Exciting Days Out for Families in Barnet

Posted on 21/10/2025

Exciting Days Out for Families in Barnet

Looking for the best family-friendly activities and unforgettable adventures in Barnet? You're in luck! Barnet, in North London, offers a vibrant mix of thrilling attractions, peaceful green spaces, hands-on museums, and fun-packed experiences suitable for all ages. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, school holiday treat, or just searching for new adventures, family days out in Barnet tick all the boxes.

Why Choose Barnet for Your Next Family Day Out?

Barnet boasts an enviable location, blending urban excitement with countryside calm. From lush parks and historical landmarks to interactive museums and bustling markets, there's something for every member of the family. Here's why this borough is an excellent choice for your next exciting day out with kids:

• Diverse Attractions: Barnet offers everything from nature reserves and heritage sites to sport centers and playgrounds.
• Great Transport Links: Easily accessible by car, train, and bus, Barnet is convenient for locals and visitors alike.
• Family-Friendly Facilities: With parks, cafes, toilets, and picnic spots, every day out is stress-free and comfortable.
• Events and Festivals: Enjoy year-round festivals, fairgrounds, and community events perfect for family outings.

Read on to explore the ultimate guide to exciting days out for families in Barnet -- guaranteed to keep everyone entertained!

Top Outdoor Activities for Families in Barnet

1. Exploring Trent Park: Nature's Playground

If you crave the great outdoors, Trent Park is a must-visit. This enormous parkland on the northern edge of Barnet offers adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

• Parks and Gardens: Let kids run free across vast open lawns, enchanting woodlands, and picturesque lakes.
• Go Ape Adventure: Embark on a treetop adventure with ziplines, rope bridges, and Tarzan swings -- perfect for thrill-seeking families.
• Pony Riding: Littles ones can enjoy pony rides at local stables within or near the park.
• Cafe and Picnic Areas: Enjoy lunch or tea at the park cafe, or bring your own feast for a memorable picnic.

Trent Park offers the ultimate setting for curious minds and energetic legs, making it the ideal destination for an exciting family day out in Barnet.

2. Fun at Friary Park

Tucked away in the heart of Barnet, Friary Park is a hidden gem, perfect for families:

• Adventure Playground: Climbing frames, slides, and swings for kids of all ages.
• Mini Golf: Challenge the family to a round of mini golf.
• Cafe and Ice Cream Kiosk: Enjoy treats and drinks between activities.
• Woodland Trails: Discover wildlife and beautiful flowers on meandering paths.

Friary Park is an all-season favorite for relaxing, playing, and soaking up community vibes.

3. Wildlife Spotting at Totteridge Green and Darlands Nature Reserve

For families eager to encounter nature, a day at Totteridge Green and the adjacent Darlands Lake Nature Reserve is a real treat.

• Birdwatching: See kingfishers, herons, and woodpeckers in their natural habitats.
• Pond Dipping: Spot frogs, dragonflies, and newts in clear ponds.
• Nature Trails: Educational trails provide mini-challenges and learning opportunities for kids.
• Picnic Points: Choose from plenty of scenic spots for a packed lunch.

Immersing your family in nature not only boosts happiness, but provides memorable learning experiences as part of your family adventure in Barnet.

Rainy Day Activities for Families in Barnet

1. Discovering History at Barnet Museum

When the weather turns, step indoors and explore the rich local heritage at Barnet Museum. Located in a charming early 20th-century building, this museum is both educational and exciting:

• Interactive Exhibits: Try on historical costumes, handle real artefacts, and dive into interactive activities.
• Family Trails: Kids can complete activity sheets and quizzes for a reward.
• Special Events: Join themed workshops and seasonal events throughout the year.

Barnet Museum makes for an engaging, inexpensive, and educational day out for families in Barnet.

2. Play Centres and Soft Play for Young Children

• Big Space Play Centre: With indoor climbing walls, ball pits, and slides, this is perfect for younger children to burn off energy.
• Jump In Trampoline Park: Older children (and grown-ups!) can bounce, flip, and play dodgeball in the dedicated trampoline spaces.
• Rainbow Soft Play: A cozy and safe environment for toddlers with plenty of seating for parents.

Soft play centers offer safe, weatherproof excitement -- a must for any family day out in Barnet when skies are grey.

3. Dive Into Creativity at Artsdepot

Artsdepot in North Finchley is a vibrant arts hub, offering:

• Children's Theatre Productions: Engage with interactive shows designed especially for little audiences.
• Workshops and Classes: Try crafty activities, music, dance, or drama.
• Family-Friendly Gallery: Colorful artwork and installations spark curiosity and conversation.

Artsdepot ensures magical memories with its inventive and hands-on programming for all ages and abilities.

Best Animal Encounters and Farms in Barnet

1. Belmont Children's Farm

Give your children the gift of a countryside experience right in Barnet at Belmont Children's Farm:

• Meet the Animals: From friendly pygmy goats to llamas and Shetland ponies, hands-on animal encounters await.
• Tractor Rides: Explore the farm in style with a tractor tour.
• Cafe and Farm Shop: Fresh local produce and delicious farm bakes, plus a play zone for youngsters.

Belmont is a delightful, safe environment where city kids can get close to nature and learn about farm life.

2. Totteridge Millennium Green

A tranquil spot where you can spot butterflies and wildflowers and even say hello to grazing cattle if you're lucky. Totteridge Millennium Green is a mini-escape for families looking for peaceful walks, picnics, and gentle adventures.

Sports and Leisure Options for Active Families

1. Barnet Copthall Leisure Centre

This modern leisure center boasts:

• Exciting Swimming Pools: Swim sessions, fun floats, and family splash zones.
• Sports Courts: Badminton, basketball, and other indoor games.
• Fitness Classes: Family-friendly fitness and yoga sessions.
• Play Area: A soft play space for little ones after your swim.

Whether you're training or just having fun, Barnet Copthall Leisure Centre is a top choice for active family outings in Barnet.

2. Dinosaur Safari Adventure Golf

Located on the edge of Barnet, this wildly popular mini-golf course has:

• Roaring Dinosaur Models: Giant animatronic dinosaurs for exciting photo opportunities.
• Landscaped Courses: 18 holes of fun challenges for all ages.
• Family Competitions: Who will get a hole-in-one?

This is a must-visit for families looking to combine healthy competition and prehistoric thrills on a day out in Barnet.

Seasonal Events: Making the Most of Each Season in Barnet

Spring and Summer

• Outdoor Theatre and Cinema: Enjoy an alfresco show or film screening in one of Barnet's parks.
• Fairs and Festivals: From May Day to summer fetes, experience local food, music, and community spirit.
• Guided Nature Walks: Join family-friendly walks to spot wildlife and learn about Barnet's plants and trees.

Autumn and Winter

• Halloween Events: Pumpkin trails, spooky crafts, and ghost hunts are perfect for families.
• Fireworks Displays: Bonfire nights light up the Barnet skyline in November.
• Christmas Markets: Browse festive stalls and meet Santa at local churches or shopping centers.

No matter the season, there's always an exciting family activity in Barnet to suit every interest and age group.

Hidden Gems and Quirky Days Out in Barnet

• Hadley Green: Tranquil open space dotted with ancient trees and a duck pond -- perfect for nature play and dog walkers.
• Barnet's Historic High Street: Explore quirky independent shops, vintage bookstores, and cozy cafes ideal for parents and curious kids.
• The Spires Shopping Centre: Indoor family events, crafts, and pop-up markets mean there's always something happening indoors.

Tips for Planning Your Exciting Family Day Out in Barnet

• Check Events Calendars: Local venues and parks often host special events and workshops.
• Book Ahead: Some activities (like Go Ape and workshops) sell out quickly--always book in advance to secure your spots.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: While there are plenty of cafes, bringing your own picnic keeps things relaxed and affordable.
• Layer Up: The UK weather is changeable; pack waterproofs and sun cream just in case.
• Travel Smart: Public transport is excellent, but parking can be limited at popular parks on weekends, so arrive early or use public transport where possible.

Conclusion: Make Memories with Fun-Filled Family Days Out in Barnet

Barnet truly offers an endless array of opportunities for exciting days out for families. Whether you want outdoor adventures in beautiful parks, indoor creativity, animal encounters, or action-packed sports and play centers, there's something guaranteed to delight every family member. By mixing and matching activities, you can create a well-rounded itinerary for the perfect family day out in Barnet.

Don't wait -- start planning your next adventure today and discover why Barnet is one of North London's top destinations for family fun!