Thanks to the impending nuptials of our future King and Queen, the UK has been blessed with a post-Easter after party of another four-day weekend. With so much time off, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch up with friends and family, try new hobbies and see new sights.
It’s true that many social occasions are based around food and drink, with a dinner here and a cocktail there. This can play havoc with your healthy eating and exercise regime and potentially set you back a few steps.
We’ve found an array of non-food activities to keep you entertained over the long weekend and burn a few extra calories the fun way. Have a look at what’s on offer this spring and make your social get-togethers work with your healthy plans.
Party in the street
All and sundry will be taking part in traditional-style street parties to celebrate the marriage of Wills and Kate on 29th April. These are sure to create a feeling of community and fun within our neighbourhoods, for the staunch monarchists or those just out for a good time alike. Roll out the bunting and make sure there are lots of delicious salads and healthy eats on offer.
If your street isn’t hosting a party, there are hundreds of organised get-togethers being held across the nation, many with live outdoor screenings of the big ‘I do’, music, games and competitions. Don’t miss out: track down your nearest Royal Wedding event.
Laps in a lido
Forget drying off in damp, smelly changing rooms after your swimming session. Instead, test out your nearest lido and you can splash in the outdoors and dry off in the great British sunshine. Take a good book, a bottle of water (and don’t forget your sun cream) and make a day of it.
Most are open from the end of April until September, but check opening dates, hours and prices. You can find your nearest lido at lidos.org.uk
Bike in the buff
Add a twist to your normal bicycle workout by taking part in the World Naked Bike Ride. Thousands of cyclists will take to the streets in cities across the nation baring all to ‘show off’ the vulnerability of cyclists on the road and also raise awareness of pollution.
Don’t fret though: going completely starkers is optional. You can bare as much or as little as you dare, so there will be a mix of people pedalling in normal workout wear, stripped down to their undies or those that use creative body art to protect their modesty.
Use the bank holiday weekends to get your cycling fitness up to scratch and then meet your fellow nudist bike buddies early June. Visit their website for more information and ride dates.
Move to the blues
Shake that booty to the sounds of some of Europe’s finest jazz music at none other than the iconic Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Running from 27 April until 2 May, this prestigious event boasts Jamie Cullum as the headline act, along with Grammy-nominated James Hunter and many more.
As well as leading artists that require tickets, the Budvar Marquee in Imperial Gardens also hosts a series of free events across the May bank holiday weekend.
Most events are held in and around Cheltenham’s Town Hall. There are food stalls available, but we advise packing a healthy picnic and enjoying lunch in the sun as you take in the sounds of the weekend. Find out more information and order tickets at cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz.
March the moors
Get your walking boots at the ready for the North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival. Running from 29 April through to 8 May, you can explore one of the most stunning coastlines of England and the famous national park.
There is an array of walks to suit different abilities and fitness levels, from easy to strenuous. Enjoy tromping through marshland or take in the breathtaking views from Croyde’s coastline as you ramble out to Baggy Point. Alternatively go on a deer search or simply enjoy a talk on the flora and fauna of North Devon by a local expert. Find more information and book online.