Top 10 things to do August bank holiday

Whatever the weather, we’ve got your Bank Holiday weekend sorted. From fresh air adventures and cultural days out to stay-at-home activities, keep reading for great ideas for the whole family.

Go to an outdoor theatre

For a culture fix this Bank Holiday, an experience that’s worth risking the rain for is a seat in an open-air theatre. The award-winning Regent’s Park theatre in London serves up a mixture of performances – from Shakespeare to Charles Dickens – in beautiful green surroundings. If you’re in the capital over the long weekend, you can catch a special production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

Plant your own patch

Have some fun in your own back garden by planting a vegetable patch. The little ones will love getting their hands messy and it’s a great way to encourage them to eat their vegetables by growing their own. If you’re not sure where to begin, start by planting veg that you can eat straight away, like tomatoes.

More for tips for growing your own vegetable garden

Escape to a secret garden

Hidden around the UK, are lesser-known oases that will make for a perfect peaceful day out. In Nottinghamshire, Pure Land Japanese Garden gates will be open every day of the Bank Holiday weekend. Wander through the two-acre garden filled with water features, bridges, hills and traditional Japanese features like koi carp, maple and bamboo. The garden even featured in ‘Inspirational Gardens of the World’ by the AA and ‘The Best British Gardens’ on ITV!

Go wild at the Zoo

Have a wild weekend at Chester Zoo. Whether you take a guided tour or make your own route, the whole family can monkey around as they discover thousands of exotic and endangered animals, including Asian Elephants, Two-Toed Sloths and Humboldt Penguins. And don’t forget, there’s lots more to uncover at the Zoo’s conservation and science resources. Crowds of visitors will visit over the weekend so make sure you arrive as early as possible.

Swim outdoors

Embrace the British Summer before it’s too late by taking a dip into one of the UK’s lakes, rivers or waterfalls. If you pack up your swimming costume and snorkeling gear, and navigate through British countryside you’ll discover fresh pools and cascades in the Lake District, Blue Lagoons across Wales and waterfalls in Cornwall.

Take a beach day

Rather be beside the seaside? Our own little island has stunning shores galore. If you fancy a trip to Wales, Cardiff Bay's Roald Dahl Plass will be fun for everyone. As well as a place to watch the waves roll in, you’ll find fairground rides, a Tropical Bay Bar and restaurants to entertain your family.

Try indoor camping

If the forecast doesn’t look so good, don’t let it dampen your Bank Holiday fun. You can bring the camping experience into the comfort and safety of your own home. Let the kids get creative by building their own den – all they’ll need to do is simply tie poles together and drape a sheet over them to create a cool teepee. Or if your prince and princess would prefer to create a fort, all you need is a few couch cushions and a blanket. 

Stop by a science museum

Whilst school’s out, keep your kids’ minds active with a trip to a science museum. The Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester has lots of sciencey-stuff to get stuck into. They can create a tornado, watch their skeleton ride a bicycle, learn the history of Britain’s railways and even play a game of Pacman and Mario. If that wasn’t exciting enough, entry is free!

Get creative in the kitchen

Cool down this summer by creating your very own refreshing treats. Your mini bakers will love making their own fruity rainbow lollypops or handmade ice cream.

Visit a Sea Life Centre

Want to see the stars of the ocean this Bank Holiday weekend? You’ll find plenty swimming around Birmingham’s National Sea Life Centre. The little ones will be mesmerised by the myriad of exotic rays, sea turtles and toothy sharks – don’t forget to keep an eye out for Nemo!