September might have arrived, but that doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to summer just yet. There are still plenty of opportunities to eat outside, enjoy lighter evenings, plan a day trip and make the most of seasonal produce. British Summer Time doesn’t end until Sunday 25 October 2026, when the clocks go back, so there’s still time to squeeze a little more out of the season. Here are ten ways to make the most of the last of the summer.
The Best Ways To Enjoy The Last Of The Summer
1. Eat breakfast outside: Start with something simple. If the morning is warm enough, take your breakfast or first cup of coffee outside. Sit in the garden, on your balcony or find a sunny table at your local café. It’s an easy way to enjoy the remaining warmer mornings before they become noticeably cooler.
2. Make the most of your garden: If you have a garden, terrace or balcony, don’t abandon it as soon as August ends. Spend an afternoon reading outside, enjoy whatever is still flowering or invite a friend over for coffee. You’ll have plenty of time to get everything ready for winter later.
3. Cook with late summer produce: September is a brilliant month for produce that still feels distinctly summery. Look out for tomatoes, courgettes, aubergines, sweetcorn, beans, figs, plums and late summer berries. Make colourful salads, roasted vegetables, and simple suppers that let you hang on to those summer flavours a little longer.
4. Have one last picnic: Pick a favourite park, common, garden or riverside spot and plan a final picnic of the year. Take a blanket and something more exciting than a packet of sandwiches. September sunshine can still be surprisingly warm, although packing an extra layer and a flask of coffee is probably sensible.
5. Go for an evening walk: The darker evenings are coming, so make the most of being able to head out after work or dinner while there is still some daylight. Walk beside the river, through your local park or explore a neighbourhood you don’t know particularly well. Even a half-hour walk can make an ordinary weekday feel summerier.
6. Have lunch in a pub garden: Pub gardens aren’t only for July and August. In fact, a sunny September afternoon can be much more enjoyable once the busiest summer crowds have disappeared. Find somewhere with a lovely garden or terrace and settle in for a leisurely weekend lunch.
7. Take a seaside day trip: There’s something particularly appealing about the British seaside once the school holidays are over. Places such as Brighton, Whitstable, Margate and Rye are still lively, but September can feel considerably more relaxed. Walk along the beach, browse the independent shops and stop somewhere good for lunch before heading home.
8. Plan a late summer day out: Think about somewhere you meant to visit this summer but never quite got around to. It might be a beautiful garden, stately home, sculpture park, vineyard, food market or outdoor attraction. Pick a promising day of weather and finally go.
9. Book a late summer weekend away: You don’t have to travel abroad to squeeze in one final holiday. Book a night or two somewhere pretty in the UK and make it feel like a proper mini break. A seaside town, country hotel or picturesque village can provide that last little taste of summer without requiring much planning.
10. Chase the September sunshine: Perhaps the best approach is not to plan everything too far in advance. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and take advantage whenever a beautiful day appears. Have lunch outside, finish work a little earlier if you can, head to the park or spontaneously arrange a day out. Sunny September days feel particularly precious because you know there won’t be an endless supply of them.
Final Notes On Making The Most Of Late Summer
Summer doesn’t suddenly disappear when August ends. September often gives us warm afternoons, seasonal food, gardens that are still flourishing and enough daylight to enjoy being outdoors. British Summer Time ends on Sunday 25 October 2026, when the clocks go back by one hour. Until then, there are almost eight weeks from the beginning of September to enjoy what remains of the lighter part of the year. Rather than rushing towards autumn, I’m going to appreciate every sunny day that comes along.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging On To The Summer
When does British Summer Time end in 2026?
British Summer Time ends on Sunday 25 October 2026. At 2am, the clocks go back by one hour to 1 am as the UK returns to Greenwich Mean Time.
When does autumn officially begin in the UK in 2026?
It depends on which definition you use. Meteorological autumn begins on 1 September and runs until 30 November. Astronomical autumn begins with the autumn equinox, which falls on 23 September in the UK in 2026.
Is September a good month for UK day trips?
September can be an excellent time for UK day trips. The school summer holidays have finished; popular destinations can be quieter, and there is still a reasonable chance of warm weather and sunshine.
Is September a good time to visit the British seaside?
Yes. Many seaside towns remain busy with restaurants, cafés and attractions open, but they are generally less crowded than during the peak school holiday period. Check seasonal opening hours before travelling.
What should I take on a late summer day out in the UK?
Late summer weather can change quickly, so layers are useful. Sunglasses and sun protection may still be needed on bright days, while a lightweight waterproof and an extra layer will help if temperatures drop.
How can I enjoy late summer without spending much money?
Some of the best late summer activities cost very little. Pack a picnic, explore a local park, go for an evening walk, visit the coast using an advance train ticket or simply spend a sunny afternoon in your garden or local green space.
Here are some articles that you may find interesting. CNN: Beer gardens in London with gardens and Visit Britain: Day trips from London. You might also like our feature about how to make the most of your summer evenings.