The best bank holiday days out: what to do on the long weekend

From festivals to extreme competitions, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained

Jump around the world's largest bouncy castle, London

North London's Alexandra Palace is hosting The Beast, the world's largest inflatable object, this bank holiday. There are more than 30 obstacles to play with as you bounce and run around this 272m-long bouncy castle, while DJs blast out tunes. Over-16s only.

Get stuck into the World Gravy Wrestling Championships, Lancashire 

Perhaps the quirkiest option out there this long weekend is the World Gravy Wrestling Championships in Rossendale, Lancashire. Taking place on Monday 28 August, it sees contestants battle it out in a pool full of the meaty stuff, hoping to be crowned champion.

Enjoy the catch of the day at Newlyn Fish Festival, Cornwall

The annual celebration of all things fishy takes place again this bank holiday Monday in the Cornish town of Newlyn. There will be chef demonstrations, music and – of course – plenty of opportunity to stuff yourself with the ocean's finest.

(Visit Cornwall)

Laugh yourself silly at the Fringe, Edinburgh

It may not be a bank holiday in Scotland, but the long weekend marks the final few days of this year's Fringe, where performers of all stripes take over Edinburgh's stages, pubs and streets. Standup comedy, drama and kids' shows are all on the programme at the world's largest arts festival. Too far? Try the Carlisle Fringe Festival in Cumbria instead.

Embrace the carnival spirit, Leeds

London's Notting Hill Carnival is the country's most famous, but the Leeds West Indian Carnival celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. It's set to attract more than 100,000 people, and you can expect soca music, steel pans, arts and crafts, and food from across the Caribbean.

(Mark Fletcher/Flickr/CC BY-NC 2.0)

Get mucky at the World Bog Snorkelling Championships, Mid Wales

Yet more weird world championsips... This annual event in Llanwrtyd Wells sees hundreds of participants from around the world do, well, just as the name suggests. If you don't fancy taking the plunge, don't worry – you won't be alone. Spectators can enjoy the food and drink stalls, crafts, live music and bar.