Why Corporate Outdoor Events Are Back in a Big Way
There’s something magical about getting your team outside — fresh air, open space, and a chance to swap fluorescent lighting for actual sunshine (or, let’s be honest, at least daylight).
After years of boardrooms, Zoom rooms, and “breakout rooms,” companies are rediscovering the power of corporate outdoor events. And it’s not just about morale — it’s about performance.
A 2022 SHRM study found that 72% of employees who rate their company culture as “good” or “very good” attribute it to connection and collaboration outside of their normal work environment. Outdoor events do exactly that — they help teams connect as humans first, colleagues second.
At Zing Events, we’ve been leading the charge in corporate outdoor events across London, with experiences designed to get people laughing, competing, and collaborating in equal measure. And thanks to our partnership with The Royal Parks, we offer unrivalled access to some of the most iconic outdoor spaces in the capital.
From high-energy challenges in Hyde Park to meaningful charity builds in Regent’s Park, we make it easy for teams to step outside and achieve something extraordinary together.
Your Ticket to the Great Outdoors — Without Leaving Central London
Let’s be honest: finding an outdoor venue in central London that’s actually nice (and not just a patch of grass next to traffic) is tricky. That’s where Zing’s partnership with The Royal Parks makes all the difference.
We’re proud to hold approved access for hosting corporate outdoor events in some of London’s most stunning and historic spaces — including:
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🌳 Hyde Park
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🌿 Regent’s Park
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🌺 St James’s Park
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🌼 Green Park
These world-famous backdrops give your team an unforgettable setting — whether you’re building a soapbox car under the shadow of Buckingham Palace or taking part in a charity challenge surrounded by the roses of Regent’s Park.
It’s corporate team building with a royal twist — and unlike most event companies, we handle all park permissions and logistics so you can focus on the fun bit.
Outdoor Events That Don’t Even Need a Venue
We get it — sometimes you want a day that’s completely flexible. No tables. No marquees. Just your people, a few clues, and a city to explore.
That’s exactly why we designed our GPS Treasure Hunts — outdoor events that can run anywhere, from London’s landmarks to your local town centre.
Armed with an app and plenty of competitive spirit, your teams will navigate a live digital map filled with challenges, puzzles, and photo missions. It’s the perfect low-setup option for busy PAs and HR teams who still want a big-impact activity without the logistical stress.
And yes, we’ve even run them for remote-first companies who want something unifying but outdoors — everyone plays, wherever they are.
Zing’s Most Popular Corporate Outdoor Events
We’re known for our creativity, and our outdoor activities are no exception. Here’s a closer look at some of our best-selling outdoor events, trusted by FTSE 500 clients across the UK.
1. Soap Box Derby – Build, Race, Repeat
If your team loves competition and creativity, the Soap Box Derby is an instant hit. Teams design, construct, and race their own pedal-powered cars, testing engineering skills and nerves of steel.
It’s chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly emotional when your DIY racer crosses the finish line first. Perfect for large groups and park settings, it’s one of our most in-demand summer events.
Key skills: teamwork, creativity, communication
Ideal location: Regent’s Park, Hyde Park, or venue car parks
2. GPS Treasure Hunt – London’s Biggest Adventure
No set venue, no setup stress — just pure exploration. Teams compete using our custom app to unlock clues and complete challenges across London (or any city you fancy).
Perfect for breaking down silos and encouraging creative thinking, this outdoor activity is flexible, fast, and seriously fun.
Key skills: strategy, problem-solving, communication
Ideal location: Anywhere (Regent’s Park, Covent Garden, or even your office postcode!)
3. Crystal Challenge – The Ultimate Outdoor Game Show
Inspired by the legendary Crystal Maze, this multi-zone event tests your team’s mental, physical, and creative strengths in a high-energy outdoor format.
Expect inflatables, puzzles, and plenty of competitive spirit as teams race to collect crystals for a grand finale in our signature Zing Sphere.
Key skills: leadership, teamwork, problem-solving
Ideal location: Large outdoor venues or Royal Parks
4. Putt a Hole in Hunger – CSR That Counts
Combining creativity, laughter, and social impact, this event sees teams build crazy golf holes out of non-perishable food items — which are later donated to The Trussell Trust.
It’s a lighthearted challenge with a serious purpose, perfect for companies looking to blend fun with philanthropy.
Key skills: creativity, collaboration, empathy
Ideal location: Royal Parks, hotel lawns, or private gardens
5. Corporate Sports Day
Spark some nostalgia with a selection of timeless classics, such as sack races, egg-and-spoon and relay races a plenty.
Add optional theming, music, and costume touches for the full experience!
Key skills: strategy, adaptability, resilience
Ideal location: Hyde Park, corporate lawns, or country estates
6. Rollercoaster Challenge – Engineering with a Twist
Teams design and build giant marble rollercoasters using limited materials — and they must stay standing! It’s a brilliant way to ignite creativity and communication in open spaces.
Key skills: innovation, project management, precision
Ideal location: Regent’s Park, courtyards, or sports fields
Quick Comparison Table: Corporate Outdoor Events
| Activity | Best For | Location Type | Duration | Group Size | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soap Box Derby | Large teams | Royal Parks / open space | 2–3 hrs | 20–300+ | Creativity, competition |
| GPS Treasure Hunt | Any team size | Anywhere | 90 mins–2 hrs | 10–500+ | Problem solving, fun |
| Crystal Challenge | Large groups | Royal Parks / private grounds | 2–3 hrs | 20–400 | Energy, teamwork |
| Putt a Hole in Hunger | CSR-focused teams | Royal Parks / indoors | 2 hrs | 10–200 | Charity, creativity |
| Team Survivor | Energetic groups | Parks / countryside | 2–3 hrs | 15–250 | Leadership, adaptability |
| Rollercoaster Challenge | Creative teams | Any outdoor area | 90 mins–2 hrs | 10–200 | Innovation, communication |
Why Outdoor Events Work Better Than Indoor Ones (Sometimes)
There’s no denying it — outdoor events just hit differently.
Something happens when teams get outside: the laughter gets louder, the ideas get bolder, and the competition gets fiercer. And while we love a good indoor challenge, being outdoors has extra benefits:
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More movement = more engagement. Outdoor events keep energy levels high and minds sharp.
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Natural environment = reduced stress. Studies show that time in green spaces lowers cortisol and boosts morale.
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Scenic backdrops = perfect for social media. Those team selfies in Regent’s Park? Instant employer branding gold.
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No space limits. Large groups can spread out, collaborate freely, and enjoy more immersive activities.
So whether you’re planning a summer social, an all-hands celebration, or a charity challenge, stepping outdoors gives your event room to breathe.
Case Study: A Corporate Outdoor Event in Hyde Park
When a global finance firm approached us to plan their annual team day, they wanted something “fresh, competitive, and outdoors — but still central London.”
We secured Hyde Park through our Royal Parks partnership, set up a Crystal Challenge arena, and hosted 150 staff for a two-hour adrenaline-fuelled event.
The result?
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100% participation
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Glowing feedback from staff
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A live leaderboard finale complete with golden confetti
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…and several managers saying it was the best team event they’d ever attended.
That’s the power of the right activity in the right space.
For PAs and HR Directors: Planning Made Easy
We know planning a corporate outdoor event can feel like spinning plates — venues, weather, timings, risk assessments, and dietary requirements (always one tricky one, isn’t there?).
That’s why Zing makes it simple.
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✅ We handle all Royal Parks permissions and logistics
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✅ We provide event managers and crew for full delivery
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✅ We supply all kit, branding, and insurance
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✅ We include wet weather contingencies and backup plans
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✅ We manage setup and de-rig to keep your day stress-free
Whether it’s 20 directors or 500 employees, we’ll make sure your outdoor event runs like clockwork.
Reviews from Our Outdoor Clients
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We held our company day in Regent’s Park with Zing — it was perfectly organised, and everyone loved the Soap Box Derby. Amazing backdrop too!”
— Operations Director, Global Retail Group
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Zing Events made the process effortless. The GPS Treasure Hunt around London was a hit — easy to run, fun for all departments, and zero venue stress.”
— PA, Media Company
With over 600 five-star reviews, Zing Events is trusted by FTSE 500 companies, charities, and start-ups alike to deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences.
FAQs: Corporate Outdoor Events
Where can we hold corporate outdoor events in London?
Thanks to our Royal Parks partnership, we can host your event in Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Green Park, or St James’s Park — all with full permissions handled.
Do we need to book a venue?
Not necessarily! Events like our GPS Treasure Hunt run anywhere without formal venue hire.
What happens if it rains?
We always include wet weather plans — from gazebos to quick indoor relocation options.
Can we brand or theme the activities?
Absolutely. We can incorporate your company branding, logos, and values into every challenge.
What’s the best time of year for outdoor events?
Spring through early autumn is ideal, but we also run winter-friendly outdoor activities like festive GPS games.
Do you offer charity-based outdoor events?
Yes — options like Putt a Hole in Hunger and Build a Bike for Charity combine fun and social purpose.
Ready to Plan Your Corporate Outdoor Events?
Corporate outdoor events don’t just strengthen teams — they transform them. Whether it’s a summer celebration, CSR day, or large-scale competition, our creative event specialists will bring your vision to life.
From Hyde Park to your own office grounds, we’ll plan, deliver, and host an unforgettable experience your team won’t stop talking about.
