August bank holiday weekend is the last bank holiday before Christmas, and with it comes an infinite number of things to do in the form of events, festivals and attractions to visit (as well as a certain pressure to have fun!). However, instead of sitting in a traffic jam, battling the crowds and spending money, we have an alternative proposition — how about a chilled bank holiday at home instead?
In a world where we are constantly on the go, opting for a relaxed day at home can pay dividends. After all, how often do you just stop and do what feels good? If we’ve piqued your interest, keep reading for our favourite ways of how to enjoy a bank holiday at home.
Enjoy a long breakfast
After as long a lie-in as the kids will allow, start the day the right way — with a long, leisurely homemade breakfast. Think fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, buttery pastries and fruit, or a good-old full English. Get everyone involved. Younger kids can help mix the pancake ingredients, chop the fruit or set the table, whereas older kids might even like the idea of preparing it all themselves while you read the paper! Over breakfast, you can talk about plans for the day or relive the fun experiences you’ve had over summer. Let the morning gently stretch into the afternoon…
Take a digital detox
We’re all guilty of spending too much time on our screens and not only are they time thieves (one quick scroll can turn into an hour without you even realising), we’re never fully present while they’re in our hands. Taking a digital detox can help you live in the moment and connect with those around you. Time away from screens can also reduce stress and anxiety, improve your sleep quality and give your eyes a well-earned break. Make a pledge to turn off your notifications, stash your phone away and opt for analogue! Instead of looking at what other people are doing with their bank holiday, you’ll be creating wonderful memories of your own — and discovering how to enjoy a bank holiday at home in a more meaningful way.
Spend time in the garden
A few hours spent in the garden can be incredibly grounding. Whether it’s weeding your vegetable patch, planting flowers for next season or pruning fruit trees, there’s something deeply satisfying about hands-on outdoor work. Get the kids involved on a weeding mission — the person who plucks the most weeds gets a prize! Then sit back and admire the results with a cold drink. If the weather’s nice, take a book, puzzle or game outside and enjoy an hour or two in the sunshine.
Set up a mini film fest
Weather not going to plan? What could be better than a movie marathon! For extra fun, you could make it a themed one — it could be cult classics, feel-good comedies or that trilogy you’ve always meant to rewatch. Or, if you have children, why not let them each choose their favourite film. Comfy seating is essential, so grab big cushions and beanbag chairs to allow you all to sprawl out comfortably. Finally, don’t forget pjs, popcorn and ambient lighting!
Move gently
It’s always good to move your body, but that doesn’t have to mean a 10k or strenuous HIIT session. Gentle movement such as yoga or stretching still offers the mood-boosting benefits of exercise, but it doesn’t feel like a chore or an effort. It’s conducive to a good night’s sleep too. You could stretch out the tension with a little yoga or head into the garden with the children to take a walk around and take note of the wildlife you see. You could also do some light stretching. From side stretches to quad stretches to a child’s pose, you’re not looking for an intense workout, just movement that feels good.
Home workshops
Do you have a hobby that soothes you or an activity that you’ve always wanted to try? Lazy bank holidays are the perfect time to indulge your creative side. Even a small burst of creative expression — be it sketching, painting or baking a loaf of bread — can be calming and deeply satisfying. You might even enjoy rearranging a corner of your home for a fresh look. Craft projects like crocheting are great for quiet focus or you could gather the family together to tackle a jigsaw. It’s a brilliant mindful activity that invites all sorts of random conversations as you work together. Whatever you’re doing, keep the mood relaxed with your favourite playlist in the background and just enjoy the moment.
Have we convinced you that how to enjoy a bank holiday at home is to spend it in a relaxing way? Remember: Rest is productive too. Here’s to a slower pace, softer vibes and a bank holiday well spent — right at home.
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