Try the Driving Range
Looking for affordable, fun, and active things to do with the Winter? Golf might not be the first family activity you think of, but it’s one of the easiest ways to spend time together.
Forget the stereotypes of strict dress codes or long rounds — today’s family golf activities are relaxed, beginner-friendly, and can be less expensive than soft play or a cinema trip. You don’t need any equipment or experience to give it a go.
Here are three simple ways to try golf with your family or friends.
Indoor Golf: The Rainy-Day Back-Up Plan
With Winter weather being unpredictable, it’s handy to have a rainy-day activity for kids up your sleeve. Indoor golf fits the bill perfectly — from high-tech simulators to neon-lit crazy golf, it’s like a family games night with extra laughs.
Why it works:
- Keeps everyone entertained when it’s raining
- Fun for a mix of ages (teens to toddlers)
- Many venues have food and drink options
Practical info:
- Cost: Around £20–£30 for a family ticket
- What to wear: Casual clothes and trainers
- SEN/ND tip: Check for off-peak sensory-friendly hours
- Facilities: Cafés, loos, and buggy-friendly layouts are common
Why Golf Is a Great Winter Activity
If you’re searching for family activities near you, golf is a brilliant option:
- ✅ Affordable and beginner-friendly
- ✅ Flexible — quick trips or full-day outings
- ✅ Active fun that works indoors or outdoors
- ✅ Inclusive, with SEN-friendly options at many venues
Find Family-Friendly Golf This Winter
Ready to try something new? Use our Get into Golf activity finder to search for family-friendly driving ranges, Par-3 courses, and indoor golf venues near you.
Discover Short Golf – Par-3 or Pitch & Putt
If you’re new to golf or just looking for a relaxed way to enjoy the outdoors as a family, short-format golf is a brilliant place to start.
A Par-3 course is like a mini version of a full golf course. Each hole is shorter — usually under 200 yards — so you’re not spending hours walking long fairways. It’s ideal for beginners and families who want to try golf without the pressure or time commitment of 18 holes. You’ll still get the feel of “real golf,” with proper greens, bunkers, and a chance to use a few different clubs.
If you want something even simpler, Pitch & Putt is perfect. The holes are much shorter — often under 90 yards — and you only need a wedge and a putter. It’s fun, fast, and super beginner-friendly. Think of it as golf’s version of a stroll in the park, with a few laughs along the way.
Why it works:
- A gentle outdoor activity before or after lunch
- Great for kids who like exploring trails
- No scoring pressure — just have fun
Practical info:
- Cost: Family tickets usually start at £30
- What to wear: Trainers, plus a waterproof in case of autumn showers
- SEN/ND tip: Visit early for a calmer atmosphere
- Facilities: Parking and loos are normally available; check buggy/wheelchair access
Try the Driving Range
If your kids have energy to burn, the driving range is a brilliant Winter outing. You hire a bay, grab a bucket of balls, and let everyone take turns hitting shots. Children love the freedom to whack balls without rules, and parents can join in the fun too.
Why it works:
- Quick and affordable
- No booking weeks in advance
- Great mix of fun and fresh air
Practical info:
- Cost: £5–£8 per bucket of balls (often shareable)
- What to wear: Trainers and comfy clothes
- SEN/ND tip: Mornings are usually quieter — some venues offer “quiet hours”
- Facilities: Parking, loos, and cafés are common
Make it even more fun:
Interactive games at a driving range, such as those powered by Toptracer or Trackman, include virtual golf, skill-based challenges like Closest to the Pin and Bullseye, and family-friendly mini-games like Angry Birds and Magic Pond.
