Health Expert Reveals the Benefits of Walking in the Rain, as the Met Office Predicts Damp Weather This Bank Holiday

Spikes in Search Interest Ahead of the Bank Holiday

As damp weather is forecast across the bank holiday weekend and into the May half term, online searches for “bank holiday weather” have surged by 111% in the past 24 hours. At the same time, interest in “rainy day activities” is up 50%, as people across the UK look for ways to make the most of the long weekend despite the drizzle.

But according to health expert Dr. Sham Singh, the rain might actually do you some good.

Five Reasons to Embrace the Rain

Speaking exclusively to UK holiday provider Parkdean Resorts, Sham outlined five surprising health benefits of walking in the rain:

1. Boosted mood – Being outdoors in nature, even in wet weather, can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters linked to happiness and emotional balance.

2. Increased resilience – Leaving your comfort zone to walk in the rain can help build mental flexibility and adaptability, which are essential for long-term mental wellbeing.

3. Heightened mindfulness – Rain sharpens sensory input, helping you tune in to your surroundings and stay present.

4. Grounding sensations – The feel of rain on your skin, the scent of wet earth, and the cool air can help anchor you in the moment.

5. Stress relief – The rhythmic sound of rainfall acts like calming white noise, which lowers cortisol levels and reduces stress.

Rain Doesn’t Have to Ruin the Break

With more rain expected, Sham’s advice is to embrace it, not avoid it. And for those still looking to book a last-minute getaway, Parkdean Resorts is offering holidays available up to 2PM on the day of arrival.

Bank holiday weekend breaks start from £249, with over 60 UK locations on offer — meaning most people are within a two-hour drive of a holiday park. For those worried about the weather, 55 of Parkdean’s parks have indoor swimming pools, plus arcades, soft play areas, covered entertainment venues and restaurants to keep the whole family entertained.

For walking route inspiration visit our Discover Cornwall pages.