Father Christmas’ Tips for Fun Family Walks

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Father Christmas’ Tips for Fun Family Walks

By Father Christmas

Published on November 28, 2025 3 min read

Make every step magical this Christmas with Father Christmas’ top tips for family adventures with little ones

(Straight from the North Pole!)

“Ho ho ho! Taking little ones out for a winter wander? Here are my top tips to keep those tiny boots moving!”

1. Let The Kids Plan & Navigate

Here’s a custom map that Mrs Christmas made for the elves last year!

“The elves always help me plan my route, and your little helpers can do the same! Print a custom OS map or order a personalised mini map and let them lead the way. Add fun markers like ‘Reindeer Rest Stop’ or ‘Mince Pie Meadow’—Mrs Christmas says it makes every walk feel magical when you break it down, little goals for little legs!”

Read tips for letting the kids navigate from our OS Champion Sam Brown, aka @thereluctantexplorers

Fun Outdoor Kids Activities: Route Planning & Navigation Challenge

2. Play Christmas Walk Bingo

“We love games at the North Pole! Spot a robin, find a holly bush, or look for something shaped like a star. The elves play this every time they go out for a snowy stroll!”

Download a printable version

See More Free Downloads

3. Try a Festive Treasure Hunt

“Hide tiny treats or clues along the route, just like I hide presents under the tree! Or make a list of things to ‘collect’ with your eyes, like pinecones or frosty footprints.”

If the weather is not looking great for one of Santa’s fun treasure hunts outdoors you could take a look at our fun map puzzle books, we also have a free download.

Explore More Map Puzzles with Free Download!

4. Tell a Story as you Walk

“I always tell the reindeer where we’re going and why, it keeps them trotting! Share a tale about how I use OS Maps to find every home, and ask your little ones to ‘check the map’ so I don’t miss any stockings.”

How Does Father Christmas Find Every House? Santa’s Secret Map!

5. Finish with a Santa-Approved Snack

“After a big night’s work, I love a mince pie and a mug of hot chocolate. Make sure you pack a few treats, it’s the best way to keep spirits bright!”

If you don’t like the sound of squashed mince pies try this twist on a traditional mince pie – a mince pie bar, a little more portable than a classic mince pie but just as tasty.

Mince Pie Crumble Bar Recipe

Even the most magical journeys start with a great map. Ready to plan your own festive adventure? Download our free OS Maps App and make your Christmas wander as legendary as Santa’s!

PLAN ROUTES
FIND ADVENTURES

Discover ready-made routes nearby or create your own

Open OS Maps

Your route back to reality

The Official Ordnance Survey App

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By Father Christmas

Father Christmas is the world’s most experienced long-distance traveller and expert navigator, with a passion for snowy landscapes and festive cheer. When he’s not delivering gifts, he loves encouraging families to explore the great outdoors, because nothing beats a mince pie after a winter walk!