AUGUST FIELD NOTES: Heat, Haze & Holiday Walks

August is technically summer's last month — though this heatwave hasn't got the memo. This month think warm days, hazy views, and plenty of time outside that all shape your month, whether you’re at home or away. Walks start earlier, evenings run later, and everything slows down in the heat. It’s the time for simple plans, holiday exploring, and keeping things comfortable when the temperature climbs. One of my favourite things is now that we’ve passed the longest day, is lighting candles outside in the evenings.

Seasonal notes

• Warm, bright days with strong sun

• Butterflies and dragonflies everywhere

• Plenty of fresh vegetables from the garden

• Fox cubs playing in the meadows

Holiday walks

August is made for easy exploring — coast paths, countryside lanes, and those relaxed holiday routes you only take in summer. Early starts help you avoid the heat, and late evening walks bring softer light and quieter paths. Keep plans simple and choose routes with shade or a breeze where you can. Carry water, stick to lighter layers, and avoid the middle of the day when the sun is strongest. A cap helps with bright conditions, and breathable clothing keeps you comfortable on longer routes. If you’re walking with dogs, choose cooler times and take regular breaks.

Picnics

August is the month for simple picnics — nothing heavy, nothing fussy. Just easy food you can pack quickly, eat outside, and enjoy after a warm‑weather walk. A cold pasta salad is ideal: it travels well, handles the heat, and works for coast paths, countryside lanes, or a shaded spot with the dogs.

Simple Summer Pasta Salad

• 250g short pasta (fusilli or penne)

• 1 handful cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 yellow pepper, chopped

• 1 small red onion, finely sliced

• 1 handful black olives

• 1 handful fresh basil or parsley

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• To taste - salt & black pepper

Cook the pasta until just tender, then rinse under cold water to cool. Combine tomatoes, pepper, onion, olives and herbs in a large bowl. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper into a simple dressing. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and pour over the dressing. Mix gently until everything is coated. Chill until ready to pack.

Servings: 4         Prepping time: 15 min                 Cooking time: 30 min

What to Wear

With the heat and haze of August, simplicity wins. Pieces to cover you from early starts to warm afternoons and softer evening light.

The Waxed Cotton Cap is built for bright, hot days and those sudden summer showers that still catch you out in August.

The Mallard Teece is your easy, lightweight layer for warm weather — packs up small for cool mornings and evenings.

And the Trail ¼ Zip still earns its place — useful for early starts, shaded paths, and those late evening walks once the light softens.

Shop the full range

September is often a “return to routine month”. Cooler mornings and the first hints of autumn.  We’ll share what to look for in September Field Notes.