Bank Holiday Monday is the perfect time to step away from your daily routine and do something that feels a little different. This holiday provides you with an exceptional opportunity to take a break and recharge yourself by exploring your surroundings or pursuing your hobby. For example, you can spend the day hiking, camping, shopping, or exploring destinations you have always wanted to visit.
How to make the most of this Bank Holiday Monday and make the vacation both fulfilling and fun? This article will provide different things to do on Bank Holiday Monday, ranging from short trips and outdoor activities to trying new skills or hosting small gatherings. Plus, we will also add some equipment that may be used when going out, such as portable electric generators, to enhance your travel experience.
Whether you prefer quietness or liveliness, you can find a way that suits you and make Bank Holidays an unforgettable memory!
Outdoor Adventures
A Bank Holiday Monday is an ideal time to go outdoors and explore your favourite activities. Here are some famous outdoor Bank Holiday getaways that you can pursue:
1. Hiking in Parks
Hiking in the park is one of the most excellent things to do on Bank Holiday Monday to exercise. Choose a route that suits you most, bring lightweight equipment and water, and enjoy the tranquillity of strolling through the woods. If you enjoy challenges, you can try longer hikes or even combine them with picnics to make the itinerary more diverse.
2. Beach Day Trips
Beaches are popular short holiday destinations for a reason. Many beaches across the UK are easily accessible by car or train, making them ideal for a short and stress-free getaway. Some locations offer a calm, scenic escape with long shorelines and open skies, while others provide a more vibrant setting with food stalls, music, and family-friendly attractions.
If you enjoy activities, you can try surfing, beach volleyball, or picking seashells. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sun hats, and picnic food to make the day both comfortable and enjoyable.
3. Camping
Camping creates space to step away from screens and the usual space of life. It does not require much preparation. A tent, a few essentials, a portable electric generator, and warm clothes are often enough for one day of camping. The exact things you need will depend on the place where you are going to camp.
At night, you can also watch stars, bake food, or tell stories with friends, which are common things to do on Bank Holiday Monday.
4. Cycling Through Countryside Trails
Exploring the countryside by bike is a refreshing way to experience open spaces and quiet roads away from the usual traffic. Cycling trails usually pass through scenic landscapes, farmland, and small villages that are easy to miss when you are travelling by car.
The best thing about cycling trips is that you can personalise your trip as much as you want according to your own taste. Remember to wear a helmet and bring enough water and simple repair tools to ensure safe travel.
5. Boating or Kayaking
Boating or kayaking is also one of the top things to do on Bank Holiday Monday in the UK. Taking a boat or kayak allows you to experience the calm of the water's surface or the excitement of rapids up close. Many lakes, rivers, and canals provide rental options and beginner-friendly access, making it easy to plan even at short notice.
Cultural & Urban Exploration
Many people are also inclined to explore different cultures and urban attractions on Bank Holiday Monday. Here are some famous things to do on Bank Holiday Monday in this regard:
1. Visiting Museums
Museums are windows into the history, art, and culture of a city. Whether it's world-renowned art museums, niche speciality exhibitions, interactive technology museums, or museums dedicated to local heritage, they can all bring rich experiences to inform and inspire curious souls.
2. Touring Historical Buildings
Historic buildings reflect the social, political, and cultural narratives of the regions they belong to. Touring a preserved estate, fortress, or place of worship offers insight into how past generations lived and how those spaces have evolved over time.
3. Shopping at Small-town Markets
Bank Holiday markets in smaller towns are an excellent place to experience street culture. They offer locally sourced produce, unique handcrafted goods, and artisanal products not commonly found in mainstream retail outlets.
Shopping in these environments allows for a more personal exchange, where buyers can engage directly with sellers and learn more about the origins and craftsmanship behind each item. Find the best Bank Holiday deals to get your favourite items at discounted prices.
4. Hunting for Street Food
Delicious food is often hidden in the streets. Visit busy food stalls or pop-up vendors operating in city centres or public squares. These spots offer freshly made dishes rooted in local cuisine, often served quickly and at a reasonable price. It is a perfect way to explore the local cuisine without observing the formality of indoor dining.
5. Participating in Local Events
Check local listings for art fairs, concerts, festivals, or charity events happening on the day. These gatherings reflect the spirit of the community and can easily be joined. Attending these events, even briefly, will give you a sense of connection with your surroundings. Don't forget to take photos and record them. These experiences will become unforgettable memories during the trip.
Family Activities
Bank Holiday Monday is also the best time to enjoy simple, meaningful activities with family. Some of the top things to do on Bank Holiday Monday with families include:
1. Farm Picking
Visit a nearby farm to pick seasonal fruits or vegetables. It is an interactive outing that gives hands-on farming experience to people of every age group.
It’s suggested to check the farm's opening hours in advance and prepare sunscreen and water. After picking, you can DIY jam or fruit pie to continue the joy of harvesting.
2. Zoo Visits
Spend the day at a well-maintained zoo or wildlife park. Watching animals up close, especially during feeding times or keeper talks, makes the visit a more engaging thing to do on Bank Holiday Monday for the whole family.
3. Picnics
Pack a meal and head to a local park or green space for a picnic. A few hours outdoors with good food and simple games result in a relaxed and enjoyable family day.
4. Backyard BBQ and Stargazing
Host a small barbecue in your backyard and spend the evening outside. Once it gets dark, turn on the string lights and look up at the sky full of stars. Stargazing provides a calm and memorable way to end the day, and when you do it with the whole family, the experience gets even better. If living in the city, you can drive to places with less light pollution in the suburbs.
5. Gardening
Spending time in the garden offers a peaceful way to enjoy the day. Activities such as planting, pruning, or repotting are easy to manage and suitable for all age groups. It encourages patience and attention to detail and provides a quiet setting for families to spend time together with a shared purpose.
Food & Relaxation
Apart from taking part in physically demanding activities, Bank Holiday Monday can also be an opportunity to focus on comfort, relaxation, and laid-back experiences.
Here are some things to do on Bank Holiday Monday in this regard:
1. Afternoon Tea
Reserve a table at a local tea room or hotel and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. It is a calm, refined way to spend time with family or friends while enjoying a variety of teas, pastries, and light bites. It is recommended to book a seat by the window in advance and leave enough time for 2 hours to pause your busy life.
2. Winery Tours
Visit a winery for a guided tour where you can explore the whole winemaking process. Many wineries offer short walks through their grounds, followed by sessions where you can enjoy locally produced wines in a relaxed setting.
3. Spa
Book a massage, facial, or short wellness session at a reputable spa. Even a simple spa treatment can help reduce stress and restore energy after a busy week.
4. Hot Springs
If accessible in your area, consider a visit to thermal baths or hot spring facilities. The combination of warm water and a quiet environment offers both physical relief and mental calm.
5. Trying New Experiences
Use the day to try something different, such as a pottery class, a beginner photography walk, or a short surfing lesson. One-day sessions are often available locally and provide a refreshing change from the usual routine.
Travel Gear You Might Need
While there are many things to do on Bank Holiday Monday in the UK, you need to pack your gear properly in order to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Some equipment can help elevate your experience. Don’t forget them on this Bank Holiday Monday.
1. Multi-functional Knife
This small but versatile tool proves its worth in unexpected ways. A good quality multi-functional knife typically includes blades, screwdrivers, scissors, openers, and other compact tools that can be useful for simple repairs, meal preparation, or many other purposes during outdoor activities. If you are hiking, camping, or even organising a picnic, this lightweight item can take care of many different things that would otherwise require a lot of effort.
2. Portable Generators
When planning an outdoor trip or a full-day excursion, having access to portable power is the most important thing.
From charging essential devices to running small appliances, having a dependable source of power helps you stay prepared throughout the day. In this aspect, Jackery solar generators are built for convenience, efficiency, and reliability, making them a popular choice among outdoor travellers and families.
Two standout Jackery solar generators include the Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2 and the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2. Let's have a quick look at both of them one by one:
- Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2
Compact, lightweight, and impressively efficient, the Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2 is the ideal choice for short trips or light-duty use on Bank Holiday Monday. Its Jackery Explorer 240 v2 Portable Power Station weighs only 3.6 kg and is equipped with a foldable handle, which makes it easy to store in a backpack or car boot. The solar generator offers a substantial 256Wh capacity and a 300W output (with a 600W surge peak), which is more than enough to power mobile phones, laptops, small fans, lights, and other similar devices.
This solar generator can be charged within one hour through emergency charging mode. And you can also recharge it using solar energy and a car charger. With four output ports, including two USB-C, one USB-A, and an AC output, it can power a number of devices at once. The upgraded LiFePO4 battery extends the unit’s lifespan to up to 10 years, delivering reliable and worry-free performance.
- Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2
If you have high power needs or want to go outdoors with the whole family, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is an ideal option. This model delivers a 1070Wh capacity and a 1500W output, which is powerful enough to run devices like kettles, mini-fridges, projectors, and even some kitchen appliances with ease. Its Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station weighs only 10.8 kg and also comes with a foldable handle, making it easy to carry.
One of its standout features is ultra-fast emergency charging. When activated via the Jackery app, it can charge from 0 to full in just one hour. Standard wall charging takes approximately 1.5 hours, while solar charging using one Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel takes about 15 hours.
This unit can be controlled through the Jackery app and runs with a noise level below 22dB without disturbing your vacation.
Both these portable solar generators come with top-notch safety features that save you and your electronic equipment from common electricity hazards.
3. Compass
While digital maps and mobile apps have become a new normal in modern-day outings, you also need to carry a traditional compass as a backup that will provide you with reliable orientation when in the wilderness without signals on the phone. If you are walking a new trail or exploring unfamiliar terrain, having a compass ensures that you will not be lost in unknown locations.
4. Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent
Spending time outdoors can expose you to harsh elements. Applying sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays, even on cloudy days or during shorter periods outdoors. Similarly, mosquito repellent is essential in wooded areas, near water, or during early mornings and evenings when insects are most active. Carrying both of these items ensures a more comfortable experience and prevents avoidable irritation that can disrupt your whole trip.
5. Foldable Chair
A portable chair can significantly improve comfort during outdoor activities. It provides a reliable place to rest during picnics, events, hikes, or long walks through open spaces. Go for a lightweight and compact chair which is easy to carry and quick to set up. Having your own seat allows you to pause and enjoy the surroundings without searching for available seating.
Wrapping-Up
Bank Holiday Monday is a perfect time to rest, explore, or try something new. With the right planning and essentials and choosing things to do on Bank Holiday Monday, the day becomes more enjoyable and stress-free. The most important thing you would need is a portable solar generator that can keep all the essentials up and running. If you are planning for Bank Holiday getaways, visit the Jackery website to select one for your needs!
