Things to do this weekend: Ballooning and surfside sounds

by Louie.kenyoncrockett

On your marks for the Fastest Filly race in Pontefract or for something a little less speedy, try out some craft beer in the heart of the capital. If your children love the open seas then sail to Wetherby for a Pirate Weekend, suggests Danielle Jones.

For more ideas and inspiration for this weekend, visit: realtimetravelguide.com

1. Get sampling at London Craft Beer Festival, East London

Craft Beer Festival, London © Craft Beer Festival

If you’re partial to a crafty pint, then check out the vast array of brewers and their wares at the London Craft Beer Festival. You can have unlimited samples of what’s on offer in your free festival glass, plus there’s music and food to compliment the tipples. Tickets start at £25. (12th-14th August)

Find things to do in London

2. Treat the kids at the Pontefract Racecourse Flying Fillies Family Fun Day, Yorkshire

Bring the kids and some running shoes for a day at the races with a difference. Enjoy pony rides, face painting and meet some of the horses with the kids. Ladies can also compete to be crowned “Fastest Filly” in the star event. Family tickets cost £22. (14th August)

See what’s on in Yorkshire

3. Float away at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol Balloon Fiesta © VisitBristol

Watching a hot air balloon is a sight to behold but the skies above Bristol will be a veritable rainbow of them this weekend. Why not book a ride in a balloon? Or if you’d prefer to keep your feet on terra firma, watch the balloons light up for the Nightglows and Firework spectacular. Entry is free but there is a charge for parking. (11th-13th August)

Discover more events in Bristol 

4. Draw your longbow at Medieval Merriment, Rochester Castle, Kent

Swap your sunglasses for some medieval chainmail at this interactive event at Rochester Castle. Wander around as the grounds play host to a free fayre full of re-enactments, cooking displays, falconry, archery and even a medieval fashion show for all your armour needs.

What’s happening in Kent this weekend?

5. Take your pick from 24 stages at BoomTown Fair, Hampshire

Bang Hai Palace at Boomtown Festival © Jody Hartley

Becoming its own mini city, BoomTown Fair has an action packed line-up and spectacular visuals. With 24 stages rammed with every performance art form imaginable, acts such as Fun Lovin Criminals, Madness and the ever entertaining, Beardyman, this is one crazy, musical journey in the Hampshire countryside. Tickets start at £170 for the weekend. (11th-14th August)

Find fun things to do in Hampshire

6. Pack a picnic for BFest, Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

BFest Crowds © BFest

Set in the grounds of the  Bamburgh Castle, BFest gets underway this weekend with local musical acts, delicious food and drink from local based vendors and a relaxing family friendly vibe. Bring a blanket and relax in the grounds of this mighty fortress whilst also raising money for HospiceCare. (13th August)

Thinking of visiting Northumberland?

7. Take a drive to The Bradford Classic, City Park Bradford, West Yorkshire

Sometimes it’s easy to take cars for granted but this weekend you can be reminded of how amazing they truly are. The Bradford Classic has a celebration of all things automotive, with beautiful examples of cars through the ages, going right back to the 1920s. Alongside the vehicle eye-candy there’s live music, kid’s entertainment and a vintage market. Entry to the event is free. (13th August)

Discover things to do in West Yorkshire

8. Make tracks Dumper Racing at Diggerland, Castleford, West Yorkshire

Diggerland Dumper Racing © Time Merry

If you love the thrill of competition and like the idea of trying a more unusual mode of transport, then head to Diggerland to take part in Dumper Racing. Manoeuvre your way around the course in the fastest time and try not to get any penalties for your shot at victory. Entrance to the activity is £39.99. (13th August)

Fancy trying something new this weekend?

9. Walk the plank at Pirate Weekend at Stockeld Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire

Ahoy, me Hearties! If you’re partial to doubloons and think you have what it takes to avoid Davy Jones’ locker, then weigh the anchor and hoist the mizzen to Stockeld Park for Pirate Weekend. As well as the adventure playgrounds and Go-Karts thar’ also be a prize for the best pirate duds. Entry is £13 per person. (13th-14th August)

Looking for more things to do with the kids?

10. Hang ten at Boardmasters Festival, Cornwall

Boardmasters Festival © Nosa Malcolm

Take in the sea air and feel the sand between your toes all whilst listening to the sounds of Deadmau5, Chase & Status, James Bay and more at Boardmasters this weekend. From its home on the Cornish coast you can mix up your festival experience watching adrenaline pumping surf competitions and some intimate beach gigs. Day tickets start from £47.50. (10th-14th August)

Find fun things to do in Cornwall