7 spring events to plan a daytrip for

It’s official: spring has sprung in the UK, which means we can finally wave goodbye to winter. And what better way to see in the new season than with a cheeky springtime day out? The milder weather and longer days mean outdoor attractions are suddenly a lot more enjoyable, so we’ve picked out some of our favourite spring events up and down the country. From woodland walks to music festivals, you can get to every one of these with megabus – and save on travel costs in the process.

1. Take a walk through the woods in Bristol

A walk over Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must when you’re in Bristol – the views from here are incredible any time of the year. But in spring, it’s even better because you can team it with a stomp around Leigh Woods, just on the other side. This peaceful patch of National Trust woodland makes the perfect change of pace if you need a break from the 24/7 buzz of the city, with more great views courtesy of the Avon Gorge.

2. Watch the big boat race in London

The annual Oxford v Cambridge boat race is back in London for the 169th time on the last Saturday of March, and it’s going to be a biggie. About 250,000 people are expected to head to the banks of the Thames to watch, so pack yourself a picnic and pick yourself a spot between Putney Bridge and Mortlake. You can see the action on the big screen if you prefer, at designated areas in Hammersmith and Fulham. These also come with bars, street food stalls and – this is a deal-breaker if it’s raining – plenty of covered seating.

3. Sip a cocktail by the canal in Manchester

Waterside views are easy to come by in Manchester thanks to the city’s network of canals, and there’s a line-up of waterside bars and pubs to match. The Wharf at Castlefield, for example, serves food and drink on an al fresco terrace that makes a great suntrap when the weather’s on your side. And Dukes 92 and The Rain Bar are popular spots when the sun comes out – both have big beer gardens by the water.

4. Walk under waterfalls in Cardiff

Once you’ve ticked off all the essential stop-offs in Cardiff city centre, take a trip out of the hustle and bustle for a guided tour of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Six Waterfalls Walk runs from the start of March until mid-August, with tours setting off several mornings a week. You’ll hike through valleys, walk behind waterfalls and take a dip in a natural pool at the end. This is a great one to do with a group of mates, and you’ll be picked up from Little Man Coffee Co right in the city centre – so you don’t need a car to get there.

5. See your favourite bands in Leeds

May is shaping up nicely in Leeds, thanks to Live at Leeds In the Park 2024. For one day only on 25 May, the city will host big-name bands – including headliners The Kooks – across five music stages. It all happens at Temple Newsham Park, which is a little way out of the city centre. The great news is there’ll be a dedicated shuttle bus running to the festival site and back again, so getting there is nice and easy.

6. Snap the cherry blossoms in Glasgow

Nothing quite says spring like a huge blanket of cherry blossoms, and in Glasgow you can see them in full bloom at Glasgow Green. The city’s oldest park looks pretty in pink from late March and into April, so this is the place to head for a springtime walk worthy of your Instagram grid. The upmarket area of Blythswood Square is another good shout, so you’ve got options when it comes to photo ops.

7. Eat your way around Newcastle’s food markets

Food markets crop up all year round in Newcastle, but the spring weather makes mooching between stalls a lot more enjoyable. Quayside Market on Sundays is the big one, and you can buy handcrafted bits and bobs as well as all sorts of international street food here. If it’s raining, eat your way around Grainger Market instead. This indoor market hall in the city is absolutely packed with foodie finds.