Nothing beats a sunny Sunday afternoon. It’s the day of the week when many of us get to really relax, and doing so in the sunshine just makes it that little bit better.
Many of us would describe it as “perfect beer garden weather”. And that it certainly is, but, of course, drinking isn’t for everyone, especially these days. If you have a sober friend or someone who has just been through alcohol rehab recovery, then sitting in a beer garden on a sunny Sunday afternoon is far from relaxing.
So, having some alternatives in the back pocket can be really useful, particularly if you do want to make the most of the weather with all your friends feeling comfortable. So, as the sunshine starts to kick in for the season, here are five great alternatives to the beer garden for spending a sunny Sunday with loved ones…
Picnic in the Park
A good old-fashioned picnic is a brilliant way to enjoy the sunshine while keeping things relaxed and sociable. Choose your favourite local green space, whether it’s a bustling urban park or a quieter spot by the river, and pack a blanket, some homemade snacks, and your beverage of choice. Go beyond soggy sandwiches: think hummus and pitta, colourful salads, strawberries, sparkling water with lime, or even an iced herbal tea in a flask.
Invite friends to bring their own bits, or make it a solo treat with a book or podcast. It’s all the joy of being outdoors, minus the pricey drinks and noisy crowds.
Outdoor Swimming or Wild Dips
On a warm day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in cool, open water. Across the UK, outdoor lidos, lakes, and wild swimming spots are gaining popularity, and they make for an invigorating Sunday afternoon. Whether you head to a managed pool like the Hampstead Heath ponds or a countryside riverbank with a safe swim spot, you’ll leave feeling energised and renewed.
Pair your swim with a sunbathe on the grass, a good towel wrap, and perhaps a flask of hot tea. It’s a brilliant natural mood-booster.
Visit a Botanical Garden or Nature Reserve
If you love the idea of sitting in a garden but fancy a more serene setting, a visit to a botanical garden or local nature reserve can be a gorgeous alternative. You’ll be surrounded by greenery, birdsong and fragrant blooms, the perfect backdrop for a peaceful Sunday.
Wander the trails, photograph the flowers, or simply find a quiet bench to soak in the view. Many places have small cafés offering great coffee or cold drinks, often in more tranquil surroundings than your local pub. It’s a great way to relax and reconnect with nature.
Try an Outdoor Yoga or Fitness Class
Many parks and community spaces offer outdoor yoga or movement classes in the spring and summer months. These classes are a great way to start or end your Sunday with a sense of calm and clarity, all while enjoying the sunshine.
Whether you opt for yoga, tai chi, or a more upbeat boot camp, being active outdoors is a fantastic way to boost your mood. After the session, stay and chat with others, or take a mindful walk through the area. It’s social, satisfying, and very hangover-free.
Explore a Local Market or Food Festival
Sunny Sundays often bring with them a host of vibrant community events, farmers’ markets, craft fairs, food stalls and more. These spaces are a great way to wander, discover local produce, and try new things, all without needing to step into a pub.
Many markets now offer brilliant alcohol-free options too, from fresh juices and mocktails to artisanal sodas and kombucha. Whether you’re nibbling on a warm pastry or browsing handmade goods, it’s a wholesome way to spend your Sunday with friends or solo.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
