A is for Adventure
The A to Z of
Brands W
e Love
Welcome to the A to Z of brands we love, a shout-out to all the amazing, like-minded brands out there, each doing their bit to help support and build the internal and external wellness of our children! Some big, some small like ourselves, but all brilliant in their own unique way.
Starting at the beginning!
A is for Adventure
Big Man in the Woods
One for the earth lovers out there, this blog is about camping. Run by outdoor enthusiast and Scout Leader Mark, it’s all about helping others to enjoy the great outdoors when they go away camping. Whether your family is about to embark on their first experience of sleeping under canvas or you are seasoned tent dwellers there’s lots of useful expert content on the site including podcasts, videos, interviews, gear reviews and success stories which we love. Check out the blog at www.bighmaninthewoods.co.uk and Mark’s podcast at www.urbanbushcraft.co.uk
Embers Camping
While we are on the subject of camping, Embers Camping runs five 5* campsites across Surrey, Sussex, Oxfordshire, Bucks and The New Forest. Since opening its doors in 2013, they’ve hosted over 30,000 campers! Now whilst their sites might not exactly be what you call ‘wild camping’ they are perfect for those who like the idea of sleeping out yet crave their creature comforts. Embers pride themselves on thinking of everything you might need to make your stay feel like home-from-home while also giving you a truly authentic experience. Situated on large estates, off the beaten track and in secluded locations, each equally stunning setting offers wide open spaces and access to world-class natural attractions and activities, giving you the perfect retreat for countryside adventures. From pre-pitched bell tents to roaring individual campfires and homemade wood-fired pizzas (yum!), super-clean oak-framed washrooms, complete with underfloor heating (yes, really!), they’ve thought of everything! For further information visit www.emberscamping.co.uk
National Trust
What’s not to love about the National Trust?! From exploring a historic house to running madly around neatly clipped gardens alive with bright and pungent blooms, getting lost in the woods to enjoying the simple pleasures of a picnic, the 500 properties owned by the National Trust offer so much to see and do. And of course, we love their bucket list of 50 things to do before you’re 11 & ¾ - how many have you done? They also run regular events for kids during holidays such as Easter hunts and Halloween trails. Plus, did you know that the National Trust is actually a charity so every penny is put back in to preserving these beautiful locations for future generations to come. Find your local National Trust property at www.nationaltrust.co.uk
Geo Journey
You don’t have to go far to explore our amazing planet! Geo Journey is a super fun subscription box service for children aged 4 to 11 years designed to spark your little explorers imagination and inspire them to learn about the world and beyond. They can learn how to say 'hello' in Japanese and find out what Americans eat for breakfast. Where giant pandas live and if you really can climb the Great Wall of China! They’ll send letters, photos, and cool souvenirs like a boomerang from Australia or mini wooden Clogs from Holland. Plus each box complements the National Curriculum for Geography Key Stages 1 and 2 too. Sign up at www.geojourney.co.uk
Timeout Bags
If you’re flying off on a family adventure then Timeout Bags provide handpicked travel activity packs for kids. Each eco-friendly reusable cotton drawstring rucksack is crammed with a selection of educational unisex books, games, toys, arts & crafts all with different benefits from encouraging lateral thinking and problem solving, aiding creativity, engaging imaginations, improving social skills and boosting self confidence. Also included are three nutritional snacks designed to develop your child’s palate by introducing them to new flavours. What’s more, a portion of profits are donated to charity Changing Faces which helps support anybody with a mark, scar or condition which makes them look different. www.timeoutbags.com