5 Great Ideas for Autumn Family Bike Rides

In partnership with Muddy Puddles.

are on a mission to connect growing explorers with nature by making sustainable clothing that protects them in all weathers and is kind to our planet. They are built on the proposition that there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong kit! They make durable, practical and protective children’s outerwear and firmly believe in the benefits of spending time outdoors.

Going on a family bike ride is a great way to spend quality time together outdoors, especially now while the evenings are still light and the leaves are starting to change colour. Wherever you live in the UK, there are plenty of beautiful places waiting to be discovered right on your doorstep and the whole family will benefit hugely from the fresh air and being in and amongst nature. 

We’ve put together some ideas of things to do on your next family bike ride, whatever the weather. 

1. NATURE IDENTIFICATION 🌿 🌰 🦉

Look out for trees and flowers and try to identify them. The Picture This App is a brilliant resource for having on the go. You could also listen out for bird song and then try to identify the bird – the Chirp App is another superb resource for this. 

2. SCAVENGER HUNT 🍁 🐾 🐝 

This is a classic which never gets old. Write up a list of things to spot on the bike ride and ask children to tick off the things they have seen when you next stop for a rest or snack. You can add nature items such as an orange leaf, bluebells, animal tracks or a bumblebee. Another version is to ask children to spot items of as many different colours as possible while on the bike ride. 

Credit: Muddy Puddles

3. I SPY 🧐 🔠 🐴

This is another classic with endless possibilities for all ages. If your children are too young to use ‘something begins with (a letter)’, you can use colours e.g. ‘I spy with my little eye something that is the colour green’. Another super simple idea to keep little ones entertained is giving them a task during the bike ride, for example seeing how many dogs/trees with flowers/horses they can spot along the way. 

 4. SET CHALLENGES 🏆🏅🏃‍♀️

This one is great to burn off some extra energy! Set your children challenges along the way e.g. race to a tree or first one to cycle up the hill. Sneaking in more exercise into their day out will guarantee your growing explorers get a good night’s sleep. 

5. SNACKS, SNACKS AND MORE SNACKS 🍊🍌🥪

Finally, don’t forget the snacks and drinks! A plentiful supply can help to keep energy levels up and persuade/bribe even the most reluctant cyclist to keep going. You could even stop for a lovely scenic picnic en-route to take in your surroundings.  

Before heading out, remember to pack waterproof jackets  and the appropriate footwear. The weather can change unexpectedly and the last thing you want are cold, unhappy children. Complete your children's outfit with warm, protective accessories such as hats and neck warmers if you're cycling on a chilly day. You can also check out our other blog on Autumn Bike Ride Tips, or sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date.