute animals, while one of the largest soft-play areas in the whole region will provide hours of enjoyment. You can even make it more special by booking either a farmer or animal experience for the children. Fun days out in Surrey surely don’t come better than this.
Take to the water for an unforgettable journey
There’s plenty of fun to be had along the famous coastline of Sussex, especially perhaps on a summer afternoon. One of the more tempting prospects is to be found on Newhaven’s West Quay. The excellent Maverick Boat Adventures provide the perfect alternative to screen time, so be sure to check out the options that are available. Our favourite is the trip that takes you to the fabulous Seven Sisters, home to the region’s most celebrated photo opportunity.
Try a sport…or maybe two sports in one
Our GoLarkers have enjoyed sporting hybrids before, such as bicycle polo and water basketball. We’ve even heard about (but haven’t played) chess boxing, the ultimate combination of brawn and brains. On the coast of Sussex, however, there’s a far more intriguing hybrid that we’ve come to love. Brighton Footgolf requires the strategy of golf and the accuracy of football, and if you haven’t tried it yet you really need to give it a go.
And, of course, you should always find time to relax
Sometimes, the best way to get the kids away from their screens is to give them time well away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Local highlights include Tide Mills on the East Sussex coastline, the serenity of Chichester’s Bishop’s Palace Gardens and the sheer beauty of the Birling Gap and Seven Sisters, where the South Downs meets the sea. Take the kids there, and bring your phone (but not theirs!) because you’ll want to take a snap or two.
So, the next time the youngsters seem to be glued to a screen when they should be exploring the world around them, be sure to show them what’s available.
