5 things to do before summer ends

Being British, we're all about wringing every last drop out of summer, and by Jove there's lots to enjoy. Here's our pick of some must-do activities before the chilly autumn days are upon us...

1. Explore the coast

There's so much rugged, beautiful coastline to discover, it seems a shame to stick to your nearest sandy beach year round. And it doesn't need to be blazing hot either - a ramble up a coastal trail is a lovely way to see your surroundings and stay fit at the same time. Just make sure you bring your halo along for a good polish...

Why not try...

• A walk along the dramatic Cornwall coastline. The Rumps (pictured above) are a beautiful route to explore before the cold sets in. Keep your eyes peeled for Poldark, eh?
• Walk along the Ayrshire Paths for beautiful scenic landscapes and sandy shores (really, is there any better place than Scotland?! We think not.)

2. Cinemas under the stars

Grab a blanket and a bottle of plonk and set yourself up for a night of outdoor entertainment.

Why not try...

• Films Under Stars in Basildon, Essex have a great choice of classic films to settle down to - but don't forget to bring a picnic!
• If you're London-based (or bound), Luna Cinema have plenty of screenings to enjoy in Dulwich Park. They also have occasional screenings at castles and outdoor pools (think Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle and Jaws at Brockwell Lido!) around the country and are well worth checking out.

3. Be entertained al fresco

It's music festival season, but if your Glastonbury days are long behind you (no, we didn't fancy the mud this year either) there are plenty of exciting concerts and productions to try out across the country. Whether your tastes run to classical music, or a nice bit of Shakespeare, there's a wealth of outdoor entertainment.

Why not try...

• If you're in Devon, pack your picnic basket for an evening of fun with the grandchildren, as Killerton estate hosts a showing of David Walliams' Ratburger.
• If you're near Lewes in East Sussex, catch a spellbinding performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream at Glyndebourne.

4. Take the grandchildren stargazing

Find a moment between the summer showers to pack a flask, get away from the towns and cities and see what's up above. Point out constellations, watch for shooting stars and let them be fascinated by the night sky.

Why not try...

• National Trust website is full of ideas for places to throw down a blanket and see what you can see, including Mam Tor in Derbyshire - perhaps a walk for older children, but spectacular nonetheless.
• If you're in the Bristol area, there's also the slightly more accessible Leigh Woods. Great for a romp around in while you're waiting for the sun to go down.

5. Catch the summer sales

As the sales start seeping into the shops, now is the perfect time to see what you can find. With many companies offering huge discounts at the moment, there are plenty of versatile items included that work year-round. Grab yourself a bargain! 

6. Make some fruity booze

Using fruit that's ripe for the picking, you can make a start on flavoured gin, vodka, brandy...whatever your tastebuds decide. Blackberry vodka is perfect to make with the abundance of fruit in hedgerows. We've also been secretly sizing up Elegran's sloe gin recipe...

Other things you might like:

Last of the summer walks	Find your local site

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