Summer Spotlight:
Run From The Rain

Binge-watching TV, gaming, TikTok… it’s so easy to while away your days doing absolutely nothing, especially if the weather’s not the best and the kids aren’t feeling it. But there are plenty of other ways to ease the boredom when it’s raining outside, especially if you want to keep it local.

We’ll start off with something most towns or cities have - indoor swimming pools. During the summer holidays there are usually events happening, like inflatable water parks or friendly tournaments, so it’s definitely worth having a look. Most will have weekly swimming clubs too, so if you’re a parent looking for regular respite, this could be a long-term option!

Believe it or not, your local area probably has an escape room too. In recent years they’ve really taken off in the UK, and are quite a clever way to get the old brain box going. It’s your job to discover clues and solve puzzles in an allotted time frame, to escape whichever themed room you’ve chosen. Classic detective, magic school, abandoned lab, creepy cabin… you’ll absolutely find one for all the family on an atmospherically rainy day.

Then there’s that age-old destination loved by old and young, athletic or not: bowling. Make up funny names for the score screen and get yourself in a pair of those slippery shoes, ready to bring out the competitive streak in everyone involved. And if you’ve had to book ahead, save up some change for a bit and muck around at the arcades - go on, when was the last time you got your knuckles rapped during air hockey?

And for the quieter of the bunch, get creative at a pottery class. Some involve throwing your own pot and others are more of a tea-and-cake painting experience. Either way, it’s a good way to find a spot of calm and get cosy with a cuppa while the wind roars outside. Plus, you’ll be able to take your masterpiece home. Result!

Ok, we’re well aware that these kinds of things tend to charge you for entry or tickets, as well as snacks or any other extras. So for that week before pay day, why not do some research and wend your way to a museum with free admission? Remember, it’s not all history, art, and “don’t touch that!” - you can find interactive museums across the UK for science, literature, and illusions (to name a few!).

BY HOLLY GARWOOD, 12TH AUGUST 2024