Summer Bucket List Ideas

Warm summer nights, freshly mown grass and the smell of BBQs in the air, what’s not to love about summer? Other than the wasps and the sunburn, but let's breeze over that. With longer nights and warmer weather, summer offers an abundance of opportunities to indulge in life’s simple pleasures. From picking wildflowers and visiting the seaside to watching the beauty of a sunrise on a hot air balloon ride, summer has a magical way of making the ordinary feel extraordinary.

Whether you’re looking to create fun filled memories with friends or romantic moments with someone special, we’ve curated a list of unmissable Summer bucket list ideas, ranging from the simple to the magnificent. So, join us as we explore fun summer activities for everyone!

Key Takeaways

• Whether you’re a family, couple or solo explorer, there are many summer activities for you.

• There are plenty of free activities to save the pennies this summer.

• Mindfulness activities make for a great bucket list goal.

Enjoy hot summer days with your loved one, with these unmissable adventures! From the magic of a hot air balloon experience to the enchantment of stargazing, there’s no shortage of summer bucket list activities for couples.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

While the UK isn’t known for its beautiful weather, summertime is the best chance to experience the magic of a hot air balloon ride. Drifting gracefully above the countryside, you'll be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills, patchwork fields, and quaint villages below. Nestled in the traditional wicker basket, you'll feel a sense of tranquillity and wonder as you soar gently through the sky, carried by the wind. Whether it's a romantic excursion for two or a thrilling adventure with friends, a hot air balloon ride promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Go Jet Skiing

Jet skiing is a must have on any summer bucket list for couples, offering the perfect blend of excitement and adventure on the water. Whether you're exploring hidden coves or racing along the coastline, jet skiing promises thrilling moments and unforgettable memories to cherish for years to come.

Go Stargazing

While you might have to stay up much later for the sky to go dark, it will be so worth the wait. Stargazing is an unbeatable summer bucket list activity because it offers the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky, So grab a blanket, find a comfy spot, and make the most of summer’s clear night skies in your very own backyard!

Go on a River Punt

Punting offers the perfect, quintessential summer activity for couples looking to explore the city from an entirely fresh perspective. With the sun on their face and idyllic scenery all around, couples can enjoy a lazy day in each other's company, as they soak up the great outdoors.

Go Scuba Diving or Snorkelling

Wales, Cornwall, Devon, and Scotland boast some of the most spectacular spots for diving and snorkelling in the UK. While the UK isn't known for its warm waters, the warm season offers the best chance to experience the beauty of these underwater landscapes. So, if you’re looking for a unique summer adventure, grab your wetsuit and dive into the refreshing waters of the UK's top diving and snorkelling destinations.

Go Glamping

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in the luxury of nature with a romantic glamping getaway for two. Set amidst picturesque landscapes, glamping provides couples with the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the campfire, stargazing from your private deck, or simply snuggling up under the blankets, glamping offers a welcome summer retreat and a chance to enjoy some quality time together, away from the hustle and bustle.

If you’re looking for things to do in the summer holidays, these unique outdoor activities are just the thing to create fun for the whole family.

Visit the Seaside

Keep the kids entertained with a day of sun, sand, and salty air. From building a sand castle to splashing in the waves and collecting seashells, a day trip to the beach offers the perfect blend of family fun, the freedom of the outdoors and perhaps one too many ice creams!

Outdoor Cinema

Whether you do this at home or attend an organised event in one of your local parks, an outdoor cinema experience is the epitome of summer entertainment. From classic movies to heartbreaking romcoms, there’s something truly special about watching your favourite films under the stars with your family by your side. So grab your snacks, find a cosy spot, and let the movie magic unfold in the great outdoors.

Go Strawberry Picking

The perfect way to spend a hot summer day, strawberry picking is a must-do summer activity, offering fun for the entire family. From small and sweet to big and juicy, you’ll delight your taste buds as you compete to find the biggest strawberries on the farm before enjoying the fruits of your labour. It's a classic summer adventure with plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and delicious treats to enjoy together.

Visit a Hot Air Balloon Festival

If you've never experienced the magic of a hot air balloon festival, then you're in for a treat! From the wonder of hot air balloon rides to the beauty of a night glow performance, hot air balloon fiestas offer a wealth of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. It's the perfect summer activity, providing a unique opportunity to witness breathtaking sights, enjoy live music, and experience the thrill of adventure from high above the ground.

Go Zip Lining

If you have some thrill-seekers amongst you, a zip line adventure is the perfect way to add some excitement to your summer bucket list. Whether you're soaring over lush forests, gliding across canyons, or crossing scenic valleys, zip lining offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for daredevils of all ages.

Play Mini Golf

Mini golf offers the perfect blend of friendly competition and outdoor fun, making it an ideal outing for families of all ages. Whether you're aiming for the perfect shot or simply enjoying the laughter and camaraderie, mini golf promises hours of entertainment, perfect for making the most of the warm weather throughout the summer months.

Summer’s a great time to get outdoors and make the most of the warm weather. From picnics in the park to beach outings and outdoor festivals, there's no shortage of fun things to do with friends.

Have a Picnic in Your Local Park

Enjoy lazy summer days with a picnic in the park! Gather your friends, pack a delicious spread of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, and head to your local park for a day of relaxation and fun. Whether you're playing games, sharing stories, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, a picnic in the park is the perfect way to unwind and make the most of the sunny days ahead.

Go on a Foraging Experience

If you’re looking for something that’s a little out of the ordinary, a foraging experience is a great way to connect with the outdoors while spending quality time with friends. Embark on a nature-inspired treasure hunt as you explore the wilderness together, discovering wild edible plants, berries, and herbs hidden in the natural landscape. It's a unique summer adventure that will not only deepen your appreciation for nature but also create unforgettable memories with your friends.

Summer Music Festival

Come rain or shine a summer music festival is one of the best things to do in summer, especially with your best friends! There's something magical about experiencing live music at an outdoor concert, surrounded by the energy of the crowd and the excitement of the performers. Whether you're rocking out to your favourite bands, discovering new artists, or simply soaking in the festival vibes, it's a summer adventure that promises endless fun and unforgettable moments with your nearest and dearest.

Go Wine Tasting

Grab your partners in wine and indulge in the cultural luxury of a wine tasting experience. Whether you're a connoisseur or a novice, there’s no better time to enjoy the fruity bouquet of summer wines, each with its own unique flavour profile and story. With the warm sun overhead and the gentle breeze in the air, wine tasting is the perfect summer activity, blending relaxation with discovery.

Host a Garden BBQ

A garden BBQ is simply a must do activity for summer! As soon as you get a whiff of that unmistakeable BBQ smell, drifting from your neighbours garden, you’ll be unable to resist the opportunity to gather your friends, and enjoy an evening of good food and even better company.

Start a Summer Book Club

Whether you're a seasoned bookworm or new to the literary scene, starting a Summer Book Club is a fantastic idea. From connecting with friends over shared interests to discovering juicy recommendations for your upcoming holiday reading list, a book club offers a fun and thought-provoking summer escape.

Put yourself first this summer, with enriching activities tailored for your personal growth and enjoyment. Whether it's learning to surf, embarking on a wellness retreat, or simply taking time to reconnect with nature, these solo adventures promise to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, leaving you refreshed and inspired for the season ahead.

Try Outdoor Yoga

When searching for your inner zen, the outdoors offers the perfect ambience for practising yoga. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, outdoor yoga allows you to connect more deeply with your surroundings and find harmony within yourself. Whether you're practising sun salutations in a tranquil park or balancing poses on the beach, the beauty of the outdoors offers a welcome escape.

Learn to Surf

If you’re a water baby at heart, ​​surfing offers a wonderful escape from everyday life and a chance to find freedom amongst the waves. Whether you're riding the swell or simply floating in the ocean, there's a sense of peace and exhilaration that comes with each wave. It's a sport that connects you with nature and allows you to leave your worries behind as you focus on the rhythm of the sea. So grab your board, paddle out, and let the waves wash away your cares as you take on the challenge of surfing lessons this summer.

Go Sky Diving

Is it something that you’ve always wanted to do but the nerves keep putting you off? Well, maybe this is the year to take the leap and conquer those fears! Skydiving offers an unparalleled thrill and a chance to push your boundaries like never before. So, gather your courage, embrace the adrenaline rush, and make this the summer you soar to new heights and create unforgettable memories.

Pick Wildflowers

With an abundance of beautiful wildflowers scattering our landscapes, summer is a lovely time to pick wildflowers. There's so much you can do with them - dry them to preserve their beauty, arrange them into stunning bouquets, or get crafty and create a wildflower wreath or flower crown. Let your creativity bloom as you explore the beauty of nature and bring a touch of the outdoors into your home.

Go on a Wellness Retreat

A wellness retreat offers a welcome escape where you can get amongst nature and enjoy life's simple pleasures. Whether it’s yoga on the beach, cold water swims or a digital detox, a wellness retreat is a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the present moment, recharging your mind, body, and soul amidst the serene beauty of nature.

Create a Summer Playlist

There’s nothing quite like a summer playlist to infuse you with the happy vibes of the season. Whether it's laid back chill or up beat dance anthems, a summer playlist is a must for your summer bucket list, serving as the perfect soundtrack for those unforgettable summer moments.

Soak up the sunshine and get outdoors with these free things to do in summer that promise endless fun and unforgettable memories.

Visit a Farmer’s Market

If the sun is shining and the birds are singing, there's no better time to take a trip to your local farmer’s market. These vibrant hubs of culture and produce offer a wonderful selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses, sweet treats, and handcrafted wares. Here you can wander through the stalls, sample seasonal produce, and soak up the lively atmosphere as you connect with the community and enjoy the simple pleasures of local living. Not only is this a chance to support local farmers and artisans, but it also makes a wholesome day out for both grown ups and youngsters alike.

Cold Water Swimming

If there’s ever a good time for cold water swimming, it’s summertime. Known for its countless health benefits, cold water swimming is an invigorating way to refresh both body and mind on those hot summer days. Whether you're plunging into a natural lake, diving into the sea, or taking a dip in a chilly river, the shock of the cold water is sure to awaken your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and energised.

Watch the Sunrise and Sunset on the Summer Solstice

Magnificent at any time of year, but there’s something very special about witnessing the sunrise and sunset on the longest day of the year. Whether you choose a quiet hilltop, a sandy beach, or a sunrise hot air balloon ride to watch the magic unfold, the summer solstice offers a moment of reflection and connection with the natural world. So wherever you find yourself on the summer solstice, take a moment to soak in the beauty of the sunrise and sunset, and let the magic of the longest day fill you with wonder and gratitude.

Make Ice Cream

Indulge your sweet tooth and beat the summer heat by making your own delicious ice cream! There's something magical about whipping up a batch of homemade ice cream, from choosing your favourite flavours to watching it churn and freeze before your eyes. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or exotic fresh fruit, the flavour possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your own frozen treats.

Go on a Waterfall Hike

If you thought you had to go to Iceland to see a good waterfall, then think again! The UK is filled with beautiful natural gems and an abundance of stunning waterfalls just waiting to be discovered. From the natural beauty of the Lake District to the enchanting falls of Snowdonia, there's no shortage of spectacular sights to behold right here in the UK. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the power and serenity of these magnificent waterfalls.

Visit a National Trust Property

Whether it’s a free museum, a country garden, or a centuries old stately home, the National Trust offers a huge variety of historic and natural wonders to explore. While many properties may have a fee or require membership, there are also hidden gems that are completely free to visit, offering a great day out for the whole family.

With the freedom of long days and warmer weather, there are so many things to do in the summer to make the most of the season. From thrilling adventures like hot air balloon rides and zip lining to tranquil pursuits such as stargazing and picnics in the park, our summer bucket list offers something for everyone. So, embrace the sunshine, gather your loved ones, and embark on a journey filled with laughter, discovery, and endless possibilities.