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8 Cool Large Group Activities in the UK: Experiences for Every Type of Gathering
13th May 2025
We all love a big group getaway. Gathering up all of your loved ones and spending quality time together in a fabulous setting, catching up over hearty meals, and reminiscing about old times. Whether you’re all off to a beautiful cottage in the countryside or heading to the city for an urban escape, big group holidays are always so much fun.
No matter where you choose to go, a group break can always be enhanced by an activity or two. But what large group activities should you consider? Well, we’ve put together this handy guide listing eight activities that you should think about on your next group retreat in the UK.
No matter where you choose to go, a group break can always be enhanced by an activity or two. But what large group activities should you consider? Well, we’ve put together this handy guide listing eight activities that you should think about on your next group retreat in the UK.
Photo by Zachary Keimig on Unsplash
Escape Rooms
What to expect: Work together to solve puzzles in a fun-filled activity for the whole family.
If you’re a big group getaway and want an activity that guarantees laughs and teamwork, an escape room is a winner. These immersive experiences see you and your group work together to uncover clues, solve puzzles and complete challenges before the timer runs out - a brilliant test of logic, creativity and collaboration.
Across the UK, escape rooms come in all shapes and styles - from spy missions in London and haunted mansion mysteries in York, to fantasy adventures in Edinburgh and coastal pirate escapes in Brighton. Many venues offer private bookings for larger groups, so you can compete in teams or play together in one epic session.
It’s a great indoor activity for families, friends or colleagues, ideal for rainy days, birthdays, or team-building breaks. Whether you win or not, everyone leaves buzzing from the shared challenge (and usually laughing about that one clue nobody spotted!).
If you’re a big group getaway and want an activity that guarantees laughs and teamwork, an escape room is a winner. These immersive experiences see you and your group work together to uncover clues, solve puzzles and complete challenges before the timer runs out - a brilliant test of logic, creativity and collaboration.
Across the UK, escape rooms come in all shapes and styles - from spy missions in London and haunted mansion mysteries in York, to fantasy adventures in Edinburgh and coastal pirate escapes in Brighton. Many venues offer private bookings for larger groups, so you can compete in teams or play together in one epic session.
It’s a great indoor activity for families, friends or colleagues, ideal for rainy days, birthdays, or team-building breaks. Whether you win or not, everyone leaves buzzing from the shared challenge (and usually laughing about that one clue nobody spotted!).
Why it’s great for big groups
- Teamwork & communication: Everyone contributes — from clue-spotters to puzzle-solvers.
- All-weather fun: Perfect for rainy days or city breaks.
- Flexible difficulty levels: Great for families, friends, or work teams.
Where to try it
- London: Secret missions and cinematic escape experiences.
- Manchester & Birmingham: High-tech puzzle rooms with VR elements.
- Edinburgh & York: Historic and themed challenges in atmospheric settings.
Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash.
Cooking classes
What to expect: Have lots of fun with your loved ones as you all learn to master a specific cuisine.
If you’re planning a big group getaway and want an activity that’s equal parts fun, creative and social, a cooking class is a brilliant choice. You’ll chop, stir and season your way to a shared meal — often with plenty of laughter (and a bit of friendly competition) along the way.
Across the UK, you’ll find private cookery classes in beautiful settings — from Italian pasta-making in London and Thai street food workshops in Manchester, to seafood cookery in Cornwall and foraging experiences in the Scottish Highlands. Many venues offer exclusive group sessions, complete with wine pairings or chef demonstrations, so you can tailor the experience to your celebration or retreat.
Afterwards, gather around the table at your Coolstays countryside cottage or city apartment to enjoy everyone’s culinary creations — the perfect way to end a day of cooking, chatting and connecting.
If you’re planning a big group getaway and want an activity that’s equal parts fun, creative and social, a cooking class is a brilliant choice. You’ll chop, stir and season your way to a shared meal — often with plenty of laughter (and a bit of friendly competition) along the way.
Across the UK, you’ll find private cookery classes in beautiful settings — from Italian pasta-making in London and Thai street food workshops in Manchester, to seafood cookery in Cornwall and foraging experiences in the Scottish Highlands. Many venues offer exclusive group sessions, complete with wine pairings or chef demonstrations, so you can tailor the experience to your celebration or retreat.
Afterwards, gather around the table at your Coolstays countryside cottage or city apartment to enjoy everyone’s culinary creations — the perfect way to end a day of cooking, chatting and connecting.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Team spirit: Encourages collaboration and creativity.
- Flexible formats: Options for beginners to seasoned foodies.
- Great for celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, hen parties or team-building getaways.
Where to try it
- London & Manchester: City cookery schools offering global cuisines.
- Cornwall & Devon: Coastal seafood and foraging experiences.
- Edinburgh & Glasgow: Chef-led Scottish cooking sessions and whisky pairings.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Life drawing classes
What to expect: Learn a new skill alongside friends and family.
Life drawing classes offer a creative and unexpectedly entertaining group activity, perfect for those travelling with friends or family. There’s something uniquely bonding about sketching together — whether you’re a seasoned artist or can barely manage a stick figure.
The experience is both relaxing and amusing, as everyone interprets the model in their own way, often with hilarious results. Many classes cater to private groups, making it an ideal option for birthdays, hen parties or just an alternative night out. Plus, you’ll leave not only with a newfound appreciation for figure drawing but also with personal artwork as a memorable souvenir.
Life drawing classes offer a creative and unexpectedly entertaining group activity, perfect for those travelling with friends or family. There’s something uniquely bonding about sketching together — whether you’re a seasoned artist or can barely manage a stick figure.
The experience is both relaxing and amusing, as everyone interprets the model in their own way, often with hilarious results. Many classes cater to private groups, making it an ideal option for birthdays, hen parties or just an alternative night out. Plus, you’ll leave not only with a newfound appreciation for figure drawing but also with personal artwork as a memorable souvenir.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Creative connection: Encourages laughter, relaxation and artistic exploration.
- Accessible for everyone: No drawing experience required.
- Memorable takeaway: Everyone leaves with their own unique piece of art.
Where to try it
- London & Bristol: Trendy studio sessions with experienced art tutors.
- Manchester & Leeds: Fun, informal classes perfect for parties or beginners.
- Edinburgh & Brighton: Quirky, private group sessions often paired with wine or cocktails.
Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash
Private dining experiences
What to expect: Take a night off the cooking and washing up and enjoy a grand, celebratory feast with your loved ones.
Private dining is a fantastic way to mark a special occasion or simply enjoy a more intimate experience with your group. Many restaurants, hotels and event venues across the UK now offer private spaces where you can dine in comfort, away from the main crowd. These exclusive settings create a personalised atmosphere — often with bespoke menus, curated wine lists and attentive service tailored to your celebration.
Whether you’re on a countryside retreat or a stylish city break, private dining adds an extra touch of luxury to your getaway. It’s the perfect chance to come together, share great food and conversation, and let someone else handle the cooking and clearing up.
Private dining is a fantastic way to mark a special occasion or simply enjoy a more intimate experience with your group. Many restaurants, hotels and event venues across the UK now offer private spaces where you can dine in comfort, away from the main crowd. These exclusive settings create a personalised atmosphere — often with bespoke menus, curated wine lists and attentive service tailored to your celebration.
Whether you’re on a countryside retreat or a stylish city break, private dining adds an extra touch of luxury to your getaway. It’s the perfect chance to come together, share great food and conversation, and let someone else handle the cooking and clearing up.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Exclusive experience: Enjoy privacy, personal service and a customised menu.
- Ideal for celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries or reunions.
- Relaxing treat: Take a well-earned night off cooking during your group getaway.
Where to try it
- London: Elegant private dining rooms in Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Bath & York: Georgian townhouses and boutique hotels offering bespoke menus.
- The Cotswolds & Lake District: Country inns and manor houses serving seasonal, locally sourced feasts.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Food tours
What to expect: Spend the day eating a variety of amazing food, some of which is truly off the beaten track.
If you’re a group that loves to eat, explore and discover hidden gems, then a food tour is an ideal way to experience a new city. Guided by local experts, you’ll visit the best eateries, markets and food stalls, sampling dishes that range from iconic favourites to secret spots only the locals know about. It’s a deliciously social way to connect with a destination and its people.
A great guide will share stories, cultural insights and the history behind each dish, transforming a simple meal into a rich culinary adventure. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern street food innovations, food tours blend flavour, culture and fun — making them a must-do activity for food-loving groups.
If you’re a group that loves to eat, explore and discover hidden gems, then a food tour is an ideal way to experience a new city. Guided by local experts, you’ll visit the best eateries, markets and food stalls, sampling dishes that range from iconic favourites to secret spots only the locals know about. It’s a deliciously social way to connect with a destination and its people.
A great guide will share stories, cultural insights and the history behind each dish, transforming a simple meal into a rich culinary adventure. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern street food innovations, food tours blend flavour, culture and fun — making them a must-do activity for food-loving groups.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Social and interactive: A shared experience that brings people together.
- Tastes of local culture: Discover the history and stories behind regional dishes.
- Flexible options: Choose walking, cycling or chauffeured tours to suit your group.
Where to try it
- London: Borough Market and East End tours exploring British and global flavours.
- Edinburgh & Glasgow: Sample Scottish classics and modern fusion cuisine.
- Bristol & Manchester: Trendy food scenes mixing street food, craft beer and local favourites.
Photo by Filip Mroz on Unsplash
Kayaking
What to expect: Be at one with nature whilst enjoying some exercise and having lots of fun.
If your group loves the great outdoors, a kayaking adventure is a brilliant way to combine fresh air, teamwork and exploration. Glide along peaceful rivers, hidden estuaries or crystal-clear lakes as you paddle together through some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery. It’s active, social and surprisingly relaxing once you find your rhythm on the water.
There are fantastic kayaking providers all over the country, offering guided tours, equipment hire and safety briefings — perfect for beginners or seasoned paddlers alike. Many offer group packages, so you can plan a memorable day out that’s tailored to your ability and energy levels.
Keep your eyes peeled too — the UK’s waterways are full of life. You might spot seals and dolphins along the coast, or otters, herons and kingfishers as you paddle inland. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and reconnect with nature while having fun with friends and family.
If your group loves the great outdoors, a kayaking adventure is a brilliant way to combine fresh air, teamwork and exploration. Glide along peaceful rivers, hidden estuaries or crystal-clear lakes as you paddle together through some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery. It’s active, social and surprisingly relaxing once you find your rhythm on the water.
There are fantastic kayaking providers all over the country, offering guided tours, equipment hire and safety briefings — perfect for beginners or seasoned paddlers alike. Many offer group packages, so you can plan a memorable day out that’s tailored to your ability and energy levels.
Keep your eyes peeled too — the UK’s waterways are full of life. You might spot seals and dolphins along the coast, or otters, herons and kingfishers as you paddle inland. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and reconnect with nature while having fun with friends and family.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Active and inclusive: Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
- Immersive adventure: Explore rivers, lakes and coastlines from a new perspective.
- Nature connection: Spot local wildlife and enjoy peaceful outdoor time together.
Where to try it
- Lake District & Snowdonia: Scenic lakes and mountain views for serene paddles.
- Pembrokeshire & Cornwall: Coastal kayaking with caves, cliffs and marine wildlife.
- Scottish Highlands: Wild lochs and rugged landscapes for unforgettable adventures.
Photo by Amit Jagnade on Unsplash
Scavenger hunt
What to expect: Great outdoor fun for both adults and kids, combining adventure and teamwork in a stunning natural setting.
A scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to bring everyone together for some light-hearted competition and outdoor adventure. Perfect for families, friends or mixed-age groups, it gets everyone exploring, thinking and laughing as you race to find hidden clues and complete fun challenges. It’s the ultimate screen-free activity for an active afternoon out in nature.
Across the UK, there are plenty of companies that run organised scavenger hunts in beautiful countryside locations, national parks and even city centres. These professional experiences often include creative puzzles, themed storylines and tailored difficulty levels to suit your group. Of course, you can always design your own — but booking a ready-made adventure means less planning and more fun.
What makes scavenger hunts so special is the teamwork they inspire. You’ll see kids and adults collaborating, solving puzzles, sharing ideas and celebrating their victories together. It’s energetic, social and filled with laughter — and you’ll create lasting memories along the way.
A scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to bring everyone together for some light-hearted competition and outdoor adventure. Perfect for families, friends or mixed-age groups, it gets everyone exploring, thinking and laughing as you race to find hidden clues and complete fun challenges. It’s the ultimate screen-free activity for an active afternoon out in nature.
Across the UK, there are plenty of companies that run organised scavenger hunts in beautiful countryside locations, national parks and even city centres. These professional experiences often include creative puzzles, themed storylines and tailored difficulty levels to suit your group. Of course, you can always design your own — but booking a ready-made adventure means less planning and more fun.
What makes scavenger hunts so special is the teamwork they inspire. You’ll see kids and adults collaborating, solving puzzles, sharing ideas and celebrating their victories together. It’s energetic, social and filled with laughter — and you’ll create lasting memories along the way.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Inclusive fun: Suitable for families, friends and mixed-age gatherings.
- Team-building: Encourages collaboration, communication and creativity.
- Flexible format: Choose from countryside, coastal or city-based hunts.
Where to try it
- The Lake District & Peak District: Scenic outdoor trails with nature-themed challenges.
- London & Edinburgh: Urban treasure hunts through historic streets and landmarks.
- Cornwall & Pembrokeshire: Coastal routes and seaside scavenger adventures for all ages.
Photo by Vince Fleming on Unsplash
Paintballing
What to expect: Intense, adrenaline-fuelled fun in the great outdoors.
If your group loves excitement and friendly competition, paintballing is a fantastic way to get everyone’s heart racing. This action-packed activity combines teamwork, strategy and plenty of laughs as you dodge, duck and dive your way through the battlefield. It’s high-energy fun that’s perfect for bonding and blowing off steam.
Usually set in woodland arenas or custom-built outdoor zones, paintballing lets you immerse yourself in thrilling scenarios — from capture-the-flag missions to tactical team challenges. It’s ideal for groups of friends, families or colleagues looking to do something memorable together. Most venues provide full gear, safety briefings and game marshals, so all you need to bring is your team spirit (and maybe a bit of bravery!).
Paintballing is a true group equaliser — no matter your skill level or fitness, everyone plays their part. You’ll leave with a few colourful marks, lots of great stories, and a shared sense of victory.
If your group loves excitement and friendly competition, paintballing is a fantastic way to get everyone’s heart racing. This action-packed activity combines teamwork, strategy and plenty of laughs as you dodge, duck and dive your way through the battlefield. It’s high-energy fun that’s perfect for bonding and blowing off steam.
Usually set in woodland arenas or custom-built outdoor zones, paintballing lets you immerse yourself in thrilling scenarios — from capture-the-flag missions to tactical team challenges. It’s ideal for groups of friends, families or colleagues looking to do something memorable together. Most venues provide full gear, safety briefings and game marshals, so all you need to bring is your team spirit (and maybe a bit of bravery!).
Paintballing is a true group equaliser — no matter your skill level or fitness, everyone plays their part. You’ll leave with a few colourful marks, lots of great stories, and a shared sense of victory.
Why it’s great for big groups
- Adrenaline rush: Fast-paced, energetic and thrilling from start to finish.
- Team strategy: Encourages communication and collaboration under pressure.
- Memorable bonding: Shared excitement and plenty of post-game stories.
Where to try it
- Surrey & Nottinghamshire: Popular outdoor arenas with woodland battle zones.
- Wales & the Scottish Borders: Rugged landscapes for large-scale tactical games.
- Bristol & Leeds: Accessible venues with mixed terrain and themed missions.
FAQs about large group activities
What are some of the best large group activities to try in the UK?
The UK offers a fantastic mix of large group activities, from indoor challenges like escape rooms and cooking classes to outdoor adventures such as kayaking, scavenger hunts and paintballing. You’ll also find creative experiences like life drawing classes and food tours that combine fun, learning and teamwork.
Are there good options for indoor group activities?
Yes, there are plenty of indoor choices, ideal for rainy days or city breaks. Escape rooms, cooking classes and life drawing workshops are perfect for groups wanting to stay dry while still having a great time together.
What’s a good group activity for food lovers?
Cooking classes and food tours are both top picks for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re learning to make pasta in London or sampling street food in Manchester, these experiences bring people together through flavour and shared creativity.
Can large groups book private experiences?
Absolutely. Many venues across the UK offer private bookings for large groups, from escape rooms and art classes to private dining experiences and guided food tours. It’s worth contacting venues in advance to tailor the activity to your group size.
What outdoor adventures are suitable for big groups?
For those who love being outside, kayaking, scavenger hunts and paintballing are fantastic group activities. They combine physical fun, teamwork and the chance to explore the UK’s beautiful countryside, lakes and coastlines.
Is kayaking suitable for beginners?
Yes, most kayaking providers cater to all abilities. Guided tours usually include safety briefings and equipment hire, so even first-timers can enjoy a relaxed paddle through scenic rivers or coastal routes.
Are there creative group activities that aren’t too competitive?
Life drawing classes are a brilliant option for something artistic and social. They’re relaxed, accessible to all skill levels, and often include a few laughs along the way — ideal for a more chilled group setting.
What’s a fun team-building activity for colleagues?
Escape rooms and scavenger hunts are perfect for building teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills. They’re engaging, inclusive and work equally well for office teams, friends or families.
Where can groups try private dining experiences?
You’ll find excellent private dining options across the UK — from Michelin-starred restaurants in London to country inns in the Cotswolds or the Lake District. These experiences are ideal for birthdays, reunions or simply celebrating together.
How can I make sure an activity suits everyone in my group?
Choose activities with flexible formats and accessibility options. Many providers tailor experiences by difficulty level or group interest, ensuring everyone — from kids to grandparents — can join in and have fun together.