The Best Outdoor Games for Screen-Free Summer Fun
Sardines
If your family loves hide and seek, Sardines is the hilarious, slightly chaotic twist you need. One person hides while everyone else searches. When a player finds the hider, they quietly squeeze into the hiding spot too — until everyone ends up packed together like… well, sardines.
Why it’s great:
- Encourages teamwork
- Gets everyone moving
- Guaranteed giggles
Top tip: Choose a safe outdoor area with plenty of hiding spots — trees, sheds, and garden furniture work perfectly.
Back Garden Obstacle Course
Turn your garden into a mini sports day with a DIY obstacle course. Use hula hoops, cones, bean bags, skipping ropes, buckets — anything you can find. Kids love helping to build the course just as much as they love racing through it.
Why it’s great:
- Brilliant for burning energy
- Encourages creativity
- Easy to customise for all ages
Balancing Challenges
Think of this as the human version of Buckaroo. Start by getting everyone to balance on one leg. Then add challenges — hold a book, balance a bean bag on your head, close one eye, or stand on tiptoes. Last one standing wins.
Why it’s great:
- Improves balance and coordination
- Simple, screen‑free fun
- No equipment needed (but bean bags help!)
Red Light, Green Light
A timeless playground classic that’s had a recent revival. One player (the “spotter”) stands with their back turned. When they shout “Green light!”, everyone moves forward. When they shout “Red light!” and turn around, players must freeze — anyone caught moving is out.
Why it’s great:
- Perfect for large groups
- Encourages listening skills
- Works in gardens, parks, or driveways
Giant Jenga
Take the classic tabletop game outdoors with a giant version that’s perfect for garden parties and family afternoons. Players take turns removing blocks and stacking them on top — until the tower inevitably comes crashing down.
Why it’s great:
- Builds patience and fine motor skills
- Fun for adults and kids
- Ideal for BBQs and gatherings
Twister
Twister is a family favourite for a reason — it’s silly, active, and guaranteed to end in laughter. For summer, Twister Splash adds a refreshing twist by connecting to your garden hose, turning the mat into a slippery, splashy challenge.
Why it’s great:
- Encourages flexibility and balance
- Great for hot days
- Fun for mixed‑age groups
Badminton or Tennis
Bring a little Wimbledon magic to your garden with a family racquet set. Set up a portable net on grass or at the park and choose between tennis or badminton for hours of active fun.
Why it’s great:
- Great cardio exercise
- Helps develop hand‑eye coordination
- Easy to pack for holidays or picnics
Hopscotch
A nostalgic classic that never goes out of style. Draw your hopscotch grid with chalk, grab a pebble, and hop your way through the numbered squares. Simple, energetic, and endlessly replayable.
Why it’s great:
- Helps with balance and number recognition
- Quick to set up
- Perfect for driveways and patios
Treasure Hunt
Treasure hunts are a brilliant way to get kids exploring outdoors. Hide clues around the garden, write riddles, or use “hot” and “cold” hints to guide them to the final prize. You can theme it however you like — pirates, fairies, animals, superheroes.
Why it’s great:
- Encourages problem‑solving
- Builds confidence
- Keeps kids entertained for ages
Swingball
Fast, competitive, and endlessly replayable — Swingball is a brilliant outdoor game for all ages. Two players hit the attached tennis ball back and forth until it winds fully around the pole. Expect friendly rivalries and family tournaments.
Why it’s great:
- Great for coordination
- High‑energy fun
- Perfect for small gardens
Final Thoughts
Outdoor games are one of the easiest ways to enjoy screen‑free time as a family. Whether you’re looking for something active, silly, competitive, or creative, there’s something on this list for every age and personality.
If you’re ready to stock up on affordable outdoor toys, sports sets, and summer essentials, explore the fantastic range available at The Works — perfect for keeping the whole family entertained all season long.
And if you’re after even more inspiration, don’t forget to browse our Arts & Crafts section for creative, hands‑on activities that keep kids busy indoors too.
