Tuesday 24 April 2012

Parents catch on to cost-effective outdoors play


Well, we never thought we’d read this, especially given the number of studies that have been telling us that kids just don’t get outdoors to play nearly enough.

Finally, it seems, outdoor play is making a comeback! But why?  It’s to do with cash-strapped parents swapping the cost of buying DVDs and the cinema for free days playing in the park.

 A poll of 1,250 UK parents of school-age children reveals that 44% of children are now spending more time playing outside than they did two years ago.

And the parents says that this is because trips to local parks or walks in the countryside are cheap days out.

We have been banging on about the cost-effectiveness of walking for years, but it’s great to see that people are now realising this!

Of course, there are still a few obstacles to more outdoors activity, including time and the weather.

The research was carried out on behalf of food manufacturer Arla's Kids Closer to Nature campaign.

Tim Gill, author and a play campaigner, is reported as saying: “The good news is that families are realising that fresh air costs nothing.”

The survey said:

•           Three-quarters of parents believe they can have a cheap day out visiting parks and green spaces.
•           Four out of 10 opted for a budget trip to the seaside.

Tim added: “Times are hard, so parents have to make savings. But the good news is that families are realising that fresh air costs nothing.

“Getting under the open sky - whether in a local park or the great British countryside - is the perfect way for kids to explore, have adventures and feed their curiosity and imagination."

We really like this survey. If you’re looking for great value ideas for walking with the family please do get in contact.


Tuesday 10 April 2012

Join a Glentrek guided weekend

What will you be doing this summer? If you're keen to get outdoors a bit more, check out the great weekends that Glentrek has on offer.

Sat June 9 - Women Only day walk... Girls this one's for you! Walking with your fellow ladies, enjoying the chat and taking in the views is hard to beat. And Ben Vrackie in Highland Perthshire promises fantastic panoramic views from its summit. Price £30 per person.

Sat June 23 - Midsummer's Day Sunrise on Lochnagar. Try something new and different on this special night. The guided mountain walk begins at 11pm on the Friday in Ballater and takes in a stunning sunrise. Price £40 per person.

July 7-8 - Munro Weekend. If you don't already know a Munro is a Scottish mountain with a summit of at least 3,000ft (914m). There are 283 of them and this is your chance to "bag" a few of these lofty hills. You will benefit from the knowledge and leadership of a guide on this trip. Come along for one or both days. We'll be walking in the Tyndrum/Bridge of Orchy area. Price £35 per person per day.

Sat Aug 4 - Ben Alder Bike 'n' Hike. Climb this remote Munro in a day without the need to camp. You'll benefit from an experienced guide and hire of our quality mountain bikes. The trip takes place in the Dalwhinnie area. Price £55 per person.