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School’s out, the sun is (hopefully) shining, and it’s time to embrace the chaos, joy, and ice cream drips that come with the summer holidays. Whether you’re staycationing or venturing a little further afield, having a go-to summer bucket list for families is a brilliant way to make the most of those long sunny days and avoid the dreaded “I’m bored” chorus before breakfast. There’s nothing worse than hearing the word ‘bored’ come out of your child’s mouth when you haven’t been bored since the mid-1980’s.
Here’s your ultimate guide to fun, fuss-free family summer magic – no spreadsheets required (unless that’s your thing).
1. Hit the Beach – Buckets, Spades and Sandy Sarnies
There’s something timeless about a good old-fashioned beach day. Pack a picnic (sand-free if you’re lucky), grab the sun cream, and head for your nearest stretch of coastline. Build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, and treat the kids to a 99 (and yourself to at least two). Bonus points for beach cricket or a sunset stroll if they haven’t collapsed in a sugar-fuelled heap by 5pm.
2. Backyard Camping – Minus the Mud
Can’t face a full camping trip? Set up a tent in the back garden instead. Kids love the novelty of sleeping outdoors, and you still get access to a proper loo. Toast marshmallows over a BBQ, tell spooky stories with torches, and enjoy the thrill of ‘wild’ sleeping within Wi-Fi range. It’s a classic summer bucket list for families winner – no traffic jams, and no forgotten tent pegs.
3. Try a New Water Activity
Whether it’s paddleboarding, kayaking, or just hiring a pedalo, getting out on the water is a great way to stay cool and create lasting memories. If you’re near a lake or river with safe hire options, it’s a perfect chance to mix fun with a bit of fitness. Don’t forget life jackets and a dry change of clothes – someone will fall in.
4. Visit a Pick-Your-Own Farm
Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries – whatever’s in season, kids love the hands-on fun of picking their own fruit. It’s surprisingly educational, especially when they realise fruit doesn’t just appear in plastic tubs at Tesco. Take home your haul and get creative in the kitchen with smoothies, jam, or the world’s messiest crumble.
5. Create a Summer Scrapbook
Turn all your adventures into something tangible with a family summer scrapbook. Print out photos, add ticket stubs, doodles, and funny quotes from the kids. It’s a lovely way to reflect on the season, and future-you will thank you when you find it in a drawer in ten years’ time.
6. Go on a Local Treasure Hunt
You don’t have to travel far to find excitement – create or download a treasure hunt for your local area. Whether it’s geocaching, a scavenger list in the woods, or a DIY map you draw together, it’s a great way to get everyone outdoors and exploring. For extra flair, have a small prize waiting at the end (Haribo counts).
7. Try a Tech-Free Day
This one might take some convincing – especially with teenagers in the mix – but a full day with no screens can be surprisingly refreshing. Board games, garden games, water fights, or even a family walk (bribery may be involved) can reconnect you without the constant ping of group chats or Fortnite meltdowns.
8. Discover a New Playground or Park
You might think you’ve seen every swing in a 10-mile radius, but you’d be surprised what you can find with a little research. A new playground or park – ideally with a café and toilets – can feel like an adventure, especially for younger children. Pack snacks and let them loose.
9. Movie Night Under the Stars
All you need is a white sheet, a projector (borrow one if you can), and a bit of patience with tech. Add popcorn, blankets, and your kids’ favourite film, and you’ve got the makings of a magical evening. If that sounds like a logistical nightmare, dragging the telly into the conservatory and pretending it’s outdoors counts too.
10. Family Volunteer Day
Why not use part of the summer to give back? Look for local volunteering opportunities that are suitable for children, like litter picks, community gardens, or animal shelter visits. It’s a rewarding way to spend time together and a gentle reminder that not everyone has the luxury of a summer break.
Making the Most of the Summer
The key to a successful summer bucket list for families is flexibility. Some days you’ll be ready to conquer mountains (literally or figuratively), and others will call for nothing more than ice lollies and a paddling pool. That’s fine. Summer isn’t about ticking off every box – it’s about making memories, enjoying each other’s company, and surviving the holidays with your sense of humour intact.
So grab a pen, let the kids throw in their ideas, and start building your family’s own summer bucket list. From beach days to backyard nights, these simple pleasures are the ones they’ll remember long after the school bell rings again.
