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Activity break ideas in South East England

If you're looking for an activity break in the UK then South East England has plenty of outdoor activities and ideas for a great adventure holiday. Why not try an activity together to challenge yourselves, try something different or learn something new? Here is a selection of ideas for activities in South East England:

Learn to sail

Image of the view from a sailing boat

Portsmouth in Hampshire has some of the best sailing conditions in the world out on the Solent. Portsmouth Outdoor Centre is a RYA acredited training centre, and offers sailing taster sessions and courses for all ages and abilities, as well as windsurfing and powerboating. Synergy Sailing in Portsmouth also offers sailing trips and experiences for a memorable day or weekend trip.

More about Sailing in Portsmouth

Tall ships experience

Image of the front of a Tall Ship Adventures ship on The Solent near Portsmouth, Hampshire.

A brilliant way to have a go at sailing, the Day Sails and Taster Voyages are perfect for beginners. Get involved with setting the sails, take the helm and even climb high up into the rigging for a spectacular view! Or if you're not feeling that adventurous, simply help pull a few ropes and enjoy being on the water. All voyages depart from Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, Hampshire, and must be booked in advance.

More about Tall Ships Adventures

Fly in a hot air balloon

Image of a multicoloured hot air balloon flying over Oxfordshire countryside

Why not get a bird's eye view of Oxford and enjoy the magnificent views as you drift above the city and countryside? Oxford Balloon Company takes off from various sites around Oxford.

More about Oxford Balloon Company

Narrowboat experience

Image of a painted blue Oxfordshire Narrowboat on the canal at Heyford Wharf

The perfect, relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful waterways around Oxford! Ideal for a romantic break with a difference. Tutition about your boat and how to handle it is given on arrival.

More about Oxfordshire Narrowboats

Canoeing and kayaking

Image of group of kayakers kayaking outside Portsmouth Outdoor Centre, Hampshire

Paddlesports are great for all ages and abilities and can be as gentle or exhilarating as you like. Whether you want to try canoeing and kayaking for the first time or you are looking to improve your skills, Portsmouth Outdoor Centre in Hampshire has a range of courses to suit everyone, accredited by the BCU.

More about paddlesports at Portsmouth Outdoor Centre

Climbing

Image of climber on a climbing wall at Arethusa Venture Centre in Kent

Situated on the banks of the River Medway in Kent, the Arethusa Venture Centre specialises in adventurous outdoor learning activities. It has four different climbing walls including towers, slabs, overhangs and archways, to suit all abilities. An exhilarating way to challenge yourselves and reach new heights!

More about Arethusa Venture Centre

Motor Racing

Image of a car at Goodwood racetrack, West Sussex

Get behind the wheel at Goodwood racetrack in West Sussex and experience the thrill of driving in the wheel tracks of some of motor racing’s greatest heroes, including Sir Stirling Moss, Jim Clark and Sir Jackie Stewart. Goodwood Track Days are open to drivers of all levels of experience and any type of car.

More about Goodwood Track Day experiences

Ski and Snowboard

Image of skier in mid-air at Chatham Ski Slope and Snowboard Centre in Kent

Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre in Kent has established a reputation for high quality professional instruction. The centre is open throughout the year for recreational skiing and snowboarding, with lessons available for every standard. It also offers a 750m toboggan ride and sno-tubing.

More about Chatham Ski and Snowboard Centre

Kite Surfing

Image of a couple kite surfing at KitesurfKings Kitesurfing school near Brighton, East Sussex

Kitesurfing is one of the world's fastest growing sports for a reason - it's so much fun! Kitesurfkings teach kitesurfing all year round on Shoreham beach, just 5 miles from Brighton in East Sussex.

More about Kitesurfing in Brighton

Orbing

Image of two people in two transparant orbs rolling down a hill, near Brighton, East Sussex

Get harnessed inside an orb and go tumbling down the hill together in the longest orb run in the uk! Orb 360 is based just outside Brighton, with stunning views over the South Downs.

More about Orb 360 in Brighton

More short break ideas

This website is brought to you by Tourism South East, the official South East England Tourist Board. This selection of activity breaks have been selected to appeal to couples and those wishing to spend quality time together.  Visit our Visit South East England website for more ideas for short breaks, days out and things to do. Alternatively, visit our  Fun Family Days Out website for ideas for families.