It’s going to be a slightly different looking summer for sure. We don’t know what disruptions may lie ahead, there is still some ambiguity on what is open. And of course there is the looming question on how comfortable we feel out and about. Especially considering the number of people we’ll see at the places we want to visit.

So we’ve tried to come up with some varied ideas on things you can do this summer; your summer bucket list if you will. We think these activities, whether you’re a couple or a family (with young or older children) will be enjoyed by all. We’d love to see your adventures so let us know what you get up to on social or in the comments below.

1. Visit a historical landmark/site/place

Be a part of something huge! Take Stonehenge for example- it’s defined as prehistoric, protected as a World Heritage Site (recognised internationally as important and deserving special protection), dates back over 5,000 years, considered, by some, a Wonder of the World. This is a site of huge significance and historical heritage of great importance. By visiting such a site, your enriching your knowledge of our culture, heritage and experiencing something so phenomenal and architecturally awe-inspiring.

Just think, when sites such as Stonehenge were created (let’s even consider some stately homes and castles), they certainly didn’t have the tools and machinery we depend on today! Take a look at the English Heritage site to see what you’ll discover next. With plenty of outdoor sites to see, there is sure to be something you’ll be comfortable visiting.

2. Head to a lido or open air pool

Image provided by Nick on Flickr

Some pools are starting to open up again and outdoor pools are especially perfect for those particularly hot summer days. Things are looking a little different when it comes to visiting your local pool, with many sites operating a booking-only system. Find you local lido and outdoor pools with Poolfinder and then look to your local centres website for their COVID policies and information.

When you head to the lido make sure you take plenty of sunscreen and apply each time you get out of the pool, wear a hat to to avoid sunstroke, especially if you don’t plan on doing any deep sea diving, and drink plenty of fluids.

Most lido’s allow you to take your own food and drink or else they normally have little cafes, restaurants, and tuck shops on site for your snack needs (ice cream is a must surely!).

3. Take a road trip

It doesn’t have to be a vacation, it could just be a day out.

You don’t necessarily need a destination to go on an adventure or even spend days at a time on the road. It could be as simple as filling your car with fuel and finding a quaint little pub in the country or finding a spot that’s worth an explore. Sometimes the most impromptu adventures are the most memorable; you may find a spot you never knew you were looking for. We live in a really pretty country so just enjoy the sites. Don’t forget the tunes though!

4. Educate yourself- Go to an exhibition/museum

Lots of museums are opening up once more. Again, things are going to operate a little differently and some, sadly, may not open at all this season. So, it’s advisable to check before you travel as booking will likely be essential.

Not only may you learn something new but there are lots of museums, tours etc. that don’t cost a penny. So if you’re stuck for something to do whether rainy or not (sometimes we just need somewhere cool to go and hide), look to your local museum or gallery. I bet you’ll be surprised with what you find and it’s a great way to spend a day.

5. See a film under the stars

There is nothing more romantic and arguably more civilized than snuggling under a blanket to watch a movie under the nights sky. Whether an old time favourite, or discovering something new for the first time, you’re guaranteed an enjoyable evening.

Drive & Dine Theatre and The Luna Cinema are both national companies that are running socially distanced screenings across the country. In the case of Drive & Dine, from your own vehicle! Secret Cinema are also running a drive-in movie experience with what they call ‘a Secret Cinema twist’, if you’ve been to one of their screenings before, or seen the promotions for their events, you’ll know how it’s more than just a screening of your favourite movie, it’s living it too!

If you can’t find an outdoor cinema near you- why not create your own and host a screening at home.

6. Play sports

Take a frisbee to the park, play hit and catch with a bat and ball in the street (mind the cars!), hit the tennis courts, go rollerskating, plan a cycle ride, gloomy and rainy? Go bowling! There are endless possibilities to getting a little exercise that can prove fairly inexpensive, particularly if you already have the equipment to hand. What’s more, you’ll unleash your inner child, get lungfuls of fresh air and feel immensely good and happy once you’re done!

7. Be an explorer!

Whether you have children or not- we all love a sense of adventure. Steak out your local woods, find a walking route/somewhere to visit with the National Trust, visit a place you’ve never been to but have wanted to. Wear a good pair of shoes, take your camera to capture the jaw dropping beauty, dare to go where you’ve never been before and live for the moment.

8. Go star gazing

Whether camping under the stars or not, enjoy the Perseid Meteor shower which returns between the 17th and 24th of August, peaking on the 12th and 13th. Earth Sky argue that this shower is perhaps the most beloved meteor shower of the year for the Northern Hemisphere, as they’re known to be fast and bright meteors, leaving persistent trains. The Perseid shower builds gradually to a peak, often producing 50 to 100 meteors per hour in a dark sky. The Perseid’s tend to strengthen in number as late night deepens into midnight, and typically produce the most meteors in the early hours before dawn, with the meteors appearing in all parts of the sky (no need to wonder which direction/which constellation to look at).

9. Break a record

Lost for ideas on a project to take on this summer? Why not take a look at the Guinness World Records and see what challenges you can take on at home. There are tons of suggestions on their site for projects and tasks you can do in the home, garden, or anywhere, with something for everyone. You could look at taking on a group challenge this summer or help each other achieve your own goals. Keep a video diary of your accomplishments and share your progress with friends and family. You could even help raise some money to support some of the people affected by the current pandemic.

We hope our little guide has been inspiring for your summer season. What do you like to get up to in the summer?