With British weather usually living up to its soggy reputation, it’s important to make the most of sunny days when they arrive. When you can’t rely on the sunshine, it’s a good idea to look at weather-resistant furniture like rattan or cushioned loungers for the ultimate comfy outdoor seating area. Upcycling old furniture could also be a budget-friendly option!

Enhance your outdoor space with lighting, paired with rugs, throws and cushions to create a cosy retreat you'll love unwinding in from afternoon to evening.

For many of us, dining outside is one of the best parts of going on a summer holiday. You don’t have to head to a bistro or restaurant to enjoy a nice meal, if you spend time making your own alfresco dining area. A sturdy table, elegant tableware and a few thoughtful touches like candles and flowers can turn your outside space into the perfect setting for relaxed meals and memorable gatherings.

Adding a fire pit or a plug-in heater can keep you cosy on cooler evenings, letting you enjoy your outdoor space for longer. Plus, it makes the perfect gathering spot for friends and family.

Using accessories and versatile lighting like string lights, lanterns and solar-powered lamps can all contribute to a warm, inviting ambiance. Add a parasol and you’ll feel like you’ve transported to a beach in sunny Spain!

When the evenings are still warm and you want to enjoy your outdoor haven a little longer, consider adding outdoor candles or citronella torches. They'll help cast a soft glow over your space while also keeping pesky insects at bay.

If you know there’s more you’d like to do to transform your outdoor space, now could be the perfect time to set up a dedicated savings pot. By saving gradually and making regular contributions, you could build up your feel-good fund for future outdoor space upgrades.

It’s always a good idea to explore different savings options to help your funds grow. At Coventry Building Society, we offer a range of accounts.

Cash ISAs: You can save up to £20,000* each tax year and the interest is paid tax-free. We offer a range of cash ISAs with different features to suit your needs.

Fixed rate bonds: These accounts are perfect for earning interest on lump sums that you don't need to access for a while. After the 14-day ‘cooling-off period’, you can’t make withdrawals or close these accounts, although some may allow early access or closure subject to an interest charge.

Regular saver accounts: Build up your pot of savings by setting aside a bit of money regularly and earning interest on it. After the 14-day ‘cooling off period’, you can take out money or close your account if you need to, subject to interest charges on the amount withdrawn.

When you’re thinking of your next staycation getaway, it’s worth exploring the different saving products that can help your funds grow. However, some accounts come withdrawal with restrictions and charges, so it’s important you know when you’ll need to access your funds.

• Cash ISAs: All the interest earned in a cash ISA is completely tax-free and some cash ISAs are easy access. Choose a fixed rate cash ISA for a guaranteed often higher interest rate, but you might face withdrawal restrictions, with penalties often applied for withdrawing savings.
• Fixed rate bonds: Fixed bonds can be a helpful tool in reaching long-term savings goals. Because of the no access or restrictions on making withdrawals before the account matures, you might be less tempted to dip into your funds, making it easier to stay on track for those bigger holidays.
• Regular Saver accounts: Our regular saver accounts reward consistent monthly deposits with interest rates that help your savings grow, with a maximum monthly limit of money that you can pay in. After the 14 day cooling off period, you can take out money or close your account if you need to, subject to interest charges on the amount withdrawn. 

Spring is the perfect time to start your staycation renovation. By making a few thoughtful changes, you can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing haven.