23/07/2026
The summer holidays can be a wonderful opportunity to explore, but busy environments, loud noises and changes to routine can sometimes feel overwhelming.
If you’re looking for days out that offer a calmer pace, sensory experiences or opportunities to explore at your own speed, here are some ideas to consider:
Outdoor adventures
Spending time outdoors can provide a more relaxed environment with space to move, explore and take breaks when needed.
Ideas include:
Woodland walks and nature trails
Barefoot sensory walks
Forest schools and outdoor play areas
Wildlife parks during quieter times
Beaches, rock pooling and nature reserves
Autism-friendly cinema screenings
Many cinemas across the UK offer sensory-friendly screenings where lights are brighter, sound is reduced and audiences are welcome to move around or make noise.
Check your local cinema to see what sessions are available near you.
Sensory experiences
Look for activities that involve different textures, movement and exploration, such as:
Sensory gardens
Creative workshops
Farm visits
Water play
Animal experiences
Interactive museums
Quieter days out across the UK
📍 Midlands
Conkers, Derbyshire
Woodland adventures, nature trails and the barefoot walk offer opportunities for sensory exploration through different textures and environments.
Twycross Zoo, Leicestershire
A large outdoor space with plenty of opportunities to explore, as well as quieter areas to take breaks away from busier zones.
Attenborough Nature Reserve, Nottingham
A peaceful setting for walks, wildlife spotting and outdoor exploration.
📍 North England
Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
A beautiful outdoor space with walking trails, play areas and plenty of room to explore at your own pace.
The National Railway Museum, York
A great option for children who enjoy trains, with lots to see and opportunities to take the day at a comfortable pace.
The Deep, Hull
An underwater world experience with different environments to explore and quieter areas to pause.
📍 South England
Painshill, Surrey
A scenic outdoor space with walking routes and areas to stop and enjoy the surroundings.
Marwell Zoo, Hampshire
Outdoor animal experiences with plenty of space and opportunities for breaks.
Wakehurst, West Sussex
Gardens, woodland and nature trails provide a calmer alternative to some busier attractions.
Tips for planning your visit
Before heading out, it can help to:
Check whether the venue offers sensory guides or accessibility information
Visit at quieter times, such as opening time or weekdays
Look for maps or photos online to help children know what to expect
Bring any sensory supports that help, such as headphones, sunglasses or comfort items
A busy attraction can still be enjoyable with the right preparation and support.
What are your favourite sensory-friendly days out across the UK?