It is traditional for the bank holiday weekend to start with dire warnings of traffic chaos/terrible weather/train delays/airport strikes/mud baths at festivals. And this weekend is no proving exception.

Clogged up roads and train cancellations? Check.

Torrential downpours? Check.

But fear not, we are here to help, whether you plan to stay in all weekend, drink through it or venture out.

The good news about the gloomy outlook is that it's the perfect excuse to spend some quality time armchair travelling from the comfort of your sofa. Check out our recent guide to our favourite travel websites to start planning your next trip here.

Parents in search of child-friendly entertainment that won't cause an even bigger dent in your finances should check out our list of free things to do around the UK. The weather may be hit and miss in Britain but one thing we do excel at is weird attractions. Click here for a selection of bonkers places to visit, from a gnome reserve to a collection of terrible wax works. Or here if you prefer more conventional museums.

Those of you who are planning to enjoy the end of the summer in proper British style – scoffing ice-cream, no matter what the weather does might find inspiration here.

If you're figuring it's going to rain so you may as well get properly wet, the Outdoor Swimming Society has just launched this interactive map crammed with tips for great river, lido, sea and lake swims. Dive in here.

Finally, if your idea of a dream bank holiday is spending the day in the pub – and why not? – try one of these artisan beer pubs. The opening this weekend of London Fields micro-brewery in Hackney reflects the growing popularity of craft beer, and these 10 excellent boozers, some of which stock up to 150 bottled beers from around the world as well as full flavoured stouts and lagers on tap, are great places to try a glass or three. Alternatively, our Pub Guide lists 200 brilliant pubs for summer drinking. Cheers!