Why Team Away Days Still Matter (Even in 2025)
So, if you’re a PA, HR manager, or team lead wondering what should we actually do, here’s your go-to list of team away days ideas that spark genuine engagement — without the cringe.
Let’s be honest. Between Zoom fatigue, endless Slack notifications, and kitchen-table workspaces, a lot of people haven’t really connected with their colleagues in months — if not years. That’s where team away days come in.
A great team away day gets people away from the office, breaks routine, and gives your team the space to bond over something other than quarterly KPIs. Whether it’s an outdoor challenge, creative collaboration, or shared laughter over a game show-style activity, these experiences create the kind of connection that emails simply can’t.
And for companies serious about culture, retention, and productivity, investing in regular team away days isn’t a ‘nice to have’ — it’s essential.
1. The Deceivers – Game Show Meets Strategy
Inspired by the hit TV show The Traitors, The Deceivers is perfect for teams that love a bit of healthy suspicion. One (or more!) team members are secretly working against the group, and it’s up to everyone else to figure out who’s sabotaging the tasks.
Why it works:
It blends strategic thinking with hilarity and high-stakes fun — and helps people learn to read non-verbal cues and work under pressure. Think of it as trust-building… with a twist.
2. Putt A Hole In Hunger – Golf for Good
Want a CSR twist to your away day? With Putt A Hole In Hunger, teams build a crazy golf course out of food items — which are then donated to The Trussell Trust. It’s creativity meets competition, and every swing supports a great cause.
Why it works:
It gets everyone hands-on and laughing while reinforcing company values like purpose and social responsibility. Plus, it’s ridiculously photogenic.
3. The Sphere – Crystal Maze Vibes, Anyone?
If you’ve ever dreamed of a team-building version of The Crystal Maze, this is your moment. Teams compete in themed zones to win tickets for the epic finale inside the Sphere itself — a whirlwind of gold-ticket-grabbing glory.
Why it works:
Fast-paced, physical, and collaborative, it’s ideal for breaking down silos and sparking natural camaraderie between departments.
4. Target 10 – Mini Games, Massive Fun
Target 10 is made up of ten wildly different challenges — from egg drops to Netflix scene re-creations. It’s versatile, works in nearly any venue, and keeps your team moving between zones with barely time to check their emails (thankfully).
Why it works:
It appeals to all personalities — creative thinkers, problem-solvers, organisers, performers — and reveals hidden talents. Spoiler: Your quietest colleague might be the best negotiator of the day.
5. Urban Art – Creativity with a Message
Give your team a blank canvas (literally) and let them design a large-scale mural that reflects your company values, vision, or just… a lot of inside jokes. Our Urban Art experience is guided by a professional graffiti artist who helps translate ideas into spray paint and colour.
Why it works:
It taps into creative thinking, encourages open discussion, and results in a collaborative masterpiece you can hang in your office.
6. Escape the Box – High-Pressure Puzzle Solving
This away day idea is for teams that thrive under time pressure. Each group is given a locked box and a series of clues. The goal? Solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape — all before time runs out.
Why it works:
It encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. Ideal for strategy teams or project managers who need to work cohesively under deadlines.
7. Back to School Sports Day – Nostalgia Meets Competition
There’s something about relay races, tug of war, and egg-and-spoon races that brings out everyone’s inner child. This outdoor classic is a crowd-pleaser, especially for summer away days in London parks or countryside venues.
Why it works:
Pure fun. No pressure, just a throwback to simpler times. Plus, it’s a great leveller – directors vs interns in a sack race? Yes, please.
How to Choose the Right Away Days Ideas for Your Team?
Let’s break it down. When picking your team away day activity, ask yourself:
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Do you want it indoors or outdoors?
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Do you need something accessible for all abilities?
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Is there a particular skill you want to focus on (e.g. communication, creativity, leadership)?
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Do you want to include a CSR element?
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Will your CEO actually turn up if you mention fancy dress?
From there, you can whittle your options down and match the vibe to your team dynamic.
And remember — it’s not about forced fun. It’s about creating real experiences that people remember long after the bunting’s down and the prizes handed out.
The Bigger Picture: Why It’s Worth Doing
According to Gallup, companies with highly engaged teams see 21% greater profitability. And do you know what helps engagement? Giving people a reason to feel part of something.
Team away days build trust. They uncover new strengths. They make people laugh, relax, and (shock horror) actually enjoy spending time with their colleagues.
Whether you’re planning a full-day escape or a half-day hit of morale-boosting brilliance, these away day ideas can completely shift the tone of your workplace — for the better.
Ready to Plan Your Next Away Day?
From creative workshops to action-packed games, Zing Events has delivered unforgettable team away days for FTSE 500 companies, tech startups, and everyone in between. If you want something that’s fresh, fast-paced, and fully managed, we’ve got you.
➡️ Explore all our team away day experiences or drop us a line for a bespoke proposal.
What Clients Say
“Absolutely brilliant day. Our team hasn’t stopped talking about it since — the perfect mix of challenge, fun and team spirit!”
— HR Manager, Tech Firm
“This is the first time I’ve seen our senior leadership team laugh so much. 10/10!”
— PA to CEO, Finance Sector
FAQs About ‘Team Away Days Ideas’
What’s the ideal duration for a team away day?
Anywhere from 3 hours to a full working day. It depends on your goals and team size.
Can we do it indoors if the weather’s bad?
Yes! Zing offers plenty of indoor options like Escape the Box, The Deceivers, and Urban Art.
How far in advance should we book?
Ideally 4–6 weeks. Summer dates go fast — so the earlier, the better.
Do you help with venue sourcing?
Absolutely. We can suggest venues across London and the UK that suit your numbers and budget.
