June 2025: England's great outdoors is bursting with fresh adventures this summer, from subterranean sculpture shows and pioneering wine trails to pop up saunas with icy cold plunges. We're spotlighting ways to cool off and enjoy nature over the next few months including new coastal trails, immersive outdoor experiences and plenty of wild swimming spots. With VisitEngland's recent 'The Social Value of Tourism' report finding that after travelling in the UK 79% of people surveyed felt more positive and 71% felt healthier or more replenished, there's plenty of ways to feel the benefit in England – the original coolcation – whether you're after wellness, wildlife or a waterside weekend.

 

England's Great Outdoors News, Experiences & Events

 

New Rother Wine Triangle vineyard trail, 1066 Country, Sussex

Launching 25 June 2025

England's wine scene is getting a fresh boost with the launch of the Rother Wine Triangle, a Sussex Winelands initiative set to put Rother's vineyards firmly on the map.  The project includes new wayfinding signage, orientation points and an interactive wine trail showcasing seven award-winning wineries in the Rother Valley region of East Sussex. With more than 140 vineyards and an estimated 30 wineries, the Sussex Winelands region has become synonymous with English winemaking excellence.

 

The Wombles arrive at The Heights of Abraham, Derbyshire

18 July – 2 November 2025

Eco-conscious family favourites, The Wombles, arrive at The Heights of Abraham, Derbyshire's hilltop attraction known for its cable cars, underground caverns and scenic views. Opening in July, a new exhibition explores The Wombles' journey from 1970s television icons to modern day champions of recycling. Alongside the exhibition, visitors can meet the characters, take part in themed trails and craft workshops and learn how to help care for the environment.

 

Experience the Flying Scotsman, Exmoor, Somerset 

Services running 28 June – 14 July 2025

In the 200th anniversary year of the passenger railway, West Somerset will welcome world-famous locomotive No 60103 Flying Scotsman with a number of services running between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. The Flying Scotsman was originally built in Doncaster for the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER), emerging from the works on 24 February 1923 and initially numbered 1472. It was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley as part of the A1 class – the most powerful locomotives used by the railway. The legendary locomotive also performed the first ever non-stop London to Edinburgh trip in 1928, cutting the journey time to eight hours.

 

Debut RHS Flower Show at Wentworth Woodhouse, Rotherham, South Yorkshire

16 – 20 July 2025

RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse will take place for the first time this year, at one of England's grandest stately homes. Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire will host five days of horticultural artistry, featuring up-and-coming designers, growers and local artisans – as well as contests including RHS Young Designer of the Year and RHS Career Changer of the Year. The first day of the show will be reserved for RHS Members.

 

The Lake District's first public observatory opens at Grizedale Forest, Cumbria

Launched May 2025

Offering a spectacular all-weather experience in the heart of Grizedale Forest, the new Grizedale Observatory and Planetarium is the first of its kind in the Lake District. Combining cutting-edge astronomy with natural beauty, visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art equipment and immersive planetarium shows bringing the wonders of the universe to life. There will also be expert-led experiences on offer such as dark sky events, drop-in family activities (including meteorite handling) and specialist talks.

 

Wild Swim Bike Run launch new Women's Outdoor Adventures series, Bath

June – August 2025

Wild Swim Bike Run has launched a new Women's Outdoor Adventure series for 2025 designed for both beginners and intermediates. There are day trips and weekend adventures to choose from, with activity options including trail running, mountain biking and SUP. The mountain bike day tour journeys through the southern Cotswolds starting and finishing in Bath, while the stand-up paddleboarding day tour heads along the River Avon and Kennet & Avon canals and into beautiful countryside.

 

Back to the Cave: The Full Spectrum in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley, Gloucestershire

Now – 31 August 2025

Visitors to the Forest of Dean can experience a major sculpture exhibition 100 feet underground at Clearwell Caves. This summer, Back to the Cave: The Full Spectrum, showcases modern and contemporary artworks by 60 internationally renowned artists, including Lynn Chadwick, Antony Gormley, Maggi Hambling, Damien Hirst, and Sarah Lucas. Visitors to the exhibition will follow a planned 500-metre route where they will encounter sculptures, including several new site-specific works, and have a chance to explore the mine.

 

World Outdoor Tug of War Championships, Nottingham

4 – 7 September 2025

Over 1,500 international athletes will flock to Nottingham this September for the annual World Outdoor Tug of War Championships at Highfields Sports Complex. The event is free for spectators to attend and will feature a range of competitions as teams battle it out for the Tug of War crown. The 2024 World Outdoor Tug of War Championships took place in Mannheim, Germany, and the England tug of war teams came away with one gold, four silver and two bronze medals across the club and international competitions

 

New Tolkien Sculptures unveiled, East Yorkshire

Launched 6 June 2025

East Yorkshire hasunveiled two new hand-carved oak sculptures to celebrate the area's longstanding connection to J.R.R Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. The new sculptures, located in the charming village of Roos, depict Tolkien and his wife. Created by artist Allen Stichler, the sculptures will join the already popular Tolkien Triangle trail, which connects local sites which the author visited during his recovery from WW1.

 

Enjoy Wild West Wine and Cider tours and tastings, Somerset

Launched May 2025

Organic wine and cider producers Failand Farm have launched a new relaxed, hands-on tour and tasting experience for visitors to learn about their award-winning small-batch production. Guests will be able to walk the land, meet the makers and sample the goods – learning about the annual cycle of apple growing as they wander through the orchards. At the winery and cider house, there's a chance to see where the magic happens before sitting back and enjoying a taste of the handcrafted beverages paired with local cheese. Located less than 10-minutes' drive from Bristol's iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, tours are offered each Wednesday and Sunday.

 

North York Moors National Park launches three new cycling trails, North Yorkshire

Launched 2 June 2025

This summer North York Moors National Park's Sutton Bank has launched three new dedicated circular gravel cycling routes, created by cycling journalist Guy Kesteven, to enhance the cycling hub. Here visitors can hire a bike from Sutton Bank Bikes, enjoy a good meal at The Truffled Hog and brush up their handling skills as well as enjoying the existing network of routes. Also new for 2025, the Edge of Empire is a fascinating easy-going trail at Cawthorn Roman Camps, an internationally important archaeological site in the park, and includes an accessible viewing platform with far reaching views. Visitors can also take on a new digital geocache art treasure hunt trail celebrating the rich art heritage of the coastal village of Staithes as geocaching celebrates its 25th anniversary.

 

Wellness with a sparkle at Norfolk Mead Prosecco Spa, Norfolk

Launched spring 2025

As home to the UK's first beer spa, Norfolk Mead's wellness offering is already pretty special – and for those who prefer something sparkling, good news, Norfolk Mead has just launched their new prosecco spa experience, including opulent bath oils enriched with Champagne leaf extract and, of course, a bottle of chilled bubbles to sip as you soak. Located just eight miles from Norwich on the edge of the Broads National Park, Norfolk Mead offers a tranquil East Anglia escape.

 

Explore Bronte Country National Nature Reserve, West Yorkshire

Launched May 2025

This May, the moorlands that inspired the Bronte sisters became part of the newly designated Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve. Covering 1,270 hectares of dramatic upland landscapes around Haworth, including Penistone Hill and the medieval Wool Hall, the reserve links eight important wildlife sites and offers fresh protection for species like the Curlew and Adder. Visitors can explore these historic moors on newly connected trails just a stone's throw from Bradford city centre. 

 

The New Forest celebrates 20 years as a National Park, Hampshire and Wiltshire

Throughout 2025

When the New Forest became a national park back in 2005, this former royal hunting ground was given a new lease of life – and is now a thriving domestic tourism destination, with a huge range of activities, top-quality hotels and an exciting food scene. We can expect a bumper year for the national park's regular events – such as the New Forest and Hampshire County Show (29 – 31 July) and the New Forest Food Festival (16 – 17 August).

 

Discover North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve, Kent

Launched Spring 2025

The newly launched North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve, spanning all the way from Gravesend to Medway, is home to ancient woodlands, chalk grassland and protected species. The reserve is one of the most ecologically significant landscapes in southern England and has been recognised as part of the King's Series of NNR's for King Charles III's Coronation celebrations.

 

New film: The Thursday Murder Club, locations nationwide

28 August 2025

Whodunnit fans can look forward to the Netflix film adaptation of Richard Osman's best-selling debut novel, The Thursday Murder Club – which was filmed on location throughout Berkshire and Buckinghamshire in 2024. Directed by Chris Columbus, the movie will feature a star-studded cast including Helen Mirren, Celia Imrie, Ben Kingsley and Pierce Brosnan. Osman has also announced Netflix's acquisition of his novel We Solve Murders: one to watch out for in the future.

 

Coast with the Most

 

Walk the new Lincolnshire section of the King Charles III England Coast Path

Launched May 2025

There's 47 more miles of the King Charles III England Coast Path to explore following the opening in May of a new Lincolnshire section connecting Mablethorpe to the Humber Bridge. The diverse shoreline takes in traditional seaside towns such as Mablethorpe and Cleethorpes, as well as wildlife spotting opportunities at Theddlethorpe National Nature Reserve and Donna Nook, home to a colony of grey seals who come to breed in the autumn and winter months.

 

Spectacular new redevelopment at Poole Museum, Dorset

July 2025

Poole Museum is on the brink of unveiling a spectacular £10.3 million redevelopment, set to transform it into an outstanding museum, gallery and cultural centre that champions Poole's maritime heritage through history, culture, art and community. New additions will include three brand-new maritime galleries; a new ceramics, art and design gallery including a creative studio and workspace; a new cafe space; a new temporary gallery to bring national touring exhibitions to the area; more interactive displays and a vibrant events and activities programme with better accessibility. Located in the heart of Poole's Old Town and Quay it looks set to be a popular spot for seaside visitors and locals alike. General admission will remain free for all.

 

New look for Littlehampton Seafront, West Sussex

Late Summer 2025

Visitors to the Sussex seaside town of Littlehampton will be able to enjoy a host of new experiences and facilities from this summer thanks to a landmark regeneration project. Highlights will include a new activity hub with basketball, pétanque, bouldering and beach volleyball; a water play area and splash pad; relaxation zones with hammocks, sand pits, communal picnic and BBQ spots and a marketplace featuring local traders. Upgraded green spaces will include new coastal habitat areas.

 

New 250,000 litre Ocean Tank and Tunnel Aquarium at SeaLife Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Launched spring 2025

Summer visitors will have the chance to get an up-close peek into ocean living at SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth's brand-new £1 million aquarium display. As well as being home to over 30 marine species including blacktip reef sharks, moray eels, tangs and angelfish, the 250,000-litre Ocean Tank and Tunnel also features a shipwreck habitat (inspired by HMS Gloucester, the royal warship that sank off the Norfolk coast in 1682). The new display includes special viewing windows and an immersive interactive experience enabling visitors to see and hear the crashing waves, making them feel completely submerged in the ocean's depths.

 

Rick Stein celebrates with Best of 50 Years menu, Cornwall

Launched spring 2025

To celebrate The Seafood Restaurant's 50th anniversary, Rick and Jack Stein have been working on a special four-course menu featuring some of their most loved dishes. The iconic Padstow restaurant has always championed simplicity, seasonality and a respect for Cornish catch. Rick often recalls serving oysters Charentaise in the early days, a dish that surprised people but quickly became a firm favourite. Alongside it, you'll find Cornish brill with a rich truffle sauce and a chocolate fondant, as rich and indulgent as ever.

 

Second Pomus restaurant and wine bar to open in Folkestone, Kent

Launching summer 2025

Award-winning Margate restaurant, wine bar and bottle shop Pomus has announced a second outpost coming to Folkestone this summer. Pomus Folkestone will take over the old Brewery Tap pub site on Tontine Street, located within the town's creative quarter hub – with room for 80 diners across its indoor and outdoor garden terrace. Alongside the restaurant and wine bar, the space will continue to host art exhibitions and events, for which it has become known since the original pub closed in the late 1990s.

 

Places to cool off this summer

 

The UK's floating sauna, Wyld Sauna, Liverpool

Open year round

Located on the central docks of Liverpool, Wyld Sauna is the UK's first floating Sauna offering hot and cold immersion experiences in the heart of the city. Guests can unwind in the 30-person sauna, before cooling off in the ice baths, cold waterfall showers or diving straight into the dock.

 

Surf's up at The Wave, Bristol

Open year round

Creating perfect surf conditions year-round, The Wave is England's first purpose-built inland surfing lake. Since it's opening in 2019, it's become the go to spot for beginners and surfing pros to practice and build their confidence in the water. Visitors can book one-to-one coaching or attend group surfing lessons. Open swimming sessions and 'play in the bay' sessions are available throughout the summer, plus events including the annual Surf Show (12 – 13 July 2025) which offers two days of surf activities and exhibitors. Once on dry land, guests can relax with yoga and sauna sessions or grab a bite at the café.

 

Moonlit plunges at Pool Bridge Farm in York, North Yorkshire

Sessions once a month

Located just outside of York, Pool Bridge Farm features four freshwater lakes for wild swimming sessions throughout the day and also under the monthly full moon. Swimmers can join one of the after-dark dips, a chance to enjoy the tranquillity of nature at night, followed by warming fireside relaxation and an invigorating session in their wood-fired saunas.

 

Swim in the Diver's Cove, Surrey

Open year round

Once an industrial sand extraction site, Diver's Cove in Surrey has been repurposed into a natural oasis for wild swimming, ice plunges and lakeside relaxation. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the 73-acre spring-fed reservoir before bracing a cold plunge in an ice-filled whiskey barrel on the shore of the lake.

 

Ice bath and sauna sessions at Slomo in Bembridge, Isle of Wight

Open 4 July – 31 August

Slomo, co-founded by DJ Rob da Bank, has multiple outposts across the Isle of Wight and in Bournemouth. The Bembridge pop up site overlooks the river estuary, meaning guests can soak up heat in one of two saunas then brave an ice bath all while taking in views towards Southsea. After their revitalising session, guests can kick back with a craft beer at the onsite bar and enjoy tasty snacks from street food vendors.

 

Seaview swimming at Tinside Lido in Plymouth, Devon

Open May – September

Perched on the cliff side of Plymouth Hoe, Tinside Lido is a Grade II listed art deco pool offering open air swims with panoramic sea views. Dating back to 1935, it's one of the best-preserved lidos of its kind. Visitors can enjoy a saltwater swim, soak up the weather on the sundeck and refuel with treats from the poolside café. Located a short walk from the Barbican, sessions are available daily throughout the summer months.

 

Beachside laps at Sea Lanes in Brighton, East Sussex

Open year round

Brighton's beachfront is home to the UK's first National Open Water Swimming Centre, Sea Lanes, which offers swimmers a 50m outdoor heated pool purpose built for open water training. Located on the beach itself, the pool and its onsite gym, yoga space and training facilities plus it's neighbouring Sauna Box all come with unbeatable sea views.

 

Catch waves with Tynemouth Surf Co, Newcastle

Switch out the busy city for a day in the sea with surfing lessons at Longsands Beach. Tynemouth Surf Company offers group surf and supping lessons plus kit rental, meaning first-timers and seasoned surfers alike can hit the waves with everything they need.

 

90 years of Jubilee Pool in Penzance, Cornwall

Open in the spring and summer seasons

Celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2025, Cornwall's Jubilee Pool is one of the UK's most iconic summer swimming spots. It features two swimming spots; the UK's largest seawater pool which is filled on high tide creating a sheltered cold swimming spot and the geothermal pool which is naturally heated for a comfortable dip.

 

Lake days at Alderford, Shropshire

Open year round

Alderford Lake is a hub for water-based activities for adrenaline junkies; guests can clamber onto the aquapark, a maze of inflatable obstacles and slides, or take it slower by paddling around the quieter corners of the lake by canoe, paddle board or kayak.

 

Ride the wake with Liquid Skills at Lake Ashmore in Cambridgeshire

Open year round

Lake Ashmore in Cambridgeshire offers the chance for beginners and professionals alike to ride the water and improve their mid-air tricks with Liquid Skillz. The specially designed wakeboarding system allows visitors to be pulled easily across the waters, perfect for airborne tricks and flips!

 

Wild water rafting at Lee Valley White Water Centre in Hertfordshire

Open year round

Initially opened for the London 2012 Olympics, Lee Valley White Water Centre offers fearless visitors the chance to ride the rapids themselves on the race-standard 300m white water course. Keen kayakers can try their hand at slalom on the legacy loop or take it easy with a paddle on the recreational lake.

 

 

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Notes to editors:

 

• VisitEngland's comprehensive What's New in England 2025 overview can be downloaded here
• Registration to the VisitBritain asset library is required to download images. Register here.

 

 

For more detail please visit www.visitengland.com/media-centre / www.visitengland.com