You’ve been working hard all summer, but in order to be the best version of yourself, it’s essential to make the most out of those moments to switch off and reset. So, with the August bank holiday just around the corner, we’re going to help you achieve exactly that.
Londoners: we know getting out there and trying new things is one of the many pleasures that come with living in a big and vibrant city. That’s why we’ve created a three-day plan of activities you may not have tried before, but definitely should.
When we think of the most loved sports across London and the UK, what springs to mind? You’re probably thinking of football and tennis. Now, we’re fans of football as much as the next, but with the UK alone boasting roughly 50 competitive sports, it’s time to branch out this bank holiday.
WATCH: The Hundred Cricket. A 100-ball cricket competition with 2025 matches in full swing. Grab a ticket and head to Lord’s Cricket Ground or the Kia Oval.
TRY: Bouldering. As well as being a full body workout, this sport has links to improving mental clarity and providing a place for social decompression.
BONUS: If the above succeeds in expanding your sporting interests, another good one for in-real-life action is ice hockey, with the new season starting up in September.
WHAT TO CARRY: Laptop Tote 20L
With its grab-and-go design, this bag is ideal for moving between crowds and having easy access to essentials like a water bottle or portable charger.
A bank holiday wouldn’t be a bank holiday without socialising with friends. But instead of heading over to your local, why not head over to somewhere you’ve never been before.
Sofar Sounds takes everyday spaces, like galleries and cafes, and turns them into secret musical performances. But there’s a twist: the location and artists are only revealed to ticket holders 24 hours before the events go ahead. When buying your ticket, you can filter by music taste and general location, but you’ll have to wait to find out the specifics.
What makes these experiences unique is that you’re discovering artists and London venues that you’re otherwise unlikely to have heard of or been to. You might just walk away with a new top spot for your Spotify Wrapped or having witnessed the next rising star.
WHAT TO CARRY: The Crossbody or Shoulder Bag
For a Sofar event all you’ll need are the essentials. The Crossbody and Shoulder Bag are both ideal for keeping your keys, wallet, and phone close whilst you have a few drinks and enjoy the music.
The final day of the long weekend has arrived, so it’s time for a real dose of outside air and nature to get you feeling fully refreshed and ready to get back to work in the morning.
What if we told you London was home to an ancient woodland?
Epping Forest runs along the eastern edge of the city from the top of Epping down towards Wanstead. As the biggest forest in the entire city, you’ll find no shortage of walking trails to try out.
We’ve picked out a circular route that takes you through the main forest path and back within around 5 hours. Starting near Chingford Golf Club, you’ll arrive in Chingford in 35-minutes on the Overground from Liverpool Street before setting off on-foot. Expect to see lakes, historic sights, and an abundance of wildlife. Around 1-hour towards the end of the hike, you’ll come to find the King’s Oak pub, where you can enjoy a cold drink or two before wrapping up the end of your journey.
What to carry: Roll Top 30L
For this activity you’ll need extra packing space for those outdoor supplies and to make sure you’re covered whatever the weather. We’re thinking: raincoat, hat, extra layers, packed lunch, water bottle, picnic blanket, sun cream, first-aid kit, extra toiletries.
