The National Outdoor Expo 2026, taking place 21-22 March at NEC Birmingham masters the balance between adrenaline-pumping adventure and accessible family fun. Whether introducing kids to the wonders of the great outdoors or seeking a weekend of shared discovery, the expo transforms a simple day out or full weekend into an interactive playground.
From hands-on activities and expert-led workshops to the latest gear for curious young explorers, the expo offers a unique space where families can disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature and each other.
View the full two-day agenda and review the 10 must-try activities for families we’ve handpicked:
1. Adrenaline Drop (6 years +)
Leap into the weekend with the ultimate land-based freefall experience – FREEDROP. 30-minute sessions include a full briefing before you ascend the tower. Initially completing a 3-metre jump before progressing to a 6-metre height if the 3m jump went well.
2. Caving Experience (approx. 7 years*)
A thrilling, immersive experience for young explorers, find your way through over 90ft of caving, via the Stalictighes, ball pit and tunnels, across two levels. *Subject to helmet fitting.
3. The Outdoor Kitchen
Unleash your inner chef! Led by Fell Foodie (Harrison Ward) and Gem Davis, the Outdoor Kitchen hosts interactive cooking seminars designed to level up your adventure fuel. Discover simple, mouth-watering recipes perfect for the whole family and ideal for your next campsite feast. Get involved or come along to ‘forage’ some tasty samples.
4. Frankie McMillan
Looking for a new generation of inspiration? Meet Frankie, a nine-year-old mountaineer and rising international talent. As the youngest Briton to summit Mount Olympus and Toubkal, and a two-time finisher of all 214 Wainwright fells, Frankie’s record-breaking climbs are matched only by his prestigious awards for charity and community service. Catch Frankie on the Inspiration Stage on Sunday 22nd March (Beyond Everest Panel: The Mountains We All Climb).
5. The Inspiration Stage
As the heart of the Expo, the main stage, The Inspiration Stage inspires all ages with stories from world-class adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Join the audience – first-come-first-served, no booking required - for captivating talks from celebrity speakers and outdoor pioneers including: Steve Backshall, Ben Fogle, Molly Thompson-Smith, Spencer Matthews, Hugh Dennis, Akke Rahman, Cat Capon, Mark Beaumont, Jide Maduako, and Lizzie Daly
6. Meet Your Heroes – Meet & Greets
Attendees have many opportunities to meet their outdoor icons throughout the event. While scheduled Meet & Greets generally take place near the speaker’s stage immediately following their session, please note that sessions are subject to individual speaker availability and time constraints. Check out the agenda to see the stages or spaces to seek your heroes and find out at the show if a Meet & Greet is planned.
7. British Orienteering Trail
Ready to explore? Have fun and WIN prizes with British Orienteering’s free Indoor Trail! Grab your map at our stand, hunt down the orange and white kites, and collect all the letters hidden around The National Outdoor Expo. Return your completed map to the stand for your chance to win fantastic prizes!
8. Outdoor Skills Theatre
The Outdoor Skills Theatre offers weekend-long, family-friendly seminars from industry experts and
professional adventurers. Covering topics from beginner basics to advanced techniques, the line-up includes advice on climbing, swimming, survival skills, and more. Come get inspired and take your outdoor pursuits to the next level.
9. The Climbing Wall
Level up your climbing at the National Outdoor Expo! Dive into an exciting session of bouldering games designed to test your skills and boost your technique. Come for the competition, stay for the community, and learn directly from elite climbers. Grab your spot and let’s hit the wall!
10. Watersports Tasters
Dive into the action at Pendigo Lake! Located right outside the NEC, we’ve teamed up with Adventure Kit Hire to bring you an unforgettable weekend of kayaking, paddle boarding, and open-water swimming. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned pro, expert coaches are on hand to provide technical tips and essential safety kit. Don't just watch the water—get in or on it!
Limited tickets are still available for The National Outdoor Expo 2026 with single day tickets or full weekend tickets available to purchase. Young adventurers (under 16 years) go FREE with an accompanying adult.