Ahh, the British bank holiday. It’s one of (sadly few) three-day weekends in our working calendar that we look forward to every year. But, thanks to our fickle weather, we wait with bated breath right up to the last minute for the forecasters to put us out of our misery: are we in for hours of sun-drenched alfresco fun in which we dust off the barbecue and bring out the bangers, or will it be – well – a disappointing wash-out? No need to give up hope, for whatever the weather forecast is going to be this bank holiday we at Housetohome have plenty of practical ideas to fill your days – come rain or shine. For a sunny forecast a picnic is the perfect way to celebrate a short break the old-fashioned way. Prepare and pack sandwiches, drinks and sweet treats and then head to a local park or outdoor space that makes you happy. Make sure everyone is comfortable with plenty of floor cushions and blankets.
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Give your garden some TLC
Three days is more than enough time to really make a difference in your garden, from landscaping and clean-up jobs, such as decking and shed renovation, to prettier tasks like planting bedding or potting up patio pots. Sweet peas are the perfect addition to any cottage garden and it's the perfect time to scatter those seeds or get your plug plants in. Be sure to give them a wigwam cane to climb up. For more urban styles, add structure with hostas and colour with dahlias, which come in a dizzying array of colours and varieties.
Entertain alfresco
So you've given the garden a face-lift. Why not show off all that hard work by throwing a garden party or barbecue? Create a party atmosphere with outdoor decorations such as paper pom-poms, bunting and outdoor fairy lights. Keep it low key with plenty of buffet-style food so people can help themselves, leaving you free to enjoy the event yourself. Children will appreciate a few garden games to keep them entertained - try hula-hoops, croquet or even a fun sweetie-filled piñata!
Go back-garden glamping
Feel you need a break, but can't face the thought of packing everything up and heading off for just three days? We have the answer - for something a little different, how about glamping in your very own back garden? Yes really. After all, you get the joy of sleeping under canvas, but with the added bonus of having all your home amenities just metres away! And no getting stuck on the M1. All you need is enough space to fit your tent, including guy ropes, and a few floor cushions, blankets and sleeping bags to make things 'homely'. If you have a family, children will love the idea of sleeping under the stars with the grown-ups!
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Give your exterior some kerb appeal
Is the exterior of your house looking a little tired and lack-lustre? It doesn't take much to spruce up out front and boost your kerb appeal. A good sweep up and a fresh coat of paint on your front door can work wonders and is a splendid welcome for your visitors. Some inexpensive buys will make a difference too, such as a stylish new doormat, number plaque and what about the nation's favourite - the flower-filled hanging basket?
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B&Q
Have a spring clean
And if it's raining, dammit... Its a rough task but, if the weather's bad, why not spend some time having a jolly good clear out, de-clutter and clean? After all, what else is there to do on a rainy day at home - and just think how much better youll feel afterwards. Like most jobs, the secret to a successful spring clean is all about the prep work. Be sure you have the right kit for cleaning the windows, floors and upholstery and youll sail through the tasks in no time.
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Throw a dinner party
If its soggy outside, what better excuse to brighten the place up inside and upgrade the party you were going to have outside to a full-blown lunch inside. Up the ante and make things a little more formal by decorating your table with colourful decorations, print out place names, write menus and cook up a three-course feast. Chairs in different colours will add variety while jolly pendant light shades enhance the fun.
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Do a bit of craft
There's nothing more therapeutic than making something useful while you listen to the pitter-patter of rain on your window pane. From quilting to crochet; knitting to sewing, push back against the techy revolution, spin the creative wheel and produce something hand-made and tangible. Need inspiration? Take a look at our fantastic video channel for a step-by-step craft tutorial that suits you.
Fox fabric
Scion
Sewing machine
John Lewis
Organise a family film festival
What better time to enjoy some family-favourite movies than a wet weekend? Create the proper movie theatre atmosphere by dimming the lights and acquiring a big screen (a white wall will do). Most laptops now have USB points that plug into projectors. Or just turn the telly on - they're practically cinema-size these days anyway! Make plenty of popcorn and film snacks and away you go. If there are children involved, why not get crafty and make home-made movie tickets?
Tackle a revamp step by step
Now's a great time to roll up your sleeves and get a proper decorating job done. Three days is a good stretch to really accomplish a task. Why not take to the popular trend of wallpapering your wooden staircase? It can have show-stopping results. Choose a mix of contrasting designs and colours and paper or paint each of the stair risers, leaving the treads white. Once dry, seal with a coat of hardwearing clear varnish. Check out our staircase makeover gallery for more ideas and inspiration.
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