What to do in the UK this summer

With lockdown lifted and social distancing measures in place, we've put together the ultimate guide for activities you can enjoy this summer, all around the country

By Christabel Chubb

30 July 2020

Now that everyone is out and about again after lockdown, we've put together some of the activities we're looking forward to this summer, from fruit-picking to outdoor opera, all with social distancing in mind. And if you're venturing a little further field, make sure you check out our guide to UK holidays.

1/10
Underbelly StreetEat, London
From the team behind Underbelly Festival Southbank, one of the UK’s biggest and best-loved multi-arts festivals, comes Underbelly StreetEat- a new series of food and drink pop-ups in two locations in London. The festival emphasises local tradespeople, from street food vendors to local DJs and performers and artists. StreetEat on the Southbank opens on 24th July, and StreetEat Wimbledon park will open on 31st July.
underbelly.co.uk
2/10
Oast Farm, East Sussex
This idyllic farm in Buxted has reopened its farm shop and cafe, offering nothing but the best local produce. For us, the real excitement is in their fresh fruit picking. Book your slot online and pick your own selection of seasonal fruits, berries and vegetables.
oastfarmbuxted.co.uk
3/10
The Royal Opera House x Luna Cinema
This summer the Royal Opera House has teamed up with Luna Drive-in Cinema to broadcast four ROH favourites in some of the country’s most beautiful locations. Visit Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle, Allianz Park, Knebworth House, Tatton Park and Harewood House to enjoy The Royal Opera’s La Bohème and La Traviata, as well as The Royal Ballet’s Swan Lake and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
roh.org.uk
4/10
Mayfield Lavender Farm
Just 15 miles from the centre of London sits this beautiful 25 acre lavender farm. Visitors can walk through the bright purple fields and feel instantly soothed by the heady aroma of lavender, and enjoy the homemade lavender oil harvested from their two varieties of flower. Fresh lavender tea is served in the al-fresco restaurant. This is the perfect place for a socially distanced day trip.
mayfieldlavender.com

5/10
Barbican Conservatory, London
Concealed within the concrete walls of the Barbican Centre is this utopia of greenery and plants. For the first time this summer, it will be open to the public on weekdays. Reserve your slot for free online to secure your visit to this central London paradise.
barbican.org.uk
6/10
Luna Drive-in Cinema, nationwide
For film fanatics, the Luna Driv- in cinema is an ideal socially distanced outing. Simply drive up to one of their several scenic locations and enjoy one of your favourite films- from Romeo and Juliet to The Devil Wears Prada- all from the comfort of your front seat. You can also reserve a socially distanced seat placed in front of the screen.
thelunacinema.com
7/10
West End Musical Drive-in, London
West End musical fans will be delighted to hear that you can now enjoy live musical hits from your car at the West End Musical Drive-in. Performances from the West End's favourite stars will be streamed live to screens at The Drive In, N18. Contactless food and drink vendors will even be available to deliver food directly to your car.
westendmusicaldrivein.co.uk
8/10
Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
The Regent's Park open air theatre, which last year saw a celebrated performance of Evita, is back with Tim Rice and Andrew Loyd Webber's popular Jesus Christ Superstar: The Concert. Capacity has been reduced dramatically to accommodate new social distancing rules, so book your tickets before they’re all gone!
openairtheatre.com

9/10
Glyndebourne, East Sussex
Glyndebourne Opera House in the heart of the Sussex countryside will be returning this August for their world-famous open air opera from August 12-28. Part one of this summer’s performance sees Robin Ticciati and the London Philharmonic Orchestra take us on a journey spanning six centuries, including works by Gabrieli, Wagner and Mahler, followed by part two: Jacques Offenbach’s one-act French farce, Mesdames de la Halle.
glyndebourne.com
10/10
Hampstead Heath ponds
The swimming ponds on Hampstead Heath have reopened for visitors to enjoy scenic and refreshing swims during the hot days this summer. Book your 60-minute slot online and enjoy an hour of escape from the close quarters of lockdown life. You’ll hardly believe you’re still in London.
hampsteadheath.net