19 Unforgettable Things to Do in The UK This Summer
Sian Victoria © - Sunset at Malvern Hills
The Ultimate Activities Guide to Summer in the UK
With the current cost of living crisis, a summer break in another country might not be a feasible option for many this year. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t still make the most of the summer months and make memories with the ones you love, as there are plenty of amazing summer activities to get up to right here in the UK that don’t involve a lot of travelling.
I’m sure you are aware, the UK boasts several incredible sights, activities, and experiences for you to enjoy that will make you appreciate what's right on your doorstep. So, why not treat yourself to a wonderful staycation that won’t break the bank? But will still be sure to entertain all the family and give you wonderful memories that will last a lifetime – yes, the sunshine may not be guaranteed but it wouldn’t be Britain without a little rain.
So, have a read to discover just some of the best things to do in the UK this summer that will be perfect for you to enjoy with friends and family - best of all you may even get to bring along your beloved pets!
1. Hike a mountain
Sian Victoria © - Views from the Malvern Hills
With so much scenic countryside across the UK, why not make the most of the picturesque greenery and spend your summer exploring it? Whether you're on a health kick or just fancy soaking up the sunrays, hiking a mountain is a great way to spend time with the family in the beautiful great British countryside.
Tailor your hike to whatever you and your family desire, with plenty of mountains in the UK to choose from to suit how easy or difficult you want your hike to be – there’s a long list of national parks in the UK so just pick the most suitable and go exploring and soak up the wilderness.
You’ll find the UK’s highest mountain in Scotland, known as Ben Nevis and boasting an astonishing height of 1,345m – if you fancy taking on a challenge this summer, try your hand at hiking this mountain, taking an estimated 4 hours to climb in its entirety. Or pay a visit to The Lake District, a beautiful national park home to over 200 hills – and 10 of the highest in England – for you to pick a hike that is appropriate for your skill level.
So, whether you fancy just a short hike or putting the whole family to the challenge by hiking one of the highest mountains in the UK, there are plenty of idyllic mountains across the UK’s countryside for you to visit this summer offering gorgeous views from the summit.
2. Discover your new favourite artist at a music festival
Sian Victoria © - Live music at All Points East Festival, London
The summer season brings with it a whole host of exciting music festivals, making for a brilliant and unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones if you decide to purchase a ticket – and in some cases go camping for a couple of days.
With the ability to hear some of your favourite artists sing live in one place as you enjoy some tasty street food and cocktails while soaking up the sunshine, it's no wonder music festivals are so popular in the UK.
From the iconic Glastonbury festival to Reading, Leeds and Download, there are plenty of music festivals to choose from that are sure to have some of your favourite artists headlining. Give yourself a well-deserved break and let your hair down and listen to your favourite tunes, while also mingling with like-minded fans.
Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of a music festival this summer by booking one that takes your fancy and will make some amazing memories as you experience live music while bathing under the summer sun – or getting knee-deep in mud, whatever the weather it is sure to be an experience you won’t forget.
3. Indulge your taste buds at a food festival
Sian Victoria © - Vegan hotdogs, street food, All Points East Festival
If you are more of a foodie, why not consider paying a visit to a food and drink festival? Spoil your taste buds by perusing the incredible flavours of the stalls at a food festival this summer, while supporting smaller businesses, engaging with local communities, and discovering delicious new dishes.
Due to the popularity of food festivals, it’s no wonder that they seem to be popping up everywhere in the UK and not just in parks but in city centres too. With iconic food festivals including Pub in the Park, the Edinburgh Food Festival and the Foodies Festival, there's no better way to enjoy award-winning, new food, from traditional UK dishes to international flavours.
Have a look to see what food festival in the UK takes your fancy and tickles your taste buds to plan a visit this summer and get indulging in some tasty treats!
4. Explore the diverse array of UK cities
Sian Victoria © - Royal Liver Building, Parish Church courtyard, Liverpool
The UK is home to an extensive array of bustling cities, from the iconic English capital London to the quaint cities of York and Bath. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland all boast great cities that draw in tourists from far and wide and prove you don’t need to hop on a plane or break the bank to visit somewhere new and exciting this summer.
Although London’s best attractions may be the most popular to visit in England, there are so many other great cities to explore with many fun things to do too. Whether it’s the historic attractions in Oxford or Stratford-Upon-Avon that capture your attention, or the vibrant culture of Manchester or to be near the docks in Liverpool, you won’t be stuck for a choice.
The capital Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the most impressive cities in Scotland, with its historical buildings trapped in time and leaving you in awe as you stroll through the streets. Take in the beauty of Edinburgh Castle and the array of museums in this fascinating city.
Experience city living in the Welsh capital Cardiff and Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast, both home to historic landmarks and infamous city landscapes that will show you just how stunning the UK can be. With so many diverse, incredible cities to choose from, you can make new, unforgettable memories with the ones you love this summer without having to travel far.
So, why not choose from a list of cities in the UK and experience a cosmopolitan summer sipping cocktails in the city during a well-deserved city break?
5. Enjoy local history to appreciate the country's heritage
Sian Victoria © - Great Malvern Priory, The Abbey Hotel, Malvern, Worcestershire
Perhaps one of the things the UK is most recognised for is its rich history, with plenty of cities telling the tales of iconic historical eras. From medieval fortresses and castles to beautiful Tudor architecture and even Roman baths, you’ll find so many odes to the UK’s past when exploring these historic places.
Just in the West Midlands alone, you’ll find many historical towns and places to visit near Birmingham, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when looking where to explore the best of British heritage. You may even want to spend a day exploring stately homes with landscaped gardens to appreciate the local history.
Here are just a few of the many historical places to visit in the UK:
The Roman Baths, Bath – See the ruins of an authentic Roman spa and temple, transporting you back to the 1st century as you take in the unbelievable beauty of this Roman settlement.
The Tower of London, London – Opened in 1097, this infamous historical attraction is one of the oldest buildings in London and houses the precious Crown Jewels.
Stonehenge, Wiltshire – See the fascinating colossal standing stones at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a Neolithic and Bronze Age history across its 5,000-year-old construction.
Cardiff Castle, Wales – Take in the 2000-year history of this iconic attraction, once a Roman fort and even converted into a Victorian Gothic extravagant palace, this castle has many tales to tell within its dated walls.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland – This world heritage site is among one of the most unique in the UK, made up of 40,000 basalt columns along the coastline. Take in the beauty of this natural landmark as you look out amongst the water.
6. Visit an enchanting waterfall
Sian Victoria © - Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, Oswestry, Wales
The UK has several beautiful waterfalls hidden amongst its forest and woodland that you may come across when exploring the luscious countryside. Find these enchanting cascades of water in so many places throughout the UK and take in their beauty for yourself this summer.
See the UK’s biggest waterfall in Scotland, known as Eas a’Chual Aluinn and looming high at an impressive 638 feet, which is sure to leave you appreciating the natural world. Or visit the iconic Lake District and take in the breathtaking Aira Force waterfall, with the rushing water plunging into a rocky pool.
From the Gaping Gill waterfall in Yorkshire that plunges into an underground chamber to the simply stunning Aber Falls in Wales, there are so many waterfalls to admire that showcase just how beautiful the UK’s nature can be. One of my favourites is the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in Oswestry, which can be discovered just a short drive into Wales.
7. Visit an outdoor adventure attraction
Sian Victoria © - The Bear Grylls Adventure, Birmingham
Spending the summer with little ones? An outdoor adventure attraction might be the way to go. Go Ape is one of the most popular adventure activities in the UK, with 34 locations to suit wherever you happen to be this summer. Settle your adventure spirit on their number of exciting adventure challenges, as you travel amongst the trees and fly through the forest on a zipline. You can even try your hand at axe throwing if that seems like something you'd enjoy. Perfect for thrill seekers young and old, Go Ape is certainly a must-visit this summer.
Put all the family up to the challenge by visiting the Bear Grylls Adventure – it is one of the many fun things to do in Birmingham with kids. Choose from lots of enthralling indoor and outdoor activities, including archery, high ropes and even cage snorkelling with sharks, you’ll find an adventure for everyone, no matter the age.
There's no shortage of outdoor adventure activities in the UK to enjoy this summer. Whether it’s Go Ape, Bear Grylls, Legoland or Thorpe Park that you fancy visiting, there are so many outdoor attractions to explore in England that will satisfy the whole family's lust for an adventure.
8. Head to the coast and enjoy beach life
Sian Victoria © - New Quay beach, Ceredigion, Wales
The UK is home to a multitude of beautiful beaches and seaside resorts that will make you realise you don’t need to book a flight abroad to make the most of the summer sun – it can be just as good in Britain if the weather is on your side.
Find one of the best UK beaches in Devon, known as Blackpool Sands and comprising beautiful stretches of sand and simply paradisaic blue waters. Just as beautiful are the beaches in Cornwall – the beach at St Ives, Porthcurno and Fistral Beach all boasting stunningly clear water and idyllic sweeping sands and dunes.
Wales also happens to be home to amazing beaches thanks to its stretch of coastline. From the golden beaches on the Anglesey coast to the seaside resort of New Quay, the country is simply bursting with beautiful beach destinations – and if the weather isn’t great, you’ll find many other things to do in North Wales to keep everyone entertained.
You’ll be spoilt for choice this summer as you plan a day out with the family, with so many idyllic beaches to unwind on and soak in the summer rays throughout the UK.
9. Wander nature reserves, hike, or bike along scenic trails
Sian Victoria © - Fairoak trail at Cannock Chase, West Midlands
Continue soaking in the beautiful natural scenery by exploring the array of nature reserves in the UK. A place called Wash stretches across 8,000 hectares and is considered the largest national nature reserve in the UK and can be found between Lincolnshire and Norfolk. At Blakeney Point see an array of exciting wildlife amongst the rivers and wetlands, with this nature reserve being home to the biggest population of common seals in the UK.
Wyre Forest in Worcestershire is another expansive, unspoiled stretch of nature that you should pay a visit to. Boasting rich woodland, stunning pools of water and deep forests, the nature reserve is home to a multitude of wildlife, scenic walking and cycling trails and outdoor adventure activities.
Travelling up to Scotland, you can see the beauty of the Abernethy National nature reserve, with over 12,000 hectares being home to unique species of plants and endangered wildlife across its peaks and valleys.
With so many incredible nature reserves to explore, you can spend your summer hiking and biking amongst stunning stretches of woodland and forest with all the family. If you don’t fancy driving far, you’ll find plenty of places to hike in the West Midlands too.
10. See beautiful natural surroundings at the Botanical Gardens
Sian Victoria © - Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Whether you’re a nature lover or not, a visit to a botanical garden is sure to make a wonderful day out for all the family. See the iconic Kew Royal Botanic Gardens in London, the National Botanic Garden of Wales in Carmarthenshire, or the Belfast Botanical Gardens in Northern Ireland. Discover beautifully unique plants that you’ve never seen before and unwind in the beautiful summer sun as you take in the stunning scenic surroundings.
You could also consider paying a visit to the Eden Project, an infamous Cornwall attraction comprising plant species from around the world. Lose yourself in a relaxing environment like no other, surrounded by rare and exotic botanicals.
Even if you don’t have green fingers, a visit to a botanical garden will certainly make a brilliant day out, with the ability to immerse yourself in the picturesque lush green nature with all the family. You’ll also find two botanical gardens in Sheffield that are free to enjoy.
11. See your favourite animals at an animal sanctuary
Sian Victoria © - Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, Telford
Although zoos are a popular choice for a family day out during the summer months, animal sanctuaries help to protect the species they have in their captivity and ensure the animals receive all the help and care they need.
There are plenty of wonderful animal sanctuaries throughout the UK that will educate all the family and will leave you reassured with the knowledge that the animals are given the best care possible. Perhaps you want to visit the only goat sanctuary in the UK, the Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats in Kent, the Monkey Sanctuary in Cornwall, or Assisi Animal Sanctuary – the biggest animal welfare charity in Northern Ireland.
See some of your favourite animals in a loving, safe environment when paying a visit to one of the many animal sanctuaries throughout the UK – you’ll also find the Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World not too far from the Mercure Hotel in Telford which is ideal for families visiting the area.
12. Step out of your comfort zone with water sports
Sian Victoria © - Watersports at Chasewater Country Park, Staffordshire
Satisfy your thirst for adventure by treating the family to a fun day out doing watersports under the summer sun. From water-skiing and windsurfing to scuba diving and kayaking, set yourself a challenge and try out something new.
Perhaps one of the best places for watersports in the UK is the Anglian Water parks. Situated in a multitude of locations, these parks couldn’t give you a better choice of exciting water activities. Whether it's canoeing, paddleboarding or sailing, Anglian Waterparks is the place to be.
Carry on stepping out of your comfort zone at Adventure Park Snowdonia - enjoy the scenic mountainous and forest landscape as you take on inland surfing in this beautiful region. Or take on the task of scuba diving in Orkney, Scotland and see sea creatures up close in the deep blue waters.
Not only will you be able to develop a new skill, carry out some exercise and improve your stamina, but you'll be able to have an exciting day out with the family by trying your hand at something you might not have done before.
13. Relax at a countryside spa with an outdoor pool
Sian Victoria © - Infinity pool at Ragdale Hall Spa, Leicestershire
Make the most of the summer months and break away from work by paying a visit to a countryside spa. With the ability to increase serotonin, lower blood pressure, detoxify the body and alleviate pain, spa days are a great way to give your body the relaxation it deserves.
Amongst the array of renowned countryside spas is the Ragdale Hall Spa in the luscious Leicestershire countryside. The award-winning spa sits in a stunning country house that boasts traditional Victorian architecture and comprises an indoor thermal tropical pool, an outside pool with sun loungers and a rooftop infinity pool to allow you to unwind in the ultimate idyllic setting. Treat yourself to a luxurious, rejuvenating treatment and natural therapy before taking a dip in one of the irresistible pools at this amazing spa.
Additionally, the Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat sits amongst 72 acres of beautiful Staffordshire countryside and features a choice of pools for you to reach ultimate relaxation, including an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor vitality pool and even a hydrotherapy pool. Take in the natural setting as you pamper yourself here.
There's no better way to relax than giving yourself the VIP treatment than paying a visit to a stunning countryside spa – take a break from your busy lifestyle this summer and make the most of the UK’s natural surroundings while pampering yourself with restoring and rejuvenating beauty treatments.
14. Cruise the UK’s canals
Sian Victoria © - Stratford Upon Avon canal, River Avon boat trip
Lose yourself in the UK’s picturesque, natural surroundings by hopping onto a canal ride this summer. With over 5,000 canals in Britain – and 35 miles of them being found in Birmingham alone, there are so many waters to travel through that will allow you to immerse yourself in nature.
Travel through the 87-mile-long Kennet and Avon Canal to take in the stunning countryside views and quaint villages of Southern England – often regarded as the most scenic canal route in the UK.
Or take a trip through Scotland’s largest waterway, the Caledonian Canal. Stretching across 60 miles, this canal cuts through stunning peaks and valleys, highlands, and villages, letting you see the amazing surroundings as you travel through the Scottish lochs.
You could also see the iconic Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in Wales, one of the most picturesque waterways in Britain. Boasting breathtaking natural beauty throughout the Welsh countryside, this canal is a favourite among many seeking a staycation in the UK. Spend the summer seeing Britain from a new perspective by travelling along the canals on a traditional barge and taking in the idyllic British countryside.
15. Get an adrenaline rush at a theme park
Sian Victoria © - Stratford Upon Avon ferries wheel
Whether you're spending the summer with your little ones, or you just happen to be young at heart, a visit to a theme park is sure to be a popular choice.
Undoubtedly one of the most popular UK theme parks is Thorpe Park, found in Surrey. Home to thrilling rides, including the fastest in the UK, this amusement park has over 30 rides that are sure to take your breath away.
Or you can pay a visit to Alton Towers in Staffordshire, an iconic park pulling in hundreds of thousands of visitors a year to challenge their fears on intense, high-speed rides, including The Smiler and Oblivion – perfect for any adventurous daredevil.
With rides suited to all the family - big and small - theme parks are a perfect way to spend a warm summer’s day, and there are plenty to choose from in the UK.
16. Splash about at an indoor waterpark
Sian Victoria © - Ragdale Hall Spa outside tropical pool
Take a splash at an indoor waterpark and get active on the slides and attractions with all the family. Particularly if the weather isn’t so good this summer in England, you can still make sure you’re having fun and making the most of the summer months by taking a dip in a heated pool.
Sandcastle Waterpark, sitting on Blackpool’s infamous promenade, is the largest indoor waterpark in the UK. Boasting 18 incredible twisting and winding slides set amongst a tropical climate, feel as if you’re in a sunny country abroad as you splash about with your loved ones.
The LC in Swansea is the biggest indoor waterpark in Wales and is the perfect day out for all the family. Take on the thrills of the wave pools and splash into the water as you travel down the multitude of thrilling waterslides, before letting your little ones entertain themselves in an aquatic maze play zone.
With the Waterworld Leisure Resort in Stoke-on-Trent and the Time Capsule Waterpark in Coatbridge, Scotland, there are so many waterparks to choose from to satisfy your thrill for adventure. There’s no better way to spend your time with your family this summer.
17. See the UK’s natural beauty by exploring coastal caves
Sian Victoria © - Hollywell bay beach, View of Gull rocks from cave, Cornwall
Although it may be surprising, the UK happens to be home to an extensive array of caves, lining the coastline with many hiding in plain sight.
See the breath-taking beauty of Merlin’s Cave in Cornwall, boasting a sheltered beach and a stunning 330-foot cave under the rugged cliffs of Tintagel Castle, or Fingal’s Cave in the Inner Hebrides, which will astound you with its basalt columns and pillars that make this cave such a geological wonder.
Travel to Northern Ireland to see the Cushendun Caves. A famous Game of Thrones filming site, these caves will certainly catch your eye if you’re a film buff.
So why not make the most of the UK’s natural beauty by paying a visit to these incredible sites this summer? With so many caves lining the coast, you'll be left speechless after seeing the unspoilt beauty of these geological features that hold many fascinating stories.
18. Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience by trying out extreme sports
Sian Victoria © - The Wrekin hill, Telford
Happen to be a thrill seeker? Why not give extreme sports a try? From abseiling down UK cliffs to paragliding, extreme sports are the best activity for an adrenaline junkie.
Go coasteering and cliff jumping off the iconic Causeway coast in Northern Ireland, canyon down a waterfall in Cumbria, or even try cliff camping in Anglesey in North Wales, where you’ll be up close with the rugged North Wales landscape like never before.
Or, if you fancy trying something a little tamer – but still perfect for your adventure spirit – take a trip down England’s fastest zip wire at the Eden Project in Cornwall. Plummet across 660 metres of stunning countryside and see the UK from a new perspective.
Step out of your comfort zone this summer and try out an extreme sport that will put you to the test!
19. Embark on a great British road trip
Sian Victoria © - Hollywell bay beach, Cornwall
If you’ve always dreamed of road-tripping along historic Route 66, you can discover many beautiful places to explore on a road trip right here in the United Kingdom a lot closer to home.
Some of the top-rated destinations for a scenic road trip in the UK include the Scottish Highlands - along the North Coast 500 route, you’ll discover its rugged landscape, picturesque lochs, and charming villages.
In the southwest of England in Cornwall you’ll find the Southwest Coastal Path offering stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, and beautiful beaches. If you travel to northern England to the Lake District along the A591 you’ll stumble across picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and scenic villages when driving from Windermere to Keswick.
If you plan to do any of the other activities in Wales on this list, be sure to drive along the Snowdonia National Park on the A470 road, it offers a scenic view of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and stunning coastline that can be found in abundance in this region.
Of course, this summer travel itinerary list wouldn’t be complete without recommending a visit to the Cotswolds. The Cotswold Way route enables you to experience rolling hills, villages, and historic market towns in this charming area of central England. Located northeast of England is the Northumberland Coast this hidden gem offers unspoiled views of villages, castles, and stunning beaches along the A1 coastal road. Finally, if you’re seeking an epic long road trip across the UK visit The Isle of Skye. On the A87 road is a stunningly beautiful island off the west coast of Scotland, with a rugged coastline, dramatic mountains, and picturesque villages.
These are just a few of the many scenic routes for you to explore across the UK, but before planning a road trip be sure to check the maintenance of your car to avoid any travel dilemmas.
To conclude
So, there we go! A complete rundown of some of the best activities and experiences to get up to throughout the UK during the upcoming summer months. Whether you’re spending the summer with children or otherwise, there’s sure to be an activity that takes your fancy to add to your travel itinerary this summer to experience some of the best of what the UK has to offer.
