It’s Time To Say Goodbye To Those Lockdown Blues

Freedom after months of lockdown is so close, we can almost taste it. Pub and restaurant gardens are opening so we can enjoy a cold drink and grub in the, ahem, lovely British Spring weather, gyms are opening their doors and we can finally get back to convincing everyone we’re natural blondes. But what if you’re looking for plans after lockdown that go slightly off the beaten track? Lockdown has undeniably changed our lives, so we don’t blame you if you’re looking for a little excitement to shake up the days now that things are finally opening up again. Or perhaps you’re just looking for fun ways to get more active outside of the gym after weekends spent indoors. So, whether you want to enjoy your Spring plans with a partner, a friend, your kids or even just by yourself, we’ve put together some fun, whacky and alternative activities for post lockdown. Are you ready?

Stargazing in the Lake District

First on the lockdown bucket list is the opportunity to lay back, relax and look at the stars in one of the UK’s most scenic areas. Of course, if one of your goals after lockdown is to get back into those jeans that may have become a bit tighter (we’ve all been there don’t worry) then a trip to the Lake District is also a great chance to get moving in a beautiful area. However, it’s also a great way to get away from the city lights and check out the darkest skies in the country amongst secluded valleys and remote fell tops. We’d recommend Ennerdale, a remote valley in the North West of the Lake District, Grizedale Forest, an area of greenery between Windermere and Coniston lakes which has many stargazing events or the peaceful Borrowdale Valley which is right next to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.

How to get there: You can walk, cycle, travel by boat, rail, bus or car when exploring the Lake District. Find out more here.

Zip wiring through the Welsh valleys

If you’re a fan of heights, then one of your UK post lockdown plans might include soaring over Penrhyn Quarry at speeds of over 100mph. ZipWorld is actually the fastest zip wire in the world, not just the UK, and it’s a unique experience that will fill you with adrenalin whilst also taking in incredibly breath-taking views whilst feeling like you’re flying. If you’ve got kids under 10, then they can travel on the Big Red, a zip wire that’s slightly smaller than the adult one, but just as fun!

How to get there: There’s free car parking and ZipWorld is located in the Rhigos mountain range at the old Tower Colliery coal mining site.

Have a go at eating insects

We’re sure you’re all bored of cooking your own dinners night after night and can’t wait for restaurants to open so you can try unusual and exotic cuisines. But forget about looking to other countries to try out some new and exciting delicacies… We’re talking eating some actual insects! At Horizon Edible Insects, you can have a farm tour with a cookery class as a fun day out or if you’re looking for an insight into the world of culinary insect farms. You’ll learn what it means to rear, farm and cook the insects – and how doing it could help protect the environment.

How to get there: Horizon Edible Insects is located Queen Anne’s Grove, Ealing, London.

Learn about Witchcraft and Magic

Fascinated by magic and the history of Witchcraft? Then the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is for you. It explores British magical practice through unique, entertaining and educational exhibitions which are based on years of research along with the insights of magical practitioners.

How to get there: The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is located by The Harbour in Boscastle, Cornwall. Boscastle is on the North Coast of Cornwall between Tintagel and Bude.

Visit a cave with a petrifying well

Caves might not be top of your post lockdown bucket list but when they have a well that was once believed to have magical powers, it might just get bumped to the top of the list. Visit Mother Shipton’s Cave, the birthplace of the famous prophetess which sits next to the Petrifying Well, England’s oldest visitor attraction. The attraction tells the story of Mother Shipton and the waters which turn objects to stone and is the only one of its kind in the entire country. It’s a great day out for everyone – from grandad to baby!

How to get there: Mother Shipton’s Cave is located in Knaresborough. Knaresborough’s railway station is just five minutes’ walk and there are frequent buses near the main entrance. Knaresborough is a 1-hour train journey from Leeds.

If you’re thinking of trying any of these weird and wonderful days out, then please leave us a comment below and let us know. We’d also love to hear of any other wacky days out that you might be trying that have been missed off this list by letting us know in the comments or on social media. All of the outdoor activities listed here will be fine to visit from April 12th, but any that take place indoors will be open from May 17th and don’t forgot our bingo halls in England and Scotland are back open then too – watch this space for news on Wales! Whilst you’re waiting for these fabulous places to open their doors, why not go on an adventure from your living room with our exciting collection of online slots and games?