Keeping yourself entertained at the weekend is a constant challenge. It’s a good idea to have a plan in place so you don’t end up bored or wasting your days off. Weather permitting, you could plan an outdoor adventure or visit a nearby theme park. If the skies are looking a little gloomy, cosy indoor entertainment might be a safer choice.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day out or a way to unwind at home, here are a few ideas to stir your imagination.
Theme parks & real-world fun
When it comes to high-energy entertainment, theme parks are the ultimate way to experience thrills, adventure, and unforgettable moments with friends and family. The UK is home to some world-class parks that cater to every kind of visitor, from adrenaline seekers to families with young children. Here’s a look at three of the most popular theme parks in the UK and what makes them a must-visit destination.
Alton Towers
Nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, Alton Towers is the UK’s largest and most famous theme park. Known for its record-breaking rollercoasters, it offers something for thrill-seekers and casuals alike.
The Smiler, the world’s first 14-inversion coaster, delivers non-stop excitement, while Oblivion was the world’s first vertical drop rollercoaster. For a different kind of adventure, the Wicker Man ride combines wooden coaster thrills with fiery special effects, as well as a dash of horror.
Beyond the big rides, Alton Towers has a CBeebies Land, water park and luxury resort, making it a full-fledged holiday destination.
Thorpe Park
If you’re located further south, Thorpe Park is the place to be. Sitting just outside of London, it’s packed with some of the UK’s most intense rollercoasters and attractions. Stealth, the fastest rollercoaster in the country, launches riders from 0 to 80 mph in under two seconds, while The Swarm offers an exhilarating inverted winged experience.
Horror fans will love SAW – The Ride, a coaster themed around the terrifying film series. Thorpe Park also hosts seasonal events like Fright Nights, where the park transforms into a horror experience with live scare mazes and performances.
Chessington World of Adventures
Chessington World of Adventures is the perfect choice for a mixed age group. Combining a theme park, zoo, and SEA LIFE centre, it offers a blend of excitement and discovery.
The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure and Room on the Broom: A Magical Journey bring classic children’s stories to life, while the Mandrill Mayhem coaster delivers just the right amount of thrill.
Animal lovers can see lions, gorillas, and sea creatures up close, making it an excellent day out with more than just rides. Chessington is ideal for those who are looking for adventure-packed fun with a mix of rides and wildlife encounters.
Bringing the fun home

While theme parks offer awesome experiences, you don’t always have to travel to find great entertainment. Some of the best ways to enjoy yourself are right at home, where you can create memorable moments without the need for queues or travel.
Whether it’s a competitive games night, an immersive VR experience, or a cosy movie marathon, there are plenty of ways to bring the excitement indoors. Here’s how you can keep the fun going from the comfort of your home.
Games night
A classic games night is an age-old way to bring people together for entertainment and competition. Whether you’re into traditional board games like Monopoly and Scrabble, or prefer fast-paced party games like Exploding Kittens and Cards Against Humanity, there’s something for every group.
For those who enjoy a challenge, strategy games like Catan or Risk provide hours of immersive gameplay. If you want a digital spin, video games like Mario Kart, FIFA, or Jackbox Party Packs make for exciting multiplayer experiences. The key to a great games night is good company, snacks, and a competitive spirit!
For even more ways to play, online platforms offer a huge variety of interactive experiences, ensuring that there’s always something new to enjoy. For example, playing slots can be very fun and engaging. It’s also great to enjoy on the iPad while watching a movie, as most online casinos are available on mobile.
VR experiences
Virtual reality is transforming home entertainment, offering an immersive way to experience games, travel, and even fitness. With devices like the Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR2, and HTC Vive, players can step into breathtaking digital worlds from the comfort of their living room.
Whether you’re soaring through space, solving escape room puzzles, or exploring fantasy realms, VR makes it feel like you’re right in the action. For those who love a thrill, horror VR games add a whole new level of intensity, while fitness-focused apps like Beat Saber and Supernatural turn exercise into a fun, interactive experience.
Movie night
Sometimes, the best kind of fun is simply relaxing with a great film. A movie night at home allows you to create a cinema-like experience with minimal effort. Set the mood with dim lighting, a cosy blanket, and plenty of popcorn, then pick a film that suits the vibe – whether it’s a heart-racing action blockbuster, a nostalgic classic, or a laugh-out-loud comedy.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video make it easy to find something for everyone. You could also take it up a notch with a themed movie night, where you watch a classic trilogy, like The Lord of the Rings, revisit old favourites, or even dress up to match the film’s setting!
Wrap up
No matter how you prefer to spend your free time, there’s no shortage of ways to keep yourself entertained.
For those who love outdoor adventures, visiting places like Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, or Chessington offers an action-packed way to spend the day. But, if the weather isn’t on your side, VR gaming, online experiences, and classic games nights can bring the same excitement right into your home.
From real-world thrills to digital escapes, entertainment has never been more varied or accessible.