STOCK up on sun cream and grab your hats, as the hottest spell since September arrives this week.

Temperatures are set to exceed those in Greece and Spain as warm air makes its way northwards from southern Europe for this bank holiday weekend.

According to the Met Office, the highest temperature recorded in the UK this year was 25.8C on May 16, something which the temperatures this weekend are looking to challenge.

South Cumbria will see highs of 24C today, a rare occurrence for Cumbrians, with other parts of the country potentially peaking at a staggering 30C.

But for anyone hoping the heatwave will stick around, you're going to be disappointed.

It is expected to become cloudier as the weekend develops, with temperatures dropping slightly. Saturday will see a high of 19C and the mercury will continue to fall on Sunday, when it is expected to be an average 15C at best.

A rise in humidity will likely cause some sleepless nights, though, and outbreaks of light rain are forecast for Saturday, so keep your raincoats nearby.

This is unlikely to stop the festivities, however, as there are outdoor events galore across the weekend. From gigs and carnivals to beer and food festivals, you're unlikely to be short of things to do in the rain or shine.

Top tips/things to remember for pet owners

Keep your pets hydrated

This may sound an obvious one, however a lot of people forget this when planning days out in the sun. If your day out isn't close to one of our many lakes, your dog will be short of places to find water. Carrying a large water bottle and an empty bowl may bulk up your bags, but it is essential to keep your dog moving throughout the day. Stopping for food and drinks in a sunny beer garden is a useful pit-stop for your dog, too, as bowls can be provided for your thirsty companion.

Don't leave your dog in a car

Another obvious but crucial thing to remember: in the heat, your car is a sun trap. Without air, water or shade, your dog will become stressed. In the heat we will be experiencing this weekend, it may be better to leave your furry friends at home all together.

If you're taking a pit-stop, search for shade.

Whether you're stopping for a picnic or a cold beer in a pub, finding shade for your dog is an absolute must. Sitting inside or in a shaded patch might be infuriating on such a beautiful day, but your dog will thank you. This way, they can relax and cool down ready for whatever's planned next.

Some dogs need sun cream.

It may sound silly, thinking about sun cream for a furry animal. However for dogs with short fur, bald snouts and paws or long ears, it is necessary. Although dogs have natural protection from their fur, they can still burn. So stock up.

Long walks are a no-go

This is something to avoid in temperatures exceeding 20C. As you may know yourself, heat exhaustion can be dangerous, and your dog is as susceptible to it as you are. If you are planning to walk by the sea or one of the lakes, this shouldn't be something to worry about as your pet can have a splash to cool down. Walks where water is limited, though, should be avoided unless kept short.

Carry insect spray with you

Particularly in the heat, bugs can cause huge health complications for dogs. Carrying a bottle of insect spray with you when you're out and about can prevent these animals from finding a home in your pet's fur.

Top 3 activity sites for the whole family to enjoy the sunny weather

Brockhole

This bank holiday weekend, Brockhole is the place to be for any outdoor-obsessed family. Sunday welcomes the Family Bushcraft and Survival Skills workshop. Learn about knot tying, fire lighting, shelter building and more on a day away from technology; this is the perfect weekend to brush up your skills, Bear Grylls style. But that's not all, with orienteering trails, playgrounds, walking trails, pony rides, a cafe and much more, you can be there from sunrise to sunset.

Workshop: Sunday 28 at 11am, 1pm or 2.45pm.

Fell Foot

It's National Go Canoeing Week at Fell Foot. Here, you can take guided kayak tours across Windermere to learn more about the stunning lake and its wildlife. Whether you're looking for a new experience or have already honed your water sport skills, this is destined to be a beautiful day out in the sun. Sunday at 9.30am or Monday at 3pm.

Grizedale

The ultimate place for any activity, any weekend, whatever the weather. For the kids, the Gruffalo trail offers clues along the way to find the beast himself (download the Gruffalo Spotter app before arriving), or for those who want to learn more about nature, the Tree Explorer trails can help your children learn about spotting different types of trees by the bark, leaves and seeds. For any older thrill seekers, Go Ape offers segways and tree-top adventures, while cycling, horse riding and walking trails can be the perfect peaceful afternoon between the trees. Seven days a week, 10am-5pm.

Enjoy a local picnic

On the beach - Roanhead/Earnsie Bay

We are surrounded by beautiful shores for a family day out, so much so that you'll be spoilt for choice. Over the hot holiday weekend, the perfect picnic pitch has to be on Roanhead. With sands stretching as far as the eye can see, rock pools to be explored, sand dunes to play on and a stunning view of Black Combe across the bay, you are destined to have a memorable day out.


In the park - Ford Park

This is the perfect place to lay down your blankets and enjoy the sun. You could have a family game of football, play on the park or simply lay down and top up your tan. The Coach House Cafe and Bistro offers an impressive range of food if you run out, mostly made using their own produce from the kitchen garden, and Ulverston town centre is just a five-minute stroll away. You're set for a lovely day out.


With a walk - Hoad

Hoad is the symbol of Ulverston; if you're from the area, you know you're home when you see the 100ft tower atop Hoad Hill. In the heat, this is the kind of short walk that makes you feel triumphant when you reach the top, but not too exhausted to put you off your picnic. With a full view of Ulverston, you can soak up the rays while watching the town go about its business far below.


In the past - Furness Abbey

Furness Abbey holds the crown for Barrow's most treasured historical site. Open daily 10am-6pm, this is the place to picnic above all else. After taking a tour of the grounds and visitor centre, you can sit among the ruins, listen to the birds and enjoy your lunch.

But remember

Although picnics in the sun are what summer is all about, respecting the environment is of utmost importance. Leaving litter can harm animals' habitats as well as ruin our stunning beaches, parks, walks and historical sites for others.

Always use the bins provided or take your litter home to keep our countryside as healthy as can be.