Been dreaming of sunnier days for so long that you don’t actually know what to do once they arrive? Plan ahead with this list of exciting places to stay, unmissable things to do and clever kit to help you soak up the season outdoors.
Immerse yourself in a mind-bending experience in Knightsbridge
Step out of the ordinary and into Paradox Museum London, an exciting immersive attraction in Knightsbridge, where reality shifts and curiosity leads the way. Inside, find more than 50 mind-bending exhibits and challenges that make you question what you’re seeing. In the ‘impossible’ rooms, perspectives shift, and clever illusions, like walking upside down on the Tube. Create moments to catch on camera throughout the experience.
A highlight is the zero gravity interactive challenge, where balance and movement are put to the test, complete with playful missions and a verified souvenir pass. Visit with family, friends or thrill out-of-towners with a day out with a difference in the capital.
Book now at Paradoxmuseum.com/London
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Win a trip to Leuven and celebrate Belgian beer culture
This year marks 10 years since Belgian beer culture was added to Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, making it the perfect time to explore the wonders of the Flanders region through its rich brewing heritage. From traditional bruine kroegen – brown cafes – to historic breweries, the region is home to a variety of beers, including lambics, gueuzes, tripels and saisons.
The city of Leuven, which is easily reached from the UK via the Eurotunnel, is often considered Belgium’s brewing capital. Leuven invites visitors to discover centuries-old traditions from well-known beer brands, as well as new and innovative brews from craft beer producers. Throughout the year, fun and exciting festivals across Flanders bring this culture to life. If you want to experience the best that Leuven has to offer, you can sign up to win a trip to the region.
Enter the competition at Visitflanders.com to win a trip to Leuven
Plan your trip now
Power up for the wildest adventures
With warm weather on the horizon, there’s no time like the present to plan some exciting off-grid adventures. The Jackery explorer 1000 v2 portable power station ensures that wherever you head, you’ll have a reliable source of power. Whether you’re off-roading in remote terrain, hiking to hidden campsites or chasing sunrises from mountaintops, the explorer 1000’s 1070Wh capacity and 1500W output keeps all your gadgets running.
With AC outlets, USB-C and USB-A ports and a car port, it supports everything from drones and GPS devices to camp cookers and heated blankets. Fast-charging, compact and lightweight, its design means it’s a travel-ready companion that helps you go further and stay longer.
Pick up your Jackery explorer 1000 v2 portable power station at Uk.jackery.com
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Experience a luxurious stay in a recently renovated Mayfair hotel
Founded by Sir Rocco Forte and his sister, Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels sit at the cornerstone of prestigious design and historical elegance. Its London address – Brown’s Hotel – is emblematic of the family’s distinctive style and legacy. As the capital’s oldest luxury hotel, Brown’s Hotel is famed as the site of the UK’s first telephone call and where President Roosevelt honeymooned. The newly renovated rooms are unmistakably British in style, each adorned with a unique colour and pattern choice, so that no two are the same.
When it comes to dining, Charlie’s restaurant, headed up by Chef Director Adam Byatt, and Donovan Bar are where you’ll find discerning guests in stylish surroundings. For a limited time, you can be in with a chance of winning a two-night luxury suite stay at Brown’s Hotel, with Suite & Beyond benefits that include breakfast and afternoon tea for two guests in the iconic Drawing Room.
Join now at Roccofortehotels.com
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Book an easygoing Algarve escape for summer
Soak up the sunshine at Holiday Inn Algarve Albufeira, a relaxed place to stay in one of southern Portugal’s most popular destinations. Designed as a family-friendly base for a convenient summer getaway, the hotel is centrally located and has a laidback atmosphere. Dip in the two outdoor pools between bronzing sessions or hit the indoor pool and wellness area with a gym, sauna and steam room for a little respite from the rays.
Spacious rooms, including connecting options, make it easy to travel together as a family or larger group, and the hotel provides complimentary accommodation for children. Dine at the hotel’s casual restaurant and hit the poolside bar or 24/7 coffee spot. Little ones are well catered for, too, with dedicated kids’ spaces and the kids eat free programme. A stay here means you’re well placed for exploring the pretty Old Town and a number of nearby golden-sand beaches.
Plan your stay at Ihg.com
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Step into a world of modern realism in the Dutch countryside
Between the historic towns of Deventer and Zutphen, you’ll find Museum More, an institution dedicated to modern realism and thought-provoking culture in an unexpectedly rural location. Its light-filled galleries showcase an extensive collection spanning the 20th century to the present, where traditional techniques meet contemporary perspectives, breaking down artistic conventions. Alongside the permanent displays, a rotating exhibition programme keeps each visit fresh.
This season’s highlight, Magico! Italian Realism 1920-1970, brings together more than 70 works charting five decades of artistic evolution, including pieces by Giorgio de Chirico and Felice Casorati. It’s an immersive space that invites visitors to slow down and spend time appreciating the expression of realism. The exhibition runs until 7 June 2026.
Plan your visit at Museummore.nl
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Encourage children to learn by growing their own vegetables this summer
Some of the most rewarding lessons happen outdoors – and few are as satisfying as growing your own food. Created by a mother-daughter duo, Broccoli & Bees produces a charming collection of animal-shaped pots designed for growing microgreens at home. Inspired by a love of gardening and the idea of making meaningful memories together, these pastel-coloured companions in cute cat, dog and crocodile shapes encourage children to get hands-on with planting, nurturing and harvesting produce year-round.
It’s an easy way to spark curiosity and build healthy habits while enjoying the summer sunshine. The family-run brand also donates cress seeds to food banks, helping more people enjoy the benefits of growing fresh produce indoors.
Buy now at Broccoliandbees.com or email [email protected]
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Enjoy a refreshing stout poured at home
A staple on draught in pubs and bars up and down the country, Nightjar is now available to enjoy at home. Four packs of 440ml cans are launching nationwide, with Asda and rolling out to selected Sainsbury’s stores from the end of May, with Waitrose to follow. This smooth 4.2 per cent nitro stout is best poured firmly into a glass, revealing its signature velvety cascade, creamy head and gently roasted character, with subtle notes of coffee.
Brewed in Herefordshire using British hops and malts, the recipe traces back to Wye Valley Brewery founder and former Guinness brewer Peter Amor. Named after the elusive nocturnal bird, Nightjar is a modern British stout suited to easy, year-round enjoyment.
Shop now at Asda.com
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Blend history and wine with a summer city break
Set inside a historic building in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, Forte de Gaia, Autograph Collection from Marriott’s International provides a contemporary stay shaped by the region’s rich heritage. Just moments from the Douro River and the renowned port wine cellars and a short distance over the water to Porto’s lively centre, the hotel is ideally placed for exploring both sides of this delightful city this summer. Inside, chic rooms in rich, deep colours and a heated pool create a calming and comfortable base to retire back to after a day of exploring.
Dining at Renata restaurant takes you on a journey of flavours from Portugal to its former explored countries, enjoyed on a terrace overlooking the river and the city. It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking character and culture in one of Portugal’s most inviting destinations.
Book your stay at Marriott.com
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Catch Croatia’s best live music festival
Returning to Zagreb’s Island of Youth on Lake Jarun from 22 to 24 June 2026, INmusic festival marks two decades as Croatia’s largest open-air music event. Known for its laidback atmosphere and scenic lakeside setting, the festival is set to welcome global headliners alongside emerging talent across three days of live music.
This year’s lineup includes Gorillaz, Jack White, Kings of Leon, IDLES and many more. With on-site camping and an easygoing crowd, INmusic is as much about the boutique setting as the soundtrack, making for an irresistible sun-soaked summer getaway. Three-day tickets are available from €149 (£129) and single-day tickets from €99 (£86).
Find out more and book tickets at Inmusicfestival.com
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Pour a perfect serve of award-winning single malt whisky
Elevate al fresco gatherings on long summer evenings with the taste of The Glenturret triple wood, a single malt whisky with distinctive fruit notes. Matured in American and European oak sherry-seasoned casks and bourbon barrels, it balances fresh orchard fruit, vanilla sweetness and gentle spices in a smooth and warming sip. Crafted at Scotland’s oldest working distillery, the whisky works equally well enjoyed neat, over ice or in cocktails.
For a refreshing seasonal serve, try The GlenFizz triple wood mixed with elderflower liqueur, verjus and soda water, finished with lemon over ice. It’s a versatile summer drink suited to garden parties, late dinner and celebratory evenings with friends.
Enjoy free UK delivery with code ‘SUMMER2026’. Offer ends 31 August 2026. Full terms and conditions at theglenturret.com
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Plan a summer escape in the city
Close to Buckingham Palace, St James’ Court, A Taj Hotel brings a sense of occasion to a summer city break. Set within a striking Victorian building, the hotel pairs classic grandeur with a relaxed atmosphere, from its elegant rooms to the peaceful courtyard hidden behind the bustle of Westminster. Indulge in Michelin-starred Indian cuisine at Quilon, artistic Chinese dishes at House of Ming or seasonal cocktails at TH@51. Try a theatrical afternoon tea at Kona with it’s a Midsummer Night’s Dream experience, or head to the spa for restorative treatments inspired by Indian wellness traditions.
Explore the book early and save offer to enjoy exclusive savings and added privileges when planning your London stay in advance. Sign up as a NeuPass member to also enjoy savings on dining and J Wellness Circle spa treatments.
Sign up to the loyalty programme and book your stay at Stjamescourthotel.co.uk
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