Although it’s still winter, the solstice is behind us, and there’s much to be excited about – particularly the longer days that are now within touching distance.
Spring is about new beginnings. After months of cold temperatures that often leave us feeling blue, spring brings a rising energy, revitalising everything and helping us feel more optimistic and motivated to make the most of our days. So, let’s start planning for the months ahead with some exciting things to see and do. Here are our top picks:
Book a city break
If you’re planning your next weekend away, why not visit 2025’s UK City of Culture, Bradford? Discover a packed programme of events by local, national and international creatives, including 365 artworks, as well as festivals and live music shows – many of which are free. While you’re there, visit the new Darley Street Market, a state-of-the-art venue catering to all shopping, socialising and cultural needs – opening this spring.
For families, bring the kids and celebrate 80 years since the first Moomin story was published, with Bradford hosting a brand-new public artwork inspired by The Moomins and the Great Flood.
Credit: Darley Street Market
Host a pancake party
Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, falls on Tuesday 4 March this year. Traditionally a day of feasting before Lent (the 40-day period of fasting leading up to Easter), it was a way to use up indulgent ingredients like eggs, milk and sugar – hence the tradition of making pancakes.
This year, why not host a fun pancake party for friends and family? Set an elaborate table with chic brunchware and ask guests to bring their favourite toppings, savoury or sweet. Need some inspo? Check out this tasty chocolate chip pancake recipe from Jane’s Patisserie. Whether you prefer thin, crepe-like pancakes or thick, fluffy American-style ones, it’s a great day to experiment and practice your flipping skills!
Credit: Jane’s Patisserie
Visit a tulip festival
If you’re a fan of tulips, visit Tulleys Tulip Fest (5 – 27 April). One of the UK’s largest tulip displays, it’s set within the West Sussex countryside and features over 100 different tulip varieties. As you wander through the fields, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of colours, from deep purples and blues to luminous yellows and reds. Don’t forget to snap a few pics with the iconic Whispering Windmill, a festival favourite, while lively street performers bring energy and surprises throughout the event.
Alternatively, if you’d like to pair your visit with a historical landmark, Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival (11 April – 5 May) is back with over 100,000 tulip bulbs erupting in colour at one of the country’s most spectacular tulip displays.
Credit: Tulleys Tulip Fest
Update your bookcase
World Book Day is coming up on Thursday 6 March, a brilliant charity initiative that champions reading for fun and highlights its many benefits for children. According to book retailer Waterstones, 2025 is shaping up to be another incredible year for books across all genres. Whether you’re searching for a gripping novel, a Nobel Prize-winning author or a personal development guide, check out its blog on the must-read books of the year.
Looking to create a cosy reading corner? We have some handy tips here, along with space-saving leaning ladder shelves to store and display books. Complete with non-slip silicone pads for added stability, they’re perfect for renters as they don’t need to be fixed to a wall.
Credit: @debbielegrainger
Celebrate amazing women
Saturday 8 March marks International Women’s Day, with many events across the UK to take part in. Join a guided walk through the City of London, uncovering the fascinating stories of women who shaped history. The Pioneering Women City Walk explores the vital roles women have played – from workers’ rights activism to charitable efforts – while spotlighting the Suffragettes’ fight for the right to vote.
For those who want to get active for a cause, join ActionAid’s Women’s Run Series to support the rights of women and girls worldwide. Walk, jog or run 5K or 10K around London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in this women-only event, celebrating strength, solidarity and empowerment.
Get ready for spring
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home – whether by investing in new storage solutions to banish clutter or adding a pop of seasonal colour with a few home décor updates. Don’t forget – clocks will spring forward on Sunday 30 March, treating us to brighter mornings and longer evenings as we welcome the spring equinox.
We hope this has inspired you to make the most of the season ahead. If you’re looking for fresh home updates, check out our new collections online, via our app or in-store.
