Summer days are here at last. The lighter mornings, later nights and looming school holidays mean that we have plenty of long days to fill, and so we wanted to share some top tips to get the most out of this summer.

Days out with the kids

The six-week school holiday leaves many parents asking “How do you entertain kids in the summer?” And, while it might seem like a daunting task at first, with a bit of organisation and prep work, you are sure to get the most out of every day.

UK staycations are still growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. We are so lucky to have so many places of interest and beauty on our doorsteps, and plenty of destinations to take the kids, no matter what the weather is doing.

One of the best bits of news is that there are lots of things to do in the summer that cost absolutely nothing. From trips to the coast to countryside picnics, the sunny days are easy to fill as just being outside feels like a treat. The kids can run around with a ball for hours, while you enjoy some vitamin D and watch them having fun.

How about the rainy days? Luckily, we know plenty of indoor places to shelter too. You could take the kids to a free museum in your area, hang out at the library for a reading afternoon, or even take a tent with you to the countryside and make a den to cosy up in until the rain stops!

Food & drink inspiration for your day out

A good picnic can make a day out with the kids all the better. Be sure to fill your picnic bag with lots of nibbles that don’t require a knife or fork to eat. Co-op bitesize sausage rolls and Co-op mini crispy pork pies are all perfect for little fingers to grab.

Be sure to carry plenty of water with you, so that you all stay hydrated, and you could also make up a batch of mango and pineapple smoothie to take along in a flask for a refreshing and healthy treat on the journey.

Adventures with grandparents

Many of us rely on help from grandparents in the holidays, and kids love spending time with them too, so it’s a win-win.

Active grandparents may enjoy a nice country walk or visit to the nearest farm, or perhaps they could take the grandkids to one of the hundreds of National Trust sites located around the UK. From magnificent medieval fortresses and Tudor houses to coastal trails and wildlife reserves, there is something for everyone to enjoy, no matter how old they are. Many of these places have accessible locations, and easy walking routes for all ages, but remember to check online or call them up before you set off to check their facilities.

For grandparents who are less mobile, there are plenty of activities that you can do with the kids at home. You could plan a delicious picnic in the garden with plenty of good old summer games such as boules, croquet or mini sack throwing. Simply throw out a large blanket on the grass or patio, set out some deckchairs or comfy cushions, and your picnic area is ready. Plus, if the weather turns a little chilly, you can always take the picnic blanket into the lounge and continue the fun inside.

Food & drink inspiration for your home picnic

When you are picnic-ing at home, you don’t have to worry so much about things that are easy to transport or carry.

The kids will love our easy bruschetta recipe, which you can serve with a big bowl of salad and some homemade coleslaw too. Or you could pop some tasty mini quiche Lorraines in the oven for a tasty afternoon snack.

Epic events with friends

Summer is a great time to hang out with friends; enjoying the slower pace of life together with plenty of great food and drinks. And, if you are looking for things to do with friends in summer, then we have lots of good ideas.

Weekend beach days are great and mean that you can also incorporate a bit of light competition too. You could set up a beach volleyball game or a water bucket relay to work up an appetite before sharing a beach feast. These games are sure to end in a lot of laughter and memories to take away with you.

If you are looking for ideas for at-home events you can enjoy with friends, then why not set up a projector in your garden to enjoy a movie or a big sporting game? You will need to wait until the sun goes down to enjoy the best views, but you can whip up a tasty BBQ while you wait. You could also plan a late-afternoon wine tasting or cocktail making event in your back garden, depending on what you and your friends like to drink. Alternatively put together a great playlist and dance the night away, pretending you are at a festival – cowboy hats and ponchos optional!

Food & drink inspiration for your epic event  

If you are going with the projector idea, then all you need is some beers and bowl food to go around. Walkers mashups or Old El Paso nachips are always winners, and you could whip up some quick and easy salsa to dip into.

For wine night, you could select one red, one white and one rosé for everyone to sample, or if you prefer cocktails, then look up some summertime-themed drinks, for example Aperol spritz or our raspberry peach gin fizz. You can also make some great mocktails like this zero-alcohol mojito.

A bowl of halloumi fries or cheesy nachos will always go down a treat with your best friends, and chocolate orange brownies are great to share later in the night.

We hope you have a fantastic summer with all your friends and family, and if you’ve tried some of our recipes then don’t forget to tag us in your pics to share your success!

Always drink responsibly. To find out more, visit Drinkaware.