The UK is blessed with thousands of attractions, adventures and activities. Whether you need to keep the whole family entertained, are a couple looking for a break from the norm, or are planning to venture out on your own, we've put together some ideas to help you make the most of your free time.
Fun for all the family
- We know the summer holidays can be expensive, so if you're a Sparks member check out M&S's Sparks Days out, which gives you three months' access to discounts and savings on everything from theme park and zoo visits, to cinema trips and staycations. Spend £35 or more on clothing and homeware to access these savings. If you're not already a member you can sign up to Sparks.*
- Talking of zoo visits, there are plenty of opportunities to see animals in the flesh this summer – or should that be fur? As well as the big zoos and aquariums, there are also more niche animal parks, farms and sanctuaries open to the public, from bug and butterfly zoos, to falconry centres and seal and donkey rescue centres. Search online for one near you.
- Buckets, sandcastles, ice cream – you can't beat a day at the seaside! And with over 11,000 miles of coastline around Great Britain, there are some amazing spots to dip your toes in the water. Take a picnic with you, to help keep costs down.
- For something a bit more adventurous, take a ride to one of the many and varied theme parks up and down the UK. When the weather's fine, pleasure parks, fun fairs and live experiences keep children entertained all day long.
Treats for two
- There's plenty of water in the UK and getting out on it is a great way to enjoy time together as a couple. From sleeping over in a canal boat, to taking a boat out on the lakes, or punting down a river, why not make waves?
- The two of you could spend a day window shopping and taking in the sights in one of the UK's historic cities. Then finish the day in style with a sundowner cocktail on the terrace of a local bar, as you watch the sun gently flicker away over the horizon.
- Fancy a relaxing, stress-free day for two? Then treat yourselves to a couples' spa day. There are lots of spa hotels around the UK and some of the best ones offer private en-suite spa facilities, outdoor saunas and stunning countryside views. Shop around to make sure you get the best deal.
- If you're feeling more adventurous, take to the air in a hot air balloon. It's totally exhilarating, and you'll get to see some of the most wonderful sights in Britain like never before. Balloon rides at sunrise and sunset are not only awe inspiring, they're romantic too.
Flying solo
- Cookery courses are all the rage and it's easy to see why. They're fun, sociable and you get to learn a great new skill too. There's probably one simmering away close to where you live.
- Alternatively, you might want to give wine tasting a try, journeying through the fascinating world of wine, guided by an expert tutor, who can teach you the best wines to pair with different foods.
- Walking through the countryside on your own is a great way to get fresh air into your lungs and clear your mind – and it won't cost you a penny! Being outside has lots of health benefits and, if you decide you'd prefer some company, there are walking groups all over the UK you can join.
- If you're more of an adrenaline junkie, why not give bungee jumping, sky diving or a zip wire a whirl? There are plenty of centres all over Great Britain offering aerial adventures to those brave enough to give it a go.
* To qualify, you'll need to have a Sparks membership and spend £35 or more on clothing and homeware, before 5 April 2023 to access these savings. You can do this once every 3 months before 5 April 2023 for a total of 9 months' access. You'll have to be logged in to your Sparks account if shopping online, or scan your Sparks card at the till if in store. Sparks Days out is powered by Kids Pass. Terms and conditions apply.