Top 10 fun Father’s Day activities and things to do in 2025

Whether he’s a new dad, a seasoned pro or a beloved father figure, every dad deserves a day to feel appreciated. If you’re struggling to decide what to do for Dad on Father’s Day this year, look no further! No matter what your dad’s into, our list is packed with unforgettable ways to make his day special.

From high-speed go-karting and brain-teasing escape rooms to luxurious whisky tastings and outdoor adventures, we’ve rounded up our top 10 favourite activities and things to do for Father’s Day along our network. Hop on board, explore our picks, and get ready to plan a Father’s Day celebration as one-of-a-kind as he is.

1. Take Father’s Day to new heights with indoor skydiving in Manchester

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Father’s Day activity idea, head straight to iFly at the Trafford Centre in Manchester. This isn’t your average day out – we’re talking indoor skydiving in the UK’s very first 14ft wind tunnel. Prepare to feel the thrill of freefall without needing a plane (or a parachute). No matter if your dad’s a seasoned daredevil or a total newbie, expert instructors are on hand to help him soar like a pro. And with full wheelchair access, this memorable adventure is an option for everybody.

Not quite ready to take the leap yourself? No pressure! There’s a viewing area where you can sit back, relax and cheer Dad on from the sidelines. Bonus points if you manage to capture a mid-air snap of his gravity-defying moment!

Location: Trafford Quays Leisure Village, 9 Trafford Way, Manchester, M41 7JA
Opening times: Daily: 9am-10pm
Cost: From £49.99 per person (first-time flyers)

2. Raise a glass to Dad with a whisky-tasting experience in Edinburgh

Does your dad enjoy the finer things in life? Located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh, the Scotch Whisky Experience is a five-star attraction combining fun, tradition and a touch of luxury. Whether he wants to uncover the secrets of whisky-making on an interactive tour or indulge in a tasting session featuring world-class Scottish drams, there’s something to impress every whisky fan.

Plus, the on-site restaurant serves mouth-watering meals that pair beautifully with its extensive whisky collection. It’s the perfect way to round off a day of exploring the flavours and craftsmanship of Scotland’s national drink. Cheers to that!

Location: 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE
Opening times: Daily: 10am-7pm (depending on the season)
Cost: £59 for a family ticket, adults: £24, children aged (6-17): £11, free for under 5s

3. Give Dad the gift of relaxation with a luxurious spa day

If your dad would appreciate some time to unwind with a Father’s Day activity for adults only, treat him to a top-tier day of TLC and relaxation. There are plenty of spots in North England and Scotland where Dad can kick back in style.

The Maya Blue Wellness at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, hidden beneath the Stanley Dock, is a luxurious hideaway that feels like a secret retreat. Picture historic brick arches setting the scene for a calm and serene day. Sounds heavenly, right? Dads can sink into the hydrotherapy pool or indulge in a treatment from a professional therapist. After his treatment, Dad can chill in the bean bag area, sip a cuppa in the tea garden, or even sneak in a quick session at the fitness centre. The ideal gift for dads deserving the ultimate downtime treat (and we bet he does!).

Location: Stanley Dock, Regent Road, Liverpool, L3 0AN
Opening times: Daily: 8am-8pm (treatments available daily: 10am-6pm)
Cost: £30 per person for non-hotel residents, £20 per person for hotel residents (extra cost for treatments. Pre-booking required)

4. Crack the code to Father’s Day at Escape Game in Sheffield

Get pulses racing this Father’s Day with a mind-boggling escape room adventure at The Great Escape Game in Sheffield. It’s the perfect opportunity to bond and work together as a team, solving puzzles, cracking codes and navigating thrilling challenges. Choose from various escape room experiences designed to challenge and entertain. From spine-tingling horror themes to mystery-solving or kid-friendly rooms ideal for younger families, everyone can get involved. Invite Dad to step into the role of hero, detective or code-cracking genius for the day. Game on!

Location: St James House, Vicar Lane, Sheffield, S1 2EX
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 11am-11pm, weekends: 9am-11pm
Cost: £25 per person for groups of 2, £23 per person for groups of 3-6

5. Hit the bullseye with axe throwing in Hull

Seeking a cutting-edge activity for Father’s Day this year? Axe throwing at Game of Throwing in Hull is the perfect mix of adventure with a healthy dose of competition. It’s the ultimate stressbuster wrapped in a whole lot of fun. Whether it's hitting the bullseye or competing for the highest score, the interactive lanes offer a variety of games to keep everyone entertained. Don’t worry if Dad’s never thrown an axe before – expert instructors are on hand to turn even first-timers into axe-wielding pros in no time.

It’s a great opportunity to share a few laughs, cheer each other on and maybe even challenge Dad to a little showdown (fair warning, he might surprise you with a hidden talent).

Location: 4 Dock Street, Hull, HU1 3DL
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 11.30am-8.30pm, Sat: 10am-10pm, Sun: 11.30am-8.30pm
Cost: £27 per person (over 10s only)

6. Add some magic to Father’s Day at The Hole in Wand, York

Want to make this Father’s Day a little more magical? Step into the spellbinding world of The Hole in Wand, a wizard-themed mini golf course hidden inside the Coppergate Shopping Centre in York. Enter a wizarding wonderland complete with cauldrons, enchanted portals and spells. Celebrate your victory (or console your defeat) with a glass of Butterbeer and a slice of Cauldron Cake – the perfect way to end your mystical adventure. More than just mini golf, this is a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience that will bring the family together and add a touch of magic to Dad’s day.

Location: Coppergate Shopping Centre, 14-16 Coppergate Walk, York, YO1 9NT
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 11am-6pm, Sat: 10am-7pm, Sun: 10am-5pm (depending on the season)
Cost: Adults: from £8.99, children: from £7.49, everyone gets a free magic drinkable potion worth £3.49

7. Go full throttle at TeamSport Go Karting in Manchester

If your dad’s got a need for speed, why not kick it up a gear this Father’s Day with a go-karting day out he’ll never forget? At TeamSport Go Karting in Manchester, he can channel his inner race car driver and enjoy some serious high-speed action.

Offering a unique racing experience, this track is tucked under Manchester’s AO Arena with 550m of track, high-octane straights and complex corners. With speeds of up to 40mph, these mean machines are built to deliver full-throttle fun. If Dad’s always fancied himself a wannabe Formula 1 driver, this action-packed adventure will be right up his alley. Swap the predictable for something unforgettable and give Dad a wild ride this Father’s Day. Helmets on, engines ready – it’s time to race!

Location: Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester, M99 1ZW
Opening times: Daily: 9am-11pm
Cost: £44.96 per person

8. All aboard for a scenic railway adventure in the Lake District

If Dad loves to travel but you’re unsure where to go for Father’s Day, hop on board for the Ravenglass railway journey through the beautiful Lake District. This scenic seven-mile journey winds through coastal estuaries and ancient woodlands, offering stunning views and plenty of chances to spot wildlife. Dad can kick back in comfort with cosy covered carriages or enjoy the open-top option for sunny days. For an extra treat, upgrade to the Pullman Observation Carriage ‘Joan’ for breathtaking panoramic views.

Once you reach Dalegarth, discover the café serving homemade treats and trails for exploring the beautiful Lake District National Park. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Eskdale Mill in Boot Village, just a short walk from the station. This charming activity is the perfect relaxation experience this Father’s Day.

Location: Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW
Opening times: Daily: 10:25am-3:10pm (check timetables online)
Cost: Adults: £24 (return trip), children aged 3-17: £16, free for under 3s

9. Ignite curiosity with a trip to Glasgow Science Centre

Why not swap the usual Father’s Day gifts for a day packed with discovery and fun at the Science Centre in Glasgow? Perfect for dads who are naturally curious (or just big kids at heart), this interactive hub offers something for everyone. From exploring the wonders of outer space to uncovering the mysteries of how our bodies work, there’s plenty to spark your imagination. The centre is full of fascinating exhibits, and you’re bound to stumble across interests you never even knew you had. Head to Glasgow for an educational and exciting way to enjoy quality time with Dad.
br/> Location: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, G51 1EA
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm (summer hours: 31st Mar-31st Aug)
Cost: Adults: from £13.40, children aged 3-15: from £10.45

10. Paddle through history with a kayak experience in Newcastle

Looking for an activity to make this Father’s Day stand out? Treat Dad to a Tyne Bridges and Quayside kayak adventure along Newcastle’s iconic Quayside. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to see the city, slipping quietly under its famous seven bridges and taking in breathtaking views from the water. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden corners of the urban landscape, hear stories of Newcastle’s two-thousand-year history and witness the city’s incredible transformation up close. Whether Dad’s a fan of history, engineering or simply loves trying something new, this experience is a unique day out for the family to enjoy.

Location: Kocktail, Quayside Garden, NE1 3DE
Opening times: Year-round, times vary depending on the date
Cost: £54 per person (over 16s only)

With so many things to do for Father’s Day across our network, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding on activities! Book your train now to any of our destinations to avoid disappointment.

For more inspiration on things to do along our network, check out our guides on the top things to do for Mother’s Day and the best spa days in the north.