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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities in summer

Children enjoy a swing at Osterley Park and House, London
Children enjoy a swing at Osterley Park and House, London | © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard

Summer's a time for outdoor adventures that make the most of warmer weather. You could get closer to nature by trying camping, kayaking or hunting for fossils. Discover facts about wildlife or learn a new skill from our list of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

Explore a rock pool
Rock pools fill up with life when the tide goes out. If you're near a beach at the right time, investigate the creatures that have been left behind. Discover our guide to identifying them and read our safety tips.Hunt for sea life
Camp outdoors
Spend a night camping under the stars, whether you're away from home or in your own back garden. We have advice on packing, setting up camp and having fun inside your tent.Sleep under the stars
Discover wild animal clues
Play detective this summer and learn how to track animals in the wild (or close to where you live). Find out more about the clues animals leave behind, from footprints and markings to animal poo.Track wild animals
Animal tracks lead through the dunes at Formby, Liverpool
Animal tracks lead through the dunes at Formby, Liverpool | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey
Hunt for fossils and bones
Stumbling across a fossil is like travelling back in time. Some of the beaches we care for have lots of them – read our tips on spotting them. Learn about fossil hunter Mary Anning and about some of the biggest dinosaurs ever found.Top tips for fossil hunting
Go swimming in the sea
Swimming in the sea is a brilliant experience. You'll need to be careful of strong waves, currents and tides. But it's fun you'll never forget. Follow our tips to help you have the best time.Jump some waves
Grow a butterfly
Find out how to help a caterpillar change into a butterfly. Discover how to care for a butterfly at home and match caterpillars to their colourful butterflies using our 'before' and 'after' pictures.Create a caterpillar haven
Catch a crab
If you go to the seaside, you can find a crab to watch in a bucket. We've got advice on where to find crabs and how to pick them up safely, so you don't get pinched.Safely pick up a crab
Passengers aboard the Gondola, a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht, on Coniston Water
Passengers aboard the Gondola on Coniston Water, Lake District, Cumbria | © National Trust/Tiree Dawson
Float in a boat
Boat journeys can be slow and dreamy or fast and exciting. Find out more about canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding and white-water rafting, as well as where to get out onto the water this summer.Embark on a journey
Make a wild crown
Summer is the perfect time to gather materials and craft a wild crown. We can show you how to make your crown from flowers, sticks and feathers. We also have ideas for making wild jewellery.Build your crown
Eat a picnic in the wild
Why stay at home for lunch when you can eat in the wild? Try our family-friendly recipes, pick the best picnic spot and tuck into your lunch surrounded by nature.Take lunch outdoors
Go paddling
Whether you're by the sea or at a stream, lake or river, getting your feet wet on a hot day can be great fun. Find out what to wear and where to go.Get your feet wet
Children on bikes at Blickling Estate, Norfolk Children on bikes at Blickling Estate, Norfolk Children on bikes at Blickling Estate, Norfolk Children on bikes at Blickling Estate, Norfolk

‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’

Have fun exploring nature and the great outdoors with our list of ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’.

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