What are UK adults looking forward to most this summer?

Many people said that British Summer Time will mean more to them this year than ever

Those asked said they were looking forward to getting back to the pub as well as going to the seaside (AFP via Getty Images)

Longer days, browsing shops and going for brunch are among the little things UK adults are most looking forward to this summer.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 77 per cent believe summer 2021 will improve the mood of the nation.

Indeed, more than half said this year’s British Summer Time – which begins this weekend – will mean more to them than ever before.

As a result, people can’t wait for weekend breaks, sitting in pub gardens and a trip to the hairdressers once the restrictions are eased.

It also emerged that the beginning of summer time signifies positivity, happiness and a new start to those polled.

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More than two thirds are more excited for summer this year than previous years because they can spend time outside with family and friends, escape their home and travel.

Kim Priest, spokesperson for Centre:MK, a shopping centre in Milton Keynes, which commissioned the study, said: “The research illustrates how important the little things we used to take for granted now mean more to us than ever before.

“From small things like a hug with a member of the family, browsing in a shop or going for brunch, the focus on social interaction holds lots of opportunities and is key to high street reinvention.

“It’s clear to see just how excited people are to get back to normality and socialising again.

“Many are also keen to reinvent themselves - the study shows that people are really looking forward to a trip to the hairdressers or barbers and buying new things like clothes, accessories and makeup.”

The poll also found people typically hope to attend three social events each week when they can.

Dining out, shopping in store rather than online and going on dates were among the anticipated activities UK adults hope to try and do more of when ‘normal’ life resumes.

When it comes to socialising, people are also looking forward to hugging others, making small talk with strangers and even attending group exercise classes again.

It seems some are eager to return to the routine of after work drinks and a few even looking forward to face-to-face meetings.  

Others are looking forward to spending their summer visiting the pub and heading to the seaside.

A further 57 per cent of adults are ready to be more spontaneous this summer and 82 per cent plan to be more positive about everyday activities in the future.

It also emerged that top of summer shopping lists are plants, a summer dress and sunglasses.

Almost half of those polled via OnePoll, also plan to wear more colourful clothing this summer than usual, in order to feel positive and spread happiness after the past year.

Top 40 little things UK adults are looking forward to this summer

1. Longer days and sunny evenings

2. Blue skies

3. Visiting somewhere by the sea

4. Sitting in a pub garden

5. A weekend break

6. A trip to the countryside

7. A more positive mood

8. Eating food you have not cooked

9. Going to the hairdressers/barbers

10. Browsing shops

11. Having a barbeque

12. A holiday abroad

13. Getting a tan / summer glow

14. Going for brunch

15. Visiting a museum or gallery

16. Swimming

17. Trying on clothes in a shop

18. A theatre show

19. Attending a music event/concert

20. Sitting outside on your lunch break

21. Going to the zoo / an animal farm

22. Attending a sporting event

23. Hearing an ice cream van

24. Watching a blockbuster on a big screen

25. After work drinks

26. Wearing bright colours

27. Going to the gym/group classes

28. Dressing to impress

29. Getting beauty treatments e.g. nails, eyelashes

30. A big birthday party e.g. 40th

31. Going on a date

32. A spa day

33. Face-to-face work meetings

34. Tasting other people’s baking

35. Theme Park rides

36. A wedding

37. Long lunches with colleagues/clients

38. Planning outfits for the week ahead

39. Working from anywhere but home

40. Going to the fair

SWNS