The bank holiday is just around the corner, and at Kiwi HQ, we’ve crafted the ultimate routine to help you make the most of it. After all, there’s something magical about a long weekend-it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, dress up, eat well, and enjoy the little things. We’ve pooled our favourite ways to spend the bank holiday, so if you’re looking for a little inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s start with Friday. If you're lucky enough to have the day off, you’re already ahead. But even if you’re working, don’t worry-your long weekend officially begins the moment you clock out. That post 5pm freedom hits differently on a bank holiday weekend. Whether you’re slipping straight from the office into your plans or emerging from a “work from garden” setup (mouse in one hand, Aperol spritz in the other), your Friday evening is all about ease. We’re talking a quick stop at the supermarket for some picky bits and crisps, maybe an M&S cocktail can or two. Head to the garden, your local park, or if you’re really lucky a nearby beach. This doesn’t have to be a big, organised thing. Whether it’s solo, with friends, or something more romantic, it’s all about soaking in the light nights and setting the positive vibes for the rest of the weekend.

Saturday morning rolls around, and yes, we’re going to say it - we do love an earlyish start. Not a 6am wake-up call, but being out and about by 9 or 10 gives you that smug, got your life together feeling. Maybe you’re heading out for a walk and your first coffee of the day, or maybe you’re standing in line at that Instagram-famous bakery, hoping to finally score that pistachio croissant you’ve been dreaming about. However you start, breakfast should be indulgent. A flaky pastry, something carby and satisfying fuel for the day ahead. The rest of Saturday is for pottering about, browsing the shops and catching some sun. By evening, it’s time to get a little glam. Take your time getting ready, put on your favourite dress, your best heels, and don’t forget to take a few pictures while you’re at it. A pre-drink or two sets the mood, and whether the night ends with dessert or some more drinks, you’ll be making the most of the weekend.

Sunday arrives, and now you can sleep in. No alarms, no urgency-just a slow, easy start. Brunch is a non-negotiable, and if you’re feeling a little fragile from the night before, you’ll want something hearty. Our go to? A savoury dish like avocado and eggs on toast, balanced with something sweet for the table. Think pancakes or waffles, the kind you can share. Once revived, the rest of the day is for sunshine and snacks. If the weather plays nice, it’s officially BBQ season. Get the M&S picky bits, gather some friends or family, pour a drink, and spend the evening grazing and chatting as the sun goes down. It’s effortless, unhurried, and exactly what Sundays are made for.

And just like that, it’s Monday. But don’t panic, you’re still not back at work. The final day of the long weekend is a wildcard. You can lean into productivity with a little life admin, tidy your room, do a “reset” (as TikTok would say), or just give everything a quick once over so you start the new week feeling on top of things. Or you can have a full rot day. Lounge in bed, rewatch a comfort series, scroll until your heart’s content. Either way, it’s important to wrap things up with one last food moment. We’re talking a takeaway that hits the spot-our choice is Chinese. You’ve earned it.

So yes, our dream bank holiday weekend revolves around good food, a few drinks, and dressing up just for the fun of it. What can we say? We’re just a bunch of girls who love the little things in life—and a long weekend is the perfect time to enjoy them all.

May 19, 2025 — Mel Lanigan