Britons have been struggling with hot weather in recent weeks, with some areas recording highs of up to 35C (95F). With fewer than 10 percent of homes fitted with air conditioning, finding a cool spot has become a priority across the country.
Here are some of the best places to find shade, cold water, or a sea breeze right now.
Beaches
Rated England's number one beach on Tripadvisor, Bournemouth Beach stretches for seven miles of golden sand. Beach huts are available to hire for those seeking shade, and deckchairs, sunbeds, windbreaks and parasols can all be rented on site.
For cooler temperatures, Scotland's Elie Beach in Fife is a strong option. Named in Scotland's Beach Awards 2026, the sheltered spot features golden sands, a harbour area, and a village to explore nearby.
Beer Gardens
The Anchor Inn, located in the village of Beer in Devon, was recently named the top beer garden in the country by travel site Locals Insider. The cliffside pub looks out over the Jurassic Coast and Lyme Bay, earning its top ranking for sea views and traditional fishing village character.
Those wanting both a beach and a pint can head to Tŷ Coch Inn in Porthdinllaen, North Wales. The beachfront pub sits directly beside the sand with views over Cardigan Bay, and can be reached by a coastal walk or by boat.
Lidos
Cheltenham Lido's 50-metre heated outdoor pool is one of the UK's largest, and the site also includes a sauna, cafe, and fitness classes. A children's shallow pool with a slide is also on offer. Adult entry costs £8.20, with a family ticket for four priced at £18.50.
Tinside Lido in Plymouth is a 55-metre saltwater pool overlooking Plymouth Hoe. Three fountains provide a constant flow of fresh water, and a cafe on site serves snacks and ice cream.
Outdoor Waterparks
Doncaster Aqua Park at Hatfield Outdoor Activity Centre offers 60-minute inflatable obstacle sessions for those aged seven and above, with tickets starting from £21 per person.
Dorset Adventure Park runs a waterpark across two lakes, including Castle Lake, which overlooks Corfe Castle. Each lake features obstacles stretching over 200 metres. Participants must be aged six or over and able to swim 25 metres unaided. Tickets start from £22 per person.
Forests
Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire offers 450 acres of ancient oak trees and walking trails. Parking costs £7 for non-RSPB members, with free entry to the site, which is said to have been the home of Robin Hood.
The Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire includes an area called Puzzlewood, described as an ancient magical forest that is thought to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. The woodland features winding paths and shaded walkways.
