When people hear “team building”, they often think of awkward icebreakers or generic group exercises. But the most effective team-building experiences are far more meaningful.

The right activities can break down barriers, build trust, improve communication, and help teams collaborate more naturally back at work.

At Stanwick Lakes, we can design the perfect corporate team-building days that combine challenge, creativity and connection, all set within a calm natural environment that can help teams think and interact differently.

Here’s how different types of activities can genuinely improve collaboration.

1. Physical challenges that build trust and teamwork

(Axe Throwing & Assault Courses)

Activities like axe throwing and assault courses introduce a shared physical challenge that teams must navigate together.

These experiences help:

• Build trust under pressure

• Encourage problem-solving as a group

• Break down hierarchical barriers (everyone starts at the same level)

When people support each other through a challenge, they form connections that are difficult to replicate in a meeting room.

2. Creative workshops that spark new ways of thinking

(Willow Weaving & Pottery Painting)

Not all collaboration happens through adrenaline. Creative workshops offer a completely different type of team dynamic.

Creative sessions:

• Encourage experimentation and lateral thinking

• Give quieter team members a voice

• Foster collaboration through shared creation

Working with hands and materials also helps people slow down and connect in a more reflective way—something modern workplaces rarely allow.

3. Outdoor activities that encourage natural conversation

Nature-based team building removes many of the social pressures of office environments. When people walk, explore or work outdoors together, conversation flows more naturally.

Outdoor activities help teams:

• Communicate more openly

• Develop stronger interpersonal relationships

• Think more creatively in a relaxed environment

It’s often during these informal moments that the most valuable conversations happen.

Rethinking collaboration beyond the office

True collaboration isn’t built in back-to-back meetings. It’s built through shared experiences, challenges and moments of connection. By taking teams out of the usual environment and into nature, organisations can create space for better communication, stronger relationships and fresh thinking.

Plan your next offsite or team-building day at Stanwick Lakes

We offer flexible half-day and full-day corporate team-building experiences, with a wide range of activities, catering options and packages. Find out more and download our brochure by clicking here.