Welcome back to the GREAT outdoors
Summer is here, and the great outdoors is ready and waiting for you. Thousands of theme parks, gardens, zoos and other amazing places can’t wait to welcome you back – and you don’t even need to travel far to find something to suit all the family.
So now’s the time to swap your balcony for the beach or your sofa for a safari park. If you fancy a day out, there are so many great places reopening – and they’ve put in new measures to keep you safe while still making sure you can have fun.
Whether you’re returning to old favourites or finding somewhere new, you’re bound to fall in love with the best the UK has to offer.
The best place to check what’s open is the attractions’ websites. They’ll also give you the most up-todate information on what to expect once you get there. With many places having reduced capacity, it’s essential to book ahead – and once you get there, you’ll find measures such as one-way systems. You can also check whether cafes and toilets are open so you’re not caught short.
Zoos, safari parks and theme parks like Woburn, Chessington and Lightwater Valley are high on many kids’ wish lists. And if they’re not your idea of fun, there are lots of other ways to spend a summer’s day. Fresh air awaits on rambling walks, and the National Trust is reopening its gardens; you’ll find them a lot less crowded, so it’s the perfect time to visit. You need to pre-book, though, and tickets for the week ahead are released on a Friday. Find inspiration at nationaltrust.org.uk.
A day trip to the seaside is a winner for all ages, and this is the ideal time to go off the beaten track and visit one of the quieter beaches to find peace, golden sand and loads of space to relax and sunbathe. (Or huddle under a blanket if you didn’t plan ahead and order the sunshine!)
And as we head back to our beautiful open spaces, please don’t be the sort of people w h o think it’s
OK to drop litter. Bring an extra carrier bag so you can take it with you if bins are full. Keep dogs on a lead so they don’t disturb wildlife and don’t leave their mess behind.
One of the best parts of a good day out is the food. Pack a picnic with sarnies and cake from a local cafe, grab fish and chips on the beach or stop off at a gastropub. Disposable barbecues can cause wildfires, so opt for a takeaway burger instead. And don’t forget an ice cream!