Once exams are over everyone is filled with that new found sense of freedom and joy as they hunt out some summer fun. To some a summer away from university might sound like a bore; perhaps you have work commitments at home, maybe you just don’t have the time to jet set on holiday, or perhaps you just don’t have the funds? But never fear, as there are plenty of events throughout England to keep you busy this summer, you just have to keep your eyes open. Here is just a snip-it of what is on offer.
The Cute
The South Lakes wildlife park is just a train journey away from Lancaster and although they currently have no events planned for the summer, their everyday timetable is a must for any animal lover. The park offers an ultimate interactive animal experience you get the chance to be a keeper for five minutes and hand feed a variety of animals their lunch. You can begin your day by hand feeding vegetables to the giraffes as they peer over the crowds. Whilst journeying around the park you have the chance to walk through the lemur enclosure and can return to feed them later in the day. The penguins are another animal on the parks hand feeding list and you have the chance to get inside their enclosure for a closer look. Be sure to get there early and pick up a copy of the timetable so that you don’t miss out on any of the excitement.
The Exciting
Zorbing has gained popularity throughout the past few years as a completely new and crazy activity. For anyone who is not sure what zorbing is, it involves climbing in a giant inflatable ball and rolling down a very big hill. Although there is different experience sites which offer zorbing throughout the country, Zorbing South (located in Dorset) was the first permanent zorbing site in the UK and claims to be number one. You book in advance online and they offer both Harness Zorbing (two people strapped in) and Hydro Zorbing (one-three people with no straps and water). If that does not take your fancy you could always try your hand at medieval jousting at Knebworth House in Hertfordshire.
The Cultural
Buckingham Palace is once again opening its state rooms this summer – but this time with a twist. Between the July 23 and October 3 a collection of over 100 Fabergé masterpieces will go on display. Some of the pieces will be on display for the first time and will chart six generations of the royal family from Queen Victoria to Her Majesty the Queen. If that wasn’t enough the famous mosaic Imperial Easter egg containing portraits of Tsar Nicholas II’s five children will also be on display, the egg was confiscated during the Russian revolution and was purchased by King George V in 1933.
On a Budget?
If you are in search of a free day out England is full of free museums and art galleries. From the British Museum in London to the Discovery Museum in Newcastle there are hundreds of locations that span the breadth of the nation. To find an exhibit of interest or one in your local area visit Enjoy England for complete listings. Museums not your thing? The National Trust also run numerous free events throughout the summer and have a variety of properties to visit, more information can also be found on their website. If you fancy something a little different England is full of woodland walks, parks and city farms that are perfect for a summer’s day and should be enjoyed whilst you still can.
We are all hoping for that BBQ summer, but if the weather man fails to provide be sure to know that there is plenty that England has to offer and if you look hard enough you most definitely will not be disappointed.
