Looking for unforgettable children’s summer activities in Northern Ireland? This year, Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes brings back its popular Summer Forest School, offering nature-inspired adventure, creativity, and learning for children aged 18 months to 12 years. Conveniently located in County Down, near Belfast and the Mourne Mountains, Ballyburren’s unique rewilded estate provides the perfect outdoor classroom for your child to thrive, explore, and create lasting memories.
Two Summer Schemes, One Magical Setting
🌿 Muddy Tots Go Wild Summer Scheme (18 months – 7 years)
Specially designed for toddlers and young children, these sessions combine nature play with beloved children’s stories. Each week features a new theme inspired by classic children’s books, including:
The Zog
The Hungry Caterpillar
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Tyrannosaurus Drip
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
Superworm
The Gruffalo
The Very Busy Spider
Room on the Broom
Your little ones will enjoy guided outdoor activities, storytelling, nature crafts, games, and gentle exploration, all led by our fully qualified Forest School Leaders in a safe, nurturing environment.
🌿 Young Adventurers Summer Scheme (4 – 12 years)
For older children ready for bigger adventures, the Young Adventurers Summer Scheme offers hands-on, skill-building activities designed to boost confidence, teamwork, and creativity. Themes for 2025 include:
Wild Tie Dying
The Art of Fire Lighting
Whittling – Crafting with Nature’s Tools
Den Building – Wild Hideouts
Woodland Craft – Wood & Bush Skills
Clay Creations in the Wild
Children will have the chance to learn practical forest skills, develop problem-solving abilities, and foster a strong connection to nature—all while having great fun with new friends.
Why Choose Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes Summer Schemes?
✅ Safe & Professional: Led by fully trained, insured Forest School Leaders.
✅ Unique Location: Set in over 6,000 trees, scenic trails, and rewilded wetlands.
✅ Small Groups: Personal attention ensures every child gets the most from each session.
✅ All-Weather Fun: Rain or shine, we believe there’s no bad day to explore nature!
✅ Conveniently Located: Easy access from Belfast, Lisburn, Newtownards, Bangor, and surrounding areas.
How to Book
📅 When: Summer 2025 (July & August sessions available)
📍 Where: Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes, County Down
👶 Ages: 18 months – 7 years (Muddy Tots) & 4 – 12 years (Young Adventurers)
💻 Booking: Limited spaces available — Book Now to avoid disappointment
A Summer of Nature, Play & Discovery Awaits!
Don’t miss out on these one-of-a-kind outdoor summer schemes in Northern Ireland. Whether your child is toddling through storybook adventures or learning to whittle, light fires, and build dens, Ballyburren’s Summer Forest School offers unforgettable experiences that will nurture confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of the outdoors.
👉 Secure your child’s space today – limited availability and high demand!