How to conquer Britain’s unpredictable summer weather

We all look forward to the summer holidays, but like many things, they don’t always live up to our expectations. Particularly when we think about the infamous, unpredictable British summer weather. Ever switching from one extreme to the next, we go from sunshine and to a gloomy winter-like day in a split second.

Accommodating such weather conditions can be a challenge – but Bark.com are here to relieve some of that pressure. Whether it’s helping to keep the kids busy on a cloudy day, or planning that summer party with a big dark cloud lurking over you, or simply finding a new summer hobby, we’ve selected our top picks to conquer the unpredictable British summer.

Kick up a sweat: Summer is a great time to start thinking about getting into shape. However, while a refreshing jog in the park to get you beach body ready can seem like a great idea, the fun tends to come to a halt when the heavens open. If that’s the case, why not try some indoor fitness activities such as Pilates, Yoga or even Zumba if you’re in the dancing mood? Taking part in one of these classes is also a great way to meet new people. Find local Zumba classes here.

Zumba dance lessons
Zumba classes in full flow!

Get hands on: If even just the thought of getting active gets you breaking out into a cold sweat, then perhaps something recreational is a bit more up your street. Whether it’s taking a cookery class using seasonal produce or learning how to paint or sculpt, the unpredictable weather could give you a creative kick-start! It’s the perfect time to pick up a new hobby. If you’re keen to know what is filling the plates at this year’s summers parties then check here!

Arts crafts painting
Get crafty!

Grab the popcorn: If you’re more of a ‘night-in’ than ‘night-out’ person and don’t want to opt for an activity that requires a lot of energy, why not try a drive-in film club? As well as the great sense of nostalgia, it’s a perfect activity for both warm, dewy summer evenings and cloudy, rainy ones. Sit in your car or on the bonnet and sing along to classics such as Grease or Hairspray.

Drive in
Drive-in cinema

Host(ess) with the mostess: Whether for a special occasion or just for the sake of it, summer lends itself well to merriment, so while a spot of rain might be seen as a dampener on your barbeque garden party, there’s no need to cancel because the weather’s not playing ball! Make sure you prep in advance for all eventualities – renting a marquee for the evening will protect you from any rain as well as adding a professional touch to your soiree. Bark can easily help you find a DJ to spice things up inside or a magician to keep the kids (and the adults!) entertained. Don’t let the British weather rain on your parade.

Perfecting staycations: Most of us dream of exotic holidays abroad, but summer is also the perfect time to explore what’s right under our noses. Britain is brimming with its own fantastic attractions and landmarks so why not take the time to stroll around a museum or go on a guided tour to see and learn a bit more about ole Blighty (ideally choose one that takes place undercover!).

For more Bark.com tips, why not check out our other blogs?

Got your own suggestions for beating sudden summer downpours and thunderstorms? Give us a bark and let us know!

How to make the most out of the Summers evenings

Summer – it’s definitely one of the best times of the year. The evenings are longer, the sun is (mostly!) shining and everyone seems to have a spring in their step. Let the good times roll…. for the time being. We’re soon to be faced with the dark, dreary monster that is… WINTER.

When Winter rolls in and you find yourself dreaming about long summer evenings, don’t live in regret having spent your sunnier days curled up re-watching episodes of Breaking Bad on Netflix!

But do you need some inspiration? Don’t fret – Bark have got you covered, with some of the best ideas for Summer evening activities. It’s time to make the most of the season, creating some special memories with your mates along the way.

Park life – Want to boost your mood and physical energy? Then ditch the gym membership and get yourself to the park! Even the experts agree; according to Jo Barton of the University of Essex exercising in the fresh air could be “life-changing”. Yes – life changing! And not only that, exercising in nature also “lifts your mood and boosts your self-esteem”. Still not convinced? Why not bring the world of the gym outside with you by hiring the best personal trainer to put you through your paces? Sign us up – ASAP!

Break a sweat in the great outdoors
Break a sweat in the great outdoors

Awaken your inner adrenaline junkie – Use the Summer to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Why not take a trip to the UK’s first inflatable sports aqua park? Or enrol in Flying Trapeze School? Take the plunge and do something a little different – it will give you something new to chat about in work on Monday!

inflatable aqua park
Take the plunge!

Host a garden party – We’re all for parties at Bark.com. Any old excuse will do! While we’re all too used to partying indoors, Summer gives us an opportunity to take the fun (and the dancing) outside. With the help from a Bark.com gardener, turn your garden into the perfect party paradise. Simple touches can help set the vibe – be it themed décor to ambient lighting. White holiday lights are perfect for a Summers evening; string them along fences and wrap around small bushes. If you really want to impress your pals, why not hire a bartender to keep the drinks flowing all evening? It’ll be the party your neighbours wish they had organised…

Garden party
Make your neighbours jealous…

Visit a rooftop bar – Taste the high life by relaxing with friends at a rooftop bar long into the Summer evening. These top rooftop bars across the UK are perfect for a sunny tipple, often with fantastic sights and views to boot!

Dance the night away – Let’s face it, the British weather is very unreliable. We can’t enjoy the great outdoors when the rain is pouring down in the middle of July, but we can still act like the sun is splitting the rocks – right? Why not get your sunny disposition straight to the dancefloor? Not only will you increase your exercise levels, but you’ll have fun and meet new people at the same time. Happy mind, happy body. With the rise in popularity of TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing, many people across the UK are taking up ballroom dancing lessons. Maybe one day you’ll be so good that you’ll perform at events, or feature in the next series of Strictly? Your dancefloor awaits you…

dancing class
Get your dancing shoes on!

A Summer well spent brings a year of content – so make the most of what is left of yours!

For more Bark.com top tips, why not check out our other blogs?

Have our suggestions inspired you? Or have you found a quirky Summer activity? Let us know what has been memorable this Summer!