This month, team JHPR took some time away from the glare of our computer screens to explore the great outdoors, by celebrating our annual team away day.
With the weather looking positive (we had our fingers crossed!) we decided it was the perfect time to discover the vast countryside we had on our doorstep, with the day starting on a muddy streak with an outdoor assault course, followed by a hands-on lesson in all things ‘segway’.
Team away days are a great way to boost morale within an office environment – no matter your chosen activity or time of year. By choosing a dedicated day to take a step back from your desks, it not only brings people together but allows each person to try something new and different.
If you’re looking to plan something in the shared calendar but are struggling for inspiration, we have picked our top ten ideas for a fun and fabulous team away day. Perhaps make a list of your favourites and share them among the team – this way you can easily choose something everyone will enjoy and feel comfortable with.
1. Getting muddy outdoors
Take you and your team completely away from an office environment by immersing yourself in the great outdoors, and getting down and dirty with an assault course. Not only will you find yourself covered in mud and water, but you’ll have a laugh along the way and help each other through each obstacle.
2. Hitting the ice
No matter if you’re a skating champion or you’re yet to give it a go on the ice, ice skating is a fun indoor activity that will have you slipping, sliding and laughing as a group.
3. Indoor sports
Whether it be mini golf, darts or possibly a game of laser tag, if you’ve chosen a day where the weather may not be the best, an indoor game of sports is a great option to get everyone active and even bring out a spot of friendly competition. There are sure to be plenty of options in your local area to book as a group.
4. Food and drink masterclass
Combine your away day activity with lunch or dinner by taking part in a food or drink masterclass. Shake it up a bit with a cocktail or gin masterclass, or try your hand at cooking a new international cuisine.
5. Sing your heart out
Perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea but a good after-dinner or drinks option, where colleagues can choose to either go solo or duet to belt out their favourite pop and rock tunes to the rest of the team.
6. Boat trip
If you’re lucky enough that your office is near a river or lake, why not take a leisurely boat trip to explore the surrounding local area. To take it up a notch, look for available canoeing or kayaking groups you and your team could join for the day.
7. Delve into history
Your office may be in the heart of a city but have you ever taken the time to learn about its rich history or local landmarks? There are always a number of walking tours to join around each town, or even a bus tour for major cities. Combine your away day with a spot of history, and delve into the history of your location.
8. Escape room
Their popularity has risen in recent years, and there still seems to be more and more rooms with varying themes popping up in cities across the country. Escape rooms are a good way of getting a team working together outside of an office capacity – each bringing new skills to the table. Pick a spooky room if you dare, for added scare!
9. Getting quizzical
Pub quizzes are a firm favourite for all, and many pubs and restaurants now seem to hold a weekly quiz night. If you’re looking for more of an evening activity for an away day, head to your favourite haunt and give their quiz a go – it’s a great way of showing off your hidden knowledge on a variety of obscure topics.
10. Arts and crafts
If you’re a creative bunch, then getting hands-on during an away day as well as learning a new skill is a great option. Check out the variety of arts and crafts classes available in your local area, such as pottery or painting. You’ll also have something to take home at the end of the day!