Away day ideas for teams in London
An away day does not need to be a packed timetable of organised fun. Sometimes the useful shift is simpler: colleagues have time to do something together without rushing back to the next call.
Before choosing activities, decide what the day is for. Welcoming new people, reconnecting a hybrid team and making space for reflection are different aims. Give the day one clear purpose rather than asking it to solve everything.
Build around one shared activity
Cooking, making or a creative session gives people something to do while they get to know each other. Choose an activity that suits the group's interests, energy and access needs. Ask the host about the actual format rather than assuming every workshop works for every team.
Avoid turning the day into a test of confidence. Make it clear that people can participate without performing, competing or sharing something personal.
Leave space around it
Allow time to arrive, settle in, eat and take breaks. Keep a quieter option available. If you are combining sessions, check setup and changeover requirements before putting them next to each other in the timetable.
Treat food as part of the plan
Decide whether lunch is a seated pause, a buffet or individual meals. Think about where people will eat and how the food service works alongside the activity. Confirm dietary requirements and preparation limits with the caterer rather than making promises from the menu alone.
Shared dishes for a team lunch
Check the room, not just the headcount
Ask about tables, seating, access, handwashing or water needs, power and any equipment. Confirm what the host supplies and what the venue must provide. A workshop photograph is not proof that your room can support the same setup.
Finish with a useful question
Instead of asking whether everyone had fun, try: “What would make it easier for us to spend time together at work?” Give people a private way to answer as well as a group conversation.
For London teams, Hey! Food is Ready can discuss food and shared activities at your office or chosen venue. Start with the kind of day you want, then find a format that fits it.
