7 Things to do this Summer

We are now officially into the great British summer and so what better way to celebrate than getting out the house and doing some fun activities. If you’re one of those people who have forgotten what possibilities there are in the great wide world due to too many months sat at home worrying about lockdown, then don’t worry. One, we know how you feel and two, we’ve come up with a list of a few ideas to help you out.

Try a new sport

Is there a better time of year to try a new sport? Probably not. Plus, this year we’ve go the Euros, Wimbledon and the Olympics all to get stuck into. There’s bound to be a sport you come across and fancy giving a try at some point. When you’ve decided on one, why not ask a friend to join you or search for a club on the internet. It’s a great way to get active, meet some new people and, depending on the sport you choose, getting some fresh air.

Get into gardening

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or allotment, then getting out in the garden is a great option this summer. Research has shown that gardening helps fight disease, boosts your mood, improves memory, reduces stress and builds your strength. Even with no garden or allotment you can still tend to some houseplants and a window box to reap the benefits. Plus, there is a deep satisfaction making dinner with vegetables or decorating your house with plants you grew yourself.

BBQ

It seems rude not to have a BBQ when the weather warms up. Whether you use charcoal or gas (we won’t get into that debate) there is something very satisfying about cooking outside over some flames. While the BBQ was once just the preserve of meat eaters, we’re now much more clued up on vegetarian and vegan options with plenty of great recipes out there. Also, a BBQ is a great time to enjoy some nice weather and socialise with friends and family.

Go for a hike

Whether you want to travel further afield or stay local, there is bound to be a great walk close by. Although hiking might bring to mind mountains and valleys, a walk down a local canal path can be just as satisfying. Also, you may be surprised to find there are parks and trails a lot closer than you think when you start doing some research. Going for a good hike also provides a brain boost, upping your creativity, can strengthen your immune system, is good exercise and reduces your risk of diseases.

Cook a new recipe

During the summer is a brilliant time to try a new recipe. It’s easy to get stuck making the same meals over and over, but now the sun is out (hopefully) why not find a new salad recipe, a BBQ recipe or a pasta recipe. Find a recipe with your favourite ingredients and just go for it. Getting some new recipes in your rotation will keep things interesting and is bound to impress your friends and family.

Road trip

A classic, a road trip somewhere is the epitome of a carefree summer. While it may sound like it has to be long and cover hundreds of miles, a road trip can be whatever you want to make it. You can plan a route or just pick a direction and go, whether it be 50 miles or 5,000 miles you’re bound to see some great things along the way. Don’t forget to stop at locations that seem interesting as you go along, some spontaneity is always good for a road trip.

Visit an outdoor market or street festival

You may see adverts online or posters for them semi-regularly and just ignore them, but it’s certainly worth being open-minded about. It’s highly likely that there is at least one outdoor market or street festival close by and usually there are a variety. Peek at social media or in local magazines to find out what there is coming up nearby and find something that takes your fancy. It could be a farmers market, a local craft fair or a street festival.