Lockdown Adventures

Adventures to have when the great outdoors isn't an option.

Obviously, at the moment, we are all somewhat grounded. Some of us may be lucky; having the coast on our doorstep, or perhaps being in walking distance of a forest or Nature Reserve, but then there's some that may be bound to a city flat. We fall somewhere in between, living in the heart of a large village that consists mostly of pavements and housing estates. It is difficult for us to arrive by foot anywhere that we'd usually seek out, to satisfy our adventure itch. However, the only way to stay sane at the moment is to be grateful for what we do have and to try and get the most out of it. So with this in mind, and with some help from you guys, we have come up with a list of things that most of us can do from the safety of our own home.

1- Nature Watch- Give yourself some time to see how many different animals and insects you can observe. This could be done in your garden, from your window or on your daily exercise. Make a note of them, maybe draw them, look them up and see what new facts you can find out. 

2- Identify plants- Similar to the nature watch, but if you're lucky enough to live near a green area, see how many different plants and trees you can identify.

3- Star Gazing- On a clear night, wrap yourself up and take yourself outside to get lost in the wonder of the night sky. There's plenty of star gazing books to get you started, a number of apps and loads of information online that will help you identify the different star constellations, satellites and planets.

4- Watch a train journey- Maybe not one that everyone would enjoy, but there's a massive numbers of full length train journeys available to watch online, that are strangely calming. Grab yourself an M&S G&T in a can, sit back and enjoy!

5- Have an outside fire- Unfortunately this is one that's not doable if you don't have an outside space (sorry you'll have to make do with a candle!) , but sitting outside around a fire is a great way to get those adventure feels. There's that unmistakable smell, the way the flames hypnotise and the comforting warmth. Even better if you can toast some marshmallows over it.

6- Cooking- You could cook a meal you've never had before, perhaps inspired by somewhere you'd want to visit, or prepare a meal that reminds you of one of the favourite places you've visited in the past, even better if you can cook it outside.

Alternatively, for inspiration, The Caravan and Motorhome club have come up with The Big Little Tea Time Festival; taking place every Wednesday until the end of April. It aims to encourage you to enjoy one dinner a week in your motorhome, caravan or tent. There is a downloadable pack on their website with recipes to get you started.

7- Read-  As author Jhumpa Lahiri so perfectly put it, 'That's the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet' 

Getting lost in a book is the perfect way to temporarily escape your reality. You can travel all over the world, or even to strange new worlds in a great tome. They can also be great inspiration  for your next adventure, which is why a few weeks ago we started The Bearded Outdoors Book Club. Here we will review publications that we feel will feed your adventurous soul. 

8- Camping at home- This one is always fun to do. Grab your tent, drag out your motorhome, uncover your caravan and spend a night or two in it. Whether it's on your drive, in your garden, or pitching a tent in your living room,  pop the fairy lights up, get some of your favourite drinks and snacks, play some cards and use your imagination!  The Great British Campout for NHS staff, have been promoting this idea and have already had one very successful weekend of fundraising, find out more here. The Caravan and Motorhome Club are also encouraging you to camp at home  with their Big Little Tent Festival. This one is perfect for those that have children, as they have a free downloadable pack with activities like colour- in wrist bands and bunting, and there are prizes to be won if you take part.

9- Google Earth- Pick a place, zoom in, explore and have a virtual adventure!

10- Planning adventures- At times it can feel like this time will never end, but it will, so lets think about the awesome things we can do in the future. Start planning a future adventure. Maybe grab a note book and start jotting down your ideas and get researching.

11- Gardening and growing plants- Not just for those with gardens! Even if you only have a flat, grow something in your windowsill! 

12- Reliving past adventures- Remind yourself of the awesome adventures you have had in the past. Look through photos, videos, journals, keepsake boxes and soak up those wonderful memories.

We hope this is enough to get you started. If you have any ideas to add to this list please get in touch and stay safe.