5 half term activities with children and dogs

Believe it or not, half term is just around the corner. Have you got plans to keep the family busy? We’ve got suggestions for 5 half term activities to keep the whole family (dogs included) entertained.

Get away from it all  

If you are lucky enough to have the week off work or can even take a long weekend break, why not take a holiday?  The UK offers a plethora of dog-friendly and family friendly accommodation to cater to a wide range of budgets. Many of these can be found online at sites such as Dogs Invited, which offers dog-friendly accommodation in many locations around Britain.  If this appeals to you but you can’t get away at the moment, why not enter our competition for a chance to win a 2-night stay in early 2019 for 4 people plus dogs at Mineshop Cottages in Cornwall?

Rusey Cottage with surfing gear
Mineshop Cottages offering dog-friendly accommodation on the North Cornwall coast

Reconnect with nature

If you want to make the most of the great outdoors before the winter weather arrives, why not do some camping? Kids love telling spooky stories and toasting marshmallows around a campfire. Why not load up your car with camping gear and spend a couple of nights camping under the stars?  We’ve got your camping checklist essentials right here.

Family camping equipment

Visit a dog-friendly beach

Just because summer is over it doesn’t mean you can’t get sand between your toes still. Many beautiful beaches that were off limits to your four-legged friend during the summer become dog-friendly spaces during the autumn and winter months.  Check ahead of time to make sure that the beach you’ll be going to does welcome dogs at this time of year. If it does, it’s a great place for the whole family to spend some quality, relaxation time. A list of dog-friendly beaches in the UK is available right here.

Mother and daughter on beach with dog

Take a hike 

What dog doesn’t love a walk?  Take him on a hike with the whole family, choosing an age-appropriate walk for the kids.  A great option for primary school age children is to follow a trail where children have to spot specific landmarks or unique features along the route. The popular “Making Tracks” series of books by Joanne Wright allows you to do just that. Each region-specific book gives a collection of family friendly walks that encourage children to take the lead.  They give easy-to-follow instructions, child-friendly maps and a whole range of different things to look for on each walk.

Father and daughter hiking with dog in forest

 

Visit an English Heritage site 

English Heritage offers over 150 properties that allow dogs to visit.  The kids will love exploring and a visit to a spooky castle at this time of year can get them in the mood for Halloween.  The dog will love walking around the spacious grounds that many of these properties offer, although most require the dogs to remain on a lead.

Beeston Castle in Cheshire offering a dog-friendly day out for families

However you choose to spend that special time at half term with the whole family, we hope you enjoy the journey.