Things to do in the summer in England

1) Have a day at the races

Whether or not you're interested in horse racing, a great way to make the most of the warm summer weather is to spend a day at the races.

Dress up to the nines, mingle with fellow attendees, sip a glass of Pimms and - of course - experience the thrill of betting on a horse.

There are bundles of racing events around the country during the summer months, but one of the most famous is held at the Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey. The course is best known for hosting the Derby Stakes, the United Kingdom's premier thoroughbred horse race for three-year-old colts and fillies.

Join other singles on a summer break at the Epsom Downs Racecourse

2) Go for scenic walks

There's no better time to explore the UK on two feet than during the summer holidays, and fortunately, we're blessed to live in a country that has some truly beautiful walks.

From the undulating hills of the Lake District to the New Forest's ancient trees, heathland and native ponies, the UK's landscape is wonderfully varied, with fascinating wildlife to discover around every corner.

Punctuate your walking trails with a refreshing beer at several traditional English pubs, and you have a holiday made in heaven!

Join other singles on a walking holiday in the UK 

3) Spend a few days at the seaside 

You don't always have to go abroad to enjoy some sun, sea and sand.

Home to soft, sandy beaches, historic walking trails and charming coastal towns, the UK's coastlines offer everything you need for a classic seaside break.

Ramble your way across a section of the fossil-studded Jurassic coast, spend a weekend on Torquay's palm-fringed promenade or enjoy a traditional seaside escape on the sandy beach of Weston-super-mare: the UK has a coastline to suit everyone.

4) Get active

Summertime is the perfect time to get outdoors and take up a new hobby or sport, from tennis or golf to cycling and hiking.

Head to your local golf course or join us on a sociable golfing holiday in the UK for a few rounds of friendly, organised golf.

And if competitive sports aren't your thing, why not give yoga a try? This gentle, feel-good activity is great for those who want to exercise outdoors without getting too hot and sweaty.

Join fellow singles on a rejuvenating yoga and walking holiday

5) Explore a new town or city

The UK is saturated with centuries of history, and no-where else is this more apparent than in its charming cities and towns.

Discover the beating heart of the Industrial Revolution in Shropshire, explore Stratford-upon-Avon - Shakespeare's birthplace - and visit Jane Austen's final resting place in Winchester.

Then there's the historic cities of Cambridge, York and Oxford - and not forgetting London, of course. Dive into museums when it rains, and enjoy a punt and a picnic on summer's clearer days.

6) Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site

From the Roman spa city of Bath, the 150 million-year-old Jurassic Coast, to the symbolic and hugely influential Ironbridge Gorge, our country's collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites represent the UK's contribution to the world we live in today.

Soak up some history this summer and tick a few World Heritage Sites off your bucket list without even boarding a plane.

Top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites To Visit In Your Lifetime >>

Inspired to explore the UK this summer? Browse our fabulously varied selection of UK breaks, from rural walks and treks to short city breaks.